Best Screws For Particle Boards & MDF in 2020
When it comes to the best screws for particleboard and MDF, there are plenty of vital aspects that should be taken into consideration. The screws for MDF and particle board have a number of different applications and can fasten a variety of chipboards. If you have to screw particle board, then it is imperative that you do so carefully.
In this article, you will learn some vital details about how to use these screws effectively and what their specific requirements are. Moreover, you will be guided about the best screws for MDF and particle board.
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Features of Particle Board & MDF
There are some exciting and important features of particle board and MDF that you need to know about. One of the major characteristics of particle board is the fact that it has high tensile strength and is fairly easy to drill holes and screw in. Also, it does not crack and split during drilling. Not only does it offer a variety of choices of surfaces and dimensions, but it is also approved by the numerous construction authorities. In addition to that, it has a long service life.
As a matter of fact, particle board is cost-effective, denser and more uniform than traditional wood. And it can be used as a substitute for plywood and conventional wood when cost is the most important factor. But, the appearance of particleboard can be improved significantly through painting or by the use of wood veneers. Although it is denser than traditional wood, it is the lightest and weakest type of fiberboard.
A major drawback of particleboard is that it is susceptible to expansion and discoloration due to moisture, especially when it is not covered with paint. That’s why, it is rarely used outdoors or in locations that have high levels of moisture. However, the main benefits of using particleboard over plywood is the fact that it is much more stable, affordable and more convenient to use.
Requirements for Screws
In order to be properly used, the particleboard screw will have to meet certain crucial requirements or specifications. As far as the choices for material are concerned, they may include carbon steel, brass, and stainless steel. The diameter should range between 3 mm and 6 mm while the length must fall within 12 mm to 200 mm.
There are a variety of head styles to choose from when it comes to choosing particle board screws. For instance, you can choose from double flat head, countersunk flat head, oval head and pan head. The most popular heads are flat or pan. And the popular gauges are 8 or 10. As far as surface treatment is concerned, there are a number of options available, such as white, Nickel plated, Black Oxide, Zinc coated, Waxed, etc.
In addition to that, there are certain other requirements that should be met in order to ensure the effective application of particle board or MDF screws. It all comes down to the specific demands and needs of the user and what type of particle board he is dealing with.
Knowing how to use screws properly is very important, in order to achieve the desired results. By following recommended instructions below, you will make sure that the particle board is strong as well as stable. Also, these guidelines will enable you to ensure your own safety as well.
Recommended Screws for Particle Board & MDF
When you are looking to purchase the best screws for MDF or particleboard, one of the best options is Spax screws. They have teeth at the front which enables them to go into a variety of materials easily. These screws are available in a wide variety of sizes, including SPAX #8 x 1-1/4in, SPAX #10 x 3in, SPAX #8 x 2-1/2in, etc. Spax screws are manufactured using a technology that enables the screw to be driven faster and reduces the possibility of splitting in wood.
The next recommended option is the Hillman Group screws. These screws can be used for a variety of woodworking jobs. They are made of metal and have the head style of Philips. And they are available in a wide variety of sizes and designs, including The Hillman Group 3/8 in. x 3 in. External Hex Hex-Head Lag Screws , The Hillman Group M8-1.25 x 30 mm. Internal Hex Button-Head Cap Screws, The Hillman Group 1/4 in. -20 x 1-1/4 in. Phillips Flat-Head Machine Screws, and many others.
How to Use Particle Board Screws?
Here are some of the most crucial guidelines on how to use screws for MDF and particle boards:
- Drill accurate holes: You need to ensure that the holes you drill are 85 percent of the particle board screws diameter. Exercise proper care to avoid violating this limit.
- Drill holes slightly deeper than the depth of screw: You need to ensure that the holes you drill are slightly deeper than the screw. For instance, the holes should be drilled to about 1 mm deeper than the depth of the screw. This will help ensure strength and stability.
- Be at least 1 inch away from the edge: if you are screwing directly into the face of the particle boards, try to be at least 1 inch away from the edge and not less than 25 mm from the corners.
- Be at least 2.5 inches away from the end: if you screw directly at the edges of the board, be sure that you are at least 2.5 inches away from the end. Try to be as precise and accurate as possible.
- Don’t over tighten it: When screwing into the particle board, make sure to do it slowly and carefully. Do not over tighten it. Over tightening can cause the particle boards to crack and split during the screwing process.
- Use screw and wood glue: You should consider using screw and wood glue to drop a dash into the hole before screwing. This is important, as it will help strengthen and protect the screw.
With that said, make sure to follow these instructions carefully and properly. By following these guidelines, you will be able to make holes that are accurate and match the specific requirements of the user.
Applications of Particle Board or MDF Screws
So if you are considering using the best screws for particle board, make sure to check into the specifications of these two brands.
With that being said, there are numerous different applications of particleboard screws. They find their applications in every industry, including steel industry, mechanical equipment manufacturing industry, metal building industry, automobile industry and others. Not only are they considered ideal for wood and chipboards, but they are often used for flooring and cabinetry as well.
Small particle board screws are often used to affix hinges to particle board cabinetry whereas the long particle board screws can be used to affix particle board to particle board when it comes to constructing cabinets.
In addition to that, normal length screws can be used to fasten particle board flooring to common wood joists.
Thus, you should consider all these guidelines and suggestions if you want to use these screws properly and effectively. Not only will you be able to purchase the best screws for particle board, but you will be able to use them in a way that is not detrimental to the wellbeing of the chipboard or MDF.
Source: furniture-factory.pro, thefurnitureconnoisseur.com, concretescrews.org
Last Updated on April 2, 2020 by Tom Bradly