![]() ![]() If you don’t have an exact match, go with the drill bit that’s slightly smaller than the screw’s body. The right drill bit covers the screw’s body, but not its threads. Hold the screw up in good light to make the task easier. While there are charts showing the appropriate size drill bit for various sizes of screws, you can do without by comparing drill bits to the screw until you find the one that matches. If you are creating a pilot hole for a screw, the drill bit should be the same size as the body of the screw-not including the threads.If you are creating a pilot hole for a nail, the right drill bit is slightly smaller than the nail’s shank.The key to drilling a good pilot hole-one that’s wide enough for you to insert a fastener with ease but not so wide that it wiggles-is choosing the right size drill bit. The tape will reinforce the wood and offer extra protection against possible cracking. Or, better yet, create an “X” with painter’s tape over the location for your nail or screw. (Don’t try to simply eyeball it or measure and rely on your finger to mark the right spot-either of these methods is likely to leave you misaligned.) Mark the spot with pencil or tape before you begin.Īs the old saying goes, “Measure twice, cut once.” That truism can apply, too, to drilling pilot holes: Before touching drill bit to wood, take the time to measure carefully and mark the spot where the pilot hole belongs. With the following key tips and some practice, your next project should come together with ease. The small holes also mean you’ll use less force when nailing or screwing into hardwoods, like maple and oak, and keep the fastener from bending or angling out of line during insertion. Ultimately, even though starting with pilot holes means you’ll do twice the amount of drilling, you’ll actually make up for the extra prep time by eliminating problems that might slow down or stall the project.Ĭonsidering their usefulness in a range of projects, it’s smart to study up on the right way to drill pilot holes. A: Yes, creating what are called “pilot holes” will help prevent your wood boards-solid or MDF-from splitting or cracking when you drive a nail or screw through them.
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