Select the Right Screws with this Quick Guide
There are many types of screws and bolts available with multiple head types and finishes depending upon their application. Check out our handy guide.
We've created a handy guide of common types of screws and bolts as well as the main head and driver types that can be found.
The guide includes an image, description, alternative names, head types and driver types for common screws and bolts to help you select the right one for your application.
For expert advice contact us on 01322 274226 or [email protected].
Screw and Bolt Types
Wood Screws - Screws with a tapered point for use in wood, they may also have a smooth unthreaded portion of shank.
Cutter Wood Screws - These screws have a two slot design which prevents splitting when screwing close to edges. They also do not require a pilot hole.
Concrete Screws - Screws for use in concrete, masonry, and brick. They are self tapping and do not require a nylon plug.
Concrete Screws with Corrosion Resistant Coating - Concrete screws that can withstand harsh conditions and provide long lasting performance. They cut their own thread into concrete, brick or block.
Drywall Screws - Screws used for fixing plasterboard to wooden battens or metal studding.
Cup Square Hex Bolt and Nuts - Bolts mainly used for clamping timber. Identified by their domed head with square shoulder.
Coach Screws - Screws used for fastening metal or timber to timber. Threaded for use in timber they can also be used in masonry with a nylon plug.
Dowel Screws - These screws have a machine thread at one end and a coach screw thread at the other with a smooth section inbetween. For fixing to timber.
Machine Screws - Screws that are fully threaded for use with a nut or in a tapped hole.
Combi Drive Tray Bolts and Nuts - These bolts come with a serrated flange nut and are used for easily joining cable tray sections without the need for washers.
Roofing Bolts and Nuts - These bolts are ideal for joining metal to metal and include a cross slotted mushroom head with a square nut.
Self-Tapping Screws - Screws that are fully threaded and self-tapping. Typically used for joining metal to metal.
Self-Drilling Screws - Screws with a drill point that self taps and removes excess swarf. Used mainly for sheet metal and cladding applications.
Self-Drilling Screws with Bonded Washer - These screws have a bonded washer which provides a weather tight seal. For roofing and cladding applications.
Hex Bolts - These bolts are a partially threaded fastener for use with a nut or in a tapped hole.
Hex Set Bolts - These bolts are a fully threaded fastener for use with nut or in a tapped hole.
Socket Screws - Screws with an internal hex drive, ideal for when a lack of space means it's not practical to use externally wrenched fasteners.
Tamper Resistant Screws - Screws with a 6 lobe pin recess. They require a specific matching driver to remove. Available as machine or self tapping screws.
Non Removeable Screws - These screws have a driver recess designed not to turn in an anti-clockwise direction, so they can't be loosened.
Grub Screws - These machine screws have no head allowing them to be fully driven into threaded holes.
For further screw and bolt details including head and driver types view the full guide.
Alternatively to discuss your specific fixing requirements contact us on [email protected] or 01322 274226.