Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
If you are screwing the boards together near the end of the board, or attaching thinner pieces as
with framing or trim, you will probably want to create a hole in the wood with your drill first.
These are called pilot holes or clearance holes, and they allow the screw to easily penetrate the
wood without splitting, going off course, or leaving a gap between the two pieces of wood. Use
a bit that's slightly smaller than your screw when creating these pilot holes so your screw still has
something to grab on to.
Always use the right bit for the job. Never use a bit that is worn or has nicks in it, because it won't
turn the screws properly. Sidney prefers star head screws as these won't slip off the screw as easily.
Phillips head screws tend to strip off more easily, and are more difficult to back out if needed. He
also uses a magnetic bit holder, usually an extra purchase, but worth every cent because it helps
prevent losing your bits.
Hold your drill at a strong right angle and press firmly. If the screw doesn't go in easily, you may need to drill
a pilot hole first.
Hold your drill at a right angle, use firm pressure, and advance the screw evenly. If the screw goes
all the way in, but the two pieces of wood haven't tightened together, back the screw out of the
second piece, press the two boards firmly together, and then screw it in again. When using small
screws, especially brass or aluminum screws, change the clutch on your drill to the lowest setting to
avoid snapping off the screw head.
Most building projects are an adaptation of basic building skills. It's not any different to build
a greenhouse than it is to build a shed or a chicken coop except that the materials used may be
slightly different, and the measurements will change. You will find that investing in even the most
basic building skills will pay huge dividends in what you save on the backyard farm.
