11 best deck screws

Deck screws are specialized fasteners designed for use in outdoor and decking applications. They are a crucial component when building or renovating decks, as they offer several advantages over traditional nails or generic screws. Here's what you should know about deck screws:

  1. Material: Deck screws are typically made from corrosion-resistant materials to withstand exposure to outdoor elements. Stainless steel, galvanized steel, and coated steel are commonly used materials. These materials help prevent rust and corrosion, ensuring the longevity of the fasteners.

  2. Thread Design: Deck screws have a specific thread design that allows them to grip wood securely. They often feature coarse threads with a sharp point, which helps the screw penetrate the wood without the need for pre-drilling.

  3. Head Types: Deck screws come with various head types, with the most common being the countersunk or flat head, which sits flush with the surface of the wood. Other head types include bugle heads and trim heads.

  4. Drive Types: Deck screws typically have a square or star-shaped drive (commonly referred to as "square drive" or "Torx drive"). These drive types provide better torque transfer and minimize the risk of the screwdriver slipping or stripping the screw head during installation.

  5. Coatings: Many deck screws come with additional coatings or treatments to further enhance their resistance to rust and corrosion. For example, some screws have ceramic or epoxy coatings, which provide extra protection against moisture and UV exposure.

  6. Length and Size: Deck screws are available in various lengths and sizes to accommodate different decking materials and thicknesses. Choosing the right length is essential to ensure a secure connection without protruding screws or insufficient grip.

  7. Use in Decking: Deck screws are specifically designed for attaching decking boards to the underlying framework. Their sharp point and self-drilling ability make it easy to drive them into wood without splitting the boards. They create a strong connection that holds decking materials securely in place.

  8. Other Outdoor Applications: Besides decking, deck screws are suitable for various outdoor applications, such as building fences, pergolas, and outdoor furniture, where resistance to weather and corrosion is essential.

  9. Pre-drilling: In some cases, pre-drilling pilot holes may be necessary, especially near the ends of boards or close to the board's edge.Pre-drilling helps prevent splitting and ensures accurate screw placement.

  10. Maintenance: To maintain the integrity of a deck over time, it's essential to periodically inspect the deck screws for signs of rust or corrosion. Replacing damaged or corroded screws can help prevent structural issues.

In summary, deck screws are specialized fasteners designed for outdoor and decking applications. They are essential for creating secure and long-lasting connections in deck construction and other outdoor projects. By selecting the right type, size, and material of deck screws, you can ensure the durability and stability of your outdoor structures.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best deck screws on the market
  

100 Qty #9 x 2-1/2" Inch Tan Fence & Deck Screws | Torx Star Drive | Bit Included (SNG919)

Snug Fastener

Based on 773 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Premium Corrosion Resistant Ultra-Guard Tan Coating. Package of 100 Self Tapping Type 17 Screws. Bugle Shaped Head With Nibs For Better Head Concealment . Star Drive Allows For Fast & Easy Installation. Sharp Cutting Threads To Provide A Better Long Lasting Hold

  • Premium Corrosion Resistant Ultra-Guard Tan Coating

User questions & answers

Question: What size is the bit
Answer: I do not recall, but it comes with one. I think its a 20-25 Torx if I recall
Question: What is the size of the Torx bit? I want to buy some extra Torx bits
Answer: Use a powered drill-driver. If battery power does not work, use a driver with an electric cord. Pre-drilling a pilot hole usually works, too. But here's a little trick for you. When the screw wont go in any further, reverse your driver and back the screw out almost all the way. Then, set the driver to forward and send the screw all the way in. This works for me, hope it works for you, too!
Question: It does come with a bit. However, >trying 3x I can't get any of them to "go all the way" in. Suggestions
Answer: They're the ones for the job. Treated wood is typical for fences and decks, so it doesn't rot away as fast, and termites are less likely to eat it. Really, any screw or nail is ok with treated or untreated, you'd just want ones that are galvanized(as nearly all are), and extra coating(as these have) for outdoor applications so they dont rust away as fast.
Question: ok for treated wood
Answer: I wouldn't. I would use 10-inch timber screws, screwed straight down to the cross supports and metal hurricane brackets for extra strength.

