The fasteners may be used interchangeably at times, but one will generally work better than the other.įor example, if you are planning on installing subflooring or drywall, screws tend to be the preferred fastener because they tend to hold tighter, longer. For your next project, determine whether joined surfaces are more likely to slide or to pull apart, using nails in the former case, screws for the latter. That said, nails are stronger than screws of the same length, and are better able to withstand “shear” pressure-which is the tendency of two joined pieces to slide past each other.
Another benefit of screws is their resistance to withdrawal pressure, or the tendency of surfaces to pull apart. This makes screws better for projects when joined pieces are under tension or bearing weight, like porch railings or kitchen cabinetry. Tensile strength refers to a material’s ability to resist breaking under pressure. While nails have more flexibility, screws have more tensile strength. Because screws cause less vibration-and less potential damage-upon insertion, they’re also preferable when working with more delicate materials like plaster and drywall. Screws are also good for mounting hardware and trim, constructing cabinets, and joining furniture parts, like attaching a tabletop to a base. Screws are a favorite fastener of woodworkers because, for example, they can be used to build jigs (temporary structures that guide and keep work consistent) for smaller projects like installing hinges. Screws are better for temporary jobs because they create tight bonds and can be removed more easily than nails. Brad and finishing nails are great for detail work like securing molding, door jambs, and baseboards. Box nails have a thinner shaft, which can prevent wood from splitting when hammered in, making them ideal for installing clapboard siding. Common nails are often a first choice for framing, construction, and carpentry. Nails are also called upon when securing plywood sheathing for exterior walls, installing hardwood floors, and attaching siding and roofing. Nails are often preferred for structural joining, including framing walls, because they are more flexible under pressure, whereas screws can snap.
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