Best Screws for Cedar Fence for Solid Joints

Ian Mutuli
Updated on
Ian Mutuli

Ian Mutuli

Founder and Managing Editor of Archute. He is also a graduate architect from The University of Nairobi, Kenya.
Get Smarter On Architecture and Design

Get the 3-minute weekly newsletter keeping 5K+ designers in the loop.

Enter your Email to Sign up

Side-bar-footer-forum

Are you planning to install a brand-new fence or repair your old one? Selection of the right screws or nails can be quite challenging. This article will take you through the 9 best screws for your cedar fence and provide tips on choosing the right screws to get the job done.

Using the wrong screws on your fence can result in premature warping of the fence boards or weakening your fence, which can be quite frustrating.

Let's get started!

1. T.K.Excellent Phillips Flat Head Wood Screws Kit

T.K.Excellent Wood Screw Phillips Flat Head...
  • Our wood screws are thread forming screws with larger...
  • Phillips design minimize bit slippage, provides good holding...
  • Steel construction/ Zinc-plated.
  • Use for most woodworking jobs and materials of woods,need...
  • Wood screws neatly packaged in a plastic box,Conveniently...

These screws can be just what you need if you require a great assortment of flathead countersunk screws for many prospective projects and purposes around your house.

Image Credits: Amazon.com

The T.K.Excellent Phillips Flat Head Wood Screws Kit will help you to meet your every demand for home renovation and your wood fence project. We observed that the screws were soft; thus, they required us to drill holes into the wooden fence before screwing the heads in to prevent stripping.

Purchasing these screws is the finest move you can make if you enjoy DIY projects and require various screw sizes for different odd jobs.

The T.K.Excellent Phillips Flat Head Wood Screws Kit came with various screw sizes that assisted us with our little tasks around our home. We, however, found it best to remove the screw heads since they were rather strong and did not deteriorate significantly under the stress of the drill.

Pros:

  • Affordable.
  • Provides a snug grip.
  • Comes in different screw sizes for various applications.

Cons:

  • The head might strip if you fail to drill holes before insertion.

2. Stainless Flat Head Phillips Wood Screw #4 x 3/8″

#4 x 1-1/4" Stainless Flat Head Phillips Wood Screw,...
  • 【High Quality Stainless】These Flat Head Screws are made of...
  • 【Screws That You Can Depend On】Our Flat Head Wood Screws are...
  • 【Great To Keep Around】Bolt Dropper stainless hardware is...
  • 【Dimensions】Diameter: #4 | Length: 1-1/4" | Thread Type:...
  • 【LIFETIME GUARANTEE】We are so confident that our product is...

Do you detest rust? We too! Rust and corrosion will no longer exist if you utilize the Stainless Flat Head Phillips Wood Screws from Bolt Dropper.

Image Credits: Amazon.com

These screws are made of marine-grade stainless steel, making them perfect for use on saltwater docks, on the decks of mountain homes, or in coastal places. In addition, we found the fasteners powerful for indoor use.

If you may have encountered difficulties when removing screw heads, these screws prevent that from happening. In addition, the crews came in handy as they fitted tightly and deeply in the skull, reducing stripping. These stainless steel flathead wood screws are of the highest quality. We only used 18-8 stainless steel screws with no outside coatings or finishes.

We did not have to worry about corrosion when using these screws because they came fitted with a stainless steel plate. We recommend using the drill bit closest to the screw to create a pilot hole.

During the process, we found that the likelihood of the screws stripping out the head decreased as friction increased. When using a cordless drill, it served as best when we set it to 1/8 to 1/4 inch before manually driving the screw with a screwdriver to seat it. By taking a few minutes to install the screws in this manner, we found the screws saved us time when removing them later and undue force as compared to when we rounded out the heads.

Pros:

  • Corrosion-resistant.
  • Fit for both indoor and outdoor use.
  • Wood takes a strong bite even on MDF.

Cons:

  • Your head will round out If you use too much force.

3. FastenMaster FMGD158-75 GuardDog

FastenMaster FMGD158-75 GuardDog Exterior Wood Screw,...
  • Manufactured in china
  • Easy to use
  • Highly durable
  • Guaranteed for life of the project and ACQ approved
  • Versatile Pozisquare drive virtually eliminates cam out

GuardDog is a flexible exterior wood fastener suitable for pressure-treated wood like Cedar, ACQ, and Redwood. According to FastenMaster's warranty, this product will not rust throughout its life.

Image Credits: Amazon.com

This screw has a flexible head shape that can be utilized with a square, Philips drive, or PoziSquare drive. The screw also includes a brown wood color wash and sharp threads for speedier installation. We found pre-drilled holes unnecessary as no more than two screws tore out while framing a deck. Thus, we recommend utilizing impact drive.

These screws served us a great deal as we needed strong screws that could survive the weather. The screws have a beautiful design that you'll adore. We appreciated how the screws firmly gripped the wood and were thicker than typical drywall screws. The screws served us best when installing our portable electric fence for goats and sheep grazing.

