Hex Bolts - Everything You Need to Know

Hex Bolts - Everything You Need to Know

At Monster Bolts, we have all kinds of fasteners for your most challenging home and business projects.

In addition to all kinds of innovative wood screws, sheet metal screws, and other fasteners, we have a variety of high-design hex bolts including fully threaded and partially threaded options.

Might you want to use these for your next project? It depends. Does the Pope wear a funny hat?

Why People Use Hex Bolts

One of the primary reasons that hex bolts are so popular for heavy-duty interior or exterior use is their design.

For context, think about trying to hold things together using your traditional Phillips head wood screws with their relatively small attack surface and your trusty screwdriver.

Now imagine you're up on a ladder somewhere and it's 90 degrees, and you're sweating into your face. Suppose there are bees roaming around you with their stingers out, and you're trying to grab the stuff as quickly as possible and wrestle it into place. Importantly, too, suppose you are trying to hold the angle while you fasten.

In all of these cases, what you want is a surface that takes tool attack from various angles, and where it's relatively easy to get this fastener threaded into place...

Now do you see why hex bolts are so popular? Instead of wrestling with a tiny x, and often stripping the screw head in your frustration, you can grab onto the hex bolt and turn it confidently, just like you would turn lug nuts with a tire iron.

Hex Bolts - Durable Build

Hex bolts are also, in many ways, the workhorses of the fastener world. They do the tough jobs, and those are the jobs that they are built to do.

Look, these things are not likely to break or bend over time. The diameter of most hex bolts provides quite a bit of security, and with the right alloys and craftsmanship, these fasteners aren't going anywhere. That's why you see them installed on bridges and in various municipal projects where durability is a major concern, and the need for prevailing wage means planners are likely to spare no expense in materials.

That's our “this old house” moment for today. Take a look and get what you need for your next project. Ask us any questions that you have about how to hold stuff together (we don’t do counseling, but we DO do project advice!) – and bookmark us for an easy way to get the gear you need for the long haul.

Answers to Common Hex Bolt Questions:

• How Are Hex Bolts Measured?

Hex bolts are measured by their length, diameter, and thread pitch. The length is measured from under the head to the end of the bolt, while the diameter is the width of the bolt's shank. Thread pitch refers to the distance between threads and is typically specified in threads per inch (TPI) or millimeters for metric bolts. Accurate measurements are crucial for ensuring the correct fit in applications.

• What Are Hex Bolts Used For?

Hex bolts are versatile fasteners used in a variety of applications, including construction, machinery, automotive, and furniture assembly. Their hexagonal heads allow for easy wrenching and torque application, making them ideal for securing heavy-duty materials. They are commonly used in steel, wood, and concrete structures.

• How Are Hex Bolts Made?

Hex bolts are made through a multi-step process that includes cutting, forging, threading, and heat treating. Initially, a steel rod is cut to the desired length, then forged to form the hexagonal head. Threads are created by rolling or cutting, followed by heat treatment to enhance strength and durability. Finally, the bolts are coated or plated for corrosion resistance.

• What Are Hex Flange Bolts?

Hex flange bolts are similar to standard hex bolts but feature a built-in flange under the head. This flange acts as a washer, distributing the load more evenly and providing a larger bearing surface. Hex flange bolts are used in automotive, construction, and industrial applications where extra support and load distribution are needed.

• How to Loosen Hex Bolts?

To loosen hex bolts, use a wrench or socket that fits snugly over the hexagonal head. Apply counterclockwise force to turn the bolt. If the bolt is rusted or stuck, apply penetrating oil and let it sit for a few minutes before trying again. Using a breaker bar or an impact wrench can provide additional leverage and make the job easier.

• How to Remove Hex Bolts?

To remove hex bolts, first, ensure you have the right size wrench or socket. Turn the wrench counterclockwise to unscrew the bolt. If the bolt is difficult to remove, apply penetrating oil to loosen rust or debris. In cases where the bolt is damaged or stripped, use bolt extractors or cutting tools to remove it safely.

• Where to Buy Hex Bolts?

You can buy high-quality hex bolts at Monster Bolts. We offer a wide range of hex bolts in various sizes, materials, and finishes to meet your specific needs. Our products are known for their durability and reliability, making us the go-to source for all your fastener requirements.

• What Materials Are Hex Bolts Made From?

Hex bolts are commonly made from steel, stainless steel, brass, and other alloys. Steel hex bolts are often zinc-plated or hot-dip galvanized for corrosion resistance, while stainless steel bolts are naturally resistant to rust and corrosion, making them suitable for outdoor and marine environments.

• What Are the Advantages of Using Hex Bolts?

Hex bolts offer several advantages, including ease of installation with standard tools, high strength and durability, and versatility in various applications. Their hexagonal head design allows for greater torque application, ensuring a secure and reliable connection.

• How Do You Choose the Right Hex Bolt?

Choosing the right hex bolt involves considering the material, size, thread type, and coating based on the specific application. It's important to match the bolt's strength and corrosion resistance to the environment and load requirements of your project.

• What Is the Difference Between Hex Bolts and Hex Screws?

The main difference between hex bolts and hex screws is that hex bolts are used with a nut, while hex screws are used without a nut and are driven directly into tapped holes. Hex bolts typically have a larger and thicker shank compared to hex screws.