I’m guessing people probably notice the roof or the color of a birdhouse before they notice the screws. The screws aren’t exactly the main attraction.
But I was looking at a birdhouse I’d built for a friend the other day, and wouldn't you know it, the screws were what caught my eye. It was just a plain, unpainted house they could paint, stain, or leave however they wanted. I don’t know, maybe it was the bare wood that made them stand out more.
Of course, that got me thinking about the screws and why I’ve always liked those particular ones.
Part of it is the wide head. It sits against the cedar instead of disappearing down into it as easily as a smaller head can. I like being able to snug a piece into place without burying the screw. But you still have to pay attention when tightening them. Get a little carried away and you know what’s gonna happen. Cedar isn’t going to put up much of a fight.
Then there’s the appearance.
I like the black against the wood, whether the house is painted or not. Those wide, visible heads give the houses a bit of an old-fashioned look. A little vintage character without having to do much to get it. To me, they belong there just as much as the roof and the entrance hole.
I know, the birds don’t care what screws I used. But there’s a practical reason for using screws, too. If a part eventually needs replacing, I want a reasonable chance of taking it off without tearing up everything around it.
A damaged board shouldn’t have to mean starting over with a whole new house. For me, that would mean coming up with another name and a whole new story. So, being able to back out a few screws gives me a way to get at the piece that needs repair or replacing.
The screws are painted black and they’re also stainless steel. The houses spend their lives outdoors, and I’d rather not have to deal with the screws rusting.
And don’t get me wrong, I’m not saying nails can’t make a good birdhouse. They can and lots of them do. But these screws suit the way I like to build mine.
Nothing especially fancy about it. But I do like those screws.