The Simpson Strong-Drive SDPW Deflector Screw (0.140 x 3-1/2 in.) is a premium structural fastening solution engineered specifically for connecting non-load-bearing partition walls to trusses and joists. Featuring a T25 6-Lobe drive, Type-17 point, and a durable E-coat electrocoating finish, this washer head screw delivers tested lateral-load ratings that satisfy building code requirements - giving contractors and builders a reliable, code-compliant connection in wood-frame construction. The integrated polymer sleeve accommodates naturally occurring differential deflection between the wall and the supporting member, eliminating squeaks and ensuring long-term performance. Made in the United States, the SDPW screw is value engineered for strength, installation speed, and job-site safety.

Key Features

• E-coat Electrocoating Finish - provides a tough, uniform corrosion-resistant coating that protects the fastener during installation and throughout the life of the structure
• T25 6-Lobe Drive Type - delivers superior torque transfer and reduces cam-out compared to standard Phillips or slotted drives, increasing installation speed and reducing driver bit wear
• Type-17 Point - self-tapping cutting tip bores cleanly into lumber without pre-drilling the screw shank, speeding up the fastening process
• Washer Head Design (0.550 in. diameter) - distributes clamping load over a larger surface area, improving holding strength and reducing the risk of pull-through
• Polymer Sleeve - allows the screw and sleeve to slide during deflection, preventing the squeaking that commonly occurs with rigid fasteners in non-load-bearing wall-to-truss connections
• Coarse Thread Pattern with 2 in. Thread Length - optimized thread engagement into the truss or joist for strong lateral-load performance that meets building code requirements
• 0.140 in. Shank Diameter at 3-1/2 in. Length - sized to reach through typical wall track and into truss and joist members for a secure, tested connection
• Blue Color Finish - makes it easy to identify the correct fastener on the job site, reducing installation errors when using multiple screw types
• Offset Driver Bits and Driver Extension Included - maximizes installation speed and safety in tight spaces while minimizing installed cost - no separate trip to the supply house required

Why This Product

• Engineered for deflection, not just connection - unlike standard screws that bind and cause squeaking when trusses and joists deflect under load, the SDPW's polymer sleeve is specifically designed to allow sliding during differential movement, keeping non-load-bearing partition walls squeak-free over the building's service life
• Tested lateral-load ratings meet building codes - the SDPW carries verified lateral-load performance data, giving builders and inspectors confidence that the wall-to-truss or wall-to-joist connection complies with applicable building code requirements without custom engineering
• Complete installation kit in the box - the included T25 offset driver bit and 3/8 in. quick release predrill bit mean the right tools arrive with the fasteners, cutting down on setup time and keeping installations moving efficiently
• Domestic manufacturing backed by Simpson Strong-Tie product support - produced in the United States and supported by Simpson Strong-Tie's technical service, the SDPW is a well-documented, widely recognized fastener that simplifies job-site communication with inspectors and engineers

Specifications

• Brand: Simpson Strong-Tie
• Shank Diameter: 0.140 in.
• Length: 3-1/2 in.
• Head Diameter: 0.550 in.
• Head Type: Washer Head
• Drive Type: T25 6-Lobe
• Point Type: Type-17 Point
• Thread Type: Coarse Threads
• Thread Length: 2 in.
• Finish: E-coat Electrocoating
• Coating: E-coat Electrocoating
• Color: Blue
• Country of Origin: United States

Available Pack Options

• SDPW14312-R50: 50 Pk - includes T25 offset driver bit and 3/8 in. quick release predrill bit
• SDPW14312MB: 500 Pk - includes T25 offset driver bit and 3/8 in. quick release predrill bit

Approved Applications

• Non-load-bearing partition walls to trusses and joists

Install With

• T25 offset driver bit and 3/8 in. quick release predrill bit (included)

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does the SDPW Deflector Screw prevent squeaking in partition walls?

The SDPW features a polymer sleeve that allows the screw and sleeve to slide during the naturally occurring differential deflection between the non-load-bearing wall and the supporting truss or joist. Because the fastener can move with the structure rather than binding rigidly, it eliminates the friction that causes squeaking over time - a common problem with standard structural screws used in this application.

What drive bit does the SDPW Deflector Screw require?

The SDPW uses a T25 6-Lobe drive. A T25 offset driver bit and a 3/8 in. quick release predrill bit are included with the product, so no separate bit purchase is needed for a standard installation. The offset driver bit is specifically designed to maximize installation speed and safety in confined framing spaces.

Is the SDPW screw approved for structural connections under building codes?

The SDPW carries tested lateral-load ratings that are engineered to meet building code requirements for connecting non-load-bearing partition walls to trusses and joists. The tested load data makes it straightforward to document the connection for inspections without requiring custom engineering calculations for standard applications.

What is the coating on the SDPW screw and why does it matter?

The SDPW Deflector Screw features an E-coat electrocoating finish. Electrocoating applies a uniform, tightly bonded protective layer across the entire fastener surface - including recessed areas like the drive recess and thread roots - providing corrosion resistance that helps protect the fastener's structural integrity throughout the service life of the assembly. The distinctive blue color also makes it easy to identify on the job site.