Have you heard of double-ended screws? They feature a unique design compared to traditional screws. All screws have helical external threading. The presence of this external threading allows them to dig into workpieces and surfaces. While traditional screws only have a single pointed end, though, double-ended screws live up to their namesake by featuring two pointed ends.
What Are Double-Ended Screws?
Also known as dowel screws, double-ended screws are threaded fasteners that are used to create a hidden joint. Hidden joints, of course, are hidden areas where two surfaces meet and are connected. All double-ended screws are used for this purpose. They consist of two pointed ends. With two pointed ends, they can be inserted into two surfaces, which will create a hidden joint.
The Parts of a Double-Ended Screw
Double-ended screws consist of a few parts. Unlike traditional screws, they don’t have a head. Traditional screws have a head that features a drive recess. There is no head, though, on double-ended screws. Instead, double-ended screws consist of a threaded shank with two pointed ends.
Depending on the particular type of double-ended screw, it may feature two different types of threading. Some double-ended screws have a single type of threading, whereas others have two types of threading. There are hanger-style double-ended screws, for instance, that feature machine screw threading and wood screw threading. They are used to create hidden joints between wood and metal surfaces.
The threading of a double-ended screw runs the entire length of its shank. All double-ended screws have two points ends. The threading runs completely from one pointed end to the other pointed end. With complete threading, they remain hidden once installed. You won’t be able to see a double-ended screw after installing it in two surfaces.
How Double-Ended Screws Work
Double-ended screws work like most other screws. They feature threading that allows them to dig into surfaces. A key distinction between double-ended screws and other screws, though, is that the former typically requires the use of a pilot hole. Most double-ended screws can’t be driven directly into surfaces. Instead, they must be driven into a pilot hole. A pilot hole is a predrilled hole that’s designed to accommodate a threaded fastener, such as a screw. To use a double-ended screw, you’ll need to create a pilot hole in both of the surfaces with which you intend to use it.