Simpson Deck-Drive DCU Composite Screw in #10 x 2-3/4" with a Type 316 Stainless Steel finish is engineered for professional composite and PVC deck installations where long-term corrosion resistance and a clean, finished appearance are essential. Built by Simpson, this cap-head fastener combines severe-level corrosion protection with a color-matching Red 01 painted head, making it ideal for coastal environments, poolside decks, and any application exposed to chlorides or harsh outdoor conditions.

Key Features

• Type 316 Stainless Steel material - provides severe-level corrosion resistance, performing reliably in saltwater environments, chloride-heavy atmospheres, and demanding outdoor conditions where standard stainless steel would fall short.
• Type-17 Point - penetrates composite and PVC decking cleanly without pre-drilling, reducing installation time and effort on the job site.
• Inverted upper Tri-Lobe Threads - clear excess material from the hole as the screw is driven, delivering a flush, secure seating and a professional clean finish every time.
• Cap Head with 0.230 in. head diameter - provides a broad bearing surface that seats securely against composite decking without damaging the surface material.
• T20 6-Lobe drive - reduces cam-out during installation, giving the installer better torque control and a more secure bit engagement compared to standard Phillips drives.
• Red 01 color-matching painted head - blends with popular composite decking manufacturers' products for a concealed, professional appearance that eliminates the look of exposed fasteners.
• 2-3/4 in. length in #10 screw size - sized for solid penetration into composite deck boards and underlying framing, ensuring a structurally sound connection.

Why This Product

• Designed specifically for composite and PVC decking - the Type-17 point and inverted upper threads work together to prevent surface damage and material buildup that generic wood screws cause in composite applications.
• The Type 316 stainless steel construction makes this screw the right choice for marine environments, pool decks, and coastal installations where chloride exposure would corrode lesser fasteners and compromise deck integrity over time.
• Color-matching painted heads in Red 01 eliminate the need for plug covers or touch-up paint, streamlining the finishing process and producing a cleaner result with fewer materials and steps.
• The T20 6-Lobe drive minimizes slipping and stripped heads during installation, reducing waste and rework - especially valuable on large deck projects where hundreds of fasteners are driven in sequence.

Specifications

• Brand: Simpson Strong-Tie
• Screw Size: #10
• Length: 2-3/4 in.
• Head Diameter: 0.230 in.
• Head Type: Cap Head
• Drive Type: T20 6-Lobe
• Thread Type: Tri-Lobe Threads
• Point Type: Type-17 Point
• Material: Type 316 Stainless Steel
• Finish: Type 316 Stainless Steel
• Color: Red 01

Available Pack Options

• DCU234C316RD01: 70 Pk - includes 1 driver bit included
• DCU234P316RD01: 350 Pk - includes 1 driver bit included
• DCU234MB316RD01: 1750 Pk - includes 2 driver bits included

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of decking is the Deck-Drive DCU Composite Screw designed for?

The Deck-Drive DCU is engineered for all types of composite and PVC decking. Its Type-17 point and inverted upper Tri-Lobe Threads are specifically designed to penetrate composite materials cleanly and clear excess debris for a flush, secure installation - making it a dedicated composite decking fastener rather than a general-purpose wood screw.

Why is Type 316 Stainless Steel used instead of standard stainless steel for this screw?

Type 316 Stainless Steel offers severe-level corrosion resistance and is especially suited for environments with chlorides, such as coastal areas, marine applications, and poolside decks. The added molybdenum content in 316 stainless provides greater protection against chloride-induced corrosion compared to standard 304 stainless, making it the right material choice for long-lasting outdoor deck installations in harsh conditions.

What driver bit is compatible with the Deck-Drive DCU Composite Screw?

The Deck-Drive DCU Composite Screw uses a T20 6-Lobe drive. The recommended replacement driver bit is the BIT20T-2-R2, which is engineered for use with these screws and helps maintain secure bit engagement throughout installation.

How does the Red 01 painted head contribute to the finished appearance of a composite deck?

The Red 01 color-matching painted cap head is designed to blend with popular composite decking manufacturers' board colors, resulting in a more concealed and professional-looking installation. Instead of visible silver or contrasting fastener heads, the painted finish integrates with the deck surface for a cleaner aesthetic without requiring additional plug covers or cosmetic work.

Downloads and Resources

• Composite-Decking Color Cross-Reference chart

Related Products

• - Compatible T20 6-Lobe driver bit
• Deck-Drive Screw Plug Solution - Color-matching DCU Screw Plugs