To Protect and Solidify the Manufacturer’s Warranty

This is a practice often used for electronics – tamper proof fasteners that keep customers out of the guts of the system, yet allow the manufacturers full access. If a product is brought back for warranty, the condition of the fasteners on the outside casing will notify the service department whether anything has been tampered with inside. If so, the warranty is likely void. If not, it will stand.

This protects the public and the business. It is standard practice for many manufacturers today. Tamper proof screws tend to add little to the initial cost and protect the manufacturer from unnecessary service costs, helping to maintain affordability and competitiveness in any marketplace.

Security and Permanence

Many times the signage and structures installed at building sites get damaged or vandalized. And valuable electronic equipment is often left in unsupervised locations that leave the equipment vulnerable to theft and damage. There are other instances where fixtures, doors, windows and other items need to be secured well.

Correctional facilities use tamper proof fasteners to prevent any alterations and damage. Contractors use these products to ensure both temporary and permanent structures are better protected. Technical and computer manufacturers use these screws, nuts and washers to maintain a high level of security in racks and systems. Whatever the incidence or application, tamper proof products provide a high level of security and increase confidence and safety.

To Maintain Industry Secrets and Limit Access

This is a common practice in electronics, where competitors can easily adapt the new and emerging technologies. In order to maintain industry secrets and limit access to the design and features of electronic devices, many manufacturers design or use their own unique fasteners. This ensures that the inside of the devices are less vulnerable to casual review, although determination and the right tools will usually work to loosen any tamper resistant and tamper proof products.

By no means a foolproof method of protecting their R&D, manufacturers and designers know that tamper proof fasteners are only one stage in the fight to keep advances in technology under wraps.

Get Various Contacts

The fasteners industry is a competitive one and there are many different contacts you could reach out to. But not all are created equally and frankly, not all are worth your time.

Look for a fasteners distributor that is local enough to offer same day or overnight shipping for a reasonable cost. That will likely save you some serious wait time and not having this option could be a problem when your schedule is tight. This could mean that your preferred distributor is within a short drive or has a strong delivery network covering your state or county. Most often an overseas or foreign distributor is not the answer for fast delivery and immediate availability.

Work Out Beneficial Payment Terms

Be prepared to pay COD for the first few deliveries in order to establish a good credit history with the distributor. They may even offer a generous discount if you continue to pay cash, although it is most often beneficial for the contractor to have thirty day terms.

Find out whether they will accept charge cards or electronic payments (such as online money transfers or PayPal payments). These are fast and reliable methods of payment that often cut down on the administrative costs for both parties. Be sure that the invoicing is accurate and that all purchase orders issued are clear.

Be Reasonable and Friendly

As in all business relationships, it helps to be reasonable when dealing with the distributor. Don’t expect the impossible and work within their systems whenever you can. Chances are they will be more than willing to help you out whenever possible and once you have established a good rapport then the communication, orders and processing will be even smoother.

If you’re looking for ways to run your contracting business better consider the many benefits of having a good relationship with your fasteners distributor. This supplier will keep you stocked up with all of the essentials your projects require, making your job easier and more profitable.

When you apply force to fasteners (commonly referred to as torque) it will inevitably put stress on the fastener in some way. Often the material or coating will stretch, strain or become compressed. When the incorrect amount of torque is used it can (and often does) result in fastener failure.

So how can you avoid this situation?

In order to avoid dangerous situations, many engineering specifications will state the torque required. Maintenance and assembly workers need to pay attention to these specifications and use only the amount of torque stated by the designers or manufacturers.

It is important to note that most often an acceptable torque range will be stated. That means you can use any torque value within those limitations and still be assured of stability. These figures are calculated by taking the type of fastener into account, as well as the size, grade and thread of the product.

Coatings and lubrication are also important factors. The torque values should state whether any lubrication can be used and applications that deviate from this will require another calculation. Different coatings also change the accepted torque – so don’t expect to use the same force on an untreated bolt as you would on a galvanized product.

Always keep in mind that the torque applied to the fasteners will also have an effect on the fitting. You need to be sure that the torque used will not result in damage to the fitting materials. Splitting, cracking and weakening are all common results of too much torque. Plastics and other soft materials are often at risk of these conditions.

Anyone dealing with fasteners on a regular basis should use a top quality torque wrench to ensure accuracy. These tools allow for the application of exact levels of torque and will help to avoid fastener failure and fitting damage in many cases.

Why?

 Did you know that many of the North American fastener fabricators actually use imported stainless steel wire and rods? That means that although their products are in fact produced here on domestic soil, the raw materials come from overseas. These are the same raw materials used by the foreign fabricators.

Any differences will be in the fabrication process and should not be directly related to the quality of steel at all.

What About Recycled Stainless Steel?

