If you’re looking for the right wood screws for your project, you probably have a few quick questions. Here are quick answers to the most common questions we get:
What’s the most common wood screw size? For most indoor projects, choose a #8 wood screw between 1½" and 2" long. For outdoor builds like decks or fences, go with 3" screws for extra holding power.
How do wood screws differ from other screws? Unlike drywall screws (brittle), lag screws (structural), or plywood screws (specialized for layered materials), wood screws strike the right balance of strength, versatility, and ease of use.
If you’re ready to order now, shop our wood screws — available in multiple lengths and finishes, and always hand-packed with care from our Pennsylvania warehouse. Otherwise, we’ll be taking a deep dive into wood screws, covering:
Wood screws are threaded fasteners made specifically for joining pieces of wood. They have a sharp point for easy penetration and threads that grip the wood securely without the need for a nut. Unlike general-purpose screws, wood screws are designed to create a strong mechanical connection while minimizing the risk of splitting the wood. In short, the key features of wood screws include:
Sharp tip
Partial or full threading
Head styles that sit flush or slightly recessed
Installing wood floorboards? You’ll need floorboard screws instead.
Yes, there are different types of wood screws, based on the screw’s coating, head style, and drive type, which affect where it can be used, how it looks once installed, and how easily it drives into the wood. Here’s a look at the differences between different types of wood screws we carry:
If you are building in a coastal or marine environment with heavy salt exposure, you will need the highest corrosion resistance → Buy 316 stainless steel wood screws
If you are working on an exterior project like a deck, fence, or pergola in a non-coastal area, you will need excellent corrosion resistance → Buy 305 stainless steel wood screws
If you need strong screws for indoor builds or light outdoor use, you will need basic corrosion resistance → Buy 18-8 stainless steel wood screws
Looking for a different type of screw for your project? Check out our guide explaining the different types of screws.
|
Project Type |
Recommended Screw Size |
Uses |
|
Small trim or brackets |
#6 or #8, 1–1½" |
Light-duty fastening |
|
Furniture and cabinetry |
#8, 1½–2" |
Strong hold with flush finish |
|
Decking and fencing |
#8 or #10, 3" |
Outdoor-rated coating or stainless |
|
Heavy-duty exterior framing |
#10+, 3" or longer |
For extra strength and durability |
The right wood screw size ensures your wood screw holds securely without damaging your project.
For most indoor builds like furniture or cabinetry, a #8 wood screw between 1½ and 2 inches works well.
For outdoor projects like decking or fencing, a 3 inch wood screw provides deeper bite and extra holding strength.
As a rule, choose a screw that is 2–3 times the thickness of the top board so it grips the second piece firmly without poking through.
Looking for hex screw sizes? Check out our hex screw size chart.
Wood screws are made for joining pieces of wood securely, but they are often confused with other screw types. Here is how wood screws differ from other screws.
Wood screws have deeper, sharper threads that bite into wood fibers for a strong hold. Drywall screws have finer threads meant for fastening gypsum board without damaging it.
Drywall screws are more brittle and can snap under heavy torque. Wood screws are stronger and better for long-term connections.
Wood screws are made for solid wood and sheet goods, while drywall screws are specialized for gypsum board.
Lag screws are much larger and heavier, designed for high load-bearing, structural applications. Wood screws are smaller and easier to drive for general-purpose projects.
Wood screws can often be driven without pre-drilling, while lag screws usually require pre-drilling and washers.
Lag screws are ideal for beams, ledger boards, and heavy framing, while wood screws suit furniture, cabinetry, and decking.
Need a lag screw for your project? Shop our high-quality lag screws.
Plywood screws are designed to grip layered sheet goods like plywood or MDF without causing delamination. Wood screws have a more general-purpose thread for solid wood and mixed-material projects.
Wood screws are more versatile, working in both solid wood and some sheet goods, while plywood screws are best when working exclusively with layered materials.
Plywood screws are technically a type of wood screw, but they are more specialized for thin, layered construction.
Even the best wood screw can fail if it’s installed incorrectly. The most important steps are to choose the right screw for your project and to drill a pilot hole in hardwoods to prevent splitting. As long as you’re following those fundamental rules, you shouldn’t have any issues. Other than that, you can follow these best practices to ensure that your wood screw installation goes smoothly:
Match the driver bit to the screw’s drive type to avoid stripping the recess.
Use quality bits for smoother driving and longer tool life.
Drill pilot holes in hardwoods or near edges to reduce splitting risk.
Apply moderate speed and steady pressure when driving.
Avoid overtightening, which can strip threads or damage the wood.
Whether you are building a deck, repairing a fence, or crafting furniture, the right wood screw can make all the difference in strength, appearance, and longevity. At The Fastener Depot, we stock stainless steel wood screws in the sizes and grades you need, backed by practical advice and personal service you can count on.
If you are not sure which size or stainless steel grade is right for your project, reach out to our team for quick, friendly guidance. We are here to help you choose the right fasteners so your work stands the test of time.
