Assorted Screw Packs

About Assorted Screw Packs

Assorted screw packs are essential additions to any tradesperson's toolkit or workshop storage system, offering a comprehensive selection of fasteners in one convenient package. These carefully curated collections eliminate the frustration of searching for the right screw size mid-job and ensure you're always prepared for a variety of fixing tasks. Whether you're a professional joiner working on multiple projects throughout the week or a DIY enthusiast tackling home improvements, an assorted screw pack provides the versatility and value that keeps your work flowing smoothly.

The range available at Tooled-Up.com includes specialist collections from trusted brands like Sealey, Timco, and Forgefix, covering everything from traditional wood screws to self-drilling and self-tapping varieties. Popular options include comprehensive trade cases containing up to 1,800 pieces, as well as more focused assortments for specific applications such as number plate fixing or countersunk applications. These packs typically come in organised storage cases with compartments, making it easy to identify and access the exact screw you need without rummaging through loose fixings.

Most assorted screw packs are designed with real-world applications in mind, featuring the most commonly used sizes and types that professionals reach for daily. From Pozi and Phillips drive heads to hex head self-drilling screws, these collections save both time and money compared to purchasing individual boxes of screws. The packs range from compact 195-piece assortments perfect for mobile work to extensive 1,800-piece trade cases ideal for workshops and site cabins.

Jargon Buster

• Self-Drilling Screws: Fasteners with a drill bit-style point that can bore through materials without pre-drilling, particularly useful for sheet metal and steel fixing work. The integrated drilling tip eliminates the need for a separate pilot hole.
• Self-Tapping Screws: Screws that cut their own thread as they're driven into materials, typically requiring a pilot hole in harder materials. Popular for plastic, wood, and thin metal applications where creating a secure thread is essential.
• Countersunk Head: A flat-topped screw head designed to sit flush with or below the material surface when fully driven, creating a smooth finish ideal for visible joinery and decorative applications.
• Pan Head: A rounded, low-profile screw head that sits proud of the surface, offering a larger bearing surface and better resistance to pull-through in thin materials.
• Pozi Drive: An improved cross-head design with additional radial lines that provides better torque transfer and reduces cam-out compared to standard Phillips heads, making it a favourite among UK tradespeople.
• Hex Head: A six-sided head design that allows driving with spanners, sockets, or hex drivers, providing excellent torque transfer and reduced risk of stripping compared to cross-head designs.

Who Uses Assorted Screw Packs?

Assorted screw packs are valuable resources for a wide range of trades and users:

• Carpenters and Joiners: For timber framing, furniture construction, and general joinery work requiring various wood screw sizes
• Plumbers and Heating Engineers: Mounting pipework brackets, securing equipment, and general fixing tasks on site
• Electricians: Fixing back boxes, mounting consumer units, and securing cable management systems
• HVAC Technicians: Installing ductwork, mounting units, and securing sheet metal components with self-drilling varieties
• Maintenance Teams: For facilities management requiring quick access to various fastener types for repairs
• Vehicle Mechanics and Body Shops: Number plate fixing and panel mounting applications
• Shop Fitters and Installers: Mounting displays, shelving systems, and fixtures across diverse materials
• Property Maintenance Contractors: General repairs and installations requiring versatile fastener options
• DIY Enthusiasts: Home improvement projects, furniture assembly, and general household repairs
• MRO Professionals: Maintenance, repair, and operations teams managing facility upkeep

How to Choose the Right Assorted Screw Packs

Application Type: Identify your primary use case. Wood screw assortments are ideal for carpentry and joinery, whilst self-drilling packs suit metal fabrication and sheet steel applications. Self-tapping varieties offer versatility across plastic, wood, and thinner metals. Consider whether you need specialist packs like number plate assortments for automotive work.

Quantity and Size Range: Assess your workload and storage capacity. Mobile tradespeople might prefer compact 200-500 piece assortments that fit in vans easily, whilst workshops and larger operations benefit from comprehensive 1,000+ piece trade cases. Check the size range included – quality packs cover the most commonly used dimensions from 16mm to 50mm lengths.