Hillman Fasteners 48419 Deck Screws, (#10 x 3), Tan, 310 Count

Hillman Fasteners

Based on 633 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Hillman Star Drive Deck Screws feature a star drive style and are great for a variety of applications. Star drive helps transfer torque and prevent cam outs. Self-drilling cut point. Flat head with countersinking nibs. Coarse/serrated thread. Provides superior rust and corrosion protection. 5 lbs Size: 3" x #10 Finish: Tan Star drive Self-drilling cut point Flat head with countersinking nibs Coarse/serrated thread Provides superior rust and corrosion protection For use in a variety of applications.

  • Strong and durable
  • Coarse/serrated thread
  • For use in a variety of applications
  • Flat head leaves a clean, even finish

User questions & answers

Question: Description says they are flat head, are they flat head or star head
Answer: The screws are more of a gold than a tan. If you want a true tan, try looking up Simpson Strong-Tie. Those are a true tan and far superior in quality to Hillman fasteners. Hope this helps!
Question: The description says tan, but the picture looks as if the screws are yellow. Would you say they are more tan than the picture shows
Answer: Screws come in a clear reusable plastic container, half of the lid opens while the other half stays sealed or u can remove entire lid.
Question: What kind of a container do they come in? Cardboard box? Re-usable plastic container
Answer: It actually comes with the bit but it is a t-25
Question: What size Torx bit does this take? T-20 or t
Answer: T 25

Power Pro 48611 Premium Outdoor Wood and Deck Screws Rust Resistant for Exterior Use, #9 x 3", 5lb Tub, Epoxy Coated Bronze, 417pcs

Power Pro

Based on 969 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Hillman 48611 Power Pro Premium Exterior Wood Screw, 9 X 3-Inch, 450 pack.

  • ENGINEERED FOR THE OUTDOORS: Ideal for decking and any outdoor wood project
  • BEST-IN-CLASS CORROSION PROTECTION: Bronze epozy coating offers superior rust and corrosion protection
  • SELF-STARTING TIP: Offers 20 percent faster engagement into wood; no splitting
  • UNIQUE STAR DRIVE TECHNOLOGY: T25 Drive size virtually eliminates camout for a smooth effortless drive every time
  • 5lb Tub contains approximately 417 pieces; this assortment is sold by weight and actual piece count may vary.

User questions & answers

Question: can i use these to secure the joists on a pergola
Answer: I would think so but I would use something different because cedar is such a soft wood.
Question: can power pro screws be used on cedar without staining
Answer: Can't answer specifically for red oak but they have work well in every application I have used them on, hard / soft woods & plywood.
Question: Are these screws right for red oak framing
Answer: Yes
Question: Does tip for drill come with it
Answer: Yes, I think so. I countersink all my screw holes, and that takes the 21/2 inch screws almost through the second 2x4. I like these screws. They drive easily and don't break. Torx drives are the best, too.

Product features

No Strip Star Drive

No Strip Star Drive has 6 points of contact that maximize drive torque and eliminate splitting.

Countersinking Blades

Contersinking Blades cut a perfect finished hole by transporting wood fibers out and sealing the surface.

No Split Twist Shank

No Split Twist Shank slightly enlarges hole which provides reduced drive friction and prevents wood splitting.

No Pre-Drill Bore-Fast Thread

Bore-Fast Serrated Thread design allows screw point to start fast and rive easy without pre-drilling.

Perfect for your new wood deck!

Power Pro Premium Exterior Wood Screws - Featuring a patented design that requires no pre-drilling, Power Pro Premium Exterior Wood Screws are made from 1022 grade steel with a bronze polymer coating that complements most wood finishes. Perfect for DIY and commercial decking and exterior wood projects. Recommended for use with treated lumber.

