Which Screws are Best for Outdoors?

Don't Get Screwed by the Weather: Choosing the Right Fasteners for Outdoor Projects

When building or repairing anything that will be exposed to weather, you want to be sure that you're using the correct screw type for the job. Seriously, believe it or not, screws can make all the difference between a finished product that lasts 10 years or one that needs to be 're-screwed and refinished' every 2 years because of rust and the stains that follow.

Stainless Steel: The Obvious Choice?

And that's why, when anyone is building something cool in their garden, stainless steel often gets the nod. And for good reason too: Stainless steel resists corrosion and is durable, even in the face of the most inclement weather. Not all stainless steel screws are created equal though—in fact, there are several grades of stainless steel, and some work better outdoors than others.

Let's take a look at two of the most common grades of stainless steel: 304 and 316.

Our ranges of 304 and 316 grade stainless steel screws have proven to last in rigorous tests.

304 grade is a popular choice for most outdoor jobs, as it's strong, resistant to corrosion, and relatively inexpensive. It's not ideal, however, for jobs that are in constant exposure to high levels of saltwater or chlorine due to the fact that, very slowly, it may corrode in these kinds of environments.

The 316 marine-grade stainless steel is the crème de la crème when it comes to stainless steel screws. It doesn't corrode in these salty marine environments and is good for projects that are exposed to saltwater, chlorine, or high humidity. Read this post about screws for coastal regions.

But what about other types of screws? Are there any other options that can withstand the great outdoors?

Galvanized Screws: A Cost-Effective Alternative

Galvanized screws are widely popular at outdoor jobsites. They’re coated with a layer of zinc which gives them decent corrosion resistance. They aren't as tough as stainless steel screws and will ultimately corrode over time, but are a good bang for your buck.

So, Which Screw Will you be Choosing?

This all depends on you budget and needs, but we will always recommend stainless steel screws at they will often outlast the timber structure that they are holding together.