Ever tried driving a screw straight into wood and felt like it just wouldn’t grip? I remember the first time I used self tapping screws.
I thought they would work anywhere, only to strip a few and split a nice piece of oak. That’s when I realized there’s a right and wrong way to use them.

Self-tapping screws can save time and effort, but knowing when and how to use them makes all the difference.
Do you need a pilot hole? Will they hold in hardwood? I’ve made plenty of mistakes figuring this out, and I’ll share what actually works so you don’t have to learn the hard way.
If you’re wondering whether self-tapping screws are okay for wood and how to get the best results, you’re in the right place.
Let’s go through everything you need to know, step by step.
What Is a Self-Tapping Screw?
A self-tapping screw is a type of screw that creates its own threads as it is driven into wood, metal, or plastic.
Unlike regular screws, which often need a pilot hole, these screws have a sharp tip or cutting edges that allow them to cut into the material on their own.
I first used self-tapping screws when building a wooden storage shelf for my garage, and I was shocked at how much time they saved.
Instead of pre-drilling dozens of holes, I could drive the screws straight in, making assembly twice as fast.

There are different types, like sharp-pointed ones for softwoods and drill-bit-style tips for hardwoods and even thin metal.
They grip tightly, reducing the chances of screws coming loose over time. Something I learned the hard way when using regular screws on a wobbly chair repair.
While they make work easier, they aren’t always a perfect solution.
I’ve seen them split thin wood if driven too fast or without care, so knowing when to use a pilot hole still matters. I’ll explain more on that soon.
Watch, How To Drill Into Wood Stud? (5 EASY Steps!)
What Are Self Tapping Screws Used For?
Self-tapping screws are used when you need a strong, secure hold without the extra step of drilling pilot holes.
They work great for wood, metal, and plastic, making them a go-to option for both DIYers and professionals.
I’ve used them in many projects, from assembling wooden furniture to fixing loose boards on my deck.
They save time and effort, especially when working on large builds where drilling separate holes for every screw would take forever.
Here are some common uses:
- Woodworking Projects – Ideal for assembling cabinets, shelves, and furniture without needing pilot holes.
- Home Repairs – Great for fixing loose wooden planks, attaching trim, or reinforcing weak joints.
- Outdoor Projects – Used in decking, fencing, and pergolas where a strong grip is needed.
- Metal-to-Wood Attachments – Perfect for securing metal brackets, hinges, or sheet metal to wooden frames.
They work well in most cases, but I’ve learned that using them in thin or brittle wood without caution can cause splitting.
Choosing the right screw type and driving it at the right speed can make all the difference—more on that soon.

See, Drill a Hole in Wood Without Splintering (5 EASY Ways!)
Can You Use Self Tapping Screws in Wood?
Yes, you can use self-tapping screws in wood, and they can make your work much easier.
Since they create their own threads, they provide a strong grip without needing a pre-drilled hole in most cases.
I’ve used them on everything from basic DIY shelves to heavy-duty workbenches in my garage.
They work especially well in softwoods like pine, but in hardwoods like oak or maple, I’ve learned the hard way that forcing them in without a pilot hole can lead to stripped heads or even broken screws.
Here’s when they work best:
- Softwoods (Pine, Cedar, Plywood) – You can drive them straight in without pre-drilling.
- Hardwoods (Oak, Maple, Walnut) – A small pilot hole helps prevent splitting and makes driving easier.
- Thin or Brittle Wood – Using too much force can cause cracks, so starting with a small guide hole is a safer choice.
While they are great for quick assembly, I’ve also seen cases where they loosen over time in wood that expands and contracts.
Choosing the right size and length is key, which I’ll cover next.

How To Use Self-Tapping Screws Into Wood?
So, let’s explore the steps you need to follow when self tapping screws into wood.
1. Choose the Right Type of Self-Tapping Screw Designed Specifically for Wood
Not all self-tapping screws are made for wood, and I learned this the hard way when I grabbed a random pack meant for metal and struggled to get them to grip properly.
Using the right type ensures a strong hold and prevents damage to the wood.
For wood projects, look for self-tapping wood screws with a coarse thread and a sharp, pointed tip.
These are designed to bite into the wood fibers easily, creating a secure grip without stripping.
Here’s what to consider when choosing the right screw:
- Thread Type – Coarse threads work best for softwoods, while finer threads grip hardwoods better.
- Tip Shape – A sharp point is best for most wood applications, while drill-bit-style tips are better for harder materials.
- Screw Length – The screw should be at least 1.5 times the thickness of the wood piece being attached for a strong hold.
I once used screws that were too short for a shelf bracket, and after a few weeks, the shelf started sagging.
Since then, I always double-check the length to make sure I get a secure, lasting hold. The right screw makes all the difference.

