Best Screws for Sheet Metal
Sheet metal is too thin to tap with wood screws and too hard to pierce with drywall screws. Sheet-metal screws fix both: sharp threads that cut their own path, in self-tapping (needs a pilot) or self-drilling TEK (no pilot) points. Hex washer heads are the pro default — they seal and they take torque.
What to Look For
- #8 is the default gauge — #6 for thin duct, #10 and up for thick plate.
- TEK self-drilling points for 18-gauge and thicker — no pilot hole.
- Hex washer heads seal best and take the most torque.
- 410 stainless or zinc — match corrosion protection to exposure.
- Pilot 1/64 under shank for self-tappers — never force threads.
Top Picks
1. TEK #8 x 1/2 in hex washer self-drilling screws Best overall
Drill point plus hex washer head — punches duct and panels with no pilot and seals under the washer.
Check price on Amazon →2. Hillman #8 x 3/4 in 410 stainless sheet-metal screws Corrosion-proof
410 stainless with deep threads for outdoor enclosures, trailers, and marine trim that sees weather.
Check price on Amazon →3. Grip-Rite #8 x 1/2 in truss-head self-tapping screws Low-profile
Wide, flat truss head for brackets and latches where a hex head would stand too proud.
Check price on Amazon →What to Avoid
Avoid
- Wood screws in sheet metal — threads strip before they bite.
- Drywall screws — brittle heads snap under metal torque.
- Oversized pilots — threads need metal to cut or they spin.
Also in the toolbox
- Magnetic hex driver set (1/4 and 5/16 in) — the only bits sheet-metal screws want
- Aviation snips set — cut the metal you are about to screw
FAQ
Self-tapping vs self-drilling — what is the difference?
Self-tapping screws cut threads but still need a pilot hole. Self-drilling (TEK) screws add a drill-bit tip that makes its own hole — no pilot, one step. For sheet metal 18-gauge and up, TEK saves enormous time.
What size pilot hole for #8 sheet metal screws?
#29 or 1/8-in bit for most #8 self-tappers in steel — roughly the shank diameter minus the thread height. When in doubt, test on scrap: the screw should bite with firm driver pressure, not spin freely.
Can you screw sheet metal to wood?
Yes — self-tapping sheet-metal screws bite wood fine, or use TEK points straight through thin metal into studs. For roofing and siding over wood, switch to screws with EPDM sealing washers.
Keep Reading
- Self-Drilling Screw
- Self-Tapping Screw
- Machine Screw
- Best Screws for Metal Studs
- Best Fasteners for HVAC Contractors
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