One-Stop Guide To Understand The Difference Between Composite Deck Screws VS Wood Screws

Let’s begin with the surface. If your surface is made of composite, choose composite screws. Composite deck screws offer the best grip. Wood screws are therefore recommended for surfaces made of wood. If price is an issue, then you can always go with wood screws.

It’s expensive to set up a deck. It is costly, so no one should compromise on such an expensive thing. It is essential to ensure that the deck screws are correctly inserted.

The wrong screw could cause damage to the deck’s surface or particles. To avoid all this, you need to use the correct screws. You might be wondering which one you should choose: composite deck screws or wood screws.

Composite Deck Screws Or Wood Screws? Quick Preview

It was a brief overview of the main differences. If you don’t have the time to read this overview, it will help you get a better idea.

Three Differences Between Wood And Composite Deck Screws

Sometimes, it can be challenging to find the right deck screw to attach your deck board. It’s easy to confuse nuts screw and composite screws in such situations. It’s time to forget about that and dig deep to find the best option.

Scope

We first thought that you might be interested in knowing the purpose of these screws. We have the exact solution which you are searching for. Below are the differences between composite deck screws and wooden screws.

Composite Deck Screws

We assume you know what a composite deck screw is. Its purpose is easily understood by its name. Let us tell you if you don’t get it. These green decking screws are specifically designed for composite decking.

The head of these screws is not too noticeable. Because it is corrosion-resistant, its tight grip makes composite decking possible. It does not damage the composite surface.

However, composite deck screws can be used on wood decking. It can be used on either surface, but there are still some issues.

TIMCO decking screws are more flexible than composite boards, so the wood particles require a lighter grip. If a composite screw is too hard, the wood deck could break.

It is best to choose the one that serves your purpose. As with stair risers, you should use the best wood.

Wood screws

Wood screws can be used to set and fix decks, just like composite screws. These screws can’t be used for every surface. They are lighter than composite deck screws because of their light grip on wood surfaces.

These screws are great for flooring piers and beam houses. Consider the purpose of your deck and choose composite screws if it is made from composite decking. Wood screws are the best choice if you have a wooden deck.

Features

You might be able to choose between the m7 and m42 drill bits. However, it is possible to confuse composite deck screws with wood screws. We’ve done the analysis on these alternatives to clear up any confusion.

If the deck surface is hard and firm, then you can drive composite screws. Its all-body threading allows it to go deeper into the surface. It also has a higher threading height, which is an advantage.

On the other hand, the decking joist screws are ideal for wood decks because they are made of thick and soft material. They can drive through the wood layers quickly without damaging them.

You now know that composite deck screws are the best choice if you want a firmer grip. Wood screws are a better choice to fix the deck without compromising the wood deck’s inner components.

It all boils down to the material you use for building. If you’re constructing a wooden underground room, deck or stairs, go for wooden deck screws. If your deck is made of composite material, you can stick to composite screws.

Are Deck Screws Pre-Drilled?

Yes, it is recommended that deck screws be pre-drilled. Pre-drilling is the act of drilling a hole into the board that is smaller than the diameter of the screw. This is called a pilot hole. The purpose of pilot holes is to serve three primary objectives.

Pilot holes are designed to help the giant drill do its job and direct it to the right place. They can also be used to insert another hole-making device.

Pilot holes are also helpful in inserting self-threading screws into boards. This will prevent them from being damaged. Pilot holes are significant when screwing on the ends of boards.

When deck screws are driven into wood, their threads will be cut. The screw can be used as a wedge if it is operated without pre-drilling.

These screws fixings create an outward pressure that can cause wood to crack, split, or become weaker over time. A pilot hole is not necessary to screw the core. 

How To Correctly Fix Pilot Holes Into Your Deck Boards?

The right-size bit for your drill is essential. You should drill a pilot hole slightly smaller than the primary diameter of the screw. You want to drill a spot that is the same diameter as the main cylinder of the screw.

The screw threads will then cut the wood to make a solid connection. Charts are available that will show you the recommended drill for different sizes of screws if you are unable to eyeball it.

Your screw should have the same length of the pilot hole as the depth of your drill bit. The majority of woodworkers can tell when they have reached this depth. If you can’t, use a drill stop or mark the length on the drill bit.

Why Is It So Important To Leave Gaps Between Your Deck Boards?

1. Wood Expands And Contracts.

Wood fibres are capable of retaining moisture and causing wood volume changes. Deck boards will absorb moisture and expand when exposed to it. In contrast, wood that is exposed to moisture will shrink in dry conditions.

It would be best if you placed the deck boards outdoors. This will tell them to weather changes, which will cause their volume to change.

If you don’t account for this and leave no gaps or too few gaps between your deck boards and the fasteners, the wood will buckle and crack.

2. For Proper Drainage

Good drainage is essential to prevent moisture damage and mildew growth on your deck. You can create a drainage channel by leaving gaps between the decking boards. This will help reduce the likelihood of water pooling on your deck.

3. To Allow Good Airflow

Airflow will be allowed through deck boards if there are enough gaps between them. These gaps will allow the evaporating heat to escape and help keep your deck boards rot free.

4. Cleaning

The small screws will need to be cleaned from time to time because it is outside. There may be a lot of debris on your deck. Proper spacing between deck boards will allow for some trash to fall to the ground. This makes cleaning easier.

While leaving gaps between deck boards has its benefits, there are also some dangers. A deck with too many gaps can make it look unattractive and less beautiful.

They can pose a threat to pets and people, as well as cause injuries. A second problem is an excessive airflow, which can make decks more vulnerable to fire.