40 Different Types of Screws and Their Uses

We all love a good screw, but did you know there are a whopping 34 different types of screws. Each has been carefully designed for use with different materials and finishes. Using the wrong one for your project could be a disaster. In other words, you get screwed.

Find out which screw is right for your project by learning about the different types of screws. Discover every bolt in this month’s article.

To give you a better idea of the different types of screws in detail, I’ve compiled 40 types of screws with highlights of their main uses and features.

Types of screws

These are different types of screws:

#1. Wood Screws.

Wood screws are used for basic wood construction and woodwork projects to attach wood to wood. The coarse threads, smooth shank, and tapered head make wood screws an ideal choice for woodwork.

Unless the screw itself is self-tapping, meaning it can be driven into the wood directly, then the screw will require a pilot hole, or previously drilled hole, before you insert it into the wood. Wood screws have different types of thread depending on the kind of wood.

Typically, wood screws that have fewer threads per inch are best for fastening soft woods such as pine, whereas fine thread screws are best used for connecting hardwoods such as oak.

Wood screws can have many different kinds of heads, but typically have either a round head or a flat head. A round head will sit slightly above the wood on the finished product whereas the flat head will be more flush with the finished piece.

Wood screws are available in interior or exterior styles with the appropriate finishes.

#2. Deck Screws.

Deck screws are similar to wood screws with a few extra specificities. Designed for decking, these screws are used to attach decking to a deck frame or composite decking.

This style of screw is typically self-tapping, meaning it can be directly drilled into the material.

It is corrosion-resistant to be more durable, especially for exterior use. The heads of deck screws are also designed to countersink, meaning to either sink slightly into the wood or to sit flush with it.

#3. Drywall Screws.

Drywall screws have coarse threads that are suitable for securing the drywall to wooden studs or beams.

These screws are commonly used by DIYers to finish basements or build new rooms within the existing space. While they are best suited for joining drywall to wood studs, fine-thread drywall screws can also be used to connect drywall to metal studs.

The length of these screws varies, but most drywall screws have flat heads that are made to countersink just below the surface of the drywall. This makes it easier to conceal the screws with joint compound and a coat of paint.

#4. Masonry Screws.

Masonry screws are designed for use with masonry materials, like brick, mortar joints, or concrete. They are commonly used outdoors to secure objects, like rain gutters, to the brick exterior or you can use masonry screws to attach wooden floor plates to the concrete foundation.

These screws require a pilot hole to be drilled with a hammer drill and masonry bit before the screw can be inserted. They are best recognized by the two different thread patterns on one screw.

The first is small and tight to the shaft, while the second is much larger, protruding from the shaft of the screw. Choose between a flat head to countersink the screw or a hex washer head that will sit on top of the material.

#5. Sheet Metal Screws.

Sheet metal screws are designed for attaching sheets of metal, as their name suggests. They can also be used for wood or to secure other materials together, but they are primarily used for sheet metal.

This kind of screw does not have a smooth shaft and typically has threading all the way up to the head to ensure they can easily drive through the sheet metal. Usually made from steel, these screws are designed to self-tap through metal, making them sharp and durable.

Available in a range of sizes with sharp points and flat or hex heads, these heavy-duty screws are versatile and reliable.

#6. Machine Screws.

Machine screws are a type of fastener that differ from other screws in that they do not drill through materials themselves. Instead, they are used in conjunction with pre-drilled and tapped holes, which have threads cut into them to accommodate the machine screw.

When a machine screw is inserted into a tapped hole and secured with a nut, the resulting tension causes the screw to stretch, which forms a strong and stable bond.

Machine screws are commonly used in situations where precision and strength are required, such as in the assembly of machinery, electronics, appliances, and vehicles.

#7. Self-Tapping Screws.

DIYers and professionals can use self-tapping screws to cut or tap internal threads when the screw is driven into the target material. However, self-tapping screws don’t always reduce the risk of splitting some soft materials, therefore they may still require a pilot hole.

Self-drilling screws are a type of self-tapping screw that features a drill bit tip so that they do not need a pilot hole for installation. These screws are used in a wide variety of applications and can overlap with other types of screws based on the thread design.

For instance, you can find sheet metal self-tapping screws or invest in self-drilling MDF screws for DIY MDF construction projects.

#8. Double-Ended Screws.

Easily recognizable because they don’t have a head, double-ended screws are designed to be inserted into two pre-drilled pilot holes to fasten pieces of wood together.

They are very common in furniture making and are often included in pre-fabricated furniture packages for you to quickly put together your new desk, table, or bookshelf.

The screws have lag threads on both ends which taper to a midpoint. Use a driving tool or locking pliers to insert the screws into the pre-drilled holes.