100 Qty #8 x 1-5/8" Inch Tan Fence & Deck Screws | Torx Star Drive | Bit Included (SNG917)

Snug Fastener

Based on 419 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Premium Corrosion Resistant Ultra-Guard Tan Coating. Package of 100 Self Tapping Type 17 Screws. Bugle Shaped Head With Nibs For Better Head Concealment . Star Drive Allows For Fast & Easy Installation. Sharp Cutting Threads To Provide A Better Long Lasting Hold

  • Premium Corrosion Resistant Ultra-Guard Tan Coating

User questions & answers

Question: Are these t25 screws
Answer: No they are t20"s

FastenMaster FMGD003-75 GuardDog Exterior Wood Screw, Tan, 3-Inch, 75-Pack

FASTENMASTER

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

FastenMaster FMGD003-75 GuardDog Exterior Wood Screw, Tan, 3-Inch, 75-Pack

From the Manufacturer

GuardDog is a multipurpose exterior wood fastener that is fully tested and guaranteed in treated wood such as Pressure Treated ACQ, Cedar, and Redwood. GuardDog is the perfect fastener for your wood decking job. The versatile head style can be installed with a PoziSquare Drive (included in every box), #2 square or Philips driver bit. Plus, GuardDog's sharp threads quickly engage and penetrate the lumber for quick and easy installation.

  • Manufactured in china
  • Easy to use
  • Highly durable
  • Guaranteed for life of the project and ACQ approved
  • Versatile Pozisquare drive virtually eliminates cam out
  • Aggressive thread design increases holding power
  • Sharp piercing point for quick and easy installation
  • Free PoziSquare drive included in every box

User questions & answers

Question: Good for attaching plywood subfloor to joists
Answer: Gage is #8
Question: Gage is #10 or
Answer: Fastenmaster has a website: www.fastenmaster.com . The box states"The Guard Dog coating has been tested and approved for use in ACQ, Copper Azole, Cedar, and Redwood applications. This fastener is guaranteed against rust for the life of the project. Note: Corrosion guarantee does not apply when the fastener is used in a salt water application."We just used their deck screws and headlock products on our deck, and were very happy with the ease of use. Look over their website. If you can't get the answers you need perhaps you can email them directly.
Question: What material is the screw made of? If not stainless, what is the coating
Answer: Hope all is well. These are technically a #10 screw. We do not use this system to classify our screws for the most part, and that is why that information is not readily available. If you have any other questions feel free to reach out.
Question: Would it be too much to ask for the size of these screws be easy to find??? are these #9, #10, or what? it may be stated somewhere, but where
Answer: No, the length of shank below the head is too long and smooth to grab the board. You nee all thread.

Product features

FastenMaster FMGD003-75 GuardDog Exterior Wood Screw

GuardDog is a versatile exterior wood screw used for a variety of applications including pressure treated decking, railings, stair stringers, deck frame blocking, dimensional headers, pergolas and more.

Power Pro 48604 Premium Outdoor Wood and Deck Screws Rust Resistant for Exterior Use, #10 x 4", 1lb Box, Epoxy Coated Bronze, 52pcs

Power Pro

Based on 815 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Power Pro premium exterior deck and wood screws feature a no-strip star drive, countersinking blades, no-split twist shank, and no pre-drill, Bore-Fast thread. Power Pro premium exterior deck and wood screws include a limited lifetime guarantee against rust and corrosion. The fastener coating is guaranteed against corrosion in cedar, redwood, and treated lumber for the life of the project. Common project applications include remodeling, fencing, storage assembly, cabinet assembly, and framing.

  • ENGINEERED FOR THE OUTDOORS: Ideal for decking and any outdoor wood project
  • BEST-IN-CLASS CORROSION PROTECTION: Bronze epozy coating offers superior rust and corrosion protection
  • SELF-STARTING TIP: Offers 20 percent faster engagement into wood; no splitting
  • UNIQUE STAR DRIVE TECHNOLOGY: T25 Drive size virtually eliminates camout for a smooth effortless drive every time
  • 1lb Box contains approximately 52 pieces; this assortment is sold by weight and actual piece count may vary.

