Lag Bolt are a type of screw used to connect pieces of wood together. They are generally driven with a wrench or ratchet, and can generate a high amount of clamping force when tightened. This makes them ideal for connecting heavy materials, such as metal to wood components or to structures like sheds. Lag bolts have large hex heads that can be gripped by tools, making them easier to drive than regular screws.
To determine what size lag screw to use, first calculate the combined width of the pieces of wood being fastened. Then, select a lag screw that is about 1/4 inch shorter than the combined width. This will ensure the threads of the lag screw are binding tightly against the material. The hex head will also provide additional strength to the connection.
Pre drilling is also important for lag bolts. This helps prevent the wood from splitting or cracking as the bolt is screwed in, and reduces the twisting force required when driving the lag bolt into the material.
It is also important to use washers with lag bolts. Washers increase the surface area in contact with the material, reducing the chances of the hex head digging into the wood and damaging it. Additionally, washers help to distribute the load over a larger area, making it more difficult for the lag bolt to loosen or break due to vibration or other forces.
A lag bolt can support between 200 and 300 pounds, depending on the kind of wood being fastened. This is due to the hex head and the fact that it penetrates into one-third to one-half of the thickness of the material. Using a lag bolt without a pilot hole can actually weaken the connection because it can cause shattered cells in the wood, which may eventually lead to the connection failing or breaking over time. Lag Bolt