Common Types Of Screws And Bolts

Screws and bolts are two of the most commonly used fasteners in the world. They are essential components in construction, manufacturing, and even household repairs. There are many different types of screws and bolts available on the market today, each with its own unique features and benefits.

One of the main differences between screws and bolts is their design. Screws typically have a threaded shank that is designed to be inserted into a pre-drilled hole or material. The threads on the screw allow it to grip onto the material securely, preventing it from coming loose over time.

Bolts, on the other hand, have a smooth shank with threads only at one end. Bolts are designed to be inserted through holes in materials before being secured with a nut on the other side. This makes them ideal for applications where you need to assemble two separate pieces together.

Another key difference between screws and bolts is their head type. Screws typically have either a flat head or a Phillips head (cross-shaped). Flathead screws sit flush against surfaces while Phillips heads require an appropriate tool for removal or tightening.

Bolts often come with hexagonal heads (hex bolts) which require an adjustable wrench or socket set for tightening/loosening them properly . Other designs include carriage bolts that feature round heads whilst lag-screw heads may feature square shapes . Some bolt heads also come in decorative designs such as button-heads which can add aesthetic value when visible .

In conclusion , there exists various types of both screws & bolts each having its specific application e.g wood-screws vs machine-screws , sheet-metal vs drywall-screws etc.. In order to achieve best results from these fasteners they should be carefully selected based upon intended use-case scenario including things like material being joined , strength requirements , environmental factors & aesthetics among others

Understanding Screws and Bolts

Screws and bolts are two of the most commonly used fasteners in construction, electronics, and manufacturing. While both serve the same purpose of holding things together, they differ in their design and functions.

Screws:

A screw is a type of fastener that has threads on its surface. These threads allow it to be turned into a threaded hole or nut to hold two materials together. There are various types of screws available depending on their use. Some common types include wood screws, machine screws, self-tapping screws, sheet metal screws among others.

Wood Screws: Wood screws have coarse threads designed to grip into wooden surfaces strongly. They come in different lengths and thicknesses.

Machine Screws: Machine Screws have finer-threaded shanks for use with nuts or tapped holes as well as washers where necessary.

Self-Tapping Screws: Self-tapping screws can create their own thread when driven into soft materials such as plastic or thin sheets of metal.

Sheet Metal Screws: Sheet metal screws have sharp points which enable them to penetrate through harder metallic surfaces while creating secure connections.

Bolts:

A bolt is another type of fastener that also has threads but differs from a screw because it requires a nut for installation instead of threading directly into the material itself. It comes in various sizes ranging from small diameter ones used for electrical connections to large-sized ones used in heavy-duty applications such as construction equipment assembly.

Carriage bolts: Carriage bolts feature smooth domed heads with square necks which make them ideal for securing wooden structures since they will not turn once installed.

Hexagonal Bolts: Hexagonal bolts are those that come with six-sided heads making them ideal for power tools since they can quickly be tightened or loosened with a wrench.

Anchor Bolts: Anchor bolts feature threaded ends and are used for securing heavy items like machinery or equipment to concrete surfaces. They come in various sizes depending on the weight of the item they will be supporting.

In conclusion, understanding screws and bolts is essential when selecting fasteners for different applications. Knowing the differences between these two fasteners allows one to make informed decisions while choosing the appropriate type that best suits their intended use.

Types of Screws

Screws are one of the most common fasteners used in construction and manufacturing. They are versatile, easy to use, and come in many different types. Here are some of the most commonly used types of screws:

1. Wood Screws:

Wood screws are specifically designed for use with wood materials. They have a tapered shank and deep threads that allow them to securely fasten into wood without splitting it apart.

2. Sheet Metal Screws:

Sheet metal screws are used to join thin sheet metal together or attach it to another material such as wood or plastic. These screws have sharp points and fine threads that allow them to grip onto thin metal sheets.

3. Machine Screws:

Machine screws are typically smaller than other screw types and have a straight shank with no tapering at the tip. They often require a nut or threaded hole on the opposite side for proper installation.

4. Lag Screws:

Lag screws, also known as lag bolts, feature coarse threading which makes them ideal for heavy-duty applications such as attaching large pieces of lumber together.

5. Self-Tapping Screws:

Self-tapping screws cut their own thread when they’re screwed into materials such as plastic, wood or sheet metal without needing any pre-drilling before insertion.