User questions & answers

Question: Can this be used with cement board
Answer: The additional ridges up on the shank drill out clearance for the shank of the screw in order to minimize splitting.
Question: What’s the purpose of the extra threads higher up on the shank
Answer: They will hold the weight with no problem under normal conditions. If they are suddenly up against violent lateral wind shear, they are not as effective as nails, and are more likely to break/fail.
Question: I want to use these with anchors to suspend a 150 lbs Hardtop. Will 8 screws hold this much weight
Answer: It’s a #10 screw, 4” long.
Question: Is this screw actually 10 inches long
Answer: These are 2-3/8 in length and .120 in width.

Product features

No Strip Star Drive

No Strip Star Drive has 6 points of contact that maximize drive torque and eliminate splitting.

Countersinking Blades

Contersinking Blades cut a perfect finished hole by transporting wood fibers out and sealing the surface.

No Split Twist Shank

No Split Twist Shank slightly enlarges hole which provides reduced drive friction and prevents wood splitting.

No Pre-Drill Bore-Fast Thread

Bore-Fast Serrated Thread design allows screw point to start fast and rive easy without pre-drilling.

Perfect for your new wood deck!

Power Pro Premium Exterior Wood Screws - Featuring a patented design that requires no pre-drilling, Power Pro Premium Exterior Wood Screws are made from 1022 grade steel with a bronze polymer coating that complements most wood finishes. Perfect for DIY and commercial decking and exterior wood projects. Recommended for use with treated lumber.

100 Qty #8 x 2" Inch Tan Fence & Deck Screws | Torx Star Drive | Bit Included (SNG918)

Snug Fastener

Based on 397 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Premium Corrosion Resistant Ultra-Guard Tan Coating. Package of 100 Self Tapping Type 17 Screws. Bugle Shaped Head With Nibs For Better Head Concealment . Star Drive Allows For Fast & Easy Installation. Sharp Cutting Threads To Provide A Better Long Lasting Hold

  • Premium Corrosion Resistant Ultra-Guard Tan Coating

Power Pro 48610 Premium Outdoor Wood and Deck Screws Rust Resistant for Exterior Use, #9 x 2-1/2", 5lb Tub, Epoxy Coated Bronze, 501pcs

Power Pro

Based on 539 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Power Pro premium exterior deck and wood screws feature a no-strip star drive, countersinking blades, no-split twist shank, and no pre-drill, Bore-Fast thread. Power Pro premium exterior deck and wood screws include a limited lifetime guarantee against rust and corrosion. The fastener coating is guaranteed against corrosion in cedar, redwood, and treated lumber for the life of the project. Common project applications include remodeling, fencing, storage assembly, cabinet assembly, and framing.

  • ENGINEERED FOR THE OUTDOORS: Ideal for decking and any outdoor wood project
  • BEST-IN-CLASS CORROSION PROTECTION: Bronze epozy coating offers superior rust and corrosion protection
  • SELF-STARTING TIP: Offers 20 percent faster engagement into wood; no splitting
  • UNIQUE STAR DRIVE TECHNOLOGY: T25 Drive size virtually eliminates camout for a smooth effortless drive every time
  • 5lb Tub contains approximately 501 pieces; this assortment is sold by weight and actual piece count may vary.

User questions & answers

Question: Would these screws be fine for building basment shelving with 2x4s as framing and plywood as shelves
Answer: Like 100 + -
Question: how many in a pack
Answer: it has a bit in it
Question: what size driver bit does these screws take
Answer: I try and stay with t25s because I climb, and 25s do the job. I could go down to 15 or 20s but I don't need small. I just have to change lengths
Question: T20 or T
Answer: Yes they would but this style might not be so great because of the long shaft and probably too long for plywood ..

Product features

No Strip Star Drive

No Strip Star Drive has 6 points of contact that maximize drive torque and eliminate splitting.

