Carpentry and Woodworking - fence ?

I am building a 6' privacy fence. Would it be best to use screws or nails to complete this project?? I understand screws would be a little more expensive than nails but, is the extra costs going to pay off in the long run??

Coon,

To answer your question, I'll ask you a question..

Would you buy the most unreliable car you could find because it was cheap, or would you buy a reliable car and spend more money because you know that it would last you longer, which would prevent you from having to Buy a new one or RE-DO the fence in a few years?

Ps. Yes, use screws

Mike, i figured as much, that screws would be better. Just wanted to check. I don't mind paying extra to ensure that the fence will stay up longer.

thx
curtis :)

Ensuring the fence will stay up longer is typically a wise thing to do.

I've been in the "Home Improvement" life for many years, and when it comes to doing projects, I won't do anything other than the right way. Too many times, people try and cheat so they can get something done "Cheap and Fast". I don't know of anyone who has had the same success doing something cheap and fast, as they did putting their time and a little extra money into it.

When manufacturing High-End Custom Furniture/Cabinetry for my clientele, I litterly feel like cringing when I "Have To" use nails. I clamp and glue as much as possible, but in some instances, you have no choice but to nail it on. When I have to do that, I only use my brad nailer with 18 gauge nails. I think it looks disgusting when people use a regular finish nailer for crown, etc. Reminds me of going to the butcher.

P.S. Use Galvenized screws aka Decking screws so ensure they wont rust

Now, I read somewhere in one of these forums that galvanize will react with cedar and create balck streaks, is this true? i was thinking of getting aluminum screws, what your take on this?

curtis :)

Honestly, in that dept, I really wouldn't know. My experiences have mainly been with manufacutring Custom Furniture/Cabinetry. I would "Assume" that if you used decking screws, you'd be ok. That would be a question for the Decking forum, if there is one

Thanks!! :)

The best screws to use are stainless steel. They are kinda pricy but worth it. Electropated screws are the ones that leave streaks and marks in cedar. As long the the screws are HOT DIPPED galvanize you will be in business. Aluminum to me are kinda weak and you would break most of them in my opinion but if you have some on hand use em. Good Luck let us know how it comes out