You might find several stainless steel Tek self-drilling screws in the roofing of your business premises when you do an inspection. We have not checked the Marsh Fasteners roof at our Jupiter, FL, premises, but after more than thirty years in the business, we are sure they will be quality products, just like the 410 stainless steel Tek self-drilling screws we stock.
Have you ever wondered why they are called “Tek” screws? Teks® is the brand name for a self-drilling screw manufacturer that started making them in 1967. Over time, the name “Tek” became synonymous with this type of fastener even when it carries another manufacturer’s name. Let’s look at stainless steel Tek self-drilling screws in more detail and how you can use them.
What Is a Tek Self-Drilling Screw?
Tek self-drilling screws are made from stainless steel and characterized by their drill-shaped point. Using these screws saves time. Why? The point-shape lets the screws drill into materials without the need for pre-drilled pilot holes. They can cut through wood and the mild steel used in most industries.
410 Stainless steel, from which the Marsh Fasteners Tek self-drilling screws are made, is a martensitic steel, while 316 and 18-8 stainless steel is austenitic. The martensitic nature of the 410 stainless steel makes it hard, strong, and highly wear-resistant with moderate corrosion resistance.
Types of Tek Self-Drilling Screws at Marsh Fasteners
Marsh Fasteners stocks three types of 410 stainless steel Tek self-drilling screws in various lengths and sizes. We also have Phillips drive bits, magnetic hex power nutsetters (short and long), and neoprene-backed 18-8 stainless steel sealing washers. It is recommended that these fasteners be used in thinner materials. Our Tek self-drilling screws are:
Hex washer head Tek screws. They might also be called indented hex washer head unslotted TEK® screws or hex head self-drilling screws. The different sizes are equal to a TEK-2 or TEK-3 screw, and you need the following to drill them:
- No.2 or No.3 drill bit
- 1/4“ or 3/8" hex drive.
Pan head Tek screws. Also called pan Phillips head Tek screws, the sizes are equal to TEK-2 or TEK-3 screws, and you need the following to drill them:
- No.2 or No.3 Tek drill point
- No.2 or No. 3 Phillips drive.
Flat head Tek screws. Alternatively called flat Phillips head Tek screws, the sizes are equal to TEK-2 or TEK-3 screws, and you need the following to drill them:
- No.2 or No.3 Tek drill point
- No.2 or No. 3 Phillips drive.
What Are Tek Self-Drilling Screws Used For?
You can use Tek self-drilling screws to fix sheeting for metal roofing, carports, barns, and other steel frames. You can also secure ductwork and HVAC systems. Do you have solar panels on the roof of your home or business to cut down on energy costs? Self-drilling screws are used to mount solar panels. Many sheds and outbuildings on farms are a combination of metal and wood, making Tek self-drilling screws the best fastener for their construction and repair. What about plastic? Tek self-drilling screws are very efficient when you need to fasten plastic piping or ductwork.
Other Frequently Asked Questions
- Is there a difference between self-drilling and self-tapping screws?
Yes, there is. Self-tapping screws have a sharp point and need a pilot hole before you can fasten them. Self-drilling screws have a drill point and drill through the materials to be fastened.
- How do I remove Tek screws from roof sheeting?
Use the same tool or driver you would tighten it with to remove Tek screws. Don’t force it when the screw is a bit tight, especially when it’s been there a while, or you might damage the sheeting.
Are you in the roofing, HVAC or construction industry? Marsh Fasteners has all the stainless steel and marine grade fasteners you need, including stainless steel Tek self-drilling screws. Shop online now!
