Questions: Fastening: Glue, Tape, Screws, and Nails
3 questions to test your understanding
Score: 0 / 3
Question 1 Multiple Choice
You need to join two pieces of wood for an outdoor birdhouse. Which fastener is the best choice?
AMasking tape — it is easy to use
BWhite school glue — it works on paper
CWaterproof wood glue and screws — they resist rain and hold strongly
DRubber bands — they are flexible
An outdoor birdhouse faces rain, wind, and temperature changes. Masking tape would peel off when wet. White school glue dissolves in water. Rubber bands would stretch and rot. Waterproof wood glue creates a permanent, water-resistant bond, and screws provide strong mechanical clamping that does not weaken when wet.
Question 2 True / False
Using more glue generally makes a joint stronger.
TTrue
FFalse
Answer: False
A thin, even layer of glue on both surfaces creates the strongest bond because it maximizes surface contact and dries rigid. A thick glob of glue creates a weak, flexible layer between the pieces. In woodworking, excess glue that squeezes out when pieces are pressed together is actually a sign of a good joint — the surfaces are close together with a thin adhesive layer.
Question 3 Short Answer
What is one advantage screws have over nails, and one advantage nails have over screws?
Think about your answer, then reveal below.
Model answer: Screws are stronger at resisting pull-out forces because their threads grip the material, and they can be removed and reused. Nails are faster to install — you can hammer a nail in seconds, while driving a screw takes longer.
Screws and nails are both common fasteners, but they serve different purposes. Screws are preferred when strength and removability matter (furniture, decks). Nails are preferred when speed matters and the joint does not need to come apart (framing houses, where hundreds of joints are needed quickly).