Finding ways to make Minneapolis metal projects easier and faster is often a case of choosing the best tools, materials, and fasteners. For many types of applications, including when fastening metal and less commonly with wood or composite materials, there will be a need to not only insert the screw but to do it quickly and easily. As these can be inserted without the need for an additional pilot hole step, they are fast to install.
When this is the case, or when the screw may be removed and replaced on a frequent basis, using self drilling screws may be the best option. To see why let’s take a closer look at the specifics of these screws and how they can be a benefit on any Minneapolis project.
What is Self Drilling?
While it is possible to use a pilot hole with a self-drilling screw, it is not typically necessary in most types of metals. The end of the screw looks very similar to the end of a drill bit, hence the ability to drill into wood.
The drill bit component of the screw, which has a very sharp point and the fin shape of a drill, will easily penetrate the surface of the metal to allow the drill bit to grab and begin to bore into the metal. With just a slight amount of pressure, it is possible to install these self drilling screws by hand or with an electric screw driver.
The threads on self drilling screws extend down the length of the screw from the head to just above where the drill point begins. In some cases, and ideally for use if the screw may have to be removed and replaced, the choice of a self-tapping, self-drilling screw is the best. Self-tapping simply means the threads of the screw will cut into the material, creating their own grooves and allowing the screw to be secured in place.
