Self Tapping Screws vs Self Drilling Screws

If you’re a contractor looking for the right fastening solution for your construction needs, you came to the right place! Self tapping screws and self drilling screws are both effective fastening solutions depending on your project, but it’s important to know the key differences between self drilling vs self tapping. ASMC Industrial carries both types of screws in our extensive inventory, and this blog post can help you decide which one is best suited for your specific job. Read on to learn everything you need to know about self tapping vs self drilling screws.

Self Tapping Screws (otherwise known as Sheet Metal Screws) are versatile fasteners that are used frequently in various industries. They can tap threads into various materials such as wood, metal, or brick effectively but cannot smoothly get past metals without requiring a pilot hole before installation.

On the other hand, self-drilling screws do not need a pilot hole because of their drill bit end. They are perfect for fastening thin pieces of metal and are often used for framework on cars or attaching sheet metal to a metal frame. Self-drilling screws also come in a wide variety of types and have more uses than tapping screws.

So why drill a bunch of holes into a metal sheet and wear out a drill bit when you can use self-drilling screws?

Self-tapping screws are ideal for a range of materials but require a pilot hole slightly smaller than the screw's diameter. As you drive the screw in, its threads will dig into the material, securing it tightly. For harder surfaces, a variety self-tapping screws known as Thread Cutting Screws, may have notches on the thread to help cut the thread just like a tap. Self-tapping screws may come with a pointy tip, or they can be blunt or flat.

What Are Self Tapping Screws Used For

Self-tapping screws work wonders for metal, aluminum, and various plastic types such as fiberglass and polycarbonates. They're also great to use on materials that already have pilot holes. These screws can be used with cast or forged materials such as iron, aluminum, brass, or bronze. If you're working on surfaces where you can't secure the rear of your assembly with a nut, self-tapping screws are your ideal fastening solution. Common applications include fastening aluminum sections, attaching metal brackets onto wood, or inserting screws into plastic housings. The construction and automotive industries use them regularly. Self-tapping screw capabilities depend on their composition, size, shape, and design.

What Are Self Drilling Screws Used For

If you’re looking for an efficient way to work with metal, aluminum, and plastics such as fiberglass and polycarbonate, look no further than self-drilling screws. These screws are ideal for drilling through light gauge metal sheeting without needing a pilot hole. They are commonly used in roofing, decks, sheet metal, the medical field, and for framing, drywall, and concrete projects. You will save time and effort with self-drilling screws for all your projects involving metal and plastic.

Browse Our Self Drilling and Self Tapping Screws

Shop ASMC Industrial’s extensive selection of self drilling screws and self tapping screws. No matter the head or drive type, we’ve got you covered. Our self drilling screws come in zinc plated steel and multiple stainless steel alloys. Used to fasten wood, metal, and other materials to metal, our self-drilling screws are available in a variety of sizes to fit any project you might have. Our self tapping screws are made with tough materials and drive types that include, but not limited to, Phillips, external hex, and slotted - so there’s something here for every job. Our superior hardware pieces and affordable prices can’t be beat.