TYPES OF FASTENERS

Fasteners Unfastened: The Unsung Heroes of Construction

Introduction: Holding the World Together

Picture this: You're putting together a brand-new piece of furniture. You read the instructions, tighten the screws, and step back, only to discover—it's wobbly. You double-checked and noticed that you had installed the wrong fasteners. This small mistake illustrates how important it is to select the proper bolts, screws, or nuts for a project.

So, from massive steel beams of skyscrapers to the tiny screws of your smartphones, fastners are the lifeline of every machine. They are available in a wide variety to cater to a particular function. Keep reading as we outline the popular types of fasteners and how they help keep our world together. 

1. Hex Bolts: The Workhorses of Fasteners

Hex bolts are one of the most popular fastener types. They are everywhere. Their six-sided heads make them easy to grip and turn with a wrench. Whether fully or partially threaded, they adapt to various construction needs.

  • Used in construction, machinery, and automotive applications
  • Works best with different types of hardware nuts or threaded holes
  • Provide a strong and secure hold

Think about the sturdy bolts keeping playground swings safe. Those are likely hex bolts at work! Connect with an expert to learn more about the different kinds of fasteners and their uses. 

2. Eye Bolts: The Looped Lifesavers

Eye bolts are one of the most popular types of hardware fasteners. They help effectively secure ropes or chains. With their looped heads, eye bolts are durable and versatile. They’re perfect for lifting, rigging, and suspension. 

  • Common in marine and industrial applications
  • Ensure a safe anchor point for cables
  • Must be chosen based on load capacity for safety

Ever hung a heavy chandelier? That secure point in the ceiling is likely an eye bolt!

3. Carriage Bolts: Smooth and Secure

Carriage bolts are among the most effective fastening materials. Their domed head and square neck prevent them from spinning while being tightened.

  • Ideal for wood-to-wood connections
  • Common in furniture and outdoor structures
  • Provide a clean, smooth finish

Ever noticed the bolts on a park bench? That sleek, rounded top is a carriage bolt!

4. Socket Head Cap Screws: Built for Precision

These screws are designed for tight spaces. Their recessed hexagon drive requires an Allen key for precise torque application.

  • Perfect for machinery and electronics
  • Offers high clamping force
  • Reduce the risk of stripping

Assembling a 3D printer? You’ll appreciate the accuracy of socket head cap screws!

5. Self-Tapping Screws: The Independent Drillers

Hate pre-drilling holes? Although there are different types of screws for it, self-tapping screws are the best pick here. They cut their threads into metal, plastic, or wood.

  • No pre-drilling required
  • Save time and effort in assembly
  • Versatile for different materials

Fixing a metal shed? Self-tapping screws make the job quicker and easier!

6. Wood Screws: The Timber Specialists

Here comes the most effective fastener screw types for wood. Designed specifically for wood, these screws provide a tight grip without splitting the material.

  • Features coarse threads and sharp points.
  • Ensures durability in wood-based projects
  • Available in different head types for aesthetic appeal.

Building a bookshelf? Wood screws are your best friend!

7. U-Bolts: The Perfect Clamp

Like their names, U-bolts are shaped like the letter ‘U.’ They are great for securing pipes and round objects. It is one of the most effective bolt types so far!

  • Common in plumbing and automotive industries
  • Provides a strong, firm grip
  • Available in different materials for corrosion resistance

Securing an exhaust pipe? A U-bolt gets the job done!

8. Sex Bolts: The Sleek Connectors

Sex bolts (also called barrel bolts) consist of two parts—a male and female section—that screw together for a seamless finish. 

  • Used in furniture, architecture, and signage
  • Offer a smooth, flush appearance
  • Provide a secure and tamper-proof connection

Ever noticed how some modern furniture has no visible screws? That’s the magic of sex bolts!

9. Machine Screws: The Industrial All-Rounder

Machine screws work best with nuts or threaded holes, offering a precise, uniform grip.

  • Used in electronics, machinery, and metal applications
  • Available in various head shapes for different tools
  • Provide excellent holding strength

Opening up a laptop? The tiny screws inside are machine screws!

10. Lag Bolts: The Heavy-Duty Heroes

Lag bolts (or lag screws) are perfect for high-strength wood applications.

  • Requiring a pilot hole for installation.
  • Provide exceptional holding power.
  • Often used in structural applications.

Installing a deck? Lag bolts ensure it stays sturdy for years!

11. Square Head Bolts: The Vintage Choice

Square head bolts have a classic four-sided head, offering easy gripping with tools.

  • Common in historic renovations and restorations
  • Provide a unique, vintage appearance
  • Offer a strong and secure connection

Restoring antique furniture? Square head bolts maintain authenticity!

12. Hanger Bolts: The Furniture Fixers

Hanger bolts have wood threads and machine threads on one end. This structure makes them ideal for furniture assembly.

  • Great for attaching legs to tables or chairs
  • Provide a firm hold without visible hardware
  • Used in both woodworking and industrial applications

Ever wondered how detachable furniture legs stay in place? Hanger bolts are the answer!

13. Shoulder Bolts: Precision in Motion

These bolts have a smooth shoulder between the head and threads, making them perfect for moving parts.

  • Used in pulleys, linkages, and machinery
  • Allow smooth rotation and movement
  • Provide spacing between components

Building a DIY robot? Shoulder bolts ensure smooth movement in joints!

Selecting the Correct Fastener: What to Consider

Material: Select a bolt material that is suitable for your environment. Stainless steel bolts will withstand corrosion, and zinc-plated bolts are perfect for use indoors.

Size and Length: Make sure the fastener is appropriate for your materials. Too short and it will not hold, and too long and it can ruin the surface.

Thread Type: It has coarse threads for a better grip in wood. Moreover, fine threads are best used in metal.

The correct fastener provides durability, strength, and safety. Check out our website to learn more about different types of fasteners with pictures.

A Personal Story: The Wobbly Chair Problem

A few years back, I owned a chair that would wobble whenever I sat on it. No matter how frequently I would tighten the screws, it simply wouldn't stay firm. A little bit of research later, I figured out that I had employed the incorrect type of screws—a quick switch over to proper wood screws, and—voilà!—wobbling ceased.

A brief lesson stuck with me: the right fastener can make all the difference.

Conclusion: The Tiny Titans of Construction

There are different types of fasteners. Some may look small, but they have a monumental impact. From the bridges we drive over to the furniture we sit in, they unobtrusively keep everything together.

The next time you tighten a bolt, remember that you're wielding one of the most significant inventions in human history!

For a top-notch selection of fasteners, visit Canada Bolts.