Why Drill a Pilot Hole?
Drilling a pilot hole is a quick and key step for several reasons. Pre-drilling can prevent damage to your wood or other material from splitting or shredding, especially if the fastener is to be placed near an edge. It can keep a screw from “walking” when trying to be inserted into a material with a slick surface like melamine or MDF. When drilling into hard materials like pressure-treated lumber, a pilot hole will reduce the stress on your drill. Pilot holes also reduce the chance of cracking your screw or stripping the screw head. A pilot hole can also make sure your screw is driven in the right direction and leave a smoother, more professional look.
How Do I Choose the Right Drill Bit for a Pilot Hole?
Choosing the right drill bit size for your pilot hole isn’t complicated, but it is particularly important. A pilot hole that is too small will run the risk of splitting the wood, exactly what you want to avoid. And one that is too large will not allow the screw threads to grip the wood. Here are some guidelines to help you choose the proper drill bit size:
- For screws, pick a bit that matches the inner diameter of the screw, not the full screw diameter with the threads included
- For nails, use a bit that is slightly thinner than the diameter of the nail’s shank
When deciding on a bit or bit set, it’s good to know the chuck size (1/4, 3/8, ½ inch) of your drill to ensure a proper fit for bit shank.
Wood Screw Pilot Hole Sizes
Drilling Your Pilot Hole
Follow these easy steps to drill a pilot hole.
