Timberlok & Index Screws Installation

TIMco Index screws & Fastenmaster Timberlok screws are a great cost-effective alternative to coach bolts. They have structural approval for use in construction applications, do not need pre-drilling, come in a range of sizes & head options, and are incredibly fast & easy install. Here we look at the tools you need to install and the best way to do so. 

Nothing fancy & no special application tools - you will just need (ideally) and impact driver, or a high torque drill driver with variable speed. If using a cordless drill (if you plan on using a manual screwdriver, fair play to you) we would recommend that you use no smaller than 18V. We all love our favourite 12V drill, but you will kill it if you use it here. The only other item you will need is the correct driver bit - if you are installing hex head index screws, you will need a 5/16" (8mm) hex driver, and if you are installing wafer head index screws you will need either a T30 (for 6.7mm dia) or T40 (for 8mm dia) torx driver. 

1. Make sure you have all the necessary tools/equipment
2. Choose a screw length so that threads fully penetrate the bottom piece of timber
3. Get the timbers in place & mark where you are going be fixing
4. Wind the screw in
5. Job done - it's that quick & easy

• Use a minimum 18V if using a cordless drill
• Choose a screw length so that threads fully penetrate into the bottom piece of timber
• Bring the washer head flush to the surface of the wood, or you can countersink it so the head is flush.
• If used for rafters or trusses install the index screw at a 15-30° angle.
• A design professional should be consulted for all critical connections, including the number & location of fasteners to meet the relevant code requirements
• Pre-drilling is not required at all for soft woods like pine, and even for green oak you can usually install without pre-drilling. For old oak however, we would recommend pre-drilling a small hole at least 60% of the depth of the fixing. This is because hard woods, and oak in particular, hardens over time.
• If installing into oak, use stainless steel index screws. We recommend pre-drilling a minimum of 60% of the depth of the fixing when fixing into oak.

Fastenmaster Timberlok screws are guaranteed not to rust or corrode for the life of your project; the screw coating has been tested in wood treatment chemicals and will provide equivalent protection to standard galvanized coatings. However, standard Timberlok screws & Index screws are not recommended for use in saltwater applications (within 300m). You must use A4 marine grade stainless steel TIMco In-Dex screws for saltwater applications – click here.