Head Type and Drive System: Consider your preferred driving method and application requirements. Countersunk heads provide flush finishes for visible work, whilst pan heads offer better pull-through resistance. Pozi drive is standard across UK trades and works well with impact drivers. Hex head screws excel in high-torque applications and are less prone to damage.

Storage Organisation: Look for packs with clear compartmentalised cases that allow quick identification and access. Quality brands like Sealey provide robust storage boxes that protect fasteners from moisture and keep sizes separated. Labelled compartments save valuable time on site and prevent mixing of different types.

Material and Finish: Most assorted packs feature zinc-plated or galvanised finishes for corrosion resistance, suitable for interior applications. For exterior use or damp environments, consider packs specifically mentioning weather-resistant coatings or stainless steel options.

Brand Reputation: Trusted manufacturers like Timco, Forgefix, and Sealey offer consistent quality and proper hardening. Cheap imports may save money initially but often result in stripped heads, sheared shanks, and wasted time. Professional-grade assortments ensure reliable performance across demanding applications.

Popular Accessories

Maximise efficiency and protect your investment with these complementary products:

• Screwdriver Bit Sets: Quality Wera or Wiha bit sets with Pozi, Phillips, and hex varieties to match your screw collection
• Magnetic Bit Holders: Essential for preventing dropped screws and improving one-handed driving capability
• Cordless Impact Drivers: From Makita, DeWalt, or Milwaukee for efficient driving of self-drilling and self-tapping screws
• Storage Organisers: Additional compartmentalised boxes or Stanley FatMax organisers for expanding collections
• Pilot Drill Bit Sets: For creating accurate pilot holes in hardwoods and dense materials
• Countersink Bits: For preparing perfectly flush seating for countersunk screws in timber and composite materials
• Socket Adaptors: For driving hex head screws efficiently with ratchets or powered drivers
• Magnetic Parts Trays: Keep screws secure and organised whilst working at height or on mobile sites
• Wall Fixings: Rawlplug and Fischer fixing solutions for masonry and plasterboard applications

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between self-drilling and self-tapping screws?

Self-drilling screws have an integrated drill bit point that can bore through sheet metal and steel without a pilot hole, making them ideal for HVAC and metal fabrication work. Self-tapping screws cut their own thread but typically require a pilot hole in harder materials. They're more versatile for wood, plastic, and thinner metals. Many professionals keep both types in their toolkit for different applications.

Are assorted screw packs better value than buying individual boxes?

For most tradespeople and active DIYers, assorted packs offer excellent value compared to purchasing individual boxes of each size. Browse the selection at Tooled-Up.com for immediate access to multiple sizes for a fraction of the cost of buying them separately, and the included storage case adds further value. However, if you consistently use large quantities of just one or two specific sizes, buying bulk boxes of those particular screws may be more economical.

How should I store my assorted screw pack to prevent corrosion?

Keep your screw pack in a dry environment, ideally inside your van or workshop rather than exposed to outdoor conditions. Most quality packs come in sealed compartment cases that provide good protection when closed properly. For site work in damp conditions, consider adding silica gel packets to the storage case. If screws do develop surface corrosion, a light wire brushing usually restores functionality, though heavily rusted fasteners should be replaced for reliability.

Can I use wood screws in treated timber?

Standard zinc-plated screws can corrode prematurely when used with pressure-treated timber due to the chemicals in the preservative. For decking, fencing, or external joinery using treated wood, look for screws specifically rated for treated timber or opt for stainless steel varieties. Always check the manufacturer's guidance, and for critical structural applications, follow building regulations and HSE guidance regarding appropriate fastener specifications.

What size assorted screw pack do I need for general maintenance work?

For property maintenance, facilities management, or general repair work, a mid-range assortment of 400-600 pieces provides good coverage without excessive bulk. Look for packs that include both countersunk and pan head varieties in the 20mm-50mm length range, as these cover most common fixing scenarios. Self-tapping assortments are particularly versatile for maintenance applications. You can always supplement with specialist packs for specific tasks like number plate fixing or heavy-duty applications.