Which Screws Should You Use for Pressure Treated Fence Posts?
Building a fence with pressure treated lumber? Choosing the right screws is crucial to prevent premature failure. Using the wrong screws can lead to a host of problems down the road.
Properly driving corrosion-resistant screws into your posts will ensure your fence stays sturdy for years to come.
Why Screw Choice Matters for Pressure Treated Wood
Pressure treated lumber contains chemical preservatives that help protect it from rot and insect damage. However, these same chemicals can wreak havoc on regular steel fasteners like nails or screws.
When ordinary, non-coated metal comes into contact with treated wood, a chemical reaction occurs. This leads to accelerated corrosion, staining, and weakened holding strength.
Consequences of Using the Wrong Screws
Let's take a closer look at some of the potential problems:
- Rusting and corrosion - unprotected steel screws will begin to rust quickly.
- Staining around screws - the wood itself will become discolored.
- Reduced structural integrity - corrosion impacts the screw's holding power.
- Need for frequent replacement - corroded screws must be replaced every few years.
In short, the wrong screws can transform your sturdy new fence into an eyesore that needs perpetual repairs. Not ideal.
Benefits of Choosing the Optimal Screws
On the other hand, proper screw selection provides these advantages:
- Long-lasting corrosion resistance.
- No staining or discoloration.
- Preserve the fence's structural integrity.
- Avoid frequent repairs and replacement costs.
By investing in suitable screws upfront, you'll save yourself major hassles and expenses down the road. Your fence will stay strong and look beautiful for decades to come.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Screws
Now that we've seen the importance of screw choice, let's examine the crucial factors to weigh for pressure treated wood:
Screw Material
Stainless steel is the prime choice for durability. The alloy resists corrosion far better than standard steel. Other good options include silicon bronze and coated steel screws.
Screw Coatings
For coated steel screws, specialized coatings like epoxy or zinc galvanization provide an extra layer of protection. Matching the coating to the specific chemical treatment ensures compatibility.
Screw Type
Consider the screw's purpose. Structural screws work for framing while stainless deck screws are ideal for rails and pickets. Properly size the threads, diameter, and head shape for the job.
Pre-Drilling
Always pre-drill holes for screws in dense hardwoods. This prevents cracking and lets screws drive straight.
Recommended Screw Types for Pressure Treated Posts
Given all the factors above, here are my top recommended screw options:
Best Overall: Stainless Steel Deck Screws
If budget allows, stainless deck screws are the best choice. They resist corrosion better than any other material and won't react with chemical treatments. You can choose phillips, square, or star drive heads. While pricey, they're worth the investment.
Budget Pick: Epoxy Coated Deck Screws
For a less expensive option, epoxy coated deck screws provide sufficient protection for most installations. The epoxy isolates the base metal from the wood. While not as strong as stainless, these will get the job done.
For Rails and Beams: Stainless Lag Screws
For attaching fence rails and cross beams, stainless steel lag screws are ideal. Their hex head design grips at an angle. Just be sure to pre-drill properly sized pilot holes to avoid splitting the wood.
Installation Tips for Pressure Treated Wood
Once you've got corrosion-resistant screws on hand, follow these tips for smooth installation:
- Use an impact driver to efficiently drive screws.
- Drill straight pilot holes to allow screws to seat flush.
- Stagger adjacent screws in a zigzag pattern.
- Avoid over-torquing screws to prevent damage.
Choosing the optimal screws is a small investment that pays big dividends for your fence's longevity. Consider key factors like materials, coatings, and screw types carefully. Take the extra effort upfront to properly drive corrosion-resistant screws into your pressure treated posts. Following these best practices will ensure your beautiful new fence stays that way for decades, avoiding persistent repairs and replacement.