Simpson Deck-Drive DCU Composite Screw in #10 x 2-3/4" with a Tan 03 color-matched painted head is engineered specifically for fastening composite and PVC decking in demanding outdoor environments. Built from Type 316 stainless steel, this cap-head screw delivers severe-level corrosion resistance - making it an ideal choice for coastal installations, poolside decking, and any application where chlorides or harsh moisture exposure are a concern. The color-matching Tan 03 finish blends seamlessly with popular composite decking brands, producing a clean, professional result that hides hardware from view.

Key Features

• Type 316 Stainless Steel material - provides severe-level corrosion resistance, especially suited for environments with chlorides such as coastal or pool-area decking where lesser alloys would corrode prematurely
• Type-17 Point - penetrates composite and PVC decking cleanly without pre-drilling, saving installation time and reducing splitting risk
• Tri-Lobe Threads with inverted upper threads - clears excess material during installation to ensure a flush, secure, debris-free finish at the screw head
• Cap Head with 0.230 in. head diameter - seats firmly against composite decking surfaces for a tight, low-profile hold without over-driving
• T20 6-Lobe drive type - provides excellent bit engagement and torque transfer, reducing cam-out and driver fatigue during repetitive deck installations
• Tan 03 color-matched painted head - blends with popular manufacturers' composite decking for a more concealed, professional appearance that doesn't draw attention to fasteners
• 2-3/4 in. length - sized for reliable penetration depth into composite decking boards and the substructure below, producing a secure long-term connection

Why This Product

• Purpose-built for composite and PVC decking - the DCU's Type-17 point and inverted upper threads are engineered together to handle the unique material properties of composite decking, eliminating the guesswork of using general-purpose screws
• Severe-level corrosion resistance where it matters most - Type 316 stainless steel is specifically suited for chloride-heavy environments like oceanfront homes and pool decks, where standard stainless or coated screws may fail over time
• Clean finish without extra steps - the inverted upper threads actively clear composite material from the screw hole as it drives, so installers get a flush, professional result on every fastener without sanding or cleanup
• Color-matching head reduces visible hardware - the Tan 03 painted cap head is designed to blend with popular composite decking products, giving the finished deck a polished look that homeowners and contractors both appreciate

Specifications

• Brand: Simpson Strong-Tie
• Screw Size: #10
• Length: 2-3/4 in.
• Head Type: Cap Head
• Head Diameter: 0.230 in.
• 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: Tan 03

Available Pack Options

• DCU234C316TN03: 70 Pk - includes 1 driver bit included
• DCU234P316TN03: 350 Pk - includes 1 driver bit included
• DCU234MB316TN03: 1750 Pk - includes 2 driver bits included

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of decking is the Deck-Drive DCU Composite Screw compatible with?

The Deck-Drive DCU is engineered for all types of composite and PVC decking. Its Type-17 point and Tri-Lobe thread design are specifically developed to penetrate and secure composite materials cleanly without pre-drilling.

Why is Type 316 stainless steel used instead of Type 304 or a coated alternative?

Type 316 stainless steel contains molybdenum, which gives it severe-level corrosion resistance - particularly in environments with chlorides such as saltwater coastal areas and pool surroundings. This makes it a more durable choice than Type 304 or standard coated screws for those specific conditions.

What driver bit is recommended for the Deck-Drive DCU Composite Screw?

The DCU uses a T20 6-Lobe drive, and the compatible replacement driver bit is the BIT20T-2-R2. Using the correct bit ensures proper torque transfer and reduces cam-out during installation.

What does the Tan 03 color designation mean, and how do I know if it matches my decking?

Tan 03 refers to the specific painted cap head color applied to these screws, designed to blend with popular composite decking products from leading manufacturers. Refer to the Composite-Decking Color Cross-Reference chart in the Downloads section below to confirm compatibility with your specific decking brand and color.

Downloads and Resources

• Composite-Decking Color Cross-Reference chart

Related Products

• - Compatible T20 6-Lobe driver bit for use with DCU composite screws
• Deck-Drive Screw Plug Solution - Color-matching DCU screw plugs for a fully concealed fastener finish