Different Types of Screw Heads and Their Uses - Countersunk vs Non-Countersunk Screw Heads

There are various different types of head styles designed for screw-type fasteners, what are the common types of screw heads and what are they used for? Here we’ll also compare two basic designs, countersunk vs non-countersunk.

Common Types of Screw Heads and Their Uses

1. Flat Head: completely flush with the surface and does not expose any part of the screw head, so these screws need to be countersunk. They are commonly used in cabinets, countertops, stairs, furniture, drywalls, and other components in the construction industry.

2. Phillips: These screws have a cross-shaped indentation on the head and require a Phillips screwdriver. They provide better torque transfer and are widely used in various applications, including electronics and household appliances.

3. Pozidriv: Similar to Phillips screws, Pozidriv screws have additional smaller cross-shaped indents on each arm of the cross. They offer increased resistance to cam-out (slipping) and are commonly used in construction and automotive industries.

4. Torx: These screws have a star-shaped recess on the head and require a corresponding Torx screwdriver. Torx screws are popular in automotive, electronics, and computer hardware industries due to their ability to provide higher torque transmission and reduced cam-out.

5. Allen/Hex: Allen screws feature a hexagonal socket on the head and require an Allen wrench or hex key to drive them. They are commonly used in furniture assembly, bicycle components, and machinery.

6. Robertson/Square: Robertson screws have a square-shaped socket on the head and require a square or Robertson screwdriver. They offer good torque transfer and are used extensively in construction, woodworking, and electrical applications, especially in Canada.

7. Pan Head: Pan head screws have a rounded, dome-shaped head with a flat underside. They are used when a low-profile and smooth appearance are desired, such as in electronics, cabinets, and interior fixtures.

8. Button Head: Button head screws have a rounded, low-profile head with a cylindrical shape and a flat top. They are commonly used in applications where a neat and aesthetic look is desired, such as in furniture, automotive interiors, and decorative hardware.

9. Oval Head: also known as raised or round head screws, have a rounded top surface and a tapered bottom surface. They typically have a slotted or Phillips drive. Oval head screws are often used in woodworking projects, furniture assembly, cabinetry, general fastening, etc.

10. Binding Head: also known as binder head screws, have a round, cylindrical head with a low profile and a large diameter. The head has a slightly domed top and a small, conical undercut below it. binding head screws are commonly used in bookbinding, leatherwork, stationary and DIY projects.

Countersunk vs Non-Countersunk Screw Heads, What Are the Differences

Countersunk and non-countersunk are two basic types of screw head designs, non-countersunk heads including binding, button, cheese, fillister, flange, hex, pan, round, square, truss, and more types, while countersunk designs primarily consist of flat, oval, and bugle heads.

A countersunk screw head is designed to sit flush or slightly below the surface of the material when fully installed. It has a tapered shape with a cone-shaped recess on the top. The purpose of countersinking is to create a smooth and even surface once the screw is tightened. When a countersunk screw is fully installed, the head will be level with or slightly below the surface of the material, allowing for a more seamless appearance. Countersunk screws are typically used when a flat and smooth finish is desired, and they are often used in woodworking, cabinetry, and applications where aesthetics and clean lines are important.

Non-countersunk screw heads, on the other hand, do not have a tapered shape or a recessed top, the head is fully exposed. They are not designed to sit flush with the surface of the material. Instead, they have a larger, flat, or rounded head that remains visible once the screw is fully tightened. Non-countersunk screw heads are commonly used when the appearance of the screw is not a concern, and a protruding or raised head is acceptable or necessary. These screws are often used in construction, metalworking, and applications where the primary focus is on strength, durability, and functionality rather than aesthetics.

Different Types of Screw Heads and Their Uses – Countersunk vs Non-Countersunk Screw Heads

Common Types of Screw Heads and Their Uses

Countersunk vs Non-Countersunk Screw Heads, What Are the Differences

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