When installing or repairing a fence, the choice of screws is paramount. Incorrect screws can lead to unstable structures and warped boards.
As a cedar fence enthusiast, I understand the significance of the right screws. Cedar, known for its resilience, demands precision in fastening.
In this blog post, I delve into the best screws for cedar fences. Among the top contenders, the ‘#4 x 3/8″ Stainless Flat Head Phillips Screw‘ reigns supreme.
Its exceptional quality ensures a sturdy, long-lasting fence. Join me as we explore the top 9 options and gain valuable insights into securing cedar fences effectively. Let’s begin.
Our Top Picks
Best Screws for Cedar Fence
- #4 x 3/8″ Stainless Flat Head Phillips Screw – Best overall screws
- T.K.Excellent Phillips Flat Head Wood Screws Kit – Best screws for fence pickets
- Eagle Claw Stainless Steel Deck Screws #10 X 2 – Best screws for fencing
- Grip-Rite Prime Guard MAXS62690 Screw Number 8 – Best stainless steel fence screws
- FastenMaster FMGD158-75 Wood Screw – Best value for money fence screws
- Velocity Exterior Wood Screw #8 x 1 1/2″ – Best durable cedar fence screws
- 100 Qty #8 x 1-5/8″ Inch Tan Fence & Deck Screws – Best weather resistance screws
- The Hillman Group Galvanized Deck Screw – Best easy-to-install screws
- Senco Duraspin Screw Number 8 by 2-1/2-Inch – Ideal for heavy-duty construction projects
Best Screws for Cedar Fence Reviews
1. Best overall screws – #4 x 3/8″ Stainless Flat Head Phillips Wood Screw
- 【Dimensions】Diameter: #4 | Length: 1-1/4" | Thread Type: Coarse (standard) | Head: Flat | Drive: Phillips #1 | Quantity: 100 pcs | Material: 18-8 (304) Stainless Steel.
- 【High Quality Stainless】These Flat Head Screws are made of 18-8 (304) Stainless Steel and have is one of the highest forms of corrosion resistant metals, making it last longer than other hardware on the market today.
- 【Screws That You Can Depend On】Our Flat Head Wood Screws are very strong and are great for both indoor and outdoor use. This stainless is superior to regular steel and provides excellent rust resistance.
If you’re tired of battling rust and corrosion on your outdoor projects, the #4 x 3/8″ Stainless Flat Head Phillips Wood Screw is a game-changer. For me, these screws are the best overall choice.
Crafted from marine-grade stainless steel, these cedar fence screws are virtually immune to rust and corrosion, making them perfect for saltwater docks, mountain home decks, coastal areas, and indoor use.
But what sets them apart is their resistance to stripping. These screws fit securely into the head, minimizing the risk of stripping, saving you time and frustration.
What’s remarkable is their purity. Made from top-notch 18-8 stainless steel, they have no exterior finish or coatings, eliminating worries about chipping “stainless steel plating.”
Pro tip: Use the nearest size drill bit to create a pilot hole for smoother installation. Less friction means less chance of head-stripping.
In a nutshell, these #4 x 3/8″ Phillips Wood Screws aren’t just hardware; they’re the solution to rust, corrosion, and stripping problems of your cedar fence. Once you try them, you won’t settle for anything less.
What We Liked Most
- Corrosion-resistant
- Suitable for indoor and out use
- Strong bite into the wood, even on MDF
What Could Be Improved
- You round out the head if you use too much force
2. Best screws for fence pickets – T.K.Excellent Phillips Flat Head Wood Screws Kit
- Use for most woodworking jobs and materials of woods,need pre-drilled hole for hard wood to avoid split.
- Sturdy and corrosion resistant,Phillips design minimize bit slippage.
- Don't easily slip, provides good holding power in different woods and man-made materials.
If you are looking for flathead countersunk screws, the T.K.Excellent Phillips Flat Head Wood Screws Kit has won me over as my second choice. Here’s why.
Picture this: You’re in the midst of a home improvement project, and you’ve had to take down a door to make your job easier.
