Self Drilling Screws / Tek Screws

Self-drilling screws have a drill-shaped point to penetrate through the substrate, thus eliminating the need for a pilot hole. They can save time and money by eliminating separate operations, and are the most economical choice in many applications. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Self Drilling Screws

What are self-drilling screws used for? 

Self drilling screws are used to secure metal to several different materials in construction, sheet metal fabrication, roofing, and HVAC work. 

What is a Tek screw? 

A Tek screw is a type of self-drilling screws specifically designed for metal-to-metal applications. It typically features a self-drilling point and a unique thread design that allows it to easily drill into and grip metal surfaces without the need for a pre-drilled hole or tapping. 

How thick of metal can a self-drilling screw drill through? 

The thickness of metal a self-drilling screw can drill through is dependent on the point of the screw. The points are numbered 1 through 5, and the larger number, the thicker the metal it can drill through without a pre-drilled hole. For example, a 5-point screw can drill through 0.5 in (12.7 mm) of steel.

What sizes do self-drilling screws come in? 

AFT offers self-drilling screws in diameter-thread sizes ranging from #6-20 to 5/16”-18 and lengths ranging from 3/8” to 2/3/4”. 

What materials and finishes are self-drilling screws available in? 

Self-drilling screws are made from either steel or stainless steel. They are available in a wide variety of finishes as well, including bronze, climaseal, black oxide, Quik Guard, various Dagger-Guard finishes, various phosphate finishes, plain, various Stalgard finishes, and various zinc finishes. Stainless steel or zinc finishes offer additional corrosion resistance.

Material Thickness Guidelines for Tek Screws