Hanger Bolts: What They Are and How to Use Them
Hanger bolts solve a specific problem: attaching a threaded fitting to wood without a nut on the back side. They have a wood thread on one end and a machine thread on the other. This guide explains how they work and where to use them.
What Is a Hanger Bolt?
A hanger bolt is a double-ended fastener. One end has a coarse lag thread that bites into wood; the other has a machine thread that accepts a nut or threaded fitting. It is driven into wood with a wrench or a special driver, leaving the machine thread exposed.
How a Hanger Bolt Works
The lag end holds in timber, while the machine end provides a clean, removable connection for a bracket, eye, hook or nut. That makes hanger bolts useful where you cannot reach the back of the wood to fit a bolt and nut.
Where to Use Hanger Bolts
Hanging brackets and signs from timber.
Attaching legs or feet to wooden furniture.
Mounting hardware to posts and beams.
Hanging light fittings or decorative items.
How to Install a Hanger Bolt
Drill a pilot hole sized for the lag thread.
Drive the lag end into the wood until the machine thread is exposed.
Fit the bracket, eye or nut onto the machine thread.
Use a lock nut or thread locker if vibration is expected.
FAQ
What is a hanger bolt used for?
It attaches a threaded fitting to wood where the back of the wood is not accessible.
Can a hanger bolt be removed?
Yes, but repeated removal can loosen the wood threads. Use a pilot hole and avoid overtightening.
Hanger Bolts and Fasteners
SolidLink supplies hanger bolts and other fasteners in galvanized and stainless steel. Browse our bolts or fasteners category, or contact us for a quote.
