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What Are Hex Bolts?
Hex Bolts are bolts with a hexagonal head and machine threads.
Hex bolts are the most common construction fastener having a hex head that can be secured with a socket or wrench and mated with a nut or other internally threaded item. Hex bolts are also reffered to as Hex Cap Screws, Tap Bolts, and Hex Cap Bolts.
Fully Threaded vs Partially Threaded Hex Bolts
- Fully threaded hex bolts
- Fully Threaded hex bolts are generally used with a tapped or threaded hole and screwed all the way down to the head. These are a great option when sideays force is not a concern.
- Partially threaded hex bolts
- Partially threaded hex bolts feature an unthreaded portion underneath the head that provides more holding power and greater strength from sideays force since the unthreaded portion is much stronger than the threaded area.
What Are Carriage Bolts?
Carriage bolts have a round head, a square neck and machine threades.
Carriage bolts have a round head that gives a wide load bearing surface with out the need for washers as well as a finished appearance when installed. The square neck on the carriage bolts is designed to fit snug into the mating material so that it prevents the bolt from spinning during the tightening of the nut.
Why Use Carriage Bolts
Carriage Bolts offer a high level of security when securely fastened and access to the nut is not possible, making these screws the go to choice for garage barn doors and all other entry points.
It is advisable to add a washer on the nut side for improved fastening and holding power when joining pieces of wood together. To ensure a snug fit between two metal components, the hole in which the fastener passes through must have an identical size as the square shank.
What Are Lag Bolts?
- Lag Bolts
- Lag Screws
- Bolts with a hex head and are exceptionally strong. Lag Bolts are used to connect heavy lumber or other materials which are bearing an intense load.
When selecting a lag bolt, always measure the materials being joined. The length of the lag bolt should not be more than half of the total thickness of the materials
Features of a Lag Bolt
- Lag Screws are a heavy duty wood screw with strong a durable properties that keep them in place in high stress environments
- The hex head is designed to accomodate higher installation torque for use with a wrench, wratchet, or impact driver.
- Like wood screws, a stepped pilot hole is recommended. The pilot hole for the unthreaded shank should match in diameters and the hole for the threaded portion is dependent on wood density
