TEK Screw installation best practices - Please Don't use impact drivers
For large metal projects a metal roof screw gun is a life saver as it truly is the right tool for the job. For smaller projects a cordless drill/diver will work just fine. Ideal speed range for cordless drill will be under 2,500 rpm and a variable clutch is highly recommended. You might find lower speeds helpful when drilling into thicker metal and when using Stainless Steel screws to lessen the heat generated from the drilling process and avoid ‘burning’ the self-drilling tip. Use of a variable clutch makes it possible to achieve a consistent drive without over tightening. This is doubly important in dealing with roofing screws as they need to be correctly tightened so the EPDM sealing washer is compressed without squeezing out of the sides.
Monster Bolts is partial to Brighton-Best’s Proferred® TEK screws as they offer professional quality, reliable screws with a consistent high-quality finish without the premium price tag that is associated with products like this. These screws are stamped ‘PFD’ on the heads so there is no mistaking them from knockoffs. We also sell 410 Hardened Stainless Steel options that are perfect for projects that need screws that offer higher levels of protection from the elements and the environment.
Lastly, use a correctly sized, high-quality, recessed magnetic nut driver and replace when needed. Nothing is more frustrating that a low-quality magnetic driver that won’t hold your screws securely. A typical nut driver will last anywhere from 2,000 – 5,000 screws, but that figure will vary greatly depending on the metal thickness you are driving into and your unique job conditions.
As compelling as it may seem, do not use an Impact Driver. Impact Drivers are amazing for tons of projects, however in this case, they do more harm than good regarding metal panel and roof installation. Impact drivers can cause damage to the self-drilling points, break screws, chip the painted surfaces, strip threads and cause early corrosion to the screws themselves. This was addressed by the National Frame Building Association (NAFB)*, Metal Construction Association (MCA)*, Canadian Sheet Steel Building Institute (CSSBI)* and others including manufactures warning against using an Impact driver with TEK Self-Drilling or Self Tapping screws.
To quickly sum up, use the correct drill, the correct drill speed, the right fastener and make sure to use a quality magnetic nut driver for your next project to make sure it goes smoothly.
Answers to Common Questions:
- What are Tek Screws?
Tek screws, also known as self-drilling screws, are a type of fastener designed to drill their own hole as they are driven into materials. They have a unique drill bit-like point which eliminates the need for pre-drilling, making installation faster and more efficient. Tek screws are commonly used in metalworking, woodworking, and construction projects where speed and precision are important.
- Can Tek Screws be Used in Wood?
Yes, Tek screws can be used in wood. While they are primarily designed for metal applications, their self-drilling capability allows them to be used in wood as well. They are particularly useful for attaching metal components to wooden structures or for projects that involve both wood and metal materials. However, it's important to choose the appropriate type and size of Tek screw for the specific wood application to ensure optimal performance and holding strength.
- Are Tek Screws Self-Tapping?
Yes, Tek screws are self-tapping screws. This means they are capable of creating their own threads as they are driven into the material. The term "self-tapping" refers to the ability of the screw to form or cut threads in the material, which is a key feature of Tek screws. Their design allows them to tap into the material without the need for a pilot hole, streamlining the fastening process.
- Are Tek Screws Strong?
Tek screws are known for their strength and durability. They are typically made from high-quality materials such as hardened steel or stainless steel, which provides excellent strength and resistance to wear and corrosion. The strength of Tek screws makes them suitable for a wide range of applications, including heavy-duty construction and industrial projects. However, the specific strength of a Tek screw can vary depending on its size, material, and intended use. It is important to select the right Tek screw for your particular project to ensure maximum strength and performance.
- What are Tek Screws Made Of?
Tek screws are typically made from high-quality steel, often hardened steel, which provides excellent durability and strength. They are sometimes coated with materials such as zinc or other types of corrosion-resistant finishes to enhance their longevity and performance, especially in harsh environments. Stainless steel Tek screws are also available for applications requiring superior corrosion resistance.
- Can Tek Screws Be Used in Steel?
Yes, Tek screws can be used in steel. They are specifically designed to drill through and secure metal materials, including steel. The self-drilling point of a Tek screw allows it to penetrate steel without the need for a pilot hole, making it a convenient and efficient choice for metalworking projects. When using Tek screws in steel, it's important to select the appropriate size and type to ensure proper fastening and structural integrity.
- How Many Tek Screws Do I Need?
The number of Tek screws needed for a project depends on several factors, including the size and type of materials being joined, the weight and load requirements, and the specific application. As a general guideline, you should space Tek screws evenly along the joint, typically about 12 to 24 inches apart for structural applications. For detailed projects, such as attaching metal roofing panels, it's important to follow the manufacturer's recommendations or industry standards to determine the exact number of screws required for optimal performance and safety.
- What Are the Different Types of Tek Screws?
Tek screws come in various types, including standard self-drilling screws, self-drilling screws with wings, and specialty screws designed for specific materials or applications. The different types cater to varying requirements, such as drilling through thicker materials or creating a larger clearance hole.
- How Do You Install Tek Screws?
Installing Tek screws is straightforward. First, position the screw at the desired location. Using a power drill with the appropriate bit, apply steady pressure to drive the screw into the material. The self-drilling tip will create a hole, and the threads will tap into the material, securing the screw in place.
- What Are the Advantages of Using Tek Screws?
The primary advantages of Tek screws include their ability to drill and tap in a single operation, saving time and effort. They provide strong and reliable fastening, are available in various materials and sizes, and can be used in a wide range of applications, including metal, wood, and composite materials.
- Are There Any Limitations to Using Tek Screws?
While Tek screws are highly versatile, they do have some limitations. They are not suitable for very thick materials, as the self-drilling tip may not penetrate effectively. Additionally, for extremely hard materials, pre-drilling might still be necessary to prevent damage to the screw or material.
CSSBI Sheet Steel Facts 42 March 2015 “Fastening Prepainted Sheet Steel Roofing and Siding”
MCA – Metal Construction Association “Technical Bulletin dated 8/28/2013 Version 1 “Proper Tools for Fastening Metal Panels”
National Frame Building Association (NAFB) Technical Bulletin “Proper Tools for Fastening Metal Panels” Version 1