But now, two of the four screws that once held your door hinge in place are missing, leaving you puzzled about the right size to replace them. This is where this assortment of screws shines.
While they are soft screws, which means you should pre-drill holes for your wooden fence, these screws come in a variety of sizes, ready to tackle a wide range of tasks around your living space. They are a DIYer’s dream, ensuring you always have the right screw size on hand.
What I appreciate about these screws is their sturdiness. Even under the stress of drilling and removal, the heads remain relatively intact. So, if you ever need to take things apart, you won’t find yourself struggling.
In summary, the T.K.Excellent Phillips Flat Head Wood Screws Kit is the ideal companion for DIY enthusiasts. With its assortment of sizes and dependable performance, it’s a step in the right direction for anyone tackling home improvement projects.
What We Liked Most
- It comes in different screw sizes for various applications
- Affordable
- Provides a snug grip
What Could Be Improved
- The head might strip if you fail to drill holes before insertion
3. Best screws for fencing – Eagle Claw Stainless Steel Deck Screws #10 X 2 1/2 Inch T25
- TYPE 304 (18-8) GRADE 2-1/2 INCH STAINLESS STEEL CONSTRUCTION SCREWS for Decking, Fencing and general-purpose woodwork.
- RECOMMENDED for use in all COASTAL, WET and OUTDOOR applications, including decks, balustrades, fences, jetties, walkways and general construction work.
- HIGH CORROSION RESISTANCE means no more ugly rust stains on your beautiful outdoor timber structures.
For cedar screws that can withstand wet and coastal conditions, the Eagle Claw Stainless Steel Deck Screws are the genuine ones. They’ve become my top choice for various outdoor applications, not just cedar fences, from jetties to walkways, and decks.
Simply put, these screws are a go-to solution for all your construction needs. What truly sets them apart is their remarkable resistance to corrosion. No more unsightly rust stains marring the beauty of your expensive cedar fence, as you might have experienced with other screws in the past.
These screws play well with softwoods, cedar, redwood, and pressure-treated pine. That means you can confidently use them on a range of woods without compromising structural integrity.
What I love most is the Star Drive (TORX) Head – it minimizes cam-out, preserving the screws and extending the life of your driver. These screws go in smoothly and securely, leaving no room for disappointment.
For optimal results, I recommend using an impact driver. With these screws, you won’t struggle with slips, strips, or wasted materials. It’s a smart investment for anyone working with different wood types, including pressure-treated wood.
What We Liked Most
- Easy to use
- They go in easily
- Durable and corrosion-resistant
What Could Be Improved
- Pricey but worth it
4. Best stainless steel fence screws – Grip-Rite Prime Guard MAXS62690 Screw Number 8
- Type 17 Point Deck Screw
- 8 by 1-5/8-inch T20 Star Drive
- 305 Stainless Steel 5 pound tub
These could be perfect if you need great screws that can stand up to the weather and hold your cedar fences tight as a bug. Because they’re stainless, they are soft.
Be careful not to hit them with a metal object, and do not keep on removing and reinstalling them. These are stainless steel screws, so they are rust and corrosion-resistant and will not strip, no matter what, and are suitable for outdoor use.
Because they have an incredibly sharp edge, There is no need for pre-drilling holes in the wood unless you are working on the hardwood. This means less labor on your part.
These screws perform well in cedar, redwood, pressure-treated woods, plastic, and MDF. The screws have a star-shaped head.
You will appreciate the star drive-in since it has better contact while fitting or removing the screw, resulting in minor damage to your screw head.
These long stainless screws have an outstanding appearance and offer you a lasting grip for decades. In addition, they are reasonably priced, so you can afford them without leaving massive dents in your wallet.
The screws are what you need to complete the backer rails.
What We Liked Most
- No need for pre-drilling on softwoods; hence less labor
- Star shape for simple insertion and removal
- Screws drive excellently and have a solid grip
What Could Be Improved
- You got to make a pilot hole in hardwood
5. Best value for money fence screws – FastenMaster FMGD158-75 GuardDog Screw
- Manufactured in china
- Easy to use
- Highly durable
GuardDog is a versatile exterior wood fastener that works well in pressure-treated wood such as ACQ, Cedar, and Redwood. FastenMaster guarantees that this product will be rust-free for its life.