There are many statements made in the industry that give rise to the idea that foreign stainless steel is recycled and, as such, of a lesser quality that domestic steel. The main problem with that argument is that nearly all stainless steel is made (at least in part) from recycled materials. The environmentally friendly factor is one of the main selling points of this product, no matter whether it is sourced from overseas or right here at home.

Because of the inherent strength and durability of this product, all stainless steel is recyclable. This allows fabricators access to materials that have reached the end of the useful life, yet can be transformed into new products and put back into the marketplace offering the same quality as before. When done properly this process should not affect the quality of the product and should not cause you to doubt the fabricator or distributor.

Benefits of Domestic Suppliers

Some of the advantages of ordering from a domestic supplier of fasteners include less travel time and cheaper prices. When currency exchange and freight are out of the equation you can experience significant savings. And having a fasteners distributor that is nearby and able to deliver quickly is valuable to businesses of all sizes.

Although the quality of stainless steel tends to be equal no matter where it is sourced from, you may find advantages to buying your fasteners domestically. It will require research and shopping to figure out what the best course of action is for your company.

Not really.

Standard Nails Vs Deck Screws

For wood decks (pressure treated and cedar) it depends on whether or not you choose to screw or nail the decking down. Most of the framing will be built using 3 1/4″ hot dipped galvanized nails, with joist hangers and lag bolts taking their place as well. For the deck boards and railing, either ceramic coated or stainless steel deck screws can be used.

Composite Deck Fasteners

When composite and vinyl decking is used you will also need to invest in specialty deck screws. These products are designed to produce a smooth, problem-free surface that eliminates mushrooming (that build up of shavings that occurs when standard shaped screws are used with the softer composite and vinyl products) and splitting.

If a fastener line is marketed for use with composite decks it will also be available in different colors. The head of these screws are coated to match the most popular tones of composite – including grey, sand, red and dark brown. Buy enough of your preferred color to complete the entire deck, as each lot of screws may be a slightly different shade.

Mismatched Materials

You need to be aware that certain materials are not to be used together – such as ACQ lumber and deck fasteners not approved for use with this treatment. The chemicals in ACQ treated lumber will eat away at many common fasteners, causing structural damage and presenting a serious danger to all who use the deck. Be sure to ask your supplier about any limitations and follow all of the directions carefully, resulting in a safe and secure structure for your family to enjoy.

Almost any design will require similar deck fasteners for the framing. The deck boards and railing is where you may need to invest in a specialty product and make sure the screws or nails you have chosen are suitable for the project. Ask the pros and don’t hesitate to spend the money on high quality deck fasteners to be sure your outdoor living space is built to last.

Tek Screw Dimensions and Threads

Teks are distinct in design, as they are chosen not only for the screw length, but also for the drill bit diameter. Look for drill point numbers similar to those stated on commercial drills – ranging from 000 (the smallest and measuring around 0.0600″ in diameter) up to number 12 (0.2160″ in diameter) and beyond. You will find tek screw drill bit points in common fractional sizes such as 1/2″, 5/8″ and 3/4″. Remember that the diameter of the drill bit point is always smaller than the actual diameter of the fastener. Tek screws come in common diameters, including number 8 (0.1640″), 10 (0.1900″) and 12 (0.2160″).

In terms of thread density, or the count of threads found per inch of screw length, most tek brands have between 12 and 14 threads per inch. This is similar to standard screws.

Different Heads Available

You’ll find tek screws in all of the common head types. For light or common carpentry tasks, flat head teks are available, while Phillips and Robertson (or square) heads are used in many other applications.

You can find this type of screw in countersunk style, allowing for a flush surface finish on your application. There are also styles with an integrated neoprene washer that provides protection and a seal on the metal surface.

Magnetic tek screws use rare earth magnets inside the screw head to allow for precise, hands free installation. This type is in high demand for tight spots and in applications where small screws need to be fitted into dark corners or otherwise inaccessible places.

Consider the needs of your application in order to purchase the right style of tek screws. These fasteners make quick, efficient work when attaching metal to metal or metal to wood, but having the proper screw is still important.

Where is the Best Place To Buy Deck Fasteners From?

You may be able to find deck screws or nails at the local building supply store, but the price and quality may not be what you need for a fantastic finish. It’s best to contact an industry professional and source out fasteners made from materials that the professionals would use. Check online or visit a local fastener distributor to price out all of the fasteners required for this job.

Are you thinking about stainless steel, but put off by the premium price? Although stainless steel fasteners do cost more initially, the quality and appearance of this material makes it well worth the investment. Especially wise if you are investing in maintenance free composite decking, stainless steel will never corrode or leave rusty red marks on your decking.

If the extra investment isn’t in the budget, hot dipped galvanized deck fasteners such as lag bolts, deck screws, joist hangers and joist hanger nails will all provide a decent amount of protection against corrosion.