Just keep in mind that these screws are not intended to be removed after they are installed. Removal can damage the pre-drilled holes, making it difficult to rebuild the furniture or object.

#9. Security Screws.

Security screws are essentially standard screws with a unique head that makes them more difficult to remove without the appropriate tools.

These fasteners are a good option for public locations that are prone to vandalism, theft, and tampering, though they can also be used to help protect private property.

However, it should be mentioned that with the right screwdriver or even the right driver bit, you can remove these screws, so the additional security is really only effective against those that are unwilling to source the right tools.

#10. Hammer-Drive Screws.

A hammer-drive screw needs to be driven in with a hammer, mallet, or a hammer-drive tool designed to strike the screw head, like a nail.

These screws have thick, rounded heads and tough, durable shafts with multiple start threads and large helical angles intended to keep the screw in position once it is installed.

Use hammer drive screws to attach items, like signs or nameplates, to walls with a quick strike of the hammer.

Just keep in mind that the screws are made for permanent installation, so they are not the best option if you will need to change the sign or replace the nameplate bracket at some point.

#11. Mirror Screws.

Designed for securing mirrors to the wall, these screws feature tapered rubber grommets to prevent the metal screws from pressing directly into the mirror.

This specialized type of screw has a slotted, countersunk head with a threaded hole so that the cover cap can be threaded into the hole, providing you with a sleek, finished fastener to support the mirror.

These screws can be used anywhere around the home, including the bathroom. The stainless steel construction and zinc coating keep them safe from rust and corrosion, so the extra moisture and humidity in the bathroom or kitchen aren’t concerns.

#12. Pocket Hole Screws

Pocket screws are specifically designed for use in wooden furniture. They have special heads and shanks used to draw pieces of wood together.

This is accomplished with the self-drilling tip, self-tapping threads, and broad washer heads that help to prevent you from overdriving the screws through softer wood.

The screw heads are strong, durable, and typically have a square recess that improves the grip of the screwdriver in the drive recess. This combination of factors makes them uniquely suitable for pocket hole joinery.

#13. Thread Cutting Machine Screws.

Thread-cutting machine screws consist of sharp edges so it’s important for the depth of the hole to be a little longer than the screw.

This will avoid the material from getting trapped inside the device. The role of thread-cutting screws is to minimize the creation of internal device stresses, thus making them ideal for extremely stiff materials.

This is in contrast to a thread-forming screw, whose edge does not have any cutting, which makes it difficult in materials with low compressive strength force. But this forms a tight bit between the thread-forming screw and the material.

What they’re used for: most often used with wood and metal.

#14. Self-Drilling Screws.

Self-drilling screws come in different lengths of drill tips. The highest number is equal to a longer drill tip. You also have the option of choosing different point sizes based on their diameter.

Bear in mind that the material’s thickness will affect the length requirements of the point. Self-drilling screws also have a variety of uses and types and are mainly used for fastening or joining sheet metal or steel to other metals.

What they’re used for: quick drilling into metal or wood.

#15. Concrete Screws.

Concrete screws, also known as masonry screws, are designed to fasten materials to concrete, brick, and block.

They have a high-low thread design that allows for easy installation and strong holding power.

Concrete screws typically have a hex, bugle or flat head and require a pre-drilled hole for proper installation.

#16. Euro Screws‍.

Euro screws are specifically designed for use with European-style cabinet hinges and drawer slides.

They have a flat head, a partial thread, and a special 5mm diameter shank, which allows for easy adjustment and secure attachment of hinges and slides to cabinet panels.

#17. Lag Screws‍.

Lag screws, also known as lag bolts, are heavy-duty fasteners used for connecting heavy lumber or other materials that require a strong connection.

They have a hexagonal head and coarse threads, which provide excellent grip and holding power. Lag screws are typically used with a pre-drilled pilot hole and require a wrench or socket for installation.

#18. Set Screws‍.

Set screws are designed to secure one object within another, such as a gear on a shaft. They have no head, which allows them to be fully embedded into a pre-drilled hole. Set screws typically have a hexagonal socket and are tightened with an Allen wrench.

They come in various thread types and point styles, such as cup, cone, and flat point, which allow for different levels of grip and holding power.

#19. Grub Screws‍.

Grub screws, also known as blind screws or headless screws, are similar to set screws since they are used to secure one object within another.

They are typically used in applications where space is limited or where a protruding head would be undesirable. Grub screws have a flat or slightly-rounded point and are tightened with an Allen wrench.

#20. Tamper-Resistant Screws‍.

Tamper-resistant screws are designed to deter unauthorized access to protected areas or equipment. They have unique head designs, such as pin-in-torx or pin-in-hex, that require specialized tools for installation and removal.

