When the chosen joining method involves the use of fasteners, the choice of fastener can be as important to joint integrity as the joint design itself. Seemingly slight differences in the material used to make fasteners can greatly affect their performance.

Whether the fasteners used are threaded or nonthreaded, and especially when special types of fasteners are required, materials, finishes, and coatings should not be overlooked. They should be selected according to the joint requirements, just as the type of fastener is chosen.