2. Drill a Small Pilot Hole to Prevent Splitting and Ensure a Secure Grip
Even though self-tapping screws are designed to create their own threads, drilling a small pilot hole can save you from a lot of frustration.
I’ve skipped this step before, thinking I could just force the screw in, only to hear that awful cracking sound as the wood split.
A pilot hole helps guide the screw, reduces resistance, and prevents the wood from cracking—especially in hardwoods like oak or maple.
For softwoods, you can sometimes skip this step, but for anything delicate or dense, it’s worth the extra 30 seconds.
Here’s how to drill the right pilot hole:
- Use a drill bit slightly smaller than the screw’s core diameter to keep the threads biting into the wood.
- Go about 75% of the screw’s length deep to allow the screw to grip while still holding firmly.
- Avoid drilling too wide or deep, or you’ll weaken the screw’s hold.
I once drilled a pilot hole too big on a wooden chair repair, and the screw just kept spinning without gripping.
Now, I always test on a scrap piece first to make sure I get the right fit before committing to the final piece.

3. Use a Power Drill (Not an Impact Driver) for Better Control and Precision
A power drill gives you more control over speed and pressure, making it the best tool for driving self-tapping screws into wood.
I’ve tried using an impact driver before, and while it works for some projects, it can easily strip the screw head or drive it in too aggressively, damaging the wood.
With a power drill, you can adjust the torque settings to prevent overdriving, which is especially useful for softer woods.
Keeping the speed moderate helps the screw bite into the wood without overheating or stripping.
Here’s how to get the best results:
- Set the drill to a low-to-medium speed to avoid stripping or splitting.
- Use the right drill bit or driver head that fits snugly to prevent cam-out (when the bit slips out of the screw head).
- Apply steady pressure but don’t force the screw—let the drill do the work.
I once used too much speed on a delicate plywood panel, and the screw went right through the surface, ruining the piece.
Since then, I always start slow and increase speed only when I’m sure the screw is threading properly.

4. Drive the Screw in Slowly to Allow the Threads to Cut Properly into the Wood
Rushing a self-tapping screw into wood can cause problems like stripping the threads, splitting the wood, or even snapping the screw.
I learned this the hard way when I drove a screw too fast into a hardwood plank, and it got stuck halfway, forcing me to remove it and start over.
By going slow, the threads have time to cut into the wood, creating a stronger grip.
If you notice resistance, backing the screw out slightly before continuing can help it bite more effectively.
Here’s how to do it right:
- Start at low speed, increasing only when the screw is threading smoothly.
- Keep steady pressure, but don’t force it—let the screw work its way in.
- If resistance builds up, back the screw out slightly, then continue driving it in.
I’ve found that taking an extra few seconds per screw saves a lot of time in the long run by preventing stripped heads and damaged wood.
5. Avoid Overtightening to Prevent Stripping the Threads and Weakening the Hold
Overtightening a self-tapping screw can strip the threads in the wood, making the connection weak and unreliable.
I’ve made this mistake before, thinking a tighter screw meant a stronger hold, only to have it spin uselessly in the hole.
Once the screw is snug and flush with the surface, stop drilling—going further can crush the wood fibers and reduce grip.
If you accidentally strip a hole, inserting a small wooden plug or toothpicks with wood glue can help create new material for the screw to grip.
Here’s how to prevent overtightening:
- Use a drill with adjustable torque settings to control the pressure.
- Stop tightening as soon as you feel firm resistance—don’t force it.
- For delicate wood, hand-tighten the last few turns for better control.
I’ve learned that a properly tightened screw holds better than one that’s been cranked down too hard.
Taking it slow and stopping at the right point keeps the screw secure without weakening the wood.

How Long Will It Take to Self-Tap Screws into Wood?
The time it takes to drive a self-tapping screw into wood depends on the wood type, screw size, and whether you need a pilot hole.
In most cases, it takes 10 to 30 seconds per screw, but tougher materials or extra precautions can add a few minutes.
For softwoods like pine or plywood, you can drive the screw straight in within 10 to 15 seconds using a power drill.
Hardwoods like oak or maple may take 20 to 30 seconds per screw, especially if you need to drill a pilot hole first.
Here’s a rough time breakdown for a simple project:
- Softwood without a pilot hole – 10 to 15 seconds per screw.
- Hardwood with a pilot hole – 1 to 2 minutes (drilling + driving).
- Large or deep screws – 30 seconds to 1 minute, depending on resistance.
I once tried rushing through a hardwood project without pilot holes, and not only did it take longer, but I also ended up stripping a few screws.
Taking an extra minute to prep can actually save time by preventing mistakes and rework.
Self-tapping screws make woodworking faster and easier, but using them the right way is key to getting a strong hold.
I’ve had projects where they worked perfectly and others where I had to start over because I rushed or used the wrong type.
Also watch, How to Cut a Groove in Wood With a Drill? (7 EASY Steps!)
Every little step, choosing the right screw, drilling a pilot hole, and driving it in slowly makes a difference.
Have you ever stripped a screw or split the wood by accident? What’s your go-to trick for getting a tight, secure hold?
Let me know. I’ve learned a lot from trial and error, but there’s always something new to pick up!