Why choosing the right fastener matters

By Jenny Yu.  

One contractor explains why K9 Fasteners is their choice for building safer, longer-lasting outdoor structures. 

Fasteners may be small components, but their impact on long-term performance is anything but minor. In a recent episode of From the Ground Up™, host Karol Weyman sat down with Mark Petri, owner of Petri Building and Design, who shared practical, field-tested insights on why choosing the right fastener is critical for outdoor construction durability and safety, highlighting his experience with K9 Fasteners. 

Mark, who has spent decades in the building industry and now focuses on design work in Colorado, emphasized that every structural connection matters. “All those connections need to be well done,” he said, noting that many projects rely on hidden or “blind” connections where both strength and aesthetics are essential. In these cases, selecting the right structural fastener like the Huskie™ lag screw from K9 Fasteners as a reliable option helps achieve both high-quality performance and a clean finish. 

On the other hand, choosing a weaker or incompatible fastener is a common mistake in the field. “The most common mistake I see would be using what’s on site and not preparing ahead of time,” Mark said, pointing to the frequent errors such as using interior-rated fasteners like drywall screws in exterior applications, or choosing products that lack sufficient length or strength. Shortcuts and oversights like these often lead to premature failures, especially in demanding outdoor environments.  

Another important factor to consider is corrosion resistance. Outdoor structures face constant exposure to moisture, swings in temperature and construction chemicals. “We not only need the shear strength of a steel fastener, but we also need good corrosion resistance,” Mark explained. He noted that K9 Fasteners address this challenge with a zinc base coat paired with a triple ceramic coating, which helps protect against long-term corrosion and extends product life. 

Beyond durability, fastener selection also influences installation efficiency. Mark highlighted that K9 Fasteners’ coating technology improves ease of installation in dense materials, even in challenging climate areas: “They just last a lot longer, and they perform better.” 

Listen to the full podcast or Watch the recording to learn more about how K9 Fasteners has helped outdoor contractors like Petri Building and Design provide lasting solutions for their customers. Visit their website to shop now!