Tamper-resistant screws are commonly used in security, electronics, and other applications where vandalism or theft is a concern.

#21. Metal Roofing Screws.

‍Metal roofing screws are uniquely designed to securely fasten metal panels onto a building’s underlying structure. They have an incredibly sharp self-piercing point, which eliminates the need for pre-drilling and prevents any damage to the sheet metal when attaching it.

Metal roofing screws are designed to provide secure connections, durability, and weather resistance when used in metal roofing applications.

#22. Hex Bolts.

Hex cap screws are large-sized bolts with a hexagonal head hence their name! They are used to attach wood or metal to wood.

Hex screws consist of tiny steel threads that make them ideal for interior home improvement projects or stainless-steel exterior tasks. These screws also feature a flat washer under the screw head and provide precise applications.

What they’re used for: fastening wood to wood or metal to wood.

#23. Carriage Bolts.

Carriage bolts are specifically used in woodworking projects to fasten metal to wood. These bolts have a domed head that prevents loosening. The large head shape of carriage bolts also prevents them from getting pulled through a wooden construction.

Aside from being intended for use in woodworking projects, carriage bolts are just as suitable for metal applications thanks to their machine screw thread.

Having said that, carriage bolts are not compatible with drill adaptors so installing them in a metal can be rather difficult if not impossible.

What they’re used for: fastening metal to metal or metal to wood.

#24. Lag Bolts.

Lag screws typically consist of a hexagonal head and are designed for high-impact applications. The most common places you can find these screws include decks and wood-retaining sidewalls.

Lag bolts are extremely strong, durable, and long-lasting. They are mostly made of high-carbon steel for the core with outer galvanized zinc. The galvanized zinc material protects them from rust and corrosion.

What’s more, moisture and air can’t penetrate into lag screws, thus making them rust-resistant.

What they’re used for: connecting heavy lumber or other heavy materials that are bearing an intense load.

#25. Socket Screws.

Socket-head screws are perfect for when you need a fastener to sit below your material’s surface. These types of screws are highly strong and reliable wherever a joint is required.

They are also exceptionally resistant to corrosion. But aside from their sturdiness, they ensure an attractive and quality finish.

Main features and benefits of socket countersunk screws:

• Available in different thread sizes
• Highly resistant to corrosion
• Made of stainless steel
• Head height is the same as the shank diameter

What they’re used for: fasting machine parts.

#26. Set Screws.

Set screws are used to fasten an object to or against another object. For example, gear or pulley can be secured to a shaft using a set screw. These screws are fully threaded without a head sticking out, and there are many different shapes and sizes available.

The most common variations include:

• Flat set screws: these screws adjust to the surface of the application without damaging it by aligning against the ground
• Knurled cup screws: they feature a locking action to stop the screw from loosening in high-vibration applications
• Cup point screws: these are the most common types of set screws that permanently hold components on hard or soft surfaces

What they’re used for: to secure an object within another object.

#27. Mating Screws.

A companion for sex screws. They have a plan shaft and a threaded portion, which is received by the internally threaded part of the sex screw.

What they’re used for:  bolting applications where a head is desired on both sides of the joint.

#28. Flat Screws.

Flat screw heads sit completely flush with a surface, leaving no head exposed. You have to countersink these types of screws.

The advantage of flat screws is that you don’t have to worry about the screw sticking out of the surface and other things snagging on it.

You also don’t see the screw head when using a screw cover.

#29. Raised Screw.

Raised heads, sometimes known as oval heads, have a similar angle to flat screws but have more of a dome-shaped head. You will also need to countersink these screws to accommodate the angle.

Unlike a flat screw, the head of a raised screw protrudes slightly from the surface. This shape doesn’t necessarily help the driving power of the screw but is more for decoration.

#30. Bugle screws.

Bugle heads are primarily used on screws made for plasterboard and drywall.

This shape is similar to a flat screw head, except instead of an angle below the surface of the head, you see a curved shape that can reduce damage to a surface.

Bugle screws are self-drilling so you don’t need to pre-drill prior to use, and their unique shape allows them to spread the stress over a wider surface area than flat-head screws.

#31. Binding Screws.

Binding screws, also known as book screws or book binding screws, have numerous uses including for use with color charts, swatch books, catalogs, fabric swatch books, and albums.

By using them with grommets or hangers, you can hang the pattern book neatly and conveniently.

We supply both metal and plastic screws. The metal tubes and metal screws are supplied separately. You have the choice between a screw with an extension, a hammerhead screw, or our patented hammerhead screw with an extension.

The plastic binding screws are supplied in standard combinations as a set consisting of a tube and a screw. We can also supply plastic binding screws with holes.