Pros:

  • The simpleness of usage.
  • Withstands the elements.
  • They are designed for outdoor usage.
  • It truly holds the wood in place.

Cons:

  • There is no requirement to drill pilot holes.

4. Eagle Claw Stainless Steel Deck Screws #10 X 2 1/2 Inch T25

#10 X 2 1/2 Inch Stainless Steel Deck Screws T25 Star...
  • TYPE 304 (18-8) GRADE 2-1/2 INCH STAINLESS STEEL CONSTRUCTION...
  • RECOMMENDED for use in all COASTAL, WET and OUTDOOR applications,...
  • HIGH CORROSION RESISTANCE means no more ugly rust stains on your...
  • SUITABLE for use with all HARDWOOD, SOFTWOODS and PRESSURE...
  • STAR DRIVE HEAD, Torx Driver Included. TYPE 17 POINT for easy...

The Stainless Steel Deck Screws from Eagle Claw is the top-reviewed product we recommend you choose because we found it ideal for working in damp and coastal settings. This stainless steel screw served us best when repairing our fences, decks, jetties, pathways, etc.

Image Credits: Amazon.com

The screws worked excellently with our wood project. For example, unlike in the past, when you could worry about your cedar fence developing unattractive rust stains, the Eagle Claw Stainless Steel Deck Screws proved to be rust-resistant, as they ensured our fence remained beautiful over time.

The screws worked well with various products such as redwood, softwoods, and pressure-treated pine. As a result, using them on such wood did not compromise the wood's structural integrity. However, before you purchase a fastening material, we recommend you thoroughly grasp the type of wood fence you are working with, the size of the screws, and the fencing nails.

The Eagle Claw Stainless Steel Deck Screws have a Star Drive (TORX) Head that prevents cam-out, preserving the screw and increasing driver life. We found it best to use an impact driver for the best results, as it helped us avoid struggling with strips or slides, ensuring all screws were used.

Pros:

  • Durable and corrosion-resistant.
  • Easily penetrate.
  • Easy to use.

Cons:

  • Pricey but worth it.

5. 100 Qty #8 x 1-5/8″ Inch Tan Fence & Deck Screws

Builders use nails or screws to secure items. The 100 Qty #8 x 1-5/8" Inch Tan Fence & Deck screws are some of the best for amateur and expert woodworkers.

Image Credits: Amazon.com

You won't ever notice unsightly rust spots on your deck if you use them since they are made of solid stainless steel, which does not rust. We liked that the product came with a star bit, so we did not have to search for ours. These screws are what you need if you need to fix several places where the boards have separated. Compared to the regular nails you could have used, they will hold the boards more firmly. Still, make sure you have the proper bit ( T-20).

Even if you are working on a hardwood project, you won't need to worry about pre-drilling holes, and splitting won't be an issue. We found the grip on the fasteners outstanding. The design was excellent. We rank it at #8. When using the screws, we did not have to worry about the materials breaking, even in the wood that had undergone a pressure treatment process.

Pros:

  • Pure stainless steel.
  • Performs as promised.
  • Hold the objects firmly.

Cons:

  • Small package depending on your project.

6. Velocity Exterior Wood Screw #8 x 1 1/2″

Velocity Exterior Wood Screw Contractor Pack – 475...
  • DURABLE WOOD EXTERIOR SCREWS: The Velocity Wood Screws Contractor...
  • PATENTED HEXSTIX DRIVE SYSTEM: These Wood Screws come with a...
  • ADVANCED DESIGN: These Velocity screws are designed with shank...
  • LARGE PACKS FOR LARGE JOBS: Our Velocity Contractor Packs are...
  • SUPERIOR, RELIABLE PRODUCTS WITH PHILLIPS: Velocity a brand of...

These coated screws offered us a razor-sharp point for quick biting and beginning, tremendous strength, heavy-duty construction, and pull-out values. Every screw is also salt-sprayed for 1200 hours to guarantee they last a lifetime.

Image Credits: Amazon.com

These screws were ideal for our home improvement projects and cedar fences. None of the screws broke when we were using them during construction. We recommend you use them with the Dewalt impact tool and the included bits to ensure everything goes smoothly. Choose these screws if your tasks call for screws that must remain on the bit.

Everything went according to plan, and we finished the job with the screws proving incredibly smooth and durable. However, we needed to hammer and remove a few of the crews from the materials at some point. Again, we found the screws to bend slightly but did not break, which was a huge plus.

Pros:

  • Won't achieve a profit after pounding
  • Provides a durable, smooth finish.
  • Excellent countersink

Cons:

  • Costly but worthwhile

7. Grip-Rite Prime Guard MAXS62690 Screw Number 8

Sale
Grip Rite Prime Guard MAXS62690 Type 17 Point Deck...
  • Type 17 Point Deck Screw
  • 8 by 1-5/8-inch T20 Star Drive
  • 305 Stainless Steel 5 pound tub
  • Model number: MAXS62690

If you need strong screws that can withstand the elements and keep your cedar fence snug as a bug, these soft and stainless screws are the real deal.

