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Why are pilot holes drilled before using large wood screws?
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When using large wood screws, it is necessary to drill pilot holes primarily to avoid splitting the wood.12
By removing a small amount of material beforehand, the pilot hole reduces the internal pressure exerted on the wood fibers as the screw is driven into place. This prevents the structural damage that can occur when a large-diameter fastener forces its way into the material without sufficient clearance.1