Self-drilling screws, also known as Tek screws after a well-known brand, are widely used across modern construction projects for fixing metal to metal, or metal to timber, without the need for pilot holes. They're common in roofing, cladding, steel framing, and HVAC applications. With a built-in drill point, they cut directly into substrate materials, reducing installation time and simplifying on-site work. Many designs feature a hex head for a secure grip during installation.
Our listings include multiple sizes and thread types, including self-drilling wood screws and countersunk designs. Options also vary by coating, corrosion resistance, and material compatibility. You’ll find designs for light and heavy-gauge steel, as well as timber-to-steel fixings. Unlike standard wood screws or self-tappers, a ‘Tek screw’ eliminates the need for pre-drilling, which is especially useful on high-volume installs where consistency matters.
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A self-drilling screw has a tip shaped like a drill bit, allowing it to cut into materials without the need for a separate pilot hole.
Tek screws, or self-drilling screws, have a drill-shaped tip that creates a hole and taps threads in one step. They’re ideal for metal-to-metal or timber-to-steel fixings. Self-tapping screws need a pre-drilled hole and only cut threads as they’re driven in. In short: Tek screws drill and tap, self-tappers just tap.
Yes, self-drilling wood screws are designed for timber applications, especially when fixing timber to light steel sections.