What Size Screws For Wood Fence Pickets Are Best?
If you’re thinking about building a fence, you may be wondering what size screws for wood fence pickets are best. This is a question that many people have when they begin building their own fence, and it’s an important one to consider. There are several factors to keep in mind, including the material the fence is made of, the type of fastener, and the length of the screws.
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The Size of the Fencing Screws
The length of the fence screws is vital to ensuring the strength and stability of your fence. You should use screws that are 3 1/2 to 4 inches long when attaching backer rails or preassembled fence panels to posts. Then, when you attach individual pickets to backer rails, you should use screws that are 1-1/4 inches to 1-3/4 inches long.
Choosing the Right Nail Materials
The right nail material is vital to the long-term strength and appearance of your fence. Some materials don’t work well with certain woods, causing unfavorable responses that can damage the fence and compromise its look and structural integrity. For example, natural acids in cedar and redwood can corrode nails. This can cause dark streaks in the fence and make it harder to keep it clean.
Other materials that can be used to attach fencing include hot-dipped galvanized nails and stainless steel. The former is appropriate in most climates, and the latter is ideal for cedar or redwood fences that are frequently exposed to water.
If the fence will be exposed to rain and other weather, it’s a good idea to choose a corrosion-resistant fastener. For example, silicon bronze screws offer a high degree of protection against water and rain, making them an excellent option for any fence that will be exposed to the elements.
Using Too Many Fence Nails
The number of nails you use can determine the strength and durability of your fence. If you install too many fence nails, your fence might split and loosen over time, requiring more repairs. You can also end up with nails that aren’t flush with the wood, which can make the fence appear less sturdy.
Whether or not to Use Nails and Screws Together
There are a few different ways to secure your fence with pickets, but the most common is to use nails on the top of the pickets and screws on the bottom. This method ensures that the fence pickets are secure and will not come loose over time.
Another way to secure your fence is by using both nails and screws at the same time. Some builders will attach the pickets to backer rails with nails, then the backer rails to fence posts with screws.
In either case, the choice of fencing materials and the number of pickets will help you decide on the proper size screws for wood fence pickets. Fortunately, there are several types of screws that are available to meet any need and budget. It’s important to understand how each type of screw functions so that you can decide which is best for your project.
