Sinsun Stainless Steel Roofing Screws - Rust-Proof, Durable Fasteners for All Roofing Projects
Sinsun offers 304, 316 & 410 stainless steel roofing screws – self-drilling, bonded EPDM, salt-spray rated. Choose by corrosion level. Factory direct.
Get a Quick QouteSinsun Stainless Steel Roofing Screws: 304 / 316 / 410 – Full Grade Range for Every Corrosive Environment
It's important to clear up a misperception: "Stainless steel" is not a single materialAt any roofing supply store, you’ll find stainless steel roofing screws labeled simply as "stain steel”—a vague description that can even pose safety risks. In the event that you choose the wrong grade of screws for an unsuitable roof, they will still corrode, albeit slowly.Among them, 304 is the workhorse for farm and suburban applications; 316 is the molybdenum-containing “marine champion,” designed specifically to resist salt corrosion; and 410 is an extremely durable, magnetic material with self-tapping capabilities.
At Sinsun, we stock all three grades, which customers often refer to as marine-grade Tek screws, rust-resistant self-tapping screws, or alloy roofing fasteners. It's not enough just to grab what's on the shelf-the right alloy depends on the application and environment.
So, how does Sinsun differ from bulk importers who only sell mysterious products? Our products are clearly labeled. We test every batch, and all three grades come equipped with the same adhesive EPDM washers and precision heat-treated drill bits. Many sellers treat 304 and 316 as interchangeable, but this is not the case: 316 commands a higher price because of its superior durability in salt spray environments; 410 is less expensive because it is magnetic and has higher hardness, but it cannot withstand long-term use in coastal environments. We label the exact grade on every box, so you never have to guess and you will never be disappointed. Simply select the grade you need, and we’ll ship the correct screws to you.
| Grade | Size | Length (inches) | Drill Point | Head Style | Washer | Salt Spray (hrs) | Tensile (psi) |
| 304 | #12 – #14 | 1" – 3" | Point 3 / 4 | Hex Washer | Bonded EPDM | 500+ | 105,000 |
| 316 | #12 – #14 | 1" – 4" | Point 4 / 5 | Hex Washer | Bonded EPDM | 1,200+ | 95,000 |
| 410 | #12 – #14 | 1" – 3-1/2" | Point 3 / 4 / 5 | Hex Washer | Bonded EPDM | 400+ | 150,000 |
Technical Parameters

Material: Material

Surface Treatment

Salt Spray Resistance

Tensile Strength

Working Temperature

Washer Material

Thread Type

Drill Capacity
Primary Applications & Grade Matching
1. Coastal & Direct Salt Spray – Choose 316 Stainless
Don't guess if the roof is less than 1 km from the ocean or gets direct salt spray from the waves. The molybdenum in 316 stainless steel prevents pitting corrosion that eats away at 304 and 410 steel. I've seen 316 screws taken out of a pier after ten years and they are still shiny. Caribbean villas, Norwegian fishing docks, and Australian beach shacks all use Sinsun 316 screws. Pay extra. You can't replace them.
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2. Inland Farms, Barns & Suburbs – Choose 304 Stainless
Ammonia, manure gases, and a little bit of humidity? 304 does a good job of it. It's the most common austenitic stainless steel. It's not magnetic, can be shaped easily, and costs 30% less than 316. 304 is the most suitable choice for chicken houses, dairy barns, or roofs on homes more than 5 km from salt water. The drill points and EPDM washers on Sinsun 304 screws are the same as on other screws. They won't leave rust streaks like galvanized steel, and they won't cost you much money.
Contact us3.Heavy Structural & Thick Steel – Choose 410 Stainless
Need power to drive 14-gauge purlins? 410 is martensitic stainless steel. It can be magnetized, heat-treated, and is harder than 304 or 316. This is the most ideal grade for self-drilling screws because the tip stays sharp longer. What do you give up? Less resistance to corrosion. Use 410 for industrial sheds, mezzanine floors, or any other use where the main problem is the steel thickness and there is no salt. For structural framing, our most popular screw is the Sinsun 410.
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4. Chemical Plants, Pool Enclosures & High-Humidity – 316 or 304 Depending on Chemical
316 is needed for chlorine, acid wash, or pool chemicals. Simple humidity without harsh chemicals? 304 works. I always tell people who want to buy something to do a 24-hour salt spray test on a sample if they're not sure. We can do that for you. Chlorine vapor and condensation eat away at 304 in a few years on indoor pool roofs. Get 316 and sleep well.
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Your Environment |
Recommended Grade |
Why |
| Within 1 km of ocean, direct salt spray | 316 | Molybdenum resists pitting |
| 1-10 km from coast, moderate salt | 304 or 316 (304 usually fine) | 304 is cost-effective |
| Farms, barns, ammonia, manure | 304 | Resists agricultural gases |
| Chemical plants, pool enclosures | 316 | Chlorides and acids |
| Thick steel (14-gauge+), structural | 410 | High hardness, self-drilling |
| Inland residential, dry climate | 304 | Best value |
Here's a tip: Don't rely on magnets to determine the grade of stainless steel, since some inexpensive 304 stainless steel may become slightly magnetic after cold working.Be sure to request a factory certificate; Sinsun can provide a batch test report upon request.
In installation precautions for 316 stainless steel: Its hardness is slightly lower than that of 410 stainless steel, so please lower the screwdriver speed to 1,