Applications

Composite Decks & Boardwalks
Plastic wood composite decking, as well as purely plastic decking materials, often require pre-drilling for stainless steel deck screws due to the hardness and density of the material. Even where the material is soft enough to not require pre-drilling, the waste material from the screw hole can form a small mound that is unsightly (called "mushrooming"), a problem that can be avoided by pre-drilling.

Hardwood Decks & Boardwalks
Species such as ipe and mahogany are extremely hard and pre-drilling is highly recommended.

Decks using Hidden Clip Systems
When using hidden clip systems, it is important to remember that the first and last deck boards, as well as the fascia and steps, still have to be secured with face screws. Pre-drilling for appearances and to avoid splitting is the accepted practice.

Splitting
To avoid splitting, always pre-drill at the end of each board and where deck boards meet. Even decking material that doesn't require pre-drilling over all still needs pre-drilling at the ends of each board.

Splintering
Regardless of the type of wood decking used, some splintering around the screw head will naturally occur if holes are not pre-drilled and countersunk. Not only is splintering unsightly, it can be a nuisance to pets and bare feet. For a clean-looking, safe deck, always pre-drill and countersink screws.

General Woodworking
Although originally designed for deck building, SMART-BIT® has also become popular for installing cabinets and other general woodworking applications.