What Is a Euro Screw? a quick Introduction

So you heard somewhere that you have to use euro screws, but you have no idea what a euro screw is, or you are looking for more information about its use. Well in this article you will find out everything you need and in a few moments, you will know perfectly what this type of screw is, what you use it for and how to place it. But let’s start by digging deeper into the question, what is a euro screw?

Euro screws, also known as hinge and rail screws, are a type of screw that is perfect for mounting sliding rails, hinges, and other hardware in European style cabinets. Due to its deep thread, it ensures maximum load-bearing capacity in shallow wood (MDF, chipboard, plywood) and thanks to the flat head, this screw is completely countersunk.

In my projects, I frequently use this type of screw. They are simple to use and provide strong connections. Once you understand exactly how to use this type of screw and in what situations you can use it, you will see what significant benefits these screws can provide for your projects.

What is a euro screw look like?

Euro screws are a particular type of screws that are compact and sturdy with a flat-mounted Philips head. The dimensions, which I will return to later in this article, are made so that you can use these screws in the most common sheet materials used to make European style cabinets.

These small screws have a blunt type B point and a deep thread that provides maximum holding power in MDF, chipboard, and hardwood.

If you look at the propeller, you’ll notice that this actually resembles the combination of a bolt (the shape of the shaft) and a screw, at least that’s what I see in it anyway.

What is a euro screw made of?

The Euro Screw is made of high-quality galvanized steel as standard.
In some cases, this type of screws with a nickel coating are available; however, these are usually slightly more expensive.

Galvanized screws typically have some sharp patterns of spots, making the surface slightly rougher. Nickel-plated screws have a smoother, mirror-like surface. You can use them in places where they are visible because they have a nicer appearance.

Both types have a steel core with a top coating. That is, they are corrosion-resistant under normal conditions. So, do not use these screws outside because they will rust quickly.

What is a euro screw used for?

Euro screws are commonly used in cabinet construction. They are the best mounting materials for drawer slides and European hinges in cabinets with a 32 mm line bore pattern.

It will not go through the wood due to its short dimensions, whereas the deep screw thread will hook firmly into the wood. As a result, this screw is suitable not only for hardwood, but also for softer panel materials such as fiberboard and MDF.

The flat head also ensures that the screw never interferes with sliding the drawer rail or closing the hinge completely. When using the euro screw, all you have to do is drill a pilot hole, but I’ll get to that later in this article.
Related article: 5 most used cabinet hinges you should know

I always use a hand screwdriver to install this type of screws and never a battery-powered screwdriver. Overtightening the screw can cause it to slip and lose its holding power. The screws have a Philips head, so you’ll need the proper screwdriver, but I’m guessing this is the standard screwdriver that everyone has in their workshop or work case.

What size is a euro screw?

Euro screws have a standard diameter of 6.3 mm, but in some cases, they can also be found with diameters of 4 mm and 5 mm.

However, I always use screws with a diameter of 6.3 mm. This is also recommended by the majority of drawer slide and European hinge manufacturers.

If you use the 32 mm line bore pattern, which is a common size in cabinet building, you will also need 6.3 mm euro style screws. I’ll go into more detail about this method of cabinet construction in one of my future YouTube videos and articles, so stay tuned.

The Euro screws are available in different lengths, depending on the thickness of the sheet material into which you have to screw. These screws are available in 8, 10.5, 11.5, 13.5, and 16 mm lengths.

Make sure your screw is slightly shorter in length than the width of the sheet material. When I use sheet material of 18 mm thick, I choose the 16 mm long screws. This ensures that the adhesive force is maximized.

What size pilot hole do you make for euro screws?

When using euro screws with a diameter of 6.3 mm, a 5 mm pilot hole is required. Drill this hole no deeper than the length of the screw, but no shallower either. Because the screw has no point, it cannot pull itself into the wood unless you make a perfect pilot hole.

When using euro serifs with different diameters, always drill a pilot hole that is 1 mm smaller than the screw diameter.

Drilling a pilot hole is not only applicable when using euro screws, but for almost all screws. Pre-drilling can ensure that your workpiece is not damaged and that screwing is easier. In my article, Is A Pilot Hole Necessary? Clearly Explained For The Best Result! I go much deeper into this, and you discover everything you need to know about pre-drilling in wood. Highly recommended if you don’t want that one screw to ruin your entire project.