Screws – Galvanized steel

Screws are probably the most commonly used fastener for woodworking. A screw is a metal pin with a head and tapered shafts that, because of it’s tapered shape, clamps two pieces of wood together. There are different types of screws available for different purposes.

Steel is an alloy of iron and carbon. Steel screws are a strong fastener, but they easily rust. This weakens the connection and stains the wood. That is why steel screws are often galvanized; ‘coated’ with a layer of zinc. They are commonly used for indoor wooden constructions.

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The life cycle	Pro	Con
			Tips Screws are usually galvanized with zinc, produced either via electroplating or hot dip. The former method involves the use of toxic cyanides that are being phased out in the zinc plating industry. Hot dip galvanizing is more safe but requires more energy. Other materials used for coating are nickel, brass and chrome. The latter two, and especially chrome, have also toxicity issues in manufacturing. The industry is moving towards more safe production processes, but they are not common place yet.

	Non toxic Altough there is a condition called metal fumes fever or zinc shakes, that can be induced by the inhalation of freshly formed zinc oxide formed during the welding of galvanized materials, no toxics are produced while the screws are screwed in the wood. Low cost After plain iron or steel screws, galvanised screws are the cheapest available. Quick Very easy and quick connection.
	Space saving When a wooden construction is fastened with screws only (no glue), components will be easily dis- and reassembled. This will save space and therefore energy in transport.
	Non toxic No toxics offgas or leach when screws are in the wood.	Short lifespan Galvanised screws are of less quality than for example brass or stainless steel screws, and only suitable for indoor use. . The layer of zinc will peel off over time, and the steel will go rusty. Electroplated screws will be more durable than hot dip versions although you cannot distinguish this difference from the look of the screw. Show Alternatives » Alternatives connections Long lifespan Bolt and nut Casein glue Classic joinery Contact glue Epoxy glue Nails – Brass Nails – Stainless steel Plastic straps Polyurethane glue Screws – Brass Screws – Stainless steel Soy glue Wood glue (PVA based)

	Easy reuse Wood that is fastened with screws only (no glue) are easy to disassemble. The wooden components can be reused easily. Easy recycling Galvanized steel can be easily recycled, even if the product is fully incinerated.