Countersinking Blades

Contersinking Blades cut a perfect finished hole by transporting wood fibers out and sealing the surface.

No Split Twist Shank

No Split Twist Shank slightly enlarges hole which provides reduced drive friction and prevents wood splitting.

No Pre-Drill Bore-Fast Thread

Bore-Fast Serrated Thread design allows screw point to start fast and rive easy without pre-drilling.

Perfect for your new wood deck!

Power Pro Premium Exterior Wood Screws - Featuring a patented design that requires no pre-drilling, Power Pro Premium Exterior Wood Screws are made from 1022 grade steel with a bronze polymer coating that complements most wood finishes. Perfect for DIY and commercial decking and exterior wood projects. Recommended for use with treated lumber.

Velocity 9G x 3" Tan Deck Screw 350ct

Phillips

Based on 57 reviews Check latest price
  • Velocity Deck Screw Contractor Pack comes with 350 deck screws and 1 Hexstix bit packaged in a durable and portable plastic storage case.
  • Patented Hexstix drive system with Stick-Tight technology for stable 'anti-wobble' engagement and one-handed installation
  • Velocity Screws are compatible with commonly used star-drives like Torx T20, T25, and Six Lobe
  • 1500 Hour Salt Spray Coating
  • Hi-Low threads offer fast driving and strong plank bonding, sharp piercing tip for instant grip, under head ribs for counter-sinking

Product features

Fastest Starting, Fastest Driving

  • Sharp point for instant bite!
  • Low-Energy threads allow the screws to drive up to 40% faster than the competition.
  • Low-Energy threads also optimizes driver battery life by allowing you to drive 20% more screws than the competition.

One-Handed, Anti-Wobble Installation

  • Stick-Tight allows for one-handed, anti-wobble installation, keeping the other hand free to position material.
  • One-handed, anti-wobble installation keeps your other hand free, allowing you to complete more jobs faster.

Heavy Duty Core

  • Heavy duty core for>
  • Upper and lower threads for assured plank adhesion.
  • Every package contains one or more driver bits.

The Most Universal Screw on the Market

  • Patented Low Energy thread design gives rapid insertion and great holding power.
  • Can be used with a compatible with any other commonly used star-drives.

Countersunk Head

  • Countersunk head with ribs for a flush finish.
  • Super-Sharp tip for instant biting and instant starts.
  • All screws are heavy duty and have tremendous strength and pull-out values
  • All screws receive 1500 hours of salt-spray coating to last a life-time

Ready for Jobs Big and Small!

  • All products come in a convenient heavy duty resealable box that keeps screws neat, clean, and dry.

Power Pro 48598 Premium Outdoor Wood and Deck Screws Rust Resistant for Exterior Use, #9 x 2-1/4", 1lb Box, Epoxy Coated Bronze, 113pcs

Power Pro

Based on 278 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Power Pro premium exterior deck and wood screws feature a no-strip star drive, countersinking blades, no-split twist shank, and no pre-drill, Bore-Fast thread. Power Pro premium exterior deck and wood screws include a limited lifetime guarantee against rust and corrosion. The fastener coating is guaranteed against corrosion in cedar, redwood, and treated lumber for the life of the project. Common project applications include remodeling, fencing, storage assembly, cabinet assembly, and framing.

  • ENGINEERED FOR THE OUTDOORS: Ideal for decking and any outdoor wood project
  • BEST-IN-CLASS CORROSION PROTECTION: Bronze epozy coating offers superior rust and corrosion protection
  • SELF-STARTING TIP: Offers 20 percent faster engagement into wood; no splitting
  • UNIQUE STAR DRIVE TECHNOLOGY: T25 Drive size virtually eliminates camout for a smooth effortless drive every time
  • 1lb Box contains approximately 113 pieces; this assortment is sold by weight and actual piece count may vary.

