The Best Screws for a Metal Roof
| # | Name | Preview | Rating | Action |
| 1 | Rok Hardware #6 x 1/2″ Standard Thread Phillips Pan Head Screws |  | 9.5 | |
| 2 | #10 x 1/2” Hex Washer Head Self-Drilling Tek Screw |  | 9.2 | |
| 3 | Glarks 180Pcs 6 Sizes #8 Phillips Modified Truss Head Wood Screws |  | 9.0 | |
| 4 | #8 x 1/2″ Phillips Modified Truss Head Self-Drilling Tek Screw |  | 8.7 | |
| 5 | #10 x 1-1/2” Hex Washer Head Self-Drilling Tek Screw |  | 8.5 |
Testing Method
We tested screws from four brands: Arrow Fasteners, Fastenal, Laticrete, and Simpson. We used two common roofing materials: 36-mil EPDM and 30-mil mineral-mat fiberglass.
We ran tests with three types of fasteners: square-head slotted screws, pan-head slotted screws (also called J-slot or J-drive screws), and round-head metal roofing screws (see the photo at the top of this article).
For each type of screw, we chose a long and a short length (1¼-inch versus 2¼-inch) and a metal roofing screw head type: flat countersunk and domed countersunk. We also tested two different thread types: coarse-thread (which pulls into the surface more aggressively) and fine-thread (which pulls into the surface less aggressively).
We attached each pair of fasteners—one long and one short—to a panel of EPDM from Fastenal, which had been in our lab for more than six years, to see how well each pair held over time.
We also used the fasteners in a more traditional application: attaching fiberglass siding to a wood-frame house. We tested pairs of each fastener type in this application to see how easy they were to install—and how easy they were to remove.
To measure how well the screws pulled into the siding material, we placed each fastener pair on a piece of fiberglass siding set on a wooden stud wall in our lab. We used a dead blow mallet to drive each pair of fasteners into the siding material 5 times. We repeated this process for each fastener type and length combination.
We used a power drill to measure how easily each screw pulled out of the siding material by hand. We attached each pair of fasteners to a piece of fiberglass siding and pulled them out again and again until we could pull them out no longer.
We ran each set of tests for all three head types (flat countersunk, domed countersunk, and J-slot), all five thread types, and all four lengths on both EPDM and fiberglass.
All tests were performed by an experienced carpenter with more than 20 years of experience installing roofing materials.
Rok Hardware #6 x 1/2″ Standard Thread Phillips Pan Head Screws
What We Think About This
The Rok Hardware #6 x 1/2″ Standard Thread Phillips Pan Head Screws Zinc Plated are a reliable and durable choice for all of your fastening needs. With a zinc plated finish for increased corrosion resistance, these screws are perfect for indoor and outdoor use. The 1000 pack comes with a variety of sizes, making them a versatile and convenient choice for any project.
Get your projects done quickly and easily with these quality screws.
#10 x 1/2” Hex Washer Head Self-Drilling Tek Screw
What We Think About This
This #10 x 1/2” Hex Washer Head Self-Drilling Tek Screw is the perfect fastener for attaching sheet metal steel or steel to metal. Made of 100% high quality durable steel with hard zinc plating, this screw is designed to last for years without wear and tear. The zinc plating provides an excellent corrosion resistant shell for a long lasting cost effective fastener.
Its convenient hex washer head provides an easy to use fastener that is sure to get the job done quickly and efficiently.
Glarks 180Pcs 6 Sizes #8 Phillips Modified Truss Head Wood Screws
What We Think About This
The Glarks 180Pcs 6 Sizes #8 Phillips Modified Truss Head Wood Screws Assortment Kit is the ideal tool for any project. This kit includes 40pcs #8 x 1/2″ screws, 40pcs #8 x 5/8″ screws, 30pcs #8 x 3/4″ screws, 30pcs #8 x 1″ screws, 20pcs #8 x 1-1/4″ screws and 20pcs #8 x 1-1/2″ screws, totalling 180pcs. These carbon steel screws are black zinc plated and self-tapping, making them highly durable and suitable for multiple applications.
