Can I use 8G screws for my pergola decking?

[Ricardo1960]

Hi all, I am about to install 90x19 merbau boards, when bought the screws by mistake I took 8Gx50 instead of 10Gx50, will that affect my decking in any way, thank you 

[MitchellMc]

Hi @Ricardo1960,

The 8Gx50mm are fine to use on Pine. However, the 10G are far more forgiving on hardwood, especially if you overdrive them. Due to how hard the Merbau is, you can run into an issue with the 8G, where the power of the drill shears the heads off or snaps the screws entirely; it's then a real pain to get the broken screw out. If it were me, I'd return the 8G and pick up the 10G.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell

[Ricardo1960]

Mitchell, thank you so much for your advice, unfortunately I have already start using them and yes I have already snapped one.

Even if use the, I will buy10G.

Thank you and have nice day