Wood Screw Pilot Hole Calculator
Wood Screw Pilot Hole
Determine the correct pilot hole diameter for wood screws.
Formula
Pilot = Major Diameter x Factor (65% softwood, 85% hardwood)
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I always need a pilot hole?
Hardwoods always need pilot holes. Softwoods benefit from them to prevent splitting.
What happens without a pilot hole?
The wood can split, especially near edges, and the screw may not seat properly.