Simpson Strong-Drive SDWS .22x4″ Structural Wood Screw 50ct

The Simpson Strong-Drive SDWS .22x4” structural wood screw eliminates pre-drilling in most applications while delivering code-compliant strength for wood-to-wood connections. These screws feature a 0.220” diameter shaft, 4” length, and carry IAPMO UES ER-192 certification while meeting 2012 and 2015 IRC requirements.

Worth it for contractors who need fast, code-compliant structural connections. The saw-tooth point saves real time on framing projects, and the T40 drive means no cam-out frustration. Skip it if you’re just hanging a picture frame — these are structural screws with structural pricing.

No Pre-Drilling Changes Everything

The saw-tooth point design eliminates pre-drilling requirements in most applications while reducing installation torque. That’s hours saved on a typical framing project. No switching between drill bits and drivers. No pilot hole alignment issues. Just drive and move on.

The bold thread design delivers high holding power, while the T40 six-lobe drive provides positive engagement. Anyone who’s stripped out a Phillips head on a lag bolt knows why this matters. The T40 won’t cam out under high torque.

The low-profile washer head allows for flush or near-flush finishing. At 0.760” diameter, the head provides substantial bearing surface without creating proud spots that interfere with sheathing or finish materials.

Structural Performance That Counts

Specification	Value
Diameter	0.220 inches
Length	4 inches
Drive Type	T40 (six-lobe/star drive)
Head Style	Low-profile washer head
Certifications	IAPMO UES ER-192
Code Compliance	2012 and 2015 IRC

These screws handle wood-to-wood structural framing, decks and pergolas, truss assemblies, beam and joist connections, and both interior and exterior timber construction. They’re positioned as a high-strength alternative to traditional lag screws and through-bolting.

The 4” length works perfectly for connecting doubled-up 2x material or securing beams to posts. In Montana’s timber frame market, that extra inch over the 3” version matters when you’re joining substantial members.

Interior vs Exterior Coatings Make the Difference

Simpson offers two coating options that determine where you can use these screws:

E-Coat (Black): Interior-grade protection for dry service conditions. Use these inside the building envelope where moisture isn’t a concern. The black coating resists corrosion in controlled environments.

Double-Barrier (Tan): Exterior-grade coating for outdoor applications and preservative-treated lumber. This coating handles Montana’s freeze-thaw cycles, spring moisture, and ACQ-treated lumber. The double-barrier coating offers corrosion resistance suitable for exterior applications.

Choose wrong and you’ll see rust streaks within a season. The tan exterior screws cost more but they’re mandatory for decks, exterior stairs, and anywhere you’re using treated lumber.

The 50-count package includes the structural wood screws. Note that snippets do not explicitly confirm if a T40 drive bit is included in the 50ct pack, though it is standard for many Simpson 50ct packs.

FAQ

What’s the actual shear strength of these screws? The screws are certified under IAPMO UES ER-192 and meet 2012 and 2015 IRC requirements for structural timber fasteners. Specific load values depend on wood species and installation details — check the ER-192 report for your application.

Does this need the T40 driver or will a regular Torx work? These screws require a T40 drive bit for proper installation. Don’t try to make do with a T35 or T45 — you’ll strip the head or damage the bit.

Can the black E-Coat screws be used on a covered porch? No. Covered doesn’t mean interior. Any exterior exposure requires the tan Double-Barrier coating. Montana’s temperature swings and moisture cycles will rust through E-Coat protection even under cover.

How do these compare to lag bolts for ledger boards? Simpson positions these as a high-strength alternative to traditional lag screws and through-bolting, offering faster and easier installation. They’re code-approved for many ledger applications but always verify with your local inspector.

Will these split Douglas fir without pre-drilling? The saw-tooth point design eliminates pre-drilling requirements in most applications. Dense, dry Doug fir near the end of a board might still split — use common sense about edge distances.