For an assured lifetime of service, we advise you to avoid hitting them with metal objects and refrain from repeatedly removing and reinstalling them. The stainless steel screws were excellent for outdoor use since they are resistant to rust, corrosion, and stripping.

Unless you work with hardwoods, pre-drilling holes in the wood is unnecessary since the Prime Guard MAXS62690 Screw Number 8 has an extraordinarily sharp edge. The screws ensure you do less work as a result. These screws worked well in MDF, cedar wood, redwood, and pressure-treated lumber. The screws have a star-like head, ensuring simple insertion and removal, which was helpful for us.

The star drive-in came in handy since it has greater contact while installing or withdrawing the screw, causing only slight damage to the screw head. These lengthy stainless steel screws are thoughtfully made to give you a sturdy grip for many years. Additionally, you may afford them without making a significant dent in your pocketbook because they are cheaply priced.

Pros:

  • Softwoods do not require you to pre-drill holes, resulting in less labor.
  • Star-shaped design for easy insertion and removal.
  • Have a strong grip and great drive-in.

Cons:

  • You got to make a pilot hole in hardwood

8. The Hillman Group Galvanized Deck Screw

Hillman Galvanized Phillips Drive Deck Screw #6 x...
  • Galvanized finish provides excellent corrosion protection
  • Designed for outdoor use and perfect for decks, fences and...
  • Philips head provides a more accessible bit type and is easy to...
  • For use with ACQ, CA, and CCA treated wood (not recommended for...
  • Exceeds 250 hour salt spray test

This deck screw is excellent for any outside project and would be perfect for a fence constructed of pressure-treated wood fence.

This screw has outstanding corrosion and rust resistance thanks to its galvanized coating. These screws may be installed using a flat head or a Philips driving bit. We were, however, forced to pre-drill the wood when using the screws,

These galvanized nails might not be the ideal choice for your wood fence, depending on the type of wood it is made of. Despite their well-deserved reputation for high quality, if your fence is constructed of treated wood, we would advise moving through with your plans; but, if it's built of natural wood, it could be wise to use another material.

Pros:

  • Durable and corrosion-resistant
  • Easily penetrate
  • Easy to use

Cons:

  • Not very sturdy

Factors to Consider When Buying Your Best Screws for Cedar Fence

a) Material 

Consider using bronze or silicon-coated deck screws if you want to use the screws on outside projects.

Stainless steel and silicon bronze screws are excellent materials for outdoor usage. However, avoid using zinc-plated steel on cedar fences since we found the zinc coating on these fasteners to react negatively with the cedar's natural acids producing corrosion streaks.

b) Length

Another important factor to consider when choosing the best screws for a cedar fence is fastener length.

The ideal fastener should be inserted into the bottom materials at a depth of half their thickness, such as 3/4" into a 2x4.

c) Brand

Purchase deck screws and wood screws from well-known manufacturers.

They provide not only high-quality goods but also provide exceptional client service.

d) Coating

How well deck screws, bolts, and other fasteners perform depends on their coating. Therefore, before spending money on wood screws, you need to comprehend your project.

If your project is outdoors, you need strong screws that will withstand the weather while still looking good. You need screws that are rust and corrosion-resistant.

Frequently Asked Questions

a) Can a cedar fence be fastened with stainless steel screws?

Yes. To fasten your cedar fence, you can use stainless nail screws, aluminum, and hot-dipped galvanized screws. The stainless steel screws prevent rust streaks on your fence, keeping your property private and beautiful as they are corrosion-resistant.

b) Can a cedar fence be fastened with deck screws?

Yes. Deck screws can be used on cedar fences as long as they are suitable for outdoor use.

Your best deck stain for weathered wood exposed to elements will remain intact if you use stainless steel coated with a polymer to prevent corrosion.

c) Do coated screws work well with cedar?

Select polymer-coated fasteners, stainless steel, and double hot-dipped galvanized screws for cedar fences.

Avoid screws with zinc coatings since they may react poorly with cedar's acids and result in corrosion strips.

Ian Mutuli

About the author

Ian Mutuli

Founder and Managing Editor of Archute. He is also a graduate architect from The University of Nairobi, Kenya.
Related Articles

Best Portable Air Compressor for All Your Jobsite Tasks

Portable air compressors give you the convenience of inflating your tires and operating pneumatic tools from any location. These compressors ...

best iron on vinyl for cricut

Best Iron on Vinyl for Cricut to Elevate Your Projects

For those passionate about crafting and DIY projects, accuracy, imagination, and quality materials are crucial. No matter your level of ...

Best Cursive Fonts for Cricut for Crafting Ideas

Cursive typesets often introduce a sense of undeniable elegance and sophistication to your Cricut endeavors. They provide a wide range ...