6.Concrete Screw Anchor

Concrete screw anchors come in handy when you need a secure way to attach brackets or frames directly onto concrete walls

Each type of screw has its unique features making it best suited for specific applications within industries like construction, automotive repair & maintenance, electronics assembly etc., choosing the right type will make all your projects run smoother!

a. Wood Screws

Wood screws are designed specifically for use in wooden materials and are commonly used for woodworking projects, furniture assembly, and construction applications. They have a tapered shank that allows them to easily grip the wood as they are driven in, providing a secure hold.

Their threads are spaced widely apart and have sharp points to ensure easy insertion into the wood without causing splitting or cracking. The threads also provide improved holding power by gripping the fibers of the wood tightly.

Wood screws come in a variety of sizes, lengths, and head styles to fit different types of applications. Common head styles include flathead, roundhead, pan head, and oval head with variations within each style such as countersunk or raised heads.

The most common type of material used for wood screws is steel which can be coated with zinc or another corrosion-resistant material to increase their lifespan. Brass is another popular option due its resistance to rusting but it comes at an increased cost compared to steel.

When selecting a wood screw it’s important to consider factors such as length, diameter (gauge), thread pitch (threads per inch), head style/type and intended application. Choosing the right size and type will ensure proper holding strength while reducing the risk of damage or failure due to incorrect usage.

b. Machine Screws

Machine screws, also known as machine bolts, are threaded fasteners that have a blunt end and are designed to be used with nuts or tapped holes. They are commonly used in machinery, electronics, and other applications that require precise positioning and alignment.

Machine screws come in a variety of sizes and materials, including stainless steel, brass, aluminum, and nylon. The most common head types for machine screws include flathead (countersunk), roundhead (pan), and hexagonal (hex).

The thread pitch of machine screws is typically finer than that of wood screws or sheet metal screws. This allows for greater precision when tightening the screw into place. Machine screw threads can be either coarse or fine depending on the application requirements.

Unlike wood screws or sheet metal screws which have tapered threads that grip into the material they are being screwed into, machine screw threads run straight up the length of the shank. As such they rely more on nut or tapped hole to provide gripping force.

To properly select a machine screw size you will need to consider several factors including thread diameter/pitch , length , head style/height , drive type/head design as well as any special features needed such as corrosion resistance .

In summary , Machine Screws offer superior holding power when compared to wood or sheet metal type fasteners because they do not rely solely on threading tapering over time reducing their grip ability.Their use where precision is required has made them popular across many industries .

c. Sheet Metal Screws

Sheet metal screws are specifically designed for use with thin sheets of metal, such as those used in roofing or HVAC ductwork. They have a sharp, pointed tip and threads that run the entire length of the screw to provide maximum grip on the metal surface. The heads of these screws can be either flat or rounded, depending on the application.

Sheet metal screws come in various lengths and diameters to accommodate different thicknesses of sheet metal. They are typically made from hardened steel or stainless steel, which provides excellent corrosion resistance and durability.

One advantage of using sheet metal screws is their ability to self-tap into the material they are being secured into. This means that no pre-drilling is necessary, making them a quick and easy option for fastening thin sheets of metal together.

In addition to their use in construction applications, sheet metal screws can also be found in automotive repair work and electronics assembly due to their small size and ability to securely fasten thin materials together without damaging them.

d. Lag Screws

Lag screws, also known as lag bolts, are heavy-duty fasteners used for attaching wood to other materials or structures. They are similar in appearance to a standard screw but have deeper threads and a longer shank that allows them to penetrate deeply into the material being secured.

The head of a lag screw is typically hexagonal, allowing it to be tightened with a wrench or socket. Some lag screws may also feature washers under the head for added stability and support.

Due to their size and strength, lag screws are commonly used in construction projects where structural support is needed. They can be used for securing beams, framing, decking, and other large pieces of lumber.

When selecting lag screws, it is important to choose the appropriate length and thickness based on the application they will be used for. It is also recommended to pre-drill holes before inserting the screw in order to prevent splitting or cracking of the wood.

e. Self-Tapping Screws

Self-tapping screws are used for materials that do not have a pre-formed thread or nut. These screws have a pointed end and sharp threads that enable them to create their own threads when driven into the material.

