Choosing how your fence is held together matters for strength, long-term value, and even how your fence will look as the years pass. For most fence projects, nails beat screws—and here’s why.
At a Glance: Nails vs. Screws for Fence Building
|
Feature |
Hot-Dip Galvanized Nails |
Screws (Deck/Coated) |
|
Hold in Wood |
Excellent (ring shank grip) |
Very good |
|
Rust Resistance |
High (galvanized coating) |
Varies, coating can scratch |
|
Installation Speed |
Fast (nail gun) |
Slow (one-by-one) |
|
Labor/Material Cost |
Lower |
Higher |
|
Risk of Wood Splitting |
Low |
High (if not pre-drilled) |
|
Flexibility on Movement |
Flexible (absorbs motion) |
Brittle, may break/split |
|
Visibility |
Low (smaller heads) |
High (large heads) |
|
Best Use |
All pickets and rails |
Gates, removable parts |
Why Nails Win for Most Fences
Hot-dip galvanized ring shank nails are designed to dig and lock into wood, holding tight as it expands and contracts through the seasons. Their protective zinc coating means they won’t rust or streak your fence, and their flexibility prevents cracking if your fence shifts. Because nails are quick to install with a nail gun, you save both time and money—making them the smart choice for the bulk of fence construction.
Downsides of Using Screws
Screws have become less popular for fence pickets and rails because they cost more and take much longer to install. Even though they hold well, they can split wood if not carefully pre-drilled, and many lose their rust-resistant coating as they’re screwed in—which can lead to rust drips and stains. Their bigger, more noticeable heads are also less attractive on a finished fence.
When Are Screws the Right Choice?
There are some places where screws do have an advantage. For fences, this is usually on gates, removable sections, or when attaching wood to metal posts. Screws make these connections more secure and easier to adjust or repair down the road.
Answers to Your Fastener Questions
- Do stainless or specialty screws make sense? They can be used in coastal or very damp areas—but are overkill (and expensive) for most yards.
- Is mixing nails and screws okay? Yes! Sometimes a combination is the best approach for flexibility and long-term holding power.
In Summary
For most wood fences, high-quality hot-dip galvanized ring shank nails are the best all-purpose fastener—they’re tough, rust-resistant, cost-effective, and keep your fence sturdy for years. Save the screws for gates or special situations.
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Questions about your next project or need expert help choosing the right materials? Contact Fantastic Fence today for a free estimate and experienced, friendly service!