What Are The Benefits Of Using Stainless Steel Screws?

Every different type of screw has its own characteristics and properties, which makes them more appropriate for one type of application rather than another. Stainless steel screws are one such type of screw. In truth, stainless steel screws can come in many different forms in terms of the head type, thread type, length and size, and they can actually be used for many different applications, such as wood screws, drywall screws, self-tapping screws, machine screws and multi-purpose screws.

However, what differentiates stainless steel screws from other screws is the material they are made from. This is what gives them a unique quality.

What are stainless steel screws?

Stainless steel screws are made using a steel alloy which is a low carbon steel that contains 10.5% chromium by weight. Chromium gives steel its anti-corrosion properties by formulating an invisible chromium-oxide film on the surface of the screw. This is known as the ‘passive layer’. This layer is able to self-repair if damaged mechanically or chemically when it has available oxygen, even a very small amount. Oxidation effectively repairs the bare alloy when it becomes damaged, by creating another layer of chromium oxide.

So the main characteristic of stainless steel screws, and the benefit that most people know about, is that they are corrosion-resistant. But it is important to note that they are only resistant to corrosion, they are not corrosion proof. So stainless steel screws can corrode, but the deterioration is only likely to be visible on the surface, and not bad enough to also be mechanical.

Stainless steel screws are used widely in construction and engineering, particular for external projects. But they are also commonly used in home renovations, home improvement and DIY applications.

The advantages of using stainless steel screws

So now we understand what stainless steel screws are, let’s understand why they are a really useful type of screw to use in a variety of different applications.

Corrosion-resistant – Okay, we already know this, but being corrosion-resistant means that stainless steel screws are built to last and can be depended upon. They will provide a strong hold over the long term and in most cases this is very important. In addition, because they don’t corrode they are more likely to retain an aesthetic quality for longer also.
Strength – Another important quality of stainless steel screws, and which is perhaps lesser known, is that they don’t lose their integrity in extreme temperatures. So a stainless steel screw will have the same strength properties whether it is exposed to hot or cold temperatures. This means you can effectively use them anywhere and have the same load-bearing confidence all year round.
Low maintenance – Stainless steel screws are very easy to clean and are resistant to scratches, so they will retain their appearance for longer.
Cost savings – Stainless steel screws represent good value. Of course they can be bought in bulk, just like any other type of screw, but because they are so robust and suitable for harsh environments, you don’t need to replace them as often. They are dependable and longer-lasting and so they are one of the best value fixings you can buy.
Variety – As mentioned above, a stainless steel screw describes the material and finish, rather than the shape and size of the screws. So you can use stainless steel screws for a variety of applications and still enjoy the same qualities.
Environmentally friendly – Increasingly we all need to think about how we dispose of materials and also about how they are produced in the first place. Stainless steel screws are 100% recyclable, but because of their long-lasting nature you don’t need to replace them very often anyway. Also, because stainless steel screws are corrosion-resistant, they don’t necessarily need painting. This can sometimes lead to subsequent environmental issues. You can paint stainless steel screws, but the reason many people would do – ie. protection and appearance – doesn’t always apply to stainless steel screws, because they retain their appearance and integrity for longer.