The most common application for self-tapping screws is in sheet metal or plastic, where they can be used to fasten two pieces of material together without the need for a separate nut or threaded hole. They come in various shapes and sizes, including flat head, pan head, and hex head.

When using self-tapping screws, it’s important to choose the right size and length based on the thickness of the material being fastened. The screw should be able to penetrate at least one full thread diameter into the material without stripping or breaking.

Self-tapping screws are also available with different types of threading, such as coarse or fine, depending on the application. Coarse threading is better suited for softer materials like plastic or wood, while fine threading is ideal for harder materials like sheet metal.

It’s important to note that self-tapping screws should not be overdriven as this can cause damage to both the screw and the material being fastened. It’s recommended to use a torque driver when installing these types of screws.

Overall, self-tapping screws are an efficient solution for joining two pieces of non-threaded material together without requiring additional hardware.

f. Concrete Screws

Concrete screws are specially designed fasteners used to attach objects or materials to concrete surfaces. They are commonly used in construction, woodworking and DIY projects.

Unlike traditional anchors which require drilling a hole into the concrete first, concrete screws can be directly screwed into the surface without any pre-drilling required. This makes them ideal for quick and easy installations.

Concrete screws come in various sizes and lengths to suit different applications, with their thread patterns typically designed to provide maximum grip and holding power.

One common type of concrete screw is the hex head screw, which features a hexagonal-shaped head that can be easily turned using a wrench or pliers. Another popular type is the Phillips flat-head screw, which has a flat top with an X-shaped slot that requires a Phillips screwdriver for installation.

In addition to their ease of use and versatility, concrete screws are also known for their strength and durability. They can withstand high levels of stress without breaking or becoming loose over time – making them ideal for securing heavy loads or critical structures.

Overall, if you need a strong and reliable way to attach objects or materials onto concrete surfaces quickly and easily, then consider using concrete screws as your go-to fastener choice!

g. Drywall Screws

Drywall screws are designed specifically for attaching drywall to wood or metal studs. They have a sharp point and coarse thread that allows them to easily penetrate through the drywall paper without tearing it, while also providing a strong grip on the framing material.

Drywall screws come in various lengths, with 1-1/4 inch being the most common size for standard 1/2 inch thick drywall. They can be made from steel or stainless steel and may have different types of heads such as bugle, flat or pan head.

The bugle head has a curved top that allows it to sink into the drywall surface without breaking through the paper layer. The flat head sits flush with the surface of the drywall while pan head has a slightly rounded top similar to that of an open frying pan.

Some manufacturers also offer self-drilling drywall screws which eliminate the need for pre-drilling holes before inserting them into wood studs. These screws have a drill-like end that cuts through both wood and metal with ease, speeding up installation time significantly.

Note: It’s important to use proper length and type of screw when installing drywalls as using incorrect ones can compromise wall strength and stability leading to damage or injuries later on.

Types of Bolts

Bolts are classified based on their head shape, shank type, and thread type. Here are some of the most common types:

Hex bolts

Hex bolts have a hexagonal head and can be tightened using a socket wrench or an adjustable wrench. They come in various lengths and sizes.

Carriage bolts

Carriage bolts have a smooth, dome-shaped head with no slots or grooves. The shank is square-shaped under the head to prevent it from spinning during installation. They are commonly used in wood-to-wood applications.

Lag bolts

Lag bolts (also known as lag screws) have a large hexagonal head and coarse threads designed for use in wood products only. They provide excellent holding power but require pre-drilled holes for installation.

Elevator bolts

Elevator bolts feature a flat, countersunk head that sits flush with the surface once installed. The shanks may be square or round depending on the application.

T-bolts

T-bolts get their name from their T-shaped heads, which slide into T-slot tracks found on workbenches and other equipment where adjustment is required without removing the bolt entirely.

J-bolts

J-bolts are shaped like the letter “J” with one end threaded and another bent at 90 degrees angle to form an anchor point for cables or chains when fastening objects to walls or ceilings.

Each bolt has its unique features that make them suitable for specific applications; therefore choosing the right bolt is critical to ensure proper performance of any project requiring fasteners.

a. Hex Bolts

Hex bolts, also known as hex head bolts or hexagon bolts, are some of the most commonly used types of fasteners. They have a six-sided head and come in various sizes and lengths. The threads on the shank enable them to be screwed into a threaded hole or nut.