The advantage of binding screws is that they are not permanent and therefore you can update your catalog. You can also use them in combination with a variety of accessories such as extension pieces, binding screw sample strips, spacers, hanging loops, top caps, and washers.

#32. Domed Screw.

Dome Screws are used to secure the top straps of a helmet in place of a buckle. Low Profile, Stainless Steel, Won’t gouge or cut opponent’s helmet.

Dome Head Screws have an oversized “truss” head style with an undercut bottom and a low-height rounded dome top. Choose between Phillips and Slotted drives as well as machine and sheet metal threading.

#33. Flange Screw.

A flange is typically a small protruding flat rim, collar, or rib on a bolt for reinforcement or attachment. Flange Bolts are extremely safe when used in specific applications.

These screws distribute pressure where the screw meets the surface without taking up the space required for a washer. This eliminates the need for a separate washing machine, saving space and money.

A flange head can be any head shape (except countersunk shapes) with the addition of an integral flange at the base of the head. This eliminates the need for a washer.

The flange head lies flat on the surface of the material into which it is screwed. It is commonly used in the furniture industry to attach hard fiberboard panels to the rear of cabinets and shelves.

The flat, washer-like head of the screw saves space and enlarges the contact surface on the fiberboard.

#34. Truss Screw.

Truss-head screws are threaded fasteners with mushroom-shaped heads. They have a broad and slightly rounded head resembling a mushroom.

With their mushroom-shaped head, truss-head screws protrude from the workpieces in which they are installed. They do not sit flush with workpieces. After a truss head screw is fully driven into a workpiece, the head will stick out.

You’ll usually need truss heads when working with sheet metal and other projects that require large holes because the wide head prevents the truss screw from going through the hole.

#34. Phillips screw.

The head of Phillips screws is designed in such a way that the screwdriver head can slip out if excessive force is applied. The specific design of the head allowed the Phillips head screw to handle higher torque much better than other fasteners.

Also, because they allowed for tighter attachment, they immediately found their place on assembly lines, and it wasn’t long before these screws were being used for a variety of applications.

The benefits of such features can be seen in the famous Model T, the first truly affordable Ford vehicle that opened the road to the general American middle class. In fact, the Model T is considered one of the world’s most influential cars of the 20th century.

#35. Thread-rolling screws.

Instead of cutting threads into the material, the thread-rolling screws create threads by exerting pressure against the material’s walls. These screws are mainly used for softer materials, such as wood, plastic, or nylon.

Their double lead thread style minimizes torque and enhances pullout power. This prevents the material from cracking or damage. There are some thread-rolling screws that also feature widely-spaced threads that make them easier to insert into pre-drilled holes.

#36. Weld screws.

Weld screws are welded to an aluminum or metal surface to create a shaft for the components that are to be fitted or fastened. This can be done using a washer or nut.

The tabs of weld screws extend from the head in order to allow welding without using a hole. The welding stud is then fastened to a metal piece. This stud is located on the metal’s base.

These types of screws are most frequently used in the automotive, industrial, marine, construction, cookware, and aerospace industries.

#37. Raised or slotted cheese screws.

Slotted cheese head screws are made from stainless steel and are designed with a round, raised head. The cheese head’s height is almost equal to half the head’s diameter.

These screws are highly popular in industrial, electrical, telecommunication, and automotive lighting applications due to the fact that they are extremely rust and corrosion-resistant and can be used in underwater projects.

#38. Fillister head screws.

Fillister head screws are slotted head machine fasteners with large oversized heads that can be used for attaching metal or wood to metal.

Also referred to as cheese head screws, the fillister head fasteners are similar to pan head machine screws but with a bigger side height. The head of these screws is mainly preferred for counterbored holes.

#39. Framing screws.

Framing screws are multi-use fasteners for sheet metal, wood, laminate, composite decking, and cement fiberboard applications.

These screws are designed to countersink into many different materials, from hardwood flooring to brittle composite. This can be achieved by the cutting teeth of the screws under the head as well as the six cutting pockets.

Framing screws work very similarly to circular saw blades as they prevent the sawdust from getting to the edge of the screw hole. The hole can then be sealed off without damaging the surface of the material.

#40. MDF Screws.

MDF screws, as the name implies, are made for use with medium-density fiberboard, which is more commonly known as MDF.

The reason why these screws are better suited to MDF than standard wood screws is that MDF tends to be tougher to penetrate than solid wood. You can drill pilot holes in the MDF to use standard wood screws, but you don’t need to drill pilot holes if you are using self-drilling MDF screws.

The special thread and tip on these screws act like a drill bit to cut through the tough MDF wood. Use these screws for interior trim, furniture, and other construction projects that use MDF wood as the primary material.

FAQs.