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Hardware & Fasteners
Guides & Reviews

Your complete hardware and fasteners resource -- screws, bolts, hinges, drawer slides, anchors, and cabinet hardware. Selection guides, installation tips, and project-specific recommendations.

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Type Guides
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Install Guides

All Hardware & Fasteners Articles

Expert-written guides covering screws, bolts, hinges, anchors, and cabinet hardware.

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Common Hardware & Fasteners Questions

Use #8 or #9 wood screws for most projects. Coarse-thread screws grip softwood better; fine-thread for hardwood. Deck screws for outdoor use (coated or stainless). Drywall screws are NOT wood screws -- they are brittle and snap under lateral stress.
Lightweight items (under 10 lbs): plastic expansion anchors. Medium loads (10-25 lbs): self-drilling anchors or toggle bolts. Heavy loads (25-50 lbs): toggle bolts or snap toggles. Very heavy (50+ lbs): always find a stud.
Nails resist shearing (lateral) force -- use for framing. Screws resist withdrawal (pulling out) force -- use for cabinetry and trim. Bolts go through the material with a nut on the other side -- use for the strongest connections. Each has a specific purpose.
Standard pulls are 3-4 inches for drawers, 5-6 inches for cabinets. Match the finish to your faucets and light fixtures (brushed nickel, matte black, brass). Template drilling tools ($10) ensure perfect alignment. You'll need 30-50 pieces for a typical kitchen.
Stainless steel (grade 304 or 316) is best for coastal, wet, or treated-lumber applications. Hot-dipped galvanized is cheaper and fine for most outdoor use. Never mix metals as it causes galvanic corrosion. For decks, use stainless or ACQ-rated fasteners.