When to Use Exterior Screws, Deck Screws, or Construction Screws

When to Use Exterior Screws, Deck Screws, or Construction Screws

Choosing the right fastener for your outdoor projects.

Most DIYers don’t know when to use exterior screws or deck screws for outdoor projects. It may seem as simple as deck screws for decks and exterior and wood screws for everything else, but there’s more to explore. 

Some important factors to consider when choosing the right fastener for your project include price point, coating or finish, and tip. You’ll also want to determine whether your project requires a structurally rated screw, as that will guide your decision.

Before you head to the fastener aisle at your local hardware store, let us help you understand the implications. 

Applications for Exterior Screws

Exterior construction screws are intended for general use where some exposure to the elements is expected. 

Not intended for structural outdoor projects, they’re ideal for fencing, siding, and other building projects. Structural screws have a higher tensile strength which means they can withstand a greater load before breaking. General exterior construction screws aren’t typically made to structural specs, so don’t use them to attach deck ledgers or in roofing.

Building Material

Exterior construction screws are suitable for more than just wood-to-wood construction projects. The self-drilling tip easily cuts through wood and other materials, and the bugle head provides a broad load-bearing surface for a secure grip. Coarse threads create a solid connection between materials that resists backing out over time.

Corrosion Resistant Coating

They either have some kind of anti-corrosion coating or are made from stainless steel, which is naturally corrosion-resistant. Coatings range from electroplated zinc to polymers that fully protect the fastener from coming in contact with the elements.

For a full breakdown of the Grip-Rite® screw coatings, read our article on the subject. 

Common Projects Completed with Exterior Screws

These fasteners are a popular choice for most outdoor building projects that don’t require structural strength. These fasteners are used in general outdoor construction applications like gazebos, fencing, lattice, decking, and more.

Deck Screws vs. Exterior Screws

Comparing deck screws and general construction exterior screws comes down to coating and features. Both typically have self-drilling points and aggressive, coarse threads, but deck screws are intended for a more exposed application, so their coatings are more robust.

Head types also vary in deck screws, with a bugle head for wood and a trim or undercut head for composite or PVC deck boards.

Comparison between exterior construction screws and exterior wood screws

A side-by-side comparison of exterior and deck screws shows a significant difference in the shank of the screws. Exterior screws have a smooth shank from the head to where threading begins, while deck screws often have features like the DeckForce diamond file shank between the head and primary threads to help remove burrs during installation.

Decking Applications

Deck screws can be used for other applications outside of securing deck boards to joists. Their versatility is only limited by tensile strength requirements. Of course, not every decking application is as flexible. Working with grooved deck boards requires a different approach.

Hidden Deck Clips

Installing grooved decking requires the use of specialized clips for the best results. Grip-Rite Ninja Hidden Deck Clips are an innovative solution that is purpose-built for grooved deck boards. Whether installing wood, composite, or PVC decking, hidden deck clips are faster than traditional methods when installing grooved deck boards. 

Here, you can see how simple they are to install.

Exterior Screws vs. Construction Screws

Construction screws are typically designed for interior non-structural applications where exposure to the elements isn’t likely. While they have many of the same features as exterior screws, they’re not usually coated to withstand corrosion.

If you’re taking on an indoor building project, Grip-Rite Construction Screws are the perfect choice. 

Grip-Rite DeckForce® Exterior Screws for Wood and Composite Decking Projects

Selecting the right screw for your project is an essential step in the building process. Using a screw that’s not rated for your application can result in damage to your project or worse. Grip-Rite Exterior Screws and DeckForce Exterior Screws offer some of the best features in the industry for your outdoor building projects. Innovative coatings and materials protect your projects and provide a reliable, long-lasting solution for outdoor builds.

Marine applications require the use of Grip-Rite PrimeGuard MAX® stainless steel screws. They have all the same features as Grip-Rite Exterior Screws in a naturally corrosion-resistant package.

Find out Where to Buy Grip-Rite near you and get the job done right!

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