Finding replacements and alternatives for fixings when you’re desperate can be hard; not many types of screws can be substituted for one another, since they each have a specific use.
However, if you’re doing a simple DIY job at home, say you’re assembling simple furniture, then using a fixing in place of another can do the trick. It just depends on what it is and whether it’s a short-term or long-term replacement until you can get to the shops.
That’s where the question comes in: ‘Can structural screws replace bolts?’ and if so, when can they be used as a substitute? Today, ASP will dive into the answers to these questions so you feel confident going into your next DIY project.
Do you need some reliable, sturdy screws to see you through your next home improvement task? We’ve got you covered with our high-quality fixings; our screws are sold in bulk for a great price.
Structural screws: what are they?
Sturdy, strong, and reliable, structural screws are designed to handle exceptional loads, with their coarse threads and sharp tips that can pierce many surfaces with ease.
These small yet powerful fixings are a world away from traditional screws, offering an unrelenting grip. As the name suggests, these screws are designed for structural use, as they can withstand heavy weight and pressure without failure.
Structural screws are made from tough materials, such as stainless steel and carbon steel, making them a force to be reckoned with. The best thing about these screws? They don’t require a pilot hole. Their sharp self-drilling tip does all the work for you!
They pierce surfaces with a precise and delicate tip, so you don’t have to worry about cracks or splits in the surface.
With great pull-out resistance, they offer a reliable hold for both professional and household installations, making them a go-to fixing. Their rust- and corrosion-resistant design makes them excellent for outdoor use, as they hold up well to harsh wind and rain.
Can structural screws replace bolts?
The simple answer is that yes, structural screws can replace bolts in certain applications and scenarios.
Bolts have always been the go-to for many structural applications in construction, since they offer a strong, reliable connection that always does the job. However, structural screws, also known as structural wood screws or construction screws, are now giving them a run for their money.
In fact, structural screws are comparable to what an 8.8 grade high-tensile bolt is in the bolt world. Since they have high shear and tensile strength, they can be used to safely join beams, joists, and ledgers.
Many people use them to replace coach screws (lag bolts), such as when attaching metalwork to wood or joining heavy timber. Unlike structural screws, coach screws require a pilot hole, so you’re already saving some time by switching.
When are structural screws used?
The best thing about structural screws is that they’re very versatile and are quick and easy to install. They can be used for a wide range of construction and renovation projects, replacing bolts, coach screws, and nails.
It’s everything you want for a quick DIY or professional job!
- Timber-to-timber connections (sheds, roofs, deck framing)
- Outdoor structures (decking, pergolas, fences)
- Masonry and metal applications (doors, windows, ledger boards, wall plates, brackets, joist hangers)
What are bolts?
Bolts have been a popular go-to for years, especially coach bolts and through-bolts, which pass through two pieces of wood and have a nut tightened on the end to clamp them in place.
Since they have a thick shank and are used with washers or nuts, they’re known as a reliable choice for load-bearing projects. They also provide a strong clamping force and high load capacity, sandwiching materials together.
However, since these take longer to install and are sometimes a two-person job, people are looking for quicker ways of doing things without sacrificing quality and durability. Bolts require you to create a pilot hole, then use a wrench on one side while holding the bolt head on the other and adding a washer or nut.
So, if you’re working in a tight space, these can be more hassle than they’re worth.
The benefits of using structural screws over bolts
So, we’ve established that structural screws can be used instead of bolts, but are they worth making the switch? Here’s what you can expect if you do:
1. Faster installation
Structural screws are simply easier and, therefore, quicker to install, which is what wins most people over.
With no pilot holes or extra bits like washers and bolts, you just drive them into the surface with a drill like you would any other screw.
Plus, with structural screws, you only need access to one side of a surface, making it ideal for working in tight spots or attaching something to an existing structure.
You’ll save plenty of time on large projects, like decking and framing.
2. High strength and load capacity
As we’ve briefly mentioned, structural bolts are very strong and robust, even though their slimmer profiles appear unpromising.
Many structural screws have tensile strengths of 800 MPa or higher, and most are coated to prevent corrosion.
3. A stronger grip on wood
Since a structural screw has strong threads that bite into the wood’s fibres, it provides an unrelenting grip.
This load is distributed across the surface to prevent the risk of splitting and coming loose. Unlike bolts, structural screws don’t rely on friction between a nut and wood, reducing risk.
For this reason, structural screws are particularly handy in applications where there’s a possibility of vibration or wood shrinkage.
When should you use bolts instead of structural screws?
While structural screws are a good substitute for bolts in many situations, there are some applications when it’s best to stick with a trusty bolt.
- When connecting heavy steel components (such as a steel beam to a wood post), a through-bolt is still the best choice.
- If your design includes slotted holes or requires occasional disassembly of the connection, a bolt and nut might be more appropriate.
- In critical structural installations, where bolts are commonly used and are required to comply with building regulations.
Structural screws for every task
Structural screws have proven to be a modern alternative to traditional bolts, combining comparable strength with greater convenience.
If you’re thinking about making the switch today, explore our range of structural wood screws for indoor and outdoor applications. You’ll find a variety of head styles and coatings to suit any job.
Some structural screws have a partial thread with an unthreaded shank, while others are fully threaded for maximum tensile strength. We stock a variety of structural wood screws at ASP Ltd, from full-thread to dual-thread screws.