This screw also features a versatile head shape that allows it to be used with a Philips drive, #2 square, or PoziSquare drive bit. The screw also boasts sharp threads for quicker installation and has a brown wood color wash.
These cedar fence screws are solid and will last for ages, and do not strip under any circumstances. These will look wonderful on your fence no matter what wood you have.
You can frame your whole fence, and not even two screws will strip out. There’s no need for pre-drilling holes. Be sure to use impact drive.
The screws sink smoothly and bite into the wood effortlessly. You do not have to blister your palm spinning and spinning before the screws hold and start into your wood.
If you need some sturdy screws that can withstand the elements, these are a perfect choice. You’ll love their fantastic design. The screws are thicker than standard drywall screws and hold the wood excellently.
What We Liked Most
- Ease of use
- It grips the wood really well
- Holds up to the elements
- No need to make pilot holes
What Could Be Improved
- Meant for exterior use
6. Best durable cedar fence screws – Velocity Exterior Wood Screw #8 x 1 1/2″
These coated screws are heavy-duty, with enormous strength and pull-out values, and have a razor-sharp tip for rapid biting and starting. In addition, all screws are salt-sprayed for 1200 hours to ensure they last a lifetime.
These screws are well suited for use in cedar fencing and other projects around the house. You can use all of them, and not one will break.
Use them with the Dewalt impact tool with the provided bits, and everything will go smoothly. These are the screws you go for if you have projects that require the screws to stay on the bit.
Superb wood screws! You can use all of them on your projects, and not a single one of them will break, twist, or strip at the head.
The countersink is Without replacing pieces. The countersink is flawless every time. Everything will work as planned, and the finish will be super smooth and sturdy.
You may have to pull a couple of them from the materials, and you may hammer. It might bend just a little but will not snap, which is a big plus.
What We Liked Most
- It gives a smooth, sturdy finish
- It won’t break even after hammering
- Perfect countersink
What Could Be Improved
- Pricey but worth it
7. Best weather resistance screws – 100 Qty #8 x 1-5/8″ Inch Tan Fence & Deck Screws
- Premium Corrosion Resistant Ultra-Guard Tan Coating
Builders attach materials with nails or screws. These are some of the best screws for DIYers and professional woodworkers.
They are pure stainless steel and weather resisntance, meaning they do not rust, and you’ll never see ugly rust stains on your cedar fence if you use them. In addition, they come with a star bit, so you do not have to dig for yours.
If you need to repair numerous cedar posts that have fallen away, these are your screws. They’ll hold the boards more secure than ordinary nails you may have used. Be sure to you have the correct bit ( T-20).
You do not have to pre-drill holes even if you are working on a hardwood project, and you will not worry about splitting. These fasteners have an excellent grip.
The design is impressive and is #8, just as marketed. Use them even in the wood that has undergone a pressure treatment process, and you will have no concerns will cracking materials.
What We Liked Most
- Pure stainless steel
- Hold the materials tightly
- Works as advertised
- No pilot holes are needed even in hardwood, yet no splitting
What Could Be Improved
- Small package- depends on your project.
8. Best easy-to-install screws – The Hillman Group Galvanized Deck Screw
In terms of durability and versatility, The Hillman Group Galvanized Deck Screw stands out as a top choice. These cedar fence screws are engineered to deliver outstanding performance, making them a valuable addition to any DIY or construction project.
One of the standout features is their galvanized coating, which provides excellent resistance to corrosion. Whether you’re building a deck, fence, or tackling other outdoor projects, these screws will withstand the elements and maintain their integrity over time.
Another notable advantage is the sharp threading, allowing for quick and easy installation. Say goodbye to the frustration of struggling to drive screws into wood; these screws bite into the material effortlessly.
Moreover, their compatibility with various wood types, including pressure-treated wood, adds to their appeal. You won’t have to worry about compatibility issues with different projects.
What We Liked Most
- Excellent corrosion resistance due to galvanized coating.
- Sharp threading for quick and effortless installation.
