Lag screw

Lag Screw

A lag screw, also known as a lag bolt, is a type of fastener typically used in woodworking and construction to connect pieces of lumber. Unlike other types of screws, lag screws do not have a pointed tip; instead, they have a tapered, sharp, gimlet point.

History

The lag screw has a long history in construction and woodworking, with its origins dating back to the early days of wooden shipbuilding. The term "lag" comes from the Old Norse word "lag", which means "layer", referring to the way these screws are used to layer or join pieces of wood together.

Design and Use

Lag screws are designed with a hexagonal head, which allows for greater torque during installation. They are typically larger and stronger than most other types of screws, making them ideal for heavy-duty applications. The threads of a lag screw are coarse and sharp to ensure a strong grip in wood.

To install a lag screw, a pilot hole is first drilled into the wood. The screw is then inserted into the hole and tightened using a wrench or a socket. The size of the pilot hole is crucial to the successful installation of the lag screw; if the hole is too small, the screw may split the wood, while if it's too large, the screw may not hold securely.

Types of Lag Screws

There are several types of lag screws, including:

• Standard Lag Screws: These are the most common type of lag screws, used in a variety of applications from framing to deck building.

• Structural Lag Screws: These are designed for use in structural applications, such as attaching ledger boards to houses.

• Timber Lag Screws: These are larger and longer than standard lag screws, designed for use in heavy timber construction.

See Also

• Screw
• Bolt (fastener)
• Woodworking
• Construction

References

This construction related article is a stub. You can help WikiMD by expanding it.