The Simpson Strong-Drive SDWS Timber Screw in 0.220" x 3" with Double-Barrier Coating (Tan) delivers a high-strength, easy-to-install fastening solution for structural wood-to-wood connections. Engineered by Simpson Strong-Tie as a direct alternative to through-bolting and traditional lag screws, this washer-head timber screw is equally suited to professional contractors and do-it-yourself builders tackling common wood framing applications. Its SawTooth point, bold thread design, and corrosion-resistant finish combine to reduce installation effort while meeting strict code requirements - making it a dependable choice for both interior framing and certain exterior or preservative-treated wood projects.

Key Features

• Double-Barrier Coating with corrosion resistance equivalent to hot-dip galvanization - provides lasting protection in certain exterior environments and preservative-treated wood applications, reducing the risk of fastener failure over time.
• SawTooth point design - enables fast, accurate starts, lowers installation torque, and eliminates the need for predrilling in most applications, saving significant time on the job site.
• T40 6-Lobe drive type - delivers positive bit engagement that reduces cam-out, makes driving easier even in dense lumber, and extends the working life of the driver bit.
• Large washer head (0.760" head diameter) - creates a wide bearing surface that distributes load across the wood face, improving pull-through resistance and connection performance.
• Underhead nibs - allow the head to seat flush with the wood surface cleanly and with minimal splintering, producing a neater, more professional finish.
• 5 TPI bold thread with 1-1/2" thread length - maximizes thread engagement for superior holding power in timber-to-timber connections.
• Code listed in IAPMO UES ER-192, meeting IRC and IBC requirements - gives contractors confidence that the fastener is approved for most common wood framing applications without needing to source separate engineering documentation.
• Size identification marked on screw head - simplifies job-site organization and helps ensure the correct fastener is used for each application.
• Tan color finish - blends naturally with common lumber tones, producing a cleaner appearance on exposed structural connections.

Why This Product

• Replaces through-bolting and lag screws without predrilling - the SawTooth point and 0.220" shank diameter allow direct installation into most wood framing members, cutting labor time and eliminating the need for additional drilling equipment in standard applications.
• Corrosion resistance matched to hot-dip galvanization - the Double-Barrier Coating makes this screw suitable for certain exterior and preservative-treated wood uses, as described in the evaluation report, giving builders flexibility across a wider range of project conditions.
• Meets current IRC and IBC code requirements - code listing under IAPMO UES ER-192 means inspectors and contractors can rely on this fastener for most common wood framing connections without additional engineering justification.
• Designed for straightforward installation with standard equipment - installs best with a low-speed 1/2-in. drill and a T40 6-lobe driver bit, making it accessible to both trade professionals and experienced DIY builders.

Specifications

• Brand: Simpson Strong-Tie
• Shank Diameter (in.): 0.220
• Length (in.): 3
• Head Diameter (in.): 0.760
• Head Type: Washer Head
• Drive Type: T40 6-Lobe
• Point Type: SawTooth Point
• Thread Length (in.): 1 1/2
• TPI: 5
• Coating: Double-Barrier Coating
• Finish: Double-Barrier Coating
• Color: Tan
• Code Listing: IAPMO UES ER-192; meets IRC and IBC code requirements for most common wood framing applications

Available Pack Options

• SDWS22300DB-R12: 12 Pk - includes one 6-lobe, T40 driver bit
• SDWS22300DB-R50: 50 Pk - includes one 6-lobe, T40 driver bit
• SDWS22300DBMB: 250 Pk - includes one 6-lobe, T40 driver bit
• SDWS22300DB: 950 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

Do I need to predrill before installing this timber screw?

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-start directly into wood framing without a pilot hole in most standard uses.

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

Yes, in certain applications. The Double-Barrier Coating provides corrosion resistance equivalent to hot-dip galvanization, making it suitable for certain exterior and preservative-treated wood applications as described in the IAPMO UES ER-192 evaluation report. Always verify the specific end-use conditions against the evaluation report requirements.

What driver bit does this screw require?

This screw uses a T40 6-lobe drive. It installs best with a low-speed 1/2-in. drill and a T40 6-lobe driver bit. Positive bit engagement from the 6-lobe design reduces cam-out and improves driver bit longevity.

Is this screw code approved for structural wood framing?

Yes. The Strong-Drive SDWS Timber Screw is code listed under IAPMO UES ER-192 and meets IRC and IBC code requirements for most common wood framing applications, providing assurance for both residential and commercial construction projects.