- Compatibility with various wood types, including pressure-treated wood.
- Versatile for a wide range of outdoor projects.
- Reliable and durable construction.
What Could Be Improved
- May require pre-drilling for hardwoods.
- Limited size options may not suit all project needs.
9. Ideal for heavy-duty construction projects – Senco Duraspin Screw Number 8 by 2-1/2-Inch
The Senco Duraspin Screw Number 8 by 2-1/2-Inch is a game-changer for anyone who values efficiency and precision in their projects. These screws offer a seamless fastening experience that will leave you wondering how you ever managed without them.
What sets these screws apart is their durability and reliability. Crafted with precision and engineered for toughness, they hold up exceptionally well in a variety of applications, from framing to fencing. You can trust them to stay in place, even under heavy loads.
One of the standout features is the ease of use. These screws sink into cedar wood effortlessly, thanks to their sharp, self-tapping design. Say goodbye to pre-drilling and struggling with stubborn screws. With the Senco Duraspin, it’s smooth sailing from start to finish.
Moreover, their versatility shines through. Whether you’re working with hardwood, softwood, or even pressure-treated wood, these screws have you covered. They adapt seamlessly to different materials, making them an ideal choice for diverse projects.
What We Liked Most
- Exceptional durability and reliability.
- Effortless self-tapping design for easy installation.
- Versatile and suitable for various wood types.
- Ideal for a wide range of applications.
- Precision engineering ensures consistent performance.
What Could Be Improved
- May be considered relatively expensive compared to other screws.
- Requires a compatible Senco Duraspin screw gun for optimal use.
Best Cedar Fence Screws Comparison Table
How to Choose the Best Screws for Wood Fence
When buying wood screws, it is advisable to consider a few factors to help you make an informed fastener decision. Therefore, keep an eye out for the following thing so that you can pick the best fastener ideal for your unique project.
Here is the buying guide.
Material
To choose the best materials for your project, know whether you need to use screws outdoor or indoors. Opt for affordable zinc plated steel or select a fabric or coating most appealing to you for indoor applications.
If you use the wood screws outdoors, go for silicon or bronze coated screws. Better still, buy stainless steel. Remember that screws used outdoors need superb protection from corrosion brought about by temperature and moisture changes.
Silicon bronze and stainless steel are well suited for exterior use. However, avoid zinc plated steel on cedar fences because the zinc coating in these fasteners may adversely react with the acids contained in the cedar and develop corrosion streaks.
Coating
The coating on deck screws, bolts, and fasteners materials determines how well they do their job. Therefore, you need to understand your project before investing in wood screws.
If your project is outdoor, you need sturdy screws that stand up to the elements while maintaining aesthetic appeal. You need rust and corrosion-resistant screws.
There are also screws appropriate for indoor and outdoor applications. A good rule of thumb is to use stainless steel screws or silicon bronze screws for exterior projects. You can polymer-coated screws for interior projects.
Head
Types of screw heads
Phillips- The Phillips ruled when a screwdriver was the primary tool for inserting screws. But nowadays, most people use cordless drills or drivers to fit screws. Some people even go for fantastic dedicated Lithium-Ion pocket drivers to stop bit slippage and metal stripping.
Quadrex- The Quadrex is a screw that combines square (Robertson) and Phillips’s heads. It has a large surface area and can handle a lot of torque, making it an excellent choice for driving-intensive tasks such as building a fence or a deck.
Torx/ Stardrive- Torx or star drive heads give loads of power transfer between the driver and the screw and are an excellent alternative when many screws are necessary because they wear out the bits the least.
They are also known as “security fasteners” since they are used in schools, correctional, electronic production correction facilities, public buildings, etc., where the capability to remove hardware is prohibited.
Length
Fastener length is another crucial consideration when buying the best screws for a cedar fence. The best fastener should enter half the thickness of bottom materials: for example, 3/4′′ into a 2 x 4.
Gauge/ the thickness or thinness of the screw
Consider a screw’s diameter, also referred to as a gauge. Screws are available in gauges ranging from 2 to 16. Most of the time, a #8 screw will do the trick.
