Simpson Deck-Drive DCU Composite Screw in #10 x 2-3/4" with Type 305 Stainless Steel finish and Tan 03 color is engineered specifically for composite and PVC decking installations where a clean, professional appearance and long-term corrosion resistance are essential. Built by Simpson Strong-Tie, this cap-head fastener combines a Type-17 point for smooth penetration, inverted upper threads that clear excess material during installation, and a color-matched painted head that blends seamlessly with popular composite decking products - making it a reliable choice for residential and commercial deck construction in demanding outdoor environments, including those exposed to chlorides and moisture.

Key Features

• Type 305 Stainless Steel material - delivers superior corrosion resistance, making this screw especially well-suited for coastal environments, poolside decks, and other applications where chloride exposure is a concern.
• Type-17 Point - penetrates composite and PVC decking cleanly without pre-drilling, reducing installation time and minimizing surface damage around the fastener.
• Inverted upper Tri-Lobe Threads - engineered to clear excess material during driving, ensuring a flush, secure seat with a clean finished appearance on the deck surface.
• Cap Head with 0.230 in. head diameter - provides a low-profile, refined look that sits evenly at the decking surface for a professional finish without excessive countersinking.
• T20 6-Lobe drive type - delivers strong torque transfer and reduces cam-out during installation, improving consistency and control for the installer.
• Tan 03 color-matched painted head - blends with popular composite decking manufacturer profiles so fasteners are less visible, producing a more concealed, polished deck appearance.
• 2-3/4 in. length in #10 screw size - provides adequate thread engagement through composite decking boards into the substructure for a solid, lasting hold.

Why This Product

• Designed specifically for composite and PVC decking - unlike general-purpose screws, the DCU's Type-17 point and inverted Tri-Lobe Threads are engineered to work with composite material properties, preventing the mushrooming and surface damage that can occur with standard fasteners.
• Type 305 Stainless Steel construction provides corrosion resistance that holds up in chloride-rich environments - ideal for projects near the ocean, salt-air regions, or around pools where standard steel fasteners would corrode prematurely.
• Color-matched Tan 03 painted heads blend with popular decking brands - so you do not need to conceal fasteners with plugs or covers to achieve a clean, finished deck surface.
• Compatible with color-matching DCU Screw Plugs and a dedicated driver bit - allowing a fully coordinated installation system that simplifies sourcing and keeps the finished deck looking consistent.

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 305 Stainless Steel
• Finish: Type 305 Stainless Steel
• Color: Tan 03

Available Pack Options

• DCU234P305TN03: 350 Pk - includes 1 driver bit included
• DCU234MB305TN03: 1750 Pk - includes 2 driver bits included

Approved Applications

• Decks - Deck Boards Composite

Frequently Asked Questions

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

The DCU is engineered for all types of composite and PVC decking. Its Type-17 point and inverted Tri-Lobe Threads are specifically designed to penetrate composite material cleanly and clear excess material during installation, making it the appropriate fastener choice for composite deck board applications rather than natural wood decking.

Why is Type 305 Stainless Steel used for this screw?

Type 305 Stainless Steel provides corrosion resistance that is especially suited for environments with chloride exposure - such as coastal or poolside installations. This material choice helps the screw maintain its structural integrity and appearance over time in conditions where standard steel fasteners would corrode or stain surrounding decking material.

What driver bit is compatible with the T20 6-Lobe drive on this screw?

This screw uses a T20 6-Lobe drive. The recommended replacement driver bit is the BIT20T-2-R2, which is sold separately and designed for use with Deck-Drive DCU screws for consistent, accurate driving performance.

Do the painted heads on this screw match specific composite decking brands?

Yes. The Tan 03 color-matched painted heads are designed to blend with popular composite decking manufacturers' profiles for a more concealed, professional-looking installation. You can reference the Composite-Decking Color Cross-Reference chart (available in the Downloads section below) to confirm which decking products align with the Tan 03 color. Compatible color-matching DCU Screw Plugs are also available for an even more finished result.

Downloads and Resources

• Composite-Decking Color Cross-Reference chart

Related Products

• - Compatible T20 6-Lobe driver bit
• Deck-Drive Screw Plug Solution - Color-matching screw plugs for a fully concealed deck surface