Structural Wood Screws
Structural Wood Screws for Strong, Lasting Connections
Structural wood screws are engineered for heavy-duty fastening in wood-to-wood applications, providing superior holding power compared to traditional nails or lag bolts. Designed with aggressive threads and durable coatings, these screws make construction projects faster, safer, and more efficient. Whether you're building a deck, framing, or working on a larger structural project, these screws deliver the strength you can rely on.
When to Use Structural Screws
Structural screws are the go-to choice when you need stronger, safer connections than traditional nails or lag bolts can provide. Use them for applications that require high load-bearing capacity and long-term reliability, such as:
- Attaching ledger boards to rim joists in deck construction
- Securing beams, posts, and other framing members
- Connecting multiple trusses or installing truss plates
- Fastening cross-laminated timber (CLT) panels in mass timber builds
- Outdoor projects where corrosion resistance and code approval matter
If your project demands structural integrity and time-saving installation, structural wood screws are often a superior alternative to lag screws and bolts.
Types of Structural Wood Screws We Offer
We carry a wide selection of structural wood screws to meet your project needs:
- Connector Screws – Engineered for use with structural wood connectors like joist hangers and brackets.
- Truss Plate Screws – Designed for secure installation of truss plates in roof and floor systems.
- Flat Head Structural Screws – Provide a flush finish for a clean look and improved load distribution.
- Hex Head Structural Screws – Offer maximum torque and driving power for heavy-duty applications.
- Multi-Ply Truss Screws – Securely fasten multiple trusses together in engineered roof systems.
- Cross-Laminated Timber Screws – Long structural screws designed for CLT panels and mass timber projects.
Frequently Asked Questions About Structural Wood Screws
What makes structural screws different from regular wood screws?
Structural screws are engineered with higher shear and tensile strength, heavy-duty threads, and specialized coatings. Many are code-approved for load-bearing applications, unlike standard wood screws which are designed for lighter-duty fastening.
Do structural screws replace lag bolts?
Yes, in most applications structural screws can replace lag bolts. They provide comparable or greater strength while eliminating the need for pre-drilling, making installation faster and easier.
Can structural screws be used outdoors?
Yes. Many structural wood screws feature corrosion-resistant coatings or stainless steel options, making them suitable for decks, fencing, pergolas, and other outdoor projects.
Do I need to pre-drill before using structural screws?
No, most structural screws are self-tapping and designed to drive directly into wood without pre-drilling. However, in hardwoods or extremely dense material, pre-drilling may still help reduce splitting and ease installation.
Still have questions about structural wood screws? Check out our FAQ on Structural Screws, or learn What are Better: Nails or Screws.
Find it Fast. Get it Fast.
If you have any questions about structural wood screws, call our Product Experts at (888) 794-1590 or email customerservice@fastenersplus.com. We’ll help you find exactly what you need.