Simpson Strong-Drive SDWH TIMBER-HEX Stainless Steel Screw - 0.275" x 12" by Simpson is a heavy-duty structural fastener engineered as a direct replacement for traditional lag screws in wood-framing and timber construction. Built from Type 316 stainless steel, this hex-head screw delivers exceptional corrosion resistance in saltwater environments, coastal applications, and contact with pressure-treated lumber - making it a reliable choice wherever long-term durability and structural integrity are non-negotiable. With a sharp point and no predrilling required in most applications, this structural screw dramatically reduces installation time compared to conventional lag screws while meeting current building code requirements.

Key Features

• Type 316 Stainless Steel material and finish - provides maximum corrosion protection in wet, coastal, and chemically harsh environments, outlasting standard zinc-plated fasteners in demanding outdoor conditions
• No predrilling required - saves significant time and labor on the job site, allowing faster installation than typical lag screws without sacrificing holding strength
• Sharp point tip - drives cleanly into wood without pilot holes, reducing setup steps and keeping your workflow moving
• Hex washer head (1/2 in. drive) - the wide 0.655 in. head diameter creates a large bearing area for superior load distribution and a secure, flush connection at the surface
• Box thread design - unique thread geometry with raised-ridge technology significantly reduces driving torque, making installation easier on the installer and the fastener
• 7 TPI thread count with 3 in. thread length - engineered for strong wood engagement and optimal withdrawal resistance in structural lumber connections
• Meets 2018 and 2021 IRC and IBC code requirements - for several common wood-framing applications, giving builders and inspectors confidence on permitted projects
• Includes one driver bit - no need to source a separate bit before you start; everything needed to begin driving is in the package

Why This Product

• A true lag-screw replacement with faster installation - the SDWH TIMBER-HEX SS eliminates the multi-step process of predrilling pilot holes, letting structural connections be made in fewer steps without sacrificing load-carrying performance
• Built for the harshest exposure conditions - Type 316 stainless steel offers superior resistance to salt air, moisture, and corrosive chemicals compared to standard steel or zinc finishes, making this screw especially well-suited for marine, coastal, and outdoor structural applications
• Code-compliant confidence for professional builders - compliance with 2018 and 2021 IRC and IBC standards means this fastener can be specified and installed with confidence on projects subject to modern building code inspection, including common wood-framing connections and ledger applications
• Hex-drive system reduces installation effort - the 1/2 in. hex drive combined with the box thread's reduced driving torque makes this screw manageable even in long 12 in. installations where torque buildup can be a significant challenge with standard fasteners

Specifications

• Brand: Simpson Strong-Tie
• Shank Diameter: 0.275 in.
• Length: 12 in.
• Head Type: Hex Washer Head
• Head Diameter: 0.655 in.
• Drive Type: 1/2 in. Hex
• Material: Type 316 Stainless Steel
• Finish: Type 316 Stainless Steel
• Thread Type: Box Threads
• Thread Length: 3 in.
• TPI: 7
• Point Type: Sharp Point
• Country of Origin: Taiwan

Available Pack Options

• SDWH271200SS-R5: 5 Pk - includes (1) driver bit
• SDWH271200SS-R25: 25 Pk - includes (1) driver bit

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to predrill before installing the SDWH TIMBER-HEX SS screw?

No predrilling is necessary in most applications. The sharp point tip is designed to self-start in wood, making these structural screws faster and easier to install than traditional lag screws that typically require a pilot hole before driving.

What building codes does this screw comply with?

The Simpson Strong-Drive SDWH TIMBER-HEX SS screw meets 2018 and 2021 IRC (International Residential Code) and IBC (International Building Code) requirements for several common wood-framing applications, making it suitable for code-inspected residential and commercial framing projects.

Why is Type 316 stainless steel specified for this fastener?

Type 316 stainless steel provides a higher level of corrosion resistance than standard stainless or zinc-plated options. It is particularly effective in coastal environments, saltwater exposure, and contact with pressure-treated lumber where other finishes can deteriorate over time - helping ensure long-term structural performance.

Can this screw be used in ledger board applications?

Yes. The Strong-Drive SDWH TIMBER-HEX SS is approved for use in ledger applications. The hex washer head's large 0.655 in. bearing area and the box thread design work together to provide strong, code-compliant connections in ledger-to-framing scenarios commonly found in deck construction and similar structural assemblies.

Note: Product dimensions and/or thread length may differ from picture.