The importance of the proper fastener. Or, why we use screws most of the time.

The type of fastener that is used on your job is a very important consideration. Of course the proper type of fastener is very much dependent upon the work that is at hand. 

I generally prefer to use screws as opposed to nails. This is because, in many applications, the nail tends to "let go" over time. This is particularly true in cases when wood is being fastened to wood in

an outdoor setting. For instance we never use nails to attach decking, attach parts to wood fences or anything that we do outdoors. Even when mounting rain gutters to the side of your roof, it is much preferable to use screws rather than the long wood nails. If you have ever seen gutters pulling away from a house, it is most likely due to the use of nails as a fastener.

There are instances however where nails are the appropriate choice over screws. One of those instances is when trim work needs to be attached. I use brads applied with a nail gun in that case.

The porch swings that we build are generally far superior to those of our competition. One of the main reasons is that all the fasteners are deck screws. Our porch swings will never separate due to the use of a nail instead of a screw.

I have repaired many wood fences for customers where the real reason for the failure was the use of cheap nails rather than deck screws. This is particularly true in the case of picket fences. When nails are used it is not a matter of if the picket will pull away, it is a matter of when.

We also use screws when installing drywall. We find that screws are far superior for us. We do not have to worry about marring up the drywall with  the hammer and it is much easier to make small adjustments in the level of the drywall (provided the leveling is done before taping and finishing). Screws also make it much easier to ensure that the drywall sheet is fastened tight against the studs. A countersunk screw is mush easier to tape and finish over than nails.

When you choose Moore Services for Your Money to do handyman work for you around your house, please rest assured that we will choose and use the best available fastener for the job at hand.

We will treat you in a manner in which we would like to be treated. This is called the Golden Rule and it is the cornerstone of our business.

Till Next Time

William Moore
Co-Owner and Founder
Moore Services for Your Money
mooresvs.com
678-702-4791