When working with thick or heavy materials, use #12-14. when working with thinner woodworking, go for #6.
Brand
It’s always a great idea to buy wood screws and deck screws from popular brands. Apart from producing high-quality products, they have excellent customer care. In case of a dispute, they handle it like pros because they have a name to protect.
Types of Wood Screws
Flathead screw
The flathead screw is a DIYer’s best buddy because they can use it to join cabinets, bookshelves, stair treads, tables, benches, etc.
Typically, a cone-shaped hole is formed using a countersink tool to retain the screw head; once in position and fastened. You then cover the screw with wood putty, sand it down, and coat it with a wood finish to match the surrounding wood.
Roundhead screw
Roundhead screws are less commonly used than flathead screws. Whereas flathead screws are the best bookshelf and top cabinet screws, roundhead screws are used on machinery and with sheet material that is too fragile to use with regular countersunk screw heads.
Oval head screw
Oval head screws are a cross between a countersunk and a conical head. The screw is somewhat countersunk, but the top of the head will protrude beyond the surface. You use it as a classical decorative feature.
Other types include:
- Stainless Steel Screws: The most prevalent choice, stainless steel screws are renowned for their resistance to corrosion and rust.
- Double Hot-Dipped Galvanized Screws: Following stainless steel, double hot-dipped galvanized screws have a zinc coating that shields them from rust and corrosion.
- Polymer-Coated Screws: Another option is polymer-coated screws, featuring a plastic coating that serves as a barrier against rust and corrosion.
Are you looking to remove screws with no head? Read our article to find out.
Screws or Nails: Which is the Better Choice?
The choice between screws and nails depends on your application preference. Each has its pros and cons. Screws take longer to install but offer better long-term security. Nails are quicker but may loosen over time.
For wood fences, a common approach is to use both: nails for pickets to backer rails and screws for backer rails to posts, combining speed and durability.
FAQs
Can you use stainless steel screws on cedar?
Yes. You can use stainless nail screws, aluminum, and hot-dipped galvanized screws because they are corrosion-resistant, so you will not see corrosion streaks on your expensive cedar.
Can you use deck screws on cedar?
Yes. You can use deck screws on cedar fences so long as they are ideal for exterior use. Screws for outdoor use should be stainless or polymer-coated to help them resist corrosion due to exposure to the elements.
Are coated screws OK for cedar?
Opt for a polymer-coated fastener, stainless steel, and double hot-dipped galvanized screws for cedar fencing. Please avoid screws with zinc coating because the acids in cedar may adversely react with zinc and cause corrosion strips.
What size screws for fence panels?
Whether you pick screws or nails, length is critical to the success of your cedar fence lifespan. To join backer rails or preassembled panels to posts, use 18d-20d nails or 3/12 inch- 4 inch long screws. To affix individual pickets ( pre-assembled panels) to backer rails, go for 8d-10d nails or 1-1/2 inches.
What size screws for a wood fence?
The wood screw should enter half the thickness of the base material, for example, three-quarter inches into a two by four. Screw gauge ranges from two-six. Opt for a #8 always.
What size screw for fence pickets
To attach backer rails to posts, use a three-and-a-half or four-inch long screw. To attach individual pickets to your backer rails, use #8d – 10 d nails, or 1-1/2 inches ring shank nails, or 1-1/4 inch to 1-3/4 long inch screws.
How many screws per fence picket
The size of the fence determines the number of screws needed per picket. For example, when mounting One by six-foot fencing boards to a two-by-four-foot body, use a minimum of Six screws per panel.
Best Screws for Cedar Wood Summary
Stainless steel screws, polymer-coated fasteners, and hot-dipped galvanized fasteners are the best screws for cedar fences because they are perfect for outdoor use.
These wood screws are fortified against corrosion brought about by continuous exposure to elements such as rainwater, snow, and heat.
We have highlighted a couple of the best fasteners for cedar fencing to help you narrow down your choices and rise above confusion.
Our best screws for cedar wood is #4 x 3/8″ Stainless Flat Head Phillips Screw. These screws are stainless, bite into the wood easily, are simple to use, and are durable.