Simpson Strong-Drive SDWH TIMBER-HEX Stainless Steel Structural Screw - 0.275" Diameter x 10" Length by Simpson is a heavy-duty hex-head fastener engineered as a direct replacement for traditional lag screws in structural wood-framing applications. Constructed from Type 316 stainless steel, this screw delivers maximum corrosion protection in demanding environments including coastal, wet, and chemically exposed settings where standard fasteners would fail prematurely. With no predrilling required in most applications, it dramatically reduces installation time and labor compared to conventional lag screws - making it a practical choice for framers, contractors, and serious DIYers who need code-compliant structural connections without the added steps.

Key Features

• Type 316 Stainless Steel Material and Finish - provides exceptional resistance to saltwater, moisture, and corrosive environments, making it well-suited for coastal construction, outdoor decking, and applications involving pressure-treated lumber or chemical exposure.
• No Predrilling Required - eliminates a time-consuming step compared to traditional lag screws, speeding up installation and reducing the tools needed on the job site.
• Sharp Point Tip - self-starts into wood without pilot holes in most framing applications, allowing faster, more consistent placement.
• Hex Washer Head with 1/2 in. Hex Drive - the large 0.655 in. head diameter distributes bearing load over a wider area, reducing wood crushing while the hex drive delivers high torque transfer with a standard impact driver or wrench.
• Box Thread Design - unique thread geometry with raised-ridge technology significantly reduces driving torque, making the screw easier to drive fully into dense framing lumber without overexertion or tool strain.
• 3 in. Thread Engagement Length - provides strong mechanical grip in the receiving member, supporting structural load requirements in common wood-framing connections.
• Meets 2018 and 2021 IRC and IBC Code Requirements - pre-engineered for compliance in several common wood-framing applications, reducing the need for additional engineering sign-off on qualifying projects.
• Driver Bit Included - the package includes a driver bit so you can begin installation immediately without sourcing additional accessories.

Why This Product

• A true lag screw alternative with fewer steps - because no predrilling is required in most applications, this structural screw replaces the traditional drill-then-lag workflow, cutting installation time and reducing the chance of misaligned pilot holes in critical framing connections.
• Built for harsh and corrosive environments - Type 316 stainless steel is the material standard for applications exposed to saltwater, treated lumber chemicals, and prolonged moisture - giving this screw the durability that carbon steel or zinc-plated fasteners simply cannot match in those conditions.
• Code compliance already built in - meeting 2018 and 2021 IRC and IBC requirements for common wood-framing applications means this screw can be specified confidently on permitted projects without requiring custom engineering calculations for qualifying connections.
• Designed for real-world driving performance - the box thread design with raised-ridge technology actively reduces the torque needed to fully seat the fastener, which matters on a job where you may be driving dozens of structural screws into dense lumber throughout the day.

Specifications

• Brand: Simpson Strong-Tie
• Material: Type 316 Stainless Steel
• Finish: Type 316 Stainless Steel
• Shank Diameter (in.): 0.275
• Length (in.): 10
• Head Type: Hex Washer Head
• Head Diameter (in.): 0.655
• Drive Type: 1/2 in. Hex
• Thread Type: Box Threads
• Thread Length (in.): 3
• Point Type: Sharp Point

Available Pack Options

• SDWH271000SS-R5: 5 Pk - includes (1) driver bit
• SDWH271000SS-R25: 25 Pk - includes (1) driver bit

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this screw require predrilling before installation?

No - the Simpson Strong-Drive SDWH TIMBER-HEX stainless steel screw features a sharp point and box thread design that allow it to be driven directly into wood without predrilling in most applications, saving time and simplifying the installation process compared to traditional lag screws.

What building codes does this screw meet?

This structural screw meets 2018 and 2021 IRC (International Residential Code) and IBC (International Building Code) requirements for several common wood-framing applications, making it suitable for use on code-inspected residential and commercial framing projects.

Why is Type 316 stainless steel used for this screw?

Type 316 stainless steel offers a higher level of corrosion resistance than standard stainless grades, making it appropriate for outdoor construction, coastal environments, and applications involving pressure-treated lumber or exposure to moisture and chemicals where standard carbon steel or lower-grade stainless fasteners would corrode prematurely.

What drive tool do I need to install this screw?

This screw uses a 1/2 in. hex drive, compatible with a standard 1/2 in. hex bit, impact driver, or wrench. A driver bit is included with the product so you can begin installation right away without sourcing additional tooling.

Note: Product dimensions and/or thread length may differ from picture.