A Comprehensive Guide to Screws, Nails, and Wall Plugs for DIYers

February 13, 2025

Choosing the Right Screw, Nail, or Wall Plug for Your DIY Project

There’s nothing quite like standing back and admiring a job well done. Whether you're putting up a shelf, securing a garden bed, or tackling a full-blown renovation, the right fasteners can make all the difference. But with so many options staring back at you from the hardware aisle, how do you know which ones to pick? Let's clear up the confusion and make sure your next project holds up to the test of time.

Screws vs. Nails – Which One Should You Use?

Before diving into head shapes and thread types, it helps to understand when to use screws and when to go with nails.

Screws: Perfect for projects that need a strong grip, easy removal, or adjustments down the line. Think cabinetry, decking, and anything that requires a precise hold.
Nails: Best for jobs needing sheer strength, like framing a house or fixing fence palings. They drive in fast and won’t snap under pressure.

Now that that’s settled, let’s talk specifics.

Different Types of Screws and Their Uses

Stepping into the world of screws is like unlocking a secret language. Each type has a special purpose, and choosing the wrong one can mean a wobbly disaster. Here's a quick guide:

Wood Screws: Ideal for timber projects. They have a sharp point and coarse threads for solid grip.
Drywall Screws: Made for fixing plasterboard to wooden or metal frames. Their deep threads ensure a firm hold without tearing through the material.
Self-Tapping Screws: Perfect for metal and plastic. They create their own thread as they drive in – no need for pre-drilling.
Decking Screws: Treated to resist corrosion and designed to hold decking boards securely in place.
Masonry Screws: Essential for fixing things to brick or concrete. Usually blue or silver and come with a matching drill bit.

And let’s not forget screw head types. Flathead for a flush finish, Phillips for easy driving, and hex heads for full-on strength—each has its time and place.

Nails: The Classic Fastener

Nails haven’t gone out of style for a reason. They come in different shapes and sizes, each built for a specific task.

Common Nails: The go-to for framing and general construction. They have a thick shank and strong hold.
Finishing Nails: Thinner with a small head, perfect for trim and moulding where you don't want a visible hole.
Clout Nails: Great for attaching roofing, flashing, and sometimes even flooring.
Brad Nails: Work well for delicate woodworking projects and attaching thin materials without splitting them.

Choosing the right nail size is just as important. Too long, and you risk splitting your material. Too short, and it won’t hold. Aim for a nail that’s at least three times the thickness of what you’re fastening.

Wall Plugs: Extra Support Where You Need It

If you’ve ever put a screw into plasterboard or brick and had it pull right out again, you know the misery of a missing wall plug. These little lifesavers secure screws in weak or crumbly materials.

Plastic Expansion Plugs: The most common type, expanding as you drive in the screw.
Spring Toggle Anchors: Great for hollow walls, using a folding mechanism to grip the back of the material.
Concrete Wall Plugs: Tougher and designed for use in brick or concrete.

The trick is to match the plug size to your screw and pre-drill a hole that’s the right diameter. Too loose and the plug will spin. Too tight and you’ll struggle to insert the screw properly.

Helpful Tips for a Flawless Finish

Here are a few pro tips to keep in mind:

Use a pilot hole for screws going into hardwood to prevent splitting.
When nailing into softwood, angle your nails slightly for extra hold.
For heavy items on drywall, go beyond basic wall plugs and opt for a toggle bolt or anchor system.
Choose galvanised or stainless-steel fasteners for outdoor projects to avoid rust.
Keep a magnet handy for picking up dropped nails and screws – you'll thank yourself later!

Quality Supplies and Expert Advice

Every DIY project is a chance to build something solid and lasting. With the right screws, nails, and wall plugs, your work will stand strong. Need help finding the perfect fastener? Visit Strathalbyn H Hardware for top-quality supplies and expert advice.

Happy building!
Candeece