subject: Lag Screws - An Overview [print this page] Lag Screws - An Overview Lag Screws - An Overview
Lag screws are widely used to fasten wooden materials. They have a hexagonal head and a sharp end with crude threads. The coarse threads in lag bolts ensure a strong grip into the lumber. They are generally longer than wood screws. They are easily available in several diameters, lengths and shaft configurations. Lag screws are typically fixed with a wrench. If they are needed to drill onto a concrete surface, they should be anchored with the help of a lag shield. Lag screws provide reliable support in withstanding considerable amounts of weights. Some of the major types of lag screws have been explained as follows: Zinc-plated Steel lag screws - Such bolts are coated with zinc that provides protection against rust. However, these types of lag bolts may not be ideal to use in marine condition. Water can wear down zinc leading to rusting of the screw. Silicone Bronze Lag screws - Such bolts are coated with silicone bronze, an alloy that is primarily made up of tin and copper with a small amount of silicone. These types of screws are ideal for using in the marine conditions. Bronze coating provides strong resistance from corrosion. Owing to these features, such screws are used in most wooden boat construction. Also, the copper color enhances the aesthetic value of a material that incorporates such screws. Stainless Steel lag screws - The most common fastener material is stainless steel. Lag screws made from stainless steel are not only resistant to corrosion, they are also inexpensive. Most lag screws that are coated with other materials are usually stainless steel under the surface. Hot dipped galvanized lag screws - These types of screws have a thick zinc coating. The remarkably thick coating of zinc makes such bolts highly resistant to corrosion. With correct employment and application, lag screws can serve your purpose and give the desirable results. Following are the instructions as to how you can install lag bolts: 1. Align the pieces of the materials that requires fastening. 2. Clamp onto the position properly. 3. Drill a pilot hole through the materials that are required to be fastened. 4. Take an appropriate hexagonal-headed screwdriver to fix the bolt through the materials. 5. With the help of a locknut or a washer, distribute the pressure from the head of the screw in order to prevent the bolt from burying into the wood and becoming loose with time. Do not compromise on quality when you are buying lag screws for your project. Screw Products Inc. deals with superior quality lag screws.