Particleboard Screw
Screws · particle board screw · chipboard screw
Definition: A particleboard screw has a thin shank and full-length coarse threads that grip the crumbly core of particleboard without splitting it.
Anatomy & Schematic
■ Head■ Shank■ Threads■ Point
Governing standards: Manufacturer specified (no universal standard)
Common Sizes
| Inch | Metric | Head width | Head height |
|---|---|---|---|
| #6 | M3.5 | — | 5/8 to 1 long |
| #8 | M4 | — | 3/4 to 1-1/2 long |
| #10 | M5 | — | 1 to 2 long |
Representative sizes. Full dimensional data lives in the standards listed below.
Grades & Strength
| Grade | Material | Tensile (psi) | Marking |
|---|---|---|---|
| Case-hardened steel | steel | — | None |
| Stainless | stainless steel | — | None |
Materials
- Zinc-plated steel
- Stainless steel
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Holds in low-density fiber core
- Thin shank resists splitting
- Cheap
Cons
- Edges still need pilot holes
- Not for load-bearing joints alone
- Rusts if used outdoors uncoated
Typical Uses
- Particleboard furniture
- Shelving and cabinets
- Flat-pack assembly
Alternatives & Related
- Wood Screw — For solid wood where you do not need full-thread grip
- Self-Tapping Screw — Cuts its own thread in sheet materials
Where to Buy
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FAQ
Can you screw into particleboard without pilot holes?
On the face, yes with a particleboard screw. Near an edge, always pre-drill — the core is crumbly and edges split easily.
Particleboard screw vs wood screw?
Particleboard screws have a thinner shank and fuller, deeper threads that grip the fiber core; a tapered wood screw wedges the board apart.