10-06-2009, 02:30 PM
Russ Bellinis Wrote:MasonJar Wrote:Re: Splitting plywood.
1) Corner blocks as suggested, so no screws have to go ing the "end grain" of the ply.
2) Predrill and countersink for proper wood screws, not drywall screws. Drywall screws have a different profile under the head to pull the paper covering of drywall down without tearing. However, this creates a wedge action that can split wood, as most countersink bits have a different profile.
3) Use minimal screws, but lots of good carpernters/yellow glue. And clamps!
Andrew
Another couple of problems with dry wall screws is that they are brittle, and rust like crazy if they get wet. I think an alternative to wood screws would be deck screws designed for construction of wooden and composite decks.
You are correct - deck screws are brass, making them rust-resistant. The key to avoiding splitting, however, is drilling pilot holes and counter-sinking. The usual practice of just power-driving screws doesn't work on the edges of plywood. For a permanent layout, I would even consider placing threaded sleeves into the plywood edge, and then suing the appropriate fastener, especially if any dis-assembly for maintenance or repair was likely. Otherwise, dowel pins or biscuits would work as well or better and fasten permanently using only glue.