Lag bolts are used for heavy load-bearing applications. They are large in size and have hex or square heads. Unlike wood screws, they are installed with a wrench.
They have deeper and sharper threads than the typical hex-headed bolt. They are also available in different materials such as zinc-plated, stainless steel 18-8, and hot dipped galvanized.
Strength
Lag bolts are a type of screw with an unthreaded section near the head that is used to anchor the screw in wood. This makes it a stronger alternative to other types of screws. These screws are used in heavy carpentry projects. They can hold up to 100 pounds of pressure per inch of thread.
Lag screws have a high load-bearing capacity and can be used in many structural connections. They also offer a good amount of shear strength. However, they require a preexisting hole to fasten properly. Otherwise, the lag screw could cause wood to shatter and break.
Lag screws are typically used in construction projects such as decks, rafter construction, and garages. They are also great for securing metal components to wood surfaces. However, they are not limited to these applications and can be utilized in other situations that require a strong connection between materials. A good lag bolt is also resistant to corrosion.
Durability
When it comes to durability, lag bolts are the go-to option for heavy construction materials that need to hold up to intense pressure. These bolts are able to handle a variety of load capacities, depending on the diameter of the bolt and the application.
While they are sometimes referred to as wood screws, lag bolts are actually bolts and use the same threading as nuts. They are used in wood to connect various pieces together and are usually driven into place using a wrench or ratchet.
While lag bolts are durable, it is important to follow the code regulations for your specific project when using them. For example, if you are using them in shear with loads parallel to the grain, it is necessary to follow NDS tables 12.5.1A and 12.5.1C for minimum edge and end distances. This will prevent splitting of the wood member before redistribution of the stresses to other bolts can occur.
Threading
Lag bolts are different than screws in that part of their shaft is unthreaded. The purpose of this is to provide a better and tighter fit for the materials it joins. This is especially important in situations where lateral movement is a concern. It’s also easier from a manufacturing standpoint to make the bolt this way. The threads are cut on the machine and the rest of the shaft is a minor diameter, so there’s less material to remove from the bolt during the production process.
This makes lag bolts one of the strongest and most durable fasteners available for wood construction projects. They’re commonly used for decking and outdoor structures, but they can be found in just about any home repair or renovation project that involves connecting two materials together. They can also be used for automotive repairs and even concrete installations. Lag bolts have large hex heads and coarse threads that grip the wood much more securely than a standard nail.
Application
Lag bolts, also known as lag screws, are used for wood-to-wood connections in heavy carpentry applications. They have a coarse, partially threaded shaft and a hex head that can be screwed into place with a wrench or hex driver. They can hold up to nine times more weight than a basic nail hammered into the same hole.
When fastening lag bolts, it is important to predrill pilot holes into the stud and material. It is best to use a spade drill bit for this, as it will create countersink holes that will conceal the heads. A ratcheting socket wrench can then be used to tighten the bolt. It is essential to go slow and not overtighten the bolt, as it may break off inside the material.
Lag bolts can be found in many construction projects, including decks and outdoor structures. They are also used in carpentry projects, such as repairing furniture, and to connect metal components to wooden surfaces.
