Lag Screws For Wood Vs Wood Screws

Lag screws for wood are a staple for construction projects that involve putting together load-bearing materials. Lag screws are thicker than standard wood screws and have a hex head, making them ideal for heavy carpentry applications. Lag screws are often used with washers to spread out the contact surface on the material, reducing the chances of the hex head digging into and cracking the material.

While lag screws are great for the job at hand, there are other fasteners that may work better for your project. Depending on the type of load you are bearing, your best options may be either wood screws or structural screws.

Wood Screws
While traditional lag screws are still the go-to option for load-bearing wooden construction, newer options like self-tapping wood screws can save you time and money by eliminating the need to pre-drill holes for them. They also feature sharp threads that cut into the material and reduce splitting, and they don’t need a hex driver or wrench to install.

A lag screw is designed for heavy-duty loads and uses a nut to add counter force to the hold it provides. Lag screws can also be prone to breaking and working out in certain conditions, especially when used in treated lumber or outdoor use. Wood screws, on the other hand, are a good choice for lighter applications that don’t require a significant amount of load bearing. lag screws for wood