The hexagonal shape of the head provides several benefits; it allows for easy tightening with a wrench, provides more bearing surface than other bolt shapes, and prevents stripping during installation or removal.

Compared to other types of screws and bolts, hex bolts are often preferred for their durability and strength. They can withstand high loads without breaking easily.

Another advantage of using hex bolts is that they can be used across different industries such as automotive manufacturing, construction, machine building, etc., making them versatile fasteners.

In terms of material composition, hex bolts can be made from different materials like stainless steel, carbon steel, brass or titanium depending on requirement specifications for specific applications.

Lastly,it is important to note that selecting the appropriate size and grade rating (strength) is crucial when choosing the right type of hex bolt for any given application.

b. Carriage Bolts

Carriage bolts, also known as coach bolts, are a type of bolt that has a smooth and dome-shaped head with a square neck underneath. The square neck is designed to prevent the bolt from rotating when it’s installed into wood or other materials.

Carriage bolts are commonly used in various applications including woodworking, construction, and automotive industries. They’re ideal for attaching metal to wood because of their strong grip and resistance to pull-out forces.

These bolts come in different sizes ranging from 1/4 inch up to 3/4 inch diameter and lengths between 1 inch up to 20 inches long. They can be made of different materials such as stainless steel, brass, zinc-plated steel or nylon.

One advantage of carriage bolts is that they provide an aesthetically pleasing finish since the round head sits flush with the surface material preventing any sharp edges protruding outwards. This makes them great for use in furniture assembly where appearance matters.

To install carriage bolts correctly you’ll need specific tools like a wrench and pliers but no special equipment is required beyond what is typically found in most toolboxes.

In summary, carriage bolts are versatile fasteners used across many industries due to their strength against shear stress while providing great holding power when used on wooden surfaces thanks to its large bearing surface area.

c. Eye Bolts

Eye bolts are a type of bolt that has a looped head or “eye” at one end, which allows for attachment to ropes, chains, and cables. These bolts are commonly used in applications where lifting or moving heavy loads is required.

Eye bolts come in various sizes and materials, including stainless steel, carbon steel, and brass. The size of the eye bolt will depend on the amount of weight it needs to support.

When selecting an eye bolt for your application, consider factors such as load capacity, thread length and diameter, shank length and diameter, material strength and corrosion resistance. It is important to choose a high-quality eye bolt that meets all necessary safety standards for your intended use.

Installation of an eye bolt should be done carefully to ensure proper alignment with the load-bearing direction. It is recommended to only use tools specifically designed for installation of this type of hardware.

Proper maintenance is also important; regular inspections should be performed to check for wear or damage caused by excessive loading or exposure to harsh environments. If any signs of wear or damage are found during inspection, the component must be replaced immediately before further use.

In summary, eye bolts are an essential tool when it comes to lifting heavy loads efficiently and safely. By choosing the right size and material based on your specific needs and adhering strictly to installation guidelines as well as performing regular maintenance checks you can ensure optimal performance while minimizing risks associated with their misuse or failure due overloading stresses over time!

d. U-Bolts

U-bolts are a type of bolt that has a U-shape with two threaded arms on each end. They are commonly used to attach pipes, poles, or other cylindrical objects to flat surfaces or beams. The name “U-bolt” comes from the shape of the bolt itself – it resembles the letter “U”.

As they are designed to clamp onto round objects, U-bolts come in different sizes and shapes depending on their intended use. Some have rounded ends while others have square ones, and they may be made from steel, stainless steel, or galvanized material depending on application requirements.

The most common use for U-bolts is in automotive suspension systems where they hold leaf springs together and secure them to an axle or frame. They can also be found in construction applications such as anchoring support beams for decks or securing fencing posts into place.

To install a U-bolt properly, it is important to ensure that it is tightened enough so that there is no movement between the object being secured and the surface it is attached to. This will prevent any potential damage caused by vibration or stress over time.

e. Anchor Bolts

Anchor bolts are used for attaching structural elements to concrete or masonry surfaces. They are commonly used in construction projects, such as building foundations, bridges and retaining walls.

There are two main types of anchor bolts: expansion and epoxy-set. Expansion anchor bolts work by compressing the surrounding material when a nut is tightened onto the bolt thread, causing it to expand and grip the hole’s wall. Epoxy-set anchor bolts use a chemical adhesive to bond with the concrete or masonry surface.