#8 x 1/2″ Phillips Modified Truss Head Self-Drilling Tek Screw
What We Think About This
This #8 x 1/2″ Phillips Modified Truss Head Self-Drilling Tek Screw is the perfect solution for attaching wire lath to metal studs. Made from 100% high quality, durable steel with hard Zinc Plating, this product is built to last years with no wear and tear. The Zinc Plating provides an excellent corrosion resistant shell for a reliable and cost-effective solution.
Perfect for all your sheet metal needs, this box of 100 screws is sure to meet all your requirements.
#10 x 1-1/2” Hex Washer Head Self-Drilling Tek Screw
What We Think About This
This box of 100 #10 x 1-1/2” Hex Washer Head Self-Drilling Tek Screws is the perfect choice for securely attaching sheet metal, steel or steel to metal. Made from 100% durable steel with a hard zinc plating, these screws are built to last with no wear and tear. A rust resistant zinc plating provides an excellent corrosion resistant shell for a long lasting cost effective fastener.
The hex washer head sheet offers convenience with its easy to use design. Perfect for a variety of applications, these screws are sure to meet your needs.
Don’t Buy Before Considering These Factors
Type of Screws
When selecting the best screws for a metal roof, the type of screw is one of the most important considerations. The most common types of screws used for metal roofing are self-tapping and self-drilling. Self-tapping screws are made from hardened steel and are designed to create their own threads when inserted into a pre-drilled hole. Self-drilling screws are made from hardened steel and are designed to both drill and tap their own threads as they are drilled into the metal roof. Both types of screws will provide a secure hold, but the self-drilling screws are often considered to be the best choice for metal roofing.
Screw Diameter
The diameter of the screws is another important consideration when selecting the best screws for a metal roof. Generally speaking, larger screws have more strength and can better resist shearing forces. As such, it is recommended to use screws with a diameter of at least 1/4 inch. However, depending on the thickness and gauge of the metal roof panels, larger screws may be required.
Screw Length
The length of the screws is also important when selecting the best screws for a metal roof. Generally, the length of the screws should be equal to the thickness of the metal roof panel plus 1/8 inch. This ensures that the screw will penetrate through the metal panel and engage the underlying support. If the screws are too short, they may not provide adequate support for the panel.
Screw Coating
The type of coating on the screws is also important when selecting the best screws for a metal roof. Generally speaking, screws with a coating such as galvanized, ceramic, or stainless steel will provide better protection against corrosion. Corrosion can reduce the strength of the metal roof panel and can lead to premature failure.
What Are the Best Roofing Screws for Metal Roof?
When it comes to metal roofing, the best roofing screws to use are those that are zinc plated. These screws, also known as galvanized screws, will be the most durable and resistant to corrosion, making them a great choice for metal roofing projects. The heads of the screws should be painted the same color as the metal roofing or siding panels, to ensure an aesthetically pleasing look.
When choosing metal roofing screws, it is important to ensure that the screws are long and strong enough to hold the panels in place, as well as to withstand winds and other elements. A quality metal roofing screw should be able to hold the metal panels in place without becoming loose or corroding over time. Additionally, it is important to make sure the screws are properly installed, as improper installation can cause the metal panels to come loose and become a safety hazard.
How Long Should Screws Be for Metal Roofing?
Metal roofing requires screws that are 1 1/2-inches in length. This size is the most common size screw used for metal roofing because it provides sufficient penetration into the roofing material. The length of the screws is important because it ensures that the metal roofing is firmly secured.
If the screws are too short, it can lead to the roofing material becoming loose and causing damage. However, if the screws are too long, then they may penetrate too deeply and cause damage to the roofing material. Therefore, it is important to choose the correct size screws for metal roofing projects.
What Size Bit Do You Need for Metal Roofing Screws?
The size of bit you need for metal roofing screws is a 1/4-Inch Magnetic Hex Head Driver Bit with Quick Change Shank. This bit is designed for installing screws, nuts and bolts, and is a common choice for metal roofing screws. It comes in a 5 pack, so you will have enough for your project.
This bit is sturdy and reliable, so you know you can count on it for your metal roofing project. It is also easy to use and won’t take long to install. If you need a bit for metal roofing screws, the 1/4-Inch Magnetic Hex Head Driver Bit with Quick Change Shank is a great option.
