How to affix Merbau SpecRight panels to timber post?

[Marten]

  

Hi, how can I fix this merbau speright screen panels to timber post? 

 

[MitchellMc]

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community @Marten. It's wonderful to have you join us, and many thanks for your question about fixing Merbau panels.
 

The easiest option would be to screw them directly into the posts. I'm building a project with them now and am using these counter-sinking bits to pre-drill the timber, so it doesn't split. I then screw the panel directly into the timber frame. It's working a treat. Make sure not to over-tighten the screws, or the timber will crack; just snug them up tight.

I can't wait to see your finished project. Please let me know if you have further questions. 

Mitchell

[Marten]

Hi @MitchellMc 

So I should pre-drill. Because I tried decking screws from front but screw head broke and then I tried same type of

 

 

screw from the back angled from post to the panel but panel timber cracked.

[MitchellMc]

You can use decking screws, but they'd need to be the self-drilling type if you're not going to pre-drill, @Marten. You're going through a double thickness there, so I suspect the self-drilling type might also snap. I'd suggest pre-drilling as you are quite close to the end of the timber, and if you don't, it will have a tendency to split.

Mitchell

[Marten]

Thanks @MitchellMc 

I got the tool. How many centimetres interval do you recommend between two screws? 

 

[MitchellMc]

The spacing that you currently have in that picture looks about right to me, @Marten. 👍 Five per end would be more than adequate.

Mitchell