The Simpson Strong-Drive SDWS Timber Screw is a high-strength structural fastener engineered to deliver a reliable, easy-to-install alternative to through-bolting and traditional lag screws in wood framing applications. Featuring a 0.220 in. shank diameter, 5 in. length, and a tan double-barrier coating that provides corrosion resistance equivalent to hot-dip galvanization, this screw is built for both professional contractors and dedicated do-it-yourselfers tackling wood-to-wood fastening, crating, and a wide range of common structural framing tasks. Code listed in IAPMO UES ER-192 and meeting IRC and IBC code requirements for most common wood framing applications, it brings confidence and compliance to every project.

Key Features

• SawTooth Point - enables fast, self-starting penetration, reduces installation torque, and eliminates the need for predrilling in most applications, saving significant time on the job site.
• Double-Barrier Coating (Tan) - provides corrosion resistance equivalent to hot-dip galvanization, making this screw suitable for certain exterior applications and preservative-treated wood environments where long-term durability is critical.
• Washer Head with 0.760 in. Head Diameter - delivers a large bearing area that distributes clamping force across a wider surface, reducing the risk of pull-through and allowing the head to seat flush with less splintering.
• T40 6-Lobe Drive - provides positive bit engagement that makes driving easier, reduces cam-out, and extends driver bit life for faster, more controlled installation.
• 5 TPI Thread with 3 in. Thread Length - bold thread design maximizes grip in the receiving material, providing superior holding power in structural wood connections.
• Code Listed in IAPMO UES ER-192 - meets IRC and IBC requirements for most common wood framing applications, so contractors can specify and install with confidence on permitted projects.
• High-Strength Alternative to Lag Screws and Through-Bolts - simplifies structural connections that traditionally required more hardware, reducing installation steps and labor time without sacrificing load performance.

Why This Product

• Replaces lag screws and through-bolts in most common wood framing applications - no need to pre-drill or use a through-bolt setup means faster installation and fewer tools required on the job site.
• The double-barrier coating delivers corrosion resistance equivalent to hot-dip galvanization, making it appropriate for certain exterior and preservative-treated wood applications where moisture exposure and chemical contact are concerns.
• The SawTooth point combined with the T40 6-lobe drive system makes this screw genuinely easier to drive than traditional lag screws, reducing fatigue during repetitive fastening tasks for both professionals and DIYers.
• IAPMO UES ER-192 code listing with IRC and IBC compliance means this fastener can be used on permitted projects and inspected work without special engineering review for most common wood framing scenarios.

Specifications

• Brand: Simpson Strong-Tie
• Shank Diameter: 0.220 in.
• Length: 5 in.
• Head Type: Washer Head
• Head Diameter: 0.760 in.
• Drive Type: T40 6-Lobe
• Point Type: SawTooth Point
• Thread Length: 3 in.
• TPI: 5
• Coating: Double-Barrier Coating
• Finish: Double-Barrier Coating
• Color: Tan

Available Pack Options

• SDWS22500DB-R12: 12 Pk - includes one 6-lobe, T40 driver bit
• SDWS22500DB-R50: 50 Pk - includes one 6-lobe, T40 driver bit
• SDWS22500DBMB: 250 Pk - includes one 6-lobe, T40 driver bit
• SDWS22500DB: 600 Pk - includes two 6-lobe, T40 driver bits

Approved Applications

• Fastening Wood-to-Wood
• Crating

Install With

• SDWS screws install best with a low-speed 1/2-in. drill and 6-lobe, T40 driver bit (included)

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this screw require predrilling before installation?

In most applications, predrilling is not required. The SawTooth point is specifically designed to ensure fast starts and reduce installation torque, allowing the screw to self-drill into wood without a pilot hole in the majority of common wood framing scenarios.

Is this screw suitable for use with preservative-treated lumber or exterior applications?

Yes. The double-barrier coating provides corrosion resistance equivalent to hot-dip galvanization, making the screw suitable for certain exterior and preservative-treated wood applications as described in the IAPMO UES ER-192 evaluation report.

What drive bit does this screw require, and is it included?

This screw uses a T40 6-lobe drive. For best results, use a low-speed 1/2-in. drill paired with a 6-lobe T40 driver bit. A T40 driver bit is included with qualifying packages of SDWS screws.

What building codes does this screw comply with?

The Simpson Strong-Drive SDWS Timber Screw is code listed in IAPMO UES ER-192 and meets IRC and IBC code requirements for most common wood framing applications, making it appropriate for use on permitted residential and commercial framing projects.