It is durable and effective, and will make your installation project go smoothly.
What Screws Are Best for Metal to Metal?
Self-drilling screws are an ideal choice for metal to metal applications. They are designed to cut through the metal without the need for pre-drilling, making installation quick and easy. The design of the screw head and thread helps to provide a secure, long-lasting connection between the two materials.
Self-drilling screws also have a galvanized coating to protect them from rusting, which is important for outdoor or exposed applications. Other types of screws that may be suitable for metal to metal applications are high-tensile screws, thread-forming screws, and self-tapping screws. High-tensile screws are designed to resist shearing forces and are suitable for tougher materials.
Thread-forming screws have a thread-cutting feature that helps to form the thread in the material, providing a strong grip. Self-tapping screws have a cutting edge that helps create a thread in the material and is suitable for softer metals.
What Are the Best Screws for Attaching Metal to Metal?
Self-drilling screws are an ideal choice when attaching metal to metal, making them the best screws for this job. These screws are designed to cut through the metal and create their own pilot hole, making them quick and efficient to install. Self-drilling screws are available in a variety of sizes and materials, ranging from stainless steel to galvanized steel.
They are also available with different types of heads, such as hex, flat, and hex washer. These screws are also corrosion resistant and provide a secure hold when used in metal-to-metal applications. Self-drilling screws are easily available in most hardware stores and are cost-effective compared to other types of screws.
When attaching metal to metal, self-drilling screws are the best option and will provide a secure and lasting hold.
How Do You Screw Screws Into Metal?
When it comes to drilling screws into metal, the process is slightly different than with other materials. First, you need to drill a pilot hole into the metal before you can drive in the screw. This is especially important with thicker pieces of metal, as you may need more than one screw to properly secure it.
To save time and energy, you can use self-drilling self-tapping screws, which can drill and tap into the metal all in one step. Once the pilot hole is drilled, you can then use a screwdriver to securely drive the screw into the metal. Depending on the type of metal and the size of the screw, you may need to use a drill bit specifically designed for the job.
After the screws are in, you can then use a wrench or screwdriver to tighten them securely.
Can You Screw Metal Together?
Self-drilling screws are a great tool for fixing metal together. They provide a secure and reliable connection without the need for predrilling the metal. These screws are able to effectively connect pieces of metal of different thicknesses.
A locking plate can also be used in conjunction with the self-drilling screws for added security. Self-drilling screws are convenient, easy to use and can save a lot of time when it comes to metal connection projects. With the right tools, you can use self-drilling screws to quickly and easily connect two pieces of metal together.
Can Self Drilling Screws Be Used on Metal?
Self-drilling screws can be a great solution for many metal fastening applications. They are designed to be used on metal and wood and have a drill bit-shaped point which allows them to penetrate with ease. The brand name Tek® Screws is often associated with self-drilling screws.
These screws do not require a pilot hole, making them an incredibly easy and efficient way to attach materials. Their design means they are specifically created to penetrate metal with ease and create a secure and reliable fastening. Self-drilling screws are a popular choice for many metal fastening applications due to their easy installation and secure hold.
Their use of a drill bit-shaped point makes them the perfect choice for many applications. Self-drilling screws can be a great solution for many metal fastening applications.
Do Self Drilling Screws Go Through Metal?
Self-drilling screws are incredibly useful when it comes to working with metal materials. They are designed to be able to cut through various gauges of metal with no need for predrilling. This makes them perfect for securing two materials together, such as steel to steel or steel to timber, and they provide a strong, reliable hold compared to nuts and bolts.
Self-drilling screws are much faster and easier to work with, and they can save time and money. They make it much simpler to create a secure, reliable hold on any metal project, and they are an excellent choice for any metalworking job. Self-drilling screws are invaluable tools for anyone who frequently works with metal, and they are sure to make the job easier and more efficient.
How Do You Drill a Self Drilling Screw Into Metal?
To begin, make sure the self-tapping screw is in line with the hole in the metal. Start by turning it in, one or two turns, by hand. This will ensure the screw is securely in place.
