Used in a wide range of fixing and fastening applications and usually made from stainless steel, self-drilling screws come with a drill-shaped point. This point is what allows them to “fasten” themselves. When using self-drilling screws you don't need to use a drill to make holes for the screw to go in. This makes for a more efficient and seamless fastening process.
You also don't need to carry a drill wherever you go. Keep in mind though that self drilling self tapping screws are not the same. The latter tap their own heads but they are not able to drill through materials. You still need a pilot hole to be made with a drill. But what exactly can you use self drilling screws for?
Uses of Self Drilling Screws
Decking
Since the design of a self drilling screw allows you to just insert it without extra power tools the time needed to install even big structures is reduced. The same goes for big decks. With plenty of quality self drilling screws holding the wooden structure you can rest assured it is far more stable than relying on the more conventional solution.
Roofing
The same can be said for roofing applications. Roofs are big structures too and although made of a different material, when a proper self drilling screw is used everything stays together for a long time. You save yourself from being exposed to the hot sun for long.
Metal
Talking about metal structures, self-drilling screws are able to drill through sheet metal. Although a drill may be more powerful it still doesn't make for as an efficient or quick installation process. Because of this self-drilling screws are used in different industries that require metal fastening such as auto construction and furniture manufacturing.
Concrete
Another high-strength material self-drilling screws can get through is concrete. You can also use self-drilling screws in similar building materials such as brick and block. There are also different types of concrete self-drilling screws such as ones with a flat Phillips head and a slotted hex head. The former is used when the screw needs to be flush with the surface and the latter in applications where it needs to stick out.
Medical
When it comes to orthopaedic surgery, muscle repair, as well as tissue and organ displacement, self-drilling screws are used. Although these are not made from the same grade materials used in construction or deck installation they still do the same thing.
Drywall
Drywall can be tricky to work with sometimes and to help you forget about this, using self-drilling screws can make things run smoothly. Self-drilling screws used for drywall installations prevent tearing or damaging the paper and they also come in different diameters. They are quite flexible and despite that, they can be used with wooden or metal studs.
Wood
When it comes to working with wood, self-drilling screws can make it easy to fasten stuff onto wooden structures. The same goes when you want to use wood in the repair, construction, and maintenance of outbuildings.
Plastic
Self-drilling screws can be used in extremely tensile applications as well as in ones that do not require as much force to keep things together. Plastic applications are exactly that, but self-drilling screws can be used to keep components such as ductwork and plastic piping in place.
Types of Self Drilling Screws
Low-Profile
If you want a self drilling screw that offers a plethora of adaptable options low-profile self-drilling screws are a great choice. They are used in applications where you want to avoid having obtrusive fixings. There are wafer-head, pancake-head, and Tek low self-drilling screws.
Countersunk
A countersunk self-drilling screw is the most versatile solution since it comes in various different sizes and subtypes. Countersunk self-drilling screws are made to go flush with the surface they are mounted to. A countersunk screw is also available with and without wings.
With Wings
No matter if it's countersunk or not, a self-drilling screw with wings make it easy to drill through thicker material. The wings help make for a larger hole too making for an easier path for the screw to go through.
Using Self Drilling Screws
1. Although it sounds ironic, the best way to use these simple fasteners is with a drill. Despite eliminating the drilling process, self-drilling screws still require a power tool in order to be installed. Since they act as both the drill bit and fastener.
2. You need to first ensure that you're using the right hex adaptor on the drill or an alternative one depending on the screw head. Once you've established that you have the right hex adapter, fit the screw to it.
3. Before you install the screw though, make sure to mark the point on the material where you want the screw to be inserted. With the mark and screw ready, drill the fastener through the material.
4. When drilling, ensure that you have a steady and firm grip on the drill. Once the screw is drilled into place you're all finished. Inspect the work you've just done, in case of any imperfections and with that you've successfully installed your first self-drilling screw.