Expansion anchor bolts come in various designs, including wedge-style anchors, sleeve anchors and drop-in anchors. Wedge-style anchors feature a cone-shaped end that expands into the hole upon tightening of the nut. Sleeve anchors have a cylindrical shape with flared ends that hold them securely in place once expanded. Drop-in anchors require drilling an oversized hole into which they can be inserted; then they’re hammered down until their lip rests flush against the surface.

Epoxy-set anchor bolts require more preparation time than expansion ones but offer greater load-bearing capacity if installed correctly because they form a stronger bond with concrete or masonry due to its chemical adhesion properties.

The installation process requires drilling holes at specific locations determined by engineering calculations or blueprints since their positioning affects their holding power significantly.

In conclusion, choosing between expansion and epoxy-set anchor bolts depends on several factors such as load requirements, substrate materials (concrete versus masonry), installation location (interior versus exterior), working environment (corrosive versus non-corrosive) among others factors that should be taken into account before making your final decision.

f. Flange Bolts

Flange bolts, also known as frame bolts or collar bolts, are a type of bolt that has a flanged head. The flange acts like a washer and increases the bearing surface area of the bolt, which distributes the load across a wider area and reduces the chance of damage to the material being fastened.

The flange can also act as an integrated washer that eliminates the need for additional washers when installing the bolt. This saves time and money in assembly processes.

Flange bolts come in different styles depending on their application. Some have serrated flanges that grip onto materials and prevent loosening due to vibration or movement. Others have non-serrated flanges that provide a smooth finish for aesthetic purposes.

Like other types of bolts, flange bolts come in various materials such as steel, stainless steel, brass, and titanium. They also come with different coatings such as zinc plating or black oxide coating to protect against corrosion.

One advantage of using flange bolts is their ability to withstand high torque loads without damaging the material they are fastening. They are commonly used in automotive applications where high torque is required for secure connections between parts.

Flange nuts are often paired with flange bolts to create strong connections between two surfaces without having to use separate washers. The nut’s built-in washer distributes loads evenly over a larger area while providing extra resistance against loosening due to vibrations or movement.

In summary, Flanged Bolts offer several advantages over standard hex-head screws by increasing bearing surface contact areas while reducing costs from not requiring additional washers during installation procedures while providing excellent resistance against vibrational forces that may cause them to loosen up afterward; this makes them ideal candidates for industries requiring heavy-duty equipment installations such as automobiles!

Other Types of Fasteners

In addition to screws and bolts, there are several other types of fasteners that are commonly used in various industries. These include:

Nails

Nails are one of the oldest known fasteners and have been used for centuries. They are made from a variety of materials including steel, aluminum, copper, and brass. Nails come in different shapes and sizes depending on their intended use. For example, common nails have a flat head while roofing nails have larger heads to hold down shingles.

Rivets

Rivets are metal pins with a cylindrical shape that are used to join two pieces of material together permanently. They work by passing through holes drilled in both materials and then being deformed on the underside using specialized tools called riveters.

Snap Fasteners

Snap fasteners consist of two separate parts: a male side with protruding studs or posts and a female side with corresponding sockets or holes. These fasteners can be snapped together quickly by hand or using pliers, making them ideal for clothing, bags, tents, and more.

Clips

Clips come in many forms such as paper clips or hair barrettes but they also serve as functional connectors between objects such as wires or pipes.

Each type of fastener has its unique characteristics that make it suitable for specific applications across many industries ranging from construction to clothing design!

Nuts

Nuts are a type of fastener commonly used with bolts, screws, and other threaded objects to secure them in place. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, each designed to fit a specific type of bolt or screw.

One of the most common types of nuts is the hex nut, which has six sides and is used with hex bolts. Another popular option is the wing nut, which has two “wings” that can be easily tightened by hand without the need for tools.

Other types of nuts include coupling nuts (used to join two threaded rods together), castle nuts (used in applications where vibration might cause a regular nut to loosen), and locknuts (which use friction or deformation to prevent loosening).

Nuts can also be made from different materials depending on their intended application. For example, brass nuts are often used when corrosion resistance is important, while stainless steel nuts are often preferred for their strength and durability.

