​​Tek Screws or Tech Screws? What are they and how to use them?

The terminology around screws with self-drilling capabilities can be a source of confusion in the industry. Tek Screws, also known as Tech Screws or Self-Drilling Screws, cover a broad spectrum of applications, gaining popularity for their ability to be directly screwed into various materials without the need for pre-drilling.

While variations in spelling, such as tech screws, tec screws, and teck screws, may cause confusion, they are typically the result of misspellings.
Think of it like this, language adapts based on what people find easy or comfortable to say. If “tech screw” is catching on in certain situations, it could become more widely accepted. It’s like a cool, informal twist in how we express ourselves.

The design of Tek Screws varies based on their intended application, featuring different shapes, sizes, and head types (hexagon or Torx), with some even incorporating built-in washers. One consistent trend is their popularity in roofing jobs, where they offer easy and efficient screwing across a variety of materials.

What is a Tek Screw?

A tek screw, sometimes called a “self-tapping screw,” is a type of specialty fastener that can self-drill a hole in materials such as metal or plastic. The pointed end and distinct thread shape of tek screws, in contrast to ordinary screws, mean that pre-drilled holes are not necessary. Tek screws, widely utilised in the construction, metallurgical, and other industries, are available in a range of sizes and varieties designed to suit particular materials. Easily recognisable by their pointed drill tips and crisp threads, these are made to be installed with power tools with ease.

Who invented Tek Screws?

Founded in the 1920s, Buildex started by manufacturing U-bolts and nuts for car springs. During World War II, the company contributed to the military effort by producing components. In 1958, a pivotal licensing agreement with Illinois Tool Works led to the production of self-tapping screws. The 1970s marked innovations with HiTeks® self-drilling screws and HiGrip® roofing screws. Ownership transitioned to ITW in 1981, and Buildex earned recognition for product quality in 1988.

What are Tek Screws used for?

Self-drilling screws, or tek screws, are commonly utilised in DIY projects, manufacturing, and construction for a variety of purposes. Their main function is to effectively join materials without the requirement for pre-drilling. Common uses for tek screws are:

• Metal-to-Metal Applications: Fasten metal sheets or components securely.
• Metal-to-Wood Applications: Versatile screws suitable for joining metal to wood.
• Roofing: Commonly used for securing roofing materials like metal panels.
• Construction: Ideal for joining structural components in construction projects.
• DIY Projects: Popular in do-it-yourself tasks for easy and efficient fastening without pre-drilling.

How do Tek Screws work?

Self-drilling screws, or tek screws, are a kind of multipurpose fastener. Let me explain how they work.

Tek Screws eliminate the need for a separate pilot hole

• The pointed drill bit at the screw’s tip facilitates carving into solid material surfaces during insertion.
• As the Tek screw is driven, it engages in self-drilling into the material, autonomously creating its own hole.
• The screw proceeds to spin into place, effectively securing the material without the need for pre-drilling.

 Installation steps

• Use Drill or Electric Screwdriver: Install Tek screws easily with a drill or electric screwdriver.
• No Pilot Hole Needed: The screw’s drill point eliminates the need for a separate pilot hole.
• Hex Head Stability: Hex head provides stability during drilling.
• Slow and Steady: Drive screws slowly for straight insertion without a pilot hole.
• Avoid Over-Tightening: Caution against overtightening to prevent stripping the screw head.

Choosing the right size

• Drill Point Number: Higher numbers on a Tek screw indicate compatibility with thicker materials.
• Tip Length Measurement: Measure the drilling tip length for an approximate maximum thickness the screw can handle.
• Choose Longer Tip: Select a screw with a slightly longer tip than the material to avoid jamming during installation.

Light vs. Heavy Tek Screws

• Hex Head Tek Light Self-Drilling Screws: Used for thinner grades of steel, with a coarser thread.
• Hex Head Tek Heavy Self-Drilling Screws: Suitable for thicker steel grades, featuring a finer thread.

Material composition

• Tek screws are typically made of hardened materials to prevent deformation.
• The most common material is 410 Stainless Steel, known for its high chromium content and durability.

This are some common types of Tek Screws

When working with tek screws, it’s important to choose the right type for your specific application to ensure proper performance and durability.

• Hex Washer Head Tek Screws: These have a hexagonal head with a built-in washer, providing a large surface area for better grip and stability.
• Flat Head Tek Screws: These have a flat top surface and are suitable for applications where a flush finish is desired.
• Pan Head Tek Screws: Similar to flat head screws, but with a rounded, protruding top.
• Modified Truss Head Tek Screws: These have a low-profile, rounded head that offers a neat appearance and is commonly used in roofing applications.
• Phillips and Square Drive Tek Screws: These screws come with different drive types, such as Phillips or square, making them compatible with specific screwdrivers or power tools.
• Self-Drilling Tek Screws: These screws have a drill bit-like point, allowing them to create their own pilot hole as they are driven into the material.
• Self-Tapping Tek Screws: Similar to self-drilling screws, these screws tap their own threads into the material.

