Can zinc screws be used in treated lumber?

Asked by: Tom Conner

We do not recommend electro-galvanized screws (also called clear-zinc coated) for exterior applications. They will corrode quickly in contact with the elements. Mechanically galvanized screws are generally suitable for decks and other outdoor projects made of pressure-treated lumber.

Are zinc screws OK for treated lumber?

Fasteners for preservative-treated wood shall be of hot dipped zinc-coated galvanized steel, stainless steel, silicon bronze or copper.

What type of screws should be used with treated lumber?

Galvanized, ceramic coated, or stainless steel screws are the best corrosion-resistant fasteners for pressure-treated cedar or redwood.

Are zinc plated screws OK for outdoor use?

While zinc plated bolts and nuts are considered resistant to corrosion and have a number of suitable applications outdoors and within the industrial sphere, zinc plated nuts are not suitable for use in marine environments or in environments where humidity is higher than average.

Can I use regular screws in pressure treated wood?

Identifying Screws for Pressure-Treated Wood

However, silicon bronze screws are quite expensive, so they are best used sparingly. Most outdoor projects using pressure-treated wood will call for stainless steel screws. These screws come in a variety of grades, but 304 and 305 are the most commonly suggested grades.

Is zinc or galvanized better for pressure treated wood?

The hot-dip galvanized coating provides a thicker layer of zinc than other zinc-coated fasteners. Hot-dip galvanized steel can withstand the harsh chemicals and slow the corrosion rate. Common metal parts used with pressure treated wood are connector plates, joist hangars, bracing plates, and fasteners of all types.

How long will zinc screws last outside?

During this process, the molten zinc reacts with the surface of the steel to form a series of zinc/iron alloys. These alloy layers protect steel from corrosion for 30-40 years and more.

Are yellow zinc plated screws suitable for outdoor use?

Yellow-zinc coated steel

Some fasteners with this electro-plated coating are labeled as being corrosion resistant, but they are not appropriate for exterior applications.

Do you need special screws for treated lumber?

Copper-Based Preservatives Hot-dip galvanized or stainless steel fasteners and connectors are recommended for use when lumber is treated with a copper-based preservative.

Can I use galvanised screws in treated pine?

When a galvanised fastener is used in treated pine, its zinc content is targeted by the copper oxide; it is then depleted of its electrons, and then accelerates into corrosion. The process is known as ‘oxidation’ – also known as ‘rusting’.

Are zinc screws waterproof?

Therefore, zinc serves as a protective barrier for screws. Whether a screw is galvanized or zinc-plated, it will feature a zinc shell. And because the zinc covers the screw’s entire exterior, the actual metal from which the screw is made won’t be exposed to moisture or oxygen.

What type of screws and nails must be used in pressure treated lumber?

For most applications, however, best nails for pressure treated lumber are either hot dipped galvanized nails and bolts. For screws we recommend using ones that have a protective coating that is designed for use with pressure treated lumber. one example would be Outlaw fasteners.

How do you screw into treated wood?

According to head type

Screws used in deck building must be able to endure the weather, structural loads, and the caustic nature of natural and chemical wood preservatives. Coated, ceramic plated, or stainless steel screws are the best corrosion-resistant fasteners for pressure-treated cedar or redwood.

Can you use galvanized lag bolts in treated lumber?

This means any material galvanized to either A153 or F2329 will be more than adequate for use with pressure treated timbers. The idea that double or even triple dipped galvanized fasteners are required for corrosive environments is a frequent misconception.

What are yellow zinc screws used for?

A yellow plated zinc finish gives a fixing a protective layer, providing a good level of corrosion prevention, as well as further protection due to the passivate addition which provides a yellow or gold finish.

Is treated lumber corrosive to metal?

ACQ treated lumber is reportedly more corrosive to steel and coated steel than CCA treated lumber 3. This has raised concerns regarding the corrosion of Structural Galvanized Steel Sheets typically used in bracketry or similar hardware, Architectural Steel Sheets used in roofing and siding product, and fasteners.

What should I put between treated wood and metal?

To prevent treated lumber from attacking flashing and fasteners, you’ll need to make sure they’re made with a harder metal than copper. Hot-dip galvanized or triple-zinc coated metals are great options.

Can galvanized staples be used on treated lumber?

Electro-galvanized staples feature a thin layer of zinc coating for protection against the elements. However, these staples may corrode over time, and should not be used for ACQ-treated wood and similar types of material.