User questions & answers

Question: Does this screw have torx head
Answer: Yes it's a torx bit.
Question: Does this screw have torx head
Answer: Yes, T25 and bit was included in box.
Question: Does this screw have a "Torx" head, and if so, what size
Answer: I think so. Just be careful not to tighten so much that you pull the screw through the hinge
Question: Would these work OK as stronger door hinge screws to resist kick in
Answer: The head is flat but with a star drive like in the photo. A star or torx drive bit to fit the screws is included in the box.

Product features

No Strip Star Drive

No Strip Star Drive has 6 points of contact that maximize drive torque and eliminate splitting.

Countersinking Blades

Contersinking Blades cut a perfect finished hole by transporting wood fibers out and sealing the surface.

No Split Twist Shank

No Split Twist Shank slightly enlarges hole which provides reduced drive friction and prevents wood splitting.

No Pre-Drill Bore-Fast Thread

Bore-Fast Serrated Thread design allows screw point to start fast and rive easy without pre-drilling.

Perfect for your new wood deck!

Power Pro Premium Exterior Wood Screws - Featuring a patented design that requires no pre-drilling, Power Pro Premium Exterior Wood Screws are made from 1022 grade steel with a bronze polymer coating that complements most wood finishes. Perfect for DIY and commercial decking and exterior wood projects. Recommended for use with treated lumber.

WoodPro Fasteners AP8X112-1 Number-8 by 1-1/2-Inch All Purpose Wood Construction Screws, T20, 1-Pound Net Weight, 210-Piece

WoodPro Fasteners

Based on 782 reviews Check latest price

Product description

WoodPro All Purpose Construction Screws are used for a wide variety of interior and exterior applications from decking to flooring. The secure STAR drive recess helps reduce bit stripping and a sharp Type-17 point allows for easy starting and effortless drilling. Special nibs under the head provide a clean countersink in all types of material. These screws are coated by PPG Industries with a Golden Electro-Polyseal coating. PPG Industries E-Coat is superior to other types of coating because it allows for a thinner coat while still maintaining over 1,000 hours of salt spray protection. The coating is extremely durable in all-weather applications and will not chip or rub off. PPG coating is rated for use in treated lumber. Package includes one STAR bit.

From the Manufacturer

WoodPro All Purpose Construction Screws are used for a wide variety of interior and exterior applications from decking to flooring. The secure STAR drive recess helps reduce bit stripping and a sharp Type-17 point allows for easy starting and effortless drilling. Special nibs under the head provide a clean countersink in all types of material. These screws are coated by PPG Industries with a Golden Electro-Polyseal coating. PPG Industries E-Coat is superior to other types of coating because it allows for a thinner coat while still maintaining over 1,000 hours of salt spray protection. The coating is extremely durable in all-weather applications and will not chip or rub off. PPG coating is rated for use in treated lumber. Package includes one STAR bit.

  • #8 x 1-1/2", Includes One 25mm T-20 Star Bit
  • T-20 Star Drive, Torx(tm) Compatible
  • Sharp Type-17 Point
  • PPG Industries 1,000 Hour E-Coat
  • 1LB NET WT., Approx. 210 Pieces

User questions & answers

Question: Would these fit a 5/16 ID washer or will it fall through
Answer: fall threw
Question: are these rated for presure treated wood
Answer: I have used them on my fence and many other exterior projects including pressure treated wood they work great
Question: will these screws work in the old-type of treated wood
Answer: I’m not exactly sure. I had to replace a few new fence boards and went around to all of the old boards to rescuer them as well and it worked.
Question: Are these considered outdoor screws (rust resistant
Answer: yes, they are weather resistant. I have used hundreds of these building fences on my property. Very good product.

Product features

American Fastening Systems, an American company

We've been selling our own brand of fasteners all over the United States since 1995. We source our products from all over the world from responsibly maintained factories that follow our exact specification. We're dedicated to quality and our reviews don't lie. We stand behind our products and guarantee our product will work as intended.

Looking for a screw that requires no pre-drilling, starts fast, glides through wood with ease and won't slip your bit? Give WoodPro Screws a try, you will never use anything else. These screws are the real deal!

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