Table of contents
The Ultimate Guide to Coach Screws – Next Day Fixings
Introduction
If you're a joiner, DIYer, landscaper, or builder, choosing the correct fixings is crucial for your projects' strength, durability, and longevity. Whether you're constructing a deck, fencing, garden sleepers, or timber framing, coach screws offer a reliable and heavy-duty solution for secure and lasting installations.
At Next Day Fixings, we provide a complete range of coach screws, ensuring you get the right fixing for your project. Plus, with our nationwide next-day delivery, you’ll never have to wait long to get your supplies.
What Are Coach Screws?
Coach screws are heavy-duty fasteners designed for securing timber, masonry (with plugs), and man-made boards. Unlike regular screws, they feature a hexagonal head, allowing for better torque application and a firmer grip when tightened with a wrench, spanner, or power tool.
Why Use Coach Screws?
✅ Heavy-duty hold – Perfect for load-bearing applications.
✅ Corrosion-resistant options – Available in zinc-plated and yellow passivated finishes.
✅ Versatile use – Ideal for timber-to-timber, brick (with plugs), and outdoor structures.
✅ Easy installation – A socket wrench or power tool can be driven in.
Types of Coach Screws – Choosing the Right One
Traditional Coach Screws – The Reliable Fixing for General Use
Traditional coach screws are the go-to option for timber-to-timber fixings and ironmongery attachments. These screws are made from zinc-plated steel, offering a solid grip and a moderate level of corrosion resistance.
Key Features of Traditional Coach Screws:
✔ Hex Head – Ensures a secure grip with a wrench or socket driver.
✔ Zinc-Plated Finish – Provides basic corrosion resistance (best for dry environments).
✔ Coarse Thread – Designed for strong penetration into timber.
✔ Thread Length – Covers approximately two-thirds of the screw length.
✔ Best for Hardwood, softwood, and masonry (with plugs).
✔ Corrosion Rating – 1 (Suitable for dry indoor environments).
Recommended Uses:
🔨 Timber-to-timber connections – Great for framing, fencing, and joinery work.
🛠 Ironmongery attachments – Securing hinges, brackets, and structural reinforcements.
🏠 Masonry applications – Use with nylon plugs for anchoring into brick or concrete.
Limitations:
⚠ Not ideal for damp or outdoor conditions – Over time, moisture exposure can cause rusting.
⚠ Requires more force to install – May need pre-drilling, especially in hardwoods.
Sizes Available: 6.0 x 25mm to 10.0 x 200mm
Sold in bags, packs, and bulk boxes.


Advanced Coach Screws – The Smarter, Faster Choice
For professional-grade strength, speed, and efficiency, Advanced Coach Screws are the modern alternative to traditional options. These screws are 3x faster to install and designed for power tools, making them a must-have for large-scale projects.
Key Features of Advanced Coach Screws:
✔ Hex Flange Head – Provides a larger surface area for better torque distribution.
✔ Single Slash Point – Cuts into wood easily, reducing the need for pilot holes.
✔ Zinc & Yellow Passivated Finish – Offers enhanced corrosion resistance.
✔ Stronger Hold – Optimized for softwood, hardwood, masonry (with plugs), and man-made boards.
✔ Corrosion Rating – 2 (Suitable for damp outdoor environments).
Recommended Uses:
🌳 Garden sleepers & timber landscaping – Ideal for outdoor woodwork projects.
🛠 Decking, pergolas & outdoor structures ensure long-lasting durability.
🏡 Timber frame buildings – Superior strength for load-bearing applications.
🔩 Masonry fixings – Works with plugs for concrete and brick.
Why Choose Advanced Coach Screws?
✅ 3x Faster Installation – This saves time and effort.
✅ No Need for Pilot Holes in Softwood – The aggressive tip makes driving easy.
✅ Stronger Corrosion Resistance – Can withstand damp conditions better than traditional zinc-plated screws.
✅ Designed for Power Tools – Works effortlessly with cordless drills & impact drivers.
Sizes Available: 6.0 x 25mm to 12.0 x 160mm
Sold in bags, packs, and bulk boxes.

Coach Screws – Which One Should You Choose?
