Ask yourself these questions:
What are the materials? Wood, metal, or concrete? Choose a screw type designed for that material or a bolt with appropriate washers.
What kind of stress will the joint face?
Shear Stress (sliding force): A bolt and nut assembly is almost always stronger.
Tensile Stress (pulling force): A screw (or a bolted joint kept under tension) is very effective.
Do I have access to both sides? If you can only access one side, a screw is your only option. If you have access to both sides, a bolt and nut provides a more robust connection.
Will there be vibration? If so, consider a lock nut or a thread-locking adhesive to prevent loosening.
Conclusion
While small, the correct use of bolts and nuts, screws is foundational to the integrity and safety of any project. By understanding that bolts are like pins secured with nuts, and screws are self-tapping fasteners, you can confidently select the right hardware for the job. Remember to always match the fastener to the material and the type of load it will bear.
Searching for specific fasteners? Explore our comprehensive inventory of Anchor Bolt, Machine Screw, Stainless Steel Nut to find exactly what you need for your next project.
Post time: Sep-25-2025