During the course of a construction or renovation project, you may encounter subfloors. Every builder, renovator and homeowner should know which kind of screws are best for subfloors to achieve optimal results. When you shop products from All Points Fasteners, you can find the size you need to fix squeaky floors and finish your projects within budget.
What Screws Are Best for Subfloors?
Rather than nails, screws are best to use for subfloors — these fasteners are convenient, easy to remove and capable of providing torque that nails lack. Because of their structure, screws can penetrate plywood more easily and improve the connection, whereas nails can weaken the plywood. The main categories of screws designed for subfloors include galvanized screws, steel screws and cement board screws.
Galvanized screws: Galvanized screws are named for their manufacturing process, which gives these screws a special coating that protects them against deterioration and rust. A galvanized screw is durable and moisture resistant, so it’s great for installing chemical-treated lumber and for use on exterior flooring like deck floors or porch floors.
Steel screws: Steel screws usually have a helical thread that spirals most of the way up the shaft. These screws are designed to keep plywood intact, minimize fiber damage and sustain lateral movement without snapping or warping. This durability, known as shear strength, is why steel screws are frequently used for interior subfloors.
Cement board screws: Fully threaded screws like cement board screws are designed to fasten subfloors for tiling jobs. These screws have a coating for resisting corrosion that can be caused by mortar or moisture. Cement board screws can be used with wood or metal.
Deck screws can also be compatible with subfloor projects. Drywall screws, however, shouldn’t be used for subfloors, as they aren’t strong enough and tend to snap off when used in this application. To choose the right screw for your job, you should consider the following:
Material: Determine whether an aluminum, brass, bronze or steel screw is right for your project based on what materials you’ll be working with. For wood projects, for example, steel screws are usually the best option.
Head type: The head type will determine the joint strength and how the screw will be driven into the surface of the plywood.
Coating: Most screws are either coated or plated. Coated screws are protected from moisture that can lead to loosening and rusting.
Get the Best Screws for Subfloors From All Points Fasteners
At All Points Fasteners, you can find the screws you need for subfloors. Our premium-quality products come in zinc plated, ceramic coated and coated stainless steel configurations, and they are designed to be rust-resistant to various degrees. Browse our screws for plywood subfloors .
Head Screw Lady Since 1986! Specializing in breaking down the language barrier between suppliers and end users.
During her 35 years working in the fastener industry, MaryLouise has worked directly with end users, contractor’s, OEM’S and DIY, as well working within the import industry, working with fastener manufacturers and distributors. This has given her the unique perspective of having the technical knowledge needed to perform in the fastener world but also be familiar with the needs of end users who don’t necessarily know the fastener jargon or applications to know exactly what they need for their jobs.