The Simpson Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector Screw (1/4 in. x 2-1/2 in.) by Simpson Strong-Tie is a high-strength structural fastener engineered for demanding connector installations, wood-to-wood connections, and engineered wood applications. Featuring a hex head drive, serrated threads, and a corrosion-resistant double-barrier coating, this structural screw delivers reliable performance without the need for predrilling - saving time on the job site while ensuring a secure, code-ready connection. Its Type-17 point and 10 TPI thread design make it a trusted choice for professionals fastening Simpson Strong-Tie hardware and tackling heavy-duty structural assemblies.

Key Features

• Type-17 Point - enables easy driving into wood without predrilling, reducing installation time and labor on structural connector projects
• Double-Barrier Coating - provides corrosion resistance to help maintain long-term structural integrity in connector and wood-to-wood applications
• 3/8 in. Hex Head Drive - compatible with standard hex drivers, allowing fast, consistent installation with a low-speed 1/2 in. drill
• Serrated Threads at 10 TPI - grip aggressively into wood and engineered lumber, reducing the chance of loosening and increasing pull-out resistance
• 1-1/2 in. Thread Length on a 2-1/2 in. Screw - optimized thread engagement ensures the fastener bites deep into the substrate for a solid structural connection
• 0.235 in. Shank Diameter - provides the cross-sectional strength needed for heavy-duty connector and structural wood applications
• No Predrilling Required - the Type-17 point self-starts in wood and engineered wood, streamlining installation and reducing prep work on the job site

Why This Product

• Designed specifically for fastening Simpson Strong-Tie connectors, this screw is engineered and tested to work with the hardware it secures - giving installers confidence in a structurally sound result without guesswork.
• The no-predrill Type-17 point eliminates an entire step from the installation process, making it practical for high-volume connector work where speed and efficiency matter.
• The double-barrier coating delivers corrosion resistance that helps extend the service life of the fastener in structural applications where long-term performance is critical.
• With a 3/8 in. hex head, this screw drives efficiently with a common 1/2 in. drill and hex driver - no specialty tooling required, keeping setup simple on any job site.

Specifications

• Brand: Simpson Strong-Tie
• Length: 2-1/2 in.
• Shank Diameter: 0.235 in.
• Drive Type: 3/8 in. Hex
• Head Type: Hex Head
• Thread Type: Serrated Threads
• Thread Length: 1-1/2 in.
• TPI: 10
• Point Type: Type-17 Point
• Coating/Finish: Double-Barrier Coating

Available Pack Options

• SDS25212-R25: 25 Pk
• SDS25212MB: 200 Pk
• SDS25212: 1100 Pk

Approved Applications

• Fastening Simpson Strong-Tie Connectors

Install With

• A low-speed 1/2 in. drill with a 3/8 in. hex driver is the recommended tool for installation

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this screw require predrilling before installation?

No predrilling is needed. The Type-17 point is designed to self-start in wood and engineered wood materials, allowing direct installation without a pilot hole - simplifying the process and saving time on structural connector projects.

What type of drive does this screw use?

This screw uses a 3/8 in. hex head drive. A low-speed 1/2 in. drill equipped with a 3/8 in. hex driver is the recommended installation tool for proper driving performance.

What makes this screw suitable for structural applications?

This is a high-strength structural screw with a 0.235 in. shank diameter, serrated threads at 10 TPI, and a 1-1/2 in. thread length - all designed to provide strong pull-out resistance and reliable load transfer in connector installations, wood-to-wood connections, and engineered wood applications. It has been extensively tested in these various applications.

What corrosion protection does this screw have?

This screw features a double-barrier coating that provides corrosion resistance, helping to protect the fastener and maintain structural integrity over time in heavy-duty connector and wood assembly applications.