Screw Size to Drill Size Chart: A Handy Guide for Your Projects

When working with screws and plugs, it's essential to ensure that the correct size is used to avoid any problems. In this article, we'll explore how deep a wall plug needs to be and provide a comprehensive guide on screw size to drill size charts.

The gauge of a screw refers to its thickness, which is measured in millimeters for metric screws and gauges for imperial screws. For example, an 8-gauge screw has an 8mm wide head, making it handy to remember. The size of an imperial screw head roughly equates to the gauge, while metric screws are measured by their thickness in millimeters.

When working with masonry, you have the option to re-drill the hole one size bigger and use a larger plug. In wood, you'll need to consider using a smaller gauge screw or drilling a larger pilot hole if necessary. It's essential to ensure that screws are tight but not overly tight, as this can cause damage.

If a screw starts to get too tight, it's best to stop and reassess the situation before breaking the screw or bursting the material. In some cases, backing out and re-drilling a larger pilot hole may be necessary.

Hardwoods may require slightly larger pilot holes than softwoods, so it's essential to consult the recommended sizes in the chart below.

Screw Size to Drill Size Chart

The following table provides a comprehensive guide to screw size to drill size charts. This chart includes information on:

* Which size plastic wall plug to use with each screw size or gauge

* What size clearance hole to drill through the timber being fixed

* What size pilot hole to drill in timber substrates for the best screw grip

By using this chart, you can ensure that your screws are properly sized and installed, reducing the risk of problems during your project.

Downloadable Resources

To make it easier to reference these charts, we've provided downloadable PDFs of the screw data table and pilot hole recommendations. You can access these resources by clicking on the links below:

By following this guide and using the screw size to drill size chart, you'll be well-equipped to tackle any project that requires screws and plugs. Remember to always use the correct size to avoid any issues and ensure a successful outcome.

Screw size to drill size chart