A tap screw is a special screw design that has self-tapping characteristics, producing their own threads in the hole that they are screwed into. Tap screws are available in two formats, thread-cutting or thread-forming. The thread-cutting design is meant to remove material as it is drilled. A thread forming screw pushes the threads into the hole and is more difficult to remove because it creates a tighter bond to the material. Both styles are used in metal, plastic, fiberglass and wood.

The benefit of a self-tapping screw is that the hole does not require pre-threading before the screw can be used.  A self-tapping sheet metal screw is designed to secure objects to sheet metal. Sheet metal is typically used in airplanes, automobiles, metal tables, and shelving. The tapping screw works best for sheet metal because the screw design has the effect of pulling the metal tightly to the head.

Self-tapping is the ability of a screw to advance when turned, while creating its own thread.  The cutting edge machines away the material, producing threads  for the screw to go into. A self-tapping wood screw is a screw designed to secure wood objects. Some applications that require a self-tapping wood screw include shelving, furniture, and decks. These screws are unique because many times one can use them to screw into wood objects without causing a split in the material.

Tap screws provide an economical means of assembling components, especially where dissimilar materials must be joined together. They offer a particular advantage where occasional disassembly may be necessary for maintenance or repairs. Self-tapping screws are used in a variety of applications ranging from DIY to surgery.

The tap screw comes in many different head designs. These include pan head, flat head, round head, hex head, and oval head. The head design is an important aspect for specific applications. The flat head tapping screw is a screw design that has a flush flat head. This type of head design ensures the screw does not protrude above the secured object. The flat head screw typically requires a Philips screwdriver. Using a flat head wood tapping screw is considered a best practice for deck building. These screws typically work more effectively than nails. The screws create an extremely tight connection between the deck boards and floor joist, which can reduce the warping effect of wood decks.

Titanium tap screws are a huge breakthrough for the construction industry working in close proximity to saltwater. We have been told by Ace Hardware that every other material on the market will eventually stain the decks and sides of buildings, leaving unsightly rust stains for all to see. Being corrosion free in the natural environment, titanium tap screws are free from staining the materials they are screwed into or through.