Washers in Salt Lake City

Match the washer to the fastener

The washer opening needs to fit the bolt or screw without excessive play, while the outside diameter needs to suit the surface underneath it. If you are replacing an existing washer, compare both inside and outside diameter rather than choosing by appearance alone.

Bringing the original bolt, screw and washer together is the easiest way to confirm the assembly. If the threaded fastener also needs replacement, see our nuts and bolts or screws pages.

Why washers are used

Washers can serve several purposes depending on the assembly. They may spread load over a larger surface, protect the material beneath a fastener head or nut, provide spacing, compensate for a larger opening, or work as part of a locking arrangement.

The original design is the best guide. If an assembly used a washer, replacing it with the same general dimensions and function helps preserve the way the joint was intended to work.

Inside diameter is only one measurement

Two washers that fit the same bolt can have very different outside diameters and thicknesses. Those dimensions influence how the load is distributed and whether the washer fits in the available space. Tight recesses and narrow mounting surfaces can make outside diameter especially important.

If you are matching an unusual washer, a caliper can help measure the opening, outside diameter and thickness before you visit the counter.

Material and environment matter

As with other fasteners, washer material and finish may matter where corrosion, appearance or material compatibility is important. When replacing hardware exposed to weather, chemicals or frequent wash-down, consider the environment of the complete assembly rather than the washer by itself.

For safety-critical or engineered assemblies, follow the specified material and dimensions when they are available.

Get help matching the complete assembly

If you have an old washer but are not sure what to ask for, bring it to Fastener Engineering along with the bolt, screw or nut it is used with. Matching the components together reduces guesswork and helps identify whether another part of the assembly is worn or damaged.

Our Salt Lake City will-call counter is open to individual customers, businesses and public organizations Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.