Feature | Traditional Coach Screw | Advanced Coach Screw |
---|---|---|
Speed | Standard | 3x Faster 🚀 |
Corrosion Resistance | Basic Zinc-Plated | Zinc & Yellow Passivated |
Best for | Dry, indoor projects | Outdoor, damp conditions |
Installation | Hand & power tool | Power tool optimized |
For general timber fixings, Traditional Coach Screws work well, but for outdoor, landscaping, and long-term durability, we highly recommend the Advanced Coach Screw.
How to Install Coach Screws – Step-by-Step Guide
Tools Required:
✔ Drill or Impact Driver
✔ Socket Driver or Wrench
✔ Pilot Bit (for hardwoods)
Installation Process:
1️⃣ Mark the drilling point on the timber or masonry.
2️⃣ Drill a pilot hole (if working with hardwood or masonry).
3️⃣ Insert the coach screw and use a socket driver to tighten.
4️⃣ Ensure the screw is flush with the surface for a strong hold.
Customer Testimonials
💬 James R. (Joiner) – ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"The best screws for garden sleepers! Fast delivery and excellent quality."
💬 Sarah T. (DIY Enthusiast) – ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"The Advanced Coach Screws saved me hours when fixing my garden decking. Super easy to use!"
FAQs About Coach Screws
What is the difference between a coach screw and a coach bolt?
🔹 Coach screws are sharp-tipped and screw directly into timber.
🔹 Coach bolts require a nut & washer for tightening.
Do I need a pilot hole for coach screws?
✅ Yes, for hardwoods & masonry.
❌ No, for softwoods using Advanced Coach Screws.
Can I use coach screws outdoors?
✅ Only if zinc & yellow passivated (Advanced Coach Screws).
Are these suitable for treated timber?
✅ Yes, Advanced Coach Screws are ideal for treated wood.
How do I choose the right length?
📏 Screw should be at least 2x the material thickness.
Conclusion
For strong, reliable, and long-lasting fixings, coach screws are the ultimate choice. Whether you need Traditional Coach Screws for general use or Advanced Coach Screws for speed and durability, Next Day Fixings has got you covered.
🛒 Order before 3 PM for Next-Day Delivery! 🚀
Next Generation Timber & Landscaping Screws
At Next Day Fixings, we also offer a premium range of Timber & Landscaping Screws that take fixing technology to the next level. These screws are engineered for outdoor use, providing exceptional strength and corrosion resistance for garden sleepers, decking, and timber structures.
📌 We already wrote a blog on these products, so why not take a look?
1️⃣ Timber Screw - Hex - Exterior Green
A modern alternative to traditional coach screws, featuring a multi-layer corrosion-resistant plating. This makes it perfect for outdoor applications where weather resistance is key.
✅ Ideal for: Garden sleepers, decking, and timber framing.
✅ Finish: Green corrosion-resistant coating.
✅ Special Note: For highly corrosive environments, use stainless steel screws instead.
2️⃣ Timber Screw - Hex - A4 Stainless Steel
For maximum durability and rust protection, A4 stainless steel timber screws are the best choice. They outlast standard screws and are essential for environments with high moisture or tannin-rich wood like Green Oak.
✅ Ideal for: Coastal areas, humid environments, high-end landscaping.
✅ Finish: A4 Stainless Steel (highly corrosion-resistant).
✅ Best feature: Long-lasting, premium outdoor performance.
3️⃣ Timber Screw - Hex - Exterior Silver
This heavy-duty In-Dex screw is a game-changer for quick and efficient installation. No need for a pilot hole, even in tough timber. A corrosion-resistant silver coating ensures longevity.
✅ Ideal for: Heavy-duty timber-to-timber fixing.
✅ Finish: Silver corrosion-resistant coating (1000 hours salt spray tested).
✅ Best feature: Includes free socket driver in every bag.
4️⃣ Timber Screw - Wafer - Exterior Green
A unique alternative to coach screws, featuring a wafer head for improved clamping and a low-profile finish. Great for securing flat timber surfaces where high surface contact is needed.
✅ Ideal for: Timber cladding, panel fixing, landscaping timbers.
✅ Finish: Green corrosion-resistant coating.
✅ Best feature: Improved clamping for stronger timber connections.
5️⃣ Timber Screw - Wafer - A2 Stainless Steel
For the highest level of corrosion resistance, these A2 stainless steel wafer-head screws provide a low-profile, strong hold. Perfect for permanent outdoor structures.
✅ Ideal for: Decking, cladding, and marine environments.
✅ Finish: A2 Stainless Steel.
✅ Best feature: Low-profile head for flush, secure fixing.