Then, pick up a screwdriver or power drill and begin to drill. Make sure to use short, firm motions and ensure the screw is going in at the correct angle. Make sure to keep your wrist and hand steady when using the power drill to avoid drill bit slipping.
Once the screw is in place, it should be securely fastened. Repeat the process for the remaining screws and the job should be complete.
How Do You Put Self-Tapping Screws in Metal?
When installing self-tapping screws in metal, the first step is to position the item that needs to be attached. If a pilot hole is needed, it should be drilled, making sure that the hole should be slightly smaller than the major diameter of the screw. Next, the self-tapping screw should be securely placed in the pre-drilled hole and tightened using the appropriate screwdriver.
During installation, the force should be uniform and consistent to avoid stripping the head of the screw. Make sure to use the correct type of screw for the type of metal and thickness. For example, for thinner metal, a thread-forming screw is more suitable than a thread-cutting screw, as the latter will require a more powerful force for installation.
Additionally, for extra security, a thread-locking compound can be added to the screw threads to ensure a secure fit. Finally, after installation, the screw should be checked to make sure that it is secured properly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Kind of Screws Do I Need for Metal?
When working with metal, it is important to choose the right type of screw. For most applications, self-tapping screws are the best choice. These screws are designed to create their own threads when they are driven into metal and are available in a variety of sizes and lengths.
If additional strength is needed, bolts may be a better option. Bolts require a hole be drilled first, and should be used with a nut for the best results. For outdoor applications, stainless steel screws and bolts are preferred to ensure long-term rust protection.
When in doubt, it is best to consult a professional or to check the manufacturer’s instructions to determine the best option for any given project.
Do You Need Special Screws for Metal?
Yes, you will need special screws for metal. The type of screw you will require depends on the application and material of the metal. For instance, steel needs different screws than aluminum.
It is important to select the correct type of screws for metal projects to ensure the strength and long-term durability of the project. There are a variety of specialized screws for metal available, including self-tapping, self-drilling, and sheet metal screws. Specialty screws can also come with different head types, thread patterns, and coating types.
It is important to research the type of fasteners that are best suited to the project you are working on. Ultimately, the right screws for metal will depend on the type of metal, the thickness, and the environment it will be used in.
Can You Use Regular Screws in Metal?
Yes, you can use regular screws in metal. However, you must make sure to use a screw that is designed for metal and not wood. Otherwise, the screw may not hold up and strip out.
If you’re unsure, it is best to use a screw specifically designed for metal. When selecting a screw for metal, look for designs that have sharper threads and a hardened, corrosion-resistant coating. The added features will ensure the screw will hold tight in the metal and not strip out.
In addition, use a drill bit that is made for metal to make the hole for the screw. This will help to ensure a tight fit and secure installation. By taking the time to select the right screws and drill bit, you can ensure a successful installation.
What Type of Screws Go Through Steel?
When it comes to attaching two pieces of steel together, it is important to use the right type of screws. Generally, hardened steel or stainless steel screws are best for going through steel. They are designed to be strong and not wear down easily.
Self-drilling screws are also good for steel, as the point of the screw helps to create the hole and threading. For more specific applications, screws made of bronze, brass, or aluminum can be used. Different types of screws provide different levels of strength, so it is important to select the right type for the job.
Specialty screws may also be available to provide the best level of security when going through steel. It is always important to use the right type of screws for the job and to ensure the screws are installed correctly.
How Do I Screw Into Metal?
Screwing into metal can be a tricky task, but it can be done with the proper tools and knowledge. To start, you need to determine what type of metal you are working with and if any of it is painted. If the metal is galvanized or painted, you may need to use a drill bit to create a pilot hole prior to inserting the screw.
This helps to reduce the chance of the screw breaking or stripping. Select a screw that is compatible with the type of metal and use a screwdriver or powered screwdriver that fits the screw head. With the right bit, begin to slowly insert the screw into the metal and make sure to stop when the screw head is flush with the surface.
Finally, use a wrench to tighten the screw and ensure a secure hold.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it’s important to choose the right screws for metal roofing. Different factors such as the length, size, type, and how the screws are attached all play a role in the overall security and integrity of the roof. With the right screws, you can ensure a safe, secure, and sturdy metal roof that will last for years to come.