Our Best Sellers

TechFast 5.5 x 235mm No.5 Roofing Sheet to Steel Hex Screw with Washer TFHW19CPSD55235H

TechFast Roofing Hex Screws: Designed for metal roofing on steel frame buildings, these fire and corrosion-resistant screws boast Elementech coating, enduring 1000-hour salt spray tests. EU-compliant and equipped with 16mm EPDM rubber washers, they ensure a secure, durable, and watertight connection. Ideal for construction with a focus on safety and longevity.

TechFast 5.5 x 60mm Roofing Screw – Heavy Section TFHH5560

The TechFast 5.5 x 60mm Roofing Screw (TFHH5560) is a specialised fastener designed for heavy section roofing applications. Each pack contains 100 screws with a 5.5mm diameter and 60mm length. Featuring a sharp, self-drilling point, these screws are easy to install in heavy gauge steel or similar substrates. Their high-quality, corrosion-resistant coating ensures durability, making them suitable for outdoor use.

TechFast 5.5 x 38mm Hex Roofing Screw – Light Duty TFHL5538 

TechFast Hex Head Roofing Screws: Designed for cladding and sheet steel on 1.2mm to 3.6mm light section steel purlins. Hex head, self-drilling, and equipped with a rubber washer for a permanent weather seal. Zinc-plated with Elementech coating for superior corrosion resistance, tested for 1,000 hours in salt spray.

TechFast 5.5 x 25mm Roofing Sheet to Steel Hex Screw No.3 Tip TFHUWSD5525L

TechFast Roofing Sheet to Steel Hex Light Duty Screws: Ideal for attaching metal roofing to steel frames, these screws offer fire and corrosion resistance. Featuring Elementech coating and passing a 1000-hour salt spray test, they ensure durability in light-duty applications.

TechFast 6.3 x 25mm Roofing Screws Sheet To Timber TFHT6325

The TechFast 6.3 x 25mm Roofing Screws (TFHT6325) are specialized fasteners designed for securely attaching roofing sheets to timber substrates. This pack contains 100 screws, each with a diameter of 6.3mm and a length of 25mm. They feature a sharp, self-drilling point for easy and efficient installation. These screws are specifically engineered for applications where roofing sheets need to be securely fastened to timber.

TechFast 6.3 x 22mm Roofing Screw – Stitching TFHS6322

The TechFast 6.3 x 22mm Roofing Screw is a specialized fastener designed for stitching or joining roofing sheets together. This pack contains 100 screws, each featuring a diameter of 6.3mm and a length of 22mm. The screws are equipped with a sharp, self-drilling point for easy installation and are specifically engineered for securely fastening roofing sheets in place.

FAQ

Can Tek Screws be used with a drill or electric screwdriver?

 Yes, using a drill or electric screwdriver is the recommended and easiest way to install Tek screws.

What is a 5 16 Tek Screw?

The diameter of the screw is indicated by 5 16 or 5/16.

• 5: The first number, “5,” represents the nominal diameter of the screw. In this case, it indicates that the screw has a diameter of 5/16 of an inch.
• 16: The second number, “16,” refers to the number of threads per inch. In this context, it signifies that there are 16 threads in one inch of the screw’s length.

So, a 5/16 tek screw has a diameter of 5/16 inch and 16 threads per inch. This specification is crucial in choosing the right size and type of screw for a particular application, ensuring that it fits appropriately and provides the necessary strength and holding power

What are Tek 5 Screws?

Also known as self-drilling screws, Tek 5 screws simplify projects by eliminating the need for a pilot hole, enabling pre-drilling and fastening in one motion.

• Size: Typically with a 5.5 mm diameter.
• Drill Point: Features a #5 drill point, the longest, capable of drilling through 0.5 inches (12.7 mm) of steel.
• Function: The unique tip design allows Tek 5 screws to drill, tap, and fasten metal to metal without the need for pre-drilling.

Can Tek Screws be used on concrete?

No, using Tek screws on concrete is generally not advised. For these kinds of applications, concrete screws or masonry screws that are specifically made for concrete’s hardness are more appropriate. When choosing the right fastener type for a given set of materials, always heed the manufacturer’s instructions.

At Toolden, we offer a wide range of Roofing Screws to suit a wide range of domestic and commercial applications.

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