When selecting a nut for your project, it’s important to choose one that matches the thread size and pitch of your bolt or screw. Using an incorrect size or type of nut can result in poor performance or even failure over time.

b. Washers

Washers are small, flat discs that are used with screws and bolts to distribute the load of the fastener over a larger surface area. They can prevent damage to surfaces or materials being fastened, as well as help to keep the fastener securely in place.

There are several types of washers available, including plain washers, spring washers, and lock washers. Plain washers are simply flat discs without any additional features. Spring washers have a slight curve that provides tension when compressed between two surfaces. Lock washers have teeth or ridges on one side that grip onto the surface being fastened to prevent loosening.

The material used for the washer should be chosen based on its compatibility with both the screw/bolt and the material being fastened. Common materials include steel, stainless steel, brass, and nylon.

It is important to choose the correct size washer for your application to ensure proper distribution of load and prevent damage or failure. The diameter of the washer should be slightly larger than that of the screw/bolt head or nut it will be paired with.

In some cases, multiple washers may be used in combination to achieve a desired effect such as increased tension or shock absorption.

Overall, using appropriate sized and type of washer can greatly improve the strength and reliability of your screws and bolts connections while also protecting against damage caused by excessive pressure or vibration.

c. Rivets

Rivets are a type of fastener that functions by forming a permanent mechanical connection between two or more objects. They are commonly used in construction, automotive, and aerospace industries for their strength and durability.

Rivets come in various shapes and sizes, but the most common ones are solid rivets and blind rivets. Solid rivets consist of a cylindrical shaft with a head at one end and a tail at the other end. The tail is inserted through the holes on the objects to be joined, and then it is peened (flattened) with a hammer or press to form a permanent joint.

Blind rivets, on the other hand, require only access from one side of the object being fastened. They consist of two parts: the mandrel (a thin rod) and the sleeve (the hollow body). When installed using an appropriate tool called “rivet gun,” the mandrel pulls through the sleeve creating tension that expands it against one side while forming a bulbing head on another side.

There are also specialty types of rivets such as split-rivets which have two legs that fold outward when inserted into an object to create tension holding both sides together; drive screws which work like self-tapping screws but have no threads; peel-type blind rivet which has an expanding mandrel shaped like an umbrella top which spreads out inside material to secure both surfaces together.

Overall, whether you’re looking for high-strength connections or need something that can withstand harsh environments like vibration or heavy loads without loosening over time – there’s likely going to be some type of suitable rivet available for your application needs!

Choosing the Right Screw or Bolt

When it comes to choosing the right screw or bolt for your project, there are several factors to consider. Here are some of the most important things to keep in mind:

Material: The material of both the screw/bolt and the surface it will be going into should be taken into account. For example, if you’re screwing into metal, a stainless steel screw is often ideal.

Type: There are many different types of screws and bolts, each with their own unique features and benefits. Some common options include wood screws, machine screws, lag bolts, and self-tapping screws.

Size: Choosing the right size is crucial for ensuring a secure hold. Be sure to measure carefully and consult sizing charts as needed.

Torque requirements: Different projects require different levels of torque (or twisting force) from your fastener. Make sure you choose one that can handle the necessary torque without breaking or stripping.

Cosmetics: If appearance is important (such as in furniture building), you may want to choose a decorative option like brass-plated hardware.

Ultimately, choosing the right screw or bolt requires careful consideration of all these factors – but doing so will help ensure that your project turns out exactly as planned!

Conclusion

In conclusion, screws and bolts are essential components used in various applications. They come in different types, sizes, and shapes to suit specific needs. From wood screws to machine screws, self-tapping screws to lag bolts, there is a screw or bolt for every job.

When selecting the appropriate screw or bolt for your project, it’s important to consider factors such as material composition, size of the hole or thread pitch needed, length required and strength requirements. It’s also important to follow manufacturer guidelines when installing them.

Knowing the different types of screws and bolts will help you make informed decisions about which ones to use in specific applications. With this knowledge at hand, you can ensure that your projects are secure and long-lasting.

Overall, understanding the differences between screw types helps simplify things by making sure that you pick out exactly what you need without any guesswork involved. Whether it’s a wood screw for hanging shelves or an anchor bolt for securing large objects into concrete walls – each type has its own unique features that make it suitable for certain situations.

So next time you’re working on a DIY project or building something new from scratch – keep these tips in mind when choosing your fasteners!