What Can You Expect to Pay For Deck Fasteners?

The material list for a DIY deck can be extensive, depending on the size and design. Extra features such as pergolas, privacy screens and planter boxes will add to the standard materials needed.

In any case, the hardware for a pressure treated wood deck project – including all of the deck fasteners required – will run between 4 and 8 percent of the total cost. That means if you are spending around $2000 on the deck materials, fasteners will account for $80 to $160 of that total.

Although they are not a large portion of the cost, using quality deck fasteners ordered from industry leading fastener distributors will help you to build the deck of your dreams.

Why Use Galvanized Fasteners?

A structure is only as strong as the fasteners that hold it together. And where corrosion is a factor, those fasteners need to offer a high level of corrosion resistance. Otherwise the metal will rust and deteriorate quickly, possibly in a manner of months.

Galvanized lag bolts are only slightly more expensive than standard lag bolts. They will allow your fence, deck or wooden garden feature to last beautifully for years to come. Even in coastal regions where the moisture and precipitation are almost constant, galvanization protects the steel fasteners and provides the strength you need.

What Is Galvanization?

Most galvanized lag bolts are treated with the hot dipped galvanization method. This process uses heat to coat the steel fastener with a thin layer of zinc. That zinc acts as a mechanical barrier against the chemical reaction of corrosion and will slow down the effects substantially. If you need unlimited protection against rust and discoloration you’re best to go with stainless steel lag bolts, but galvanized fasteners will provide decades and decades of reliable performance.

The galvanization process is also safe for indoor use. If you have any concerns about corrosion inside the home, play it safe and use hot dipped galvanized fasteners. Especially in structures such as sheds or garages, where there is some protection against the elements but not complete coverage, the use of galvanized lag bolts is smart.

Galvanized fasteners are the wisest option for exterior projects that involve lumber, providing a high level of protection for a reasonable cost. Be sure that your lag bolts are fitted with galvanized washers and nuts and that all other hardware and fasteners used on the project can offer the same level of protection. One of the most popular fasteners for contractors and homeowners alike, galvanized lag bolts offer your projects the protection they need against rust and wet weather.

The answer depends on your application and the condition of the materials being fastened.

In many situations you can apply torque to either the nut or the bolt head. Both will result in a tight connection and neither will avoid breakage more often (that occurrence can be avoided through other means). In certain circumstances, however, you will need to torque one and not the other. These situations include:

Holes Are Producing an Interference – If the holes you are bolting through (whether existing or drilled for the purpose) provide an interference, you are better to apply torque to the nut.

Nut and Bolt Head are Different Diameters or Shapes – When the nut or bolt head are different shapes (hex head with a square nut, for instance) or significantly different diameters, you are best to apply torque to the side with the smaller bearing face. This also applies when the hole diameters are different. It is generally recommended that you apply torque to the component opposite the smaller hole.

When Clamping Two Different Materials Together – It is always better to apply torque on the component that is against the material with a lower frictional coefficient. If you are clamping together different materials and you know which one will produce less friction, it is best to torque that side.

Long Bolts Are Being Used – When torque is applied to the head of a very long bolt, you may see the effects of torsional wind-up. Applying torque to the nut in this situation will help to avoid that issue.

There will be many instances where you can apply torque to either the nut or the bolt head. But if one of the above situations applies, remember to follow the guidelines for a better fit and more durable installation.

Round Head – Arched with a high crown and a slightly smaller diameter than the popular pan head, round head fasteners are a good choice for general use.

Pan Head – Similar to round heads, except made with a larger diameter and lower profile. The circumference is also higher to provide more strength and depth on the head.

Truss Head – Finding the middle ground between the round head and pan head, truss heads have a low profile with a slightly higher circumference than round heads.

Flat 82i Head – Fluted from the threads to the perfectly flat head surface, this screw provides a countersink effect on standard materials.

Flat 100i Head – Similar to the 82i style, this head has a wider diameter, making it a better choice for soft metals, plastics and other materials when the fastener needs to be countersunk.

Flat Undercut Head – Made with the diameter of the 82i head, the undercut style is truncated for use with thin materials.

Oval Head – Useful when you need to countersink the screw, but would also like the attractive finish of a rounded head.

Hex Washer Head – Similar to the popular and highly useful hex head, this style has a washer incorporated to provide a wider bearing surface.

Hex Indented Head – Also similar to a hex head fastener, except with an indent that makes these fasteners more economical and even easier to use.

Binding Head – This pan-shaped head has a slight lip and an undercut to provide space for holding in wires and other thin materials while the fastener is being tightened.

There are many other specialty heads that offer the perfect solution to specific applications. Common fasteners used in residential, commercial and industrial buildings will come in a variety of the above head options. You only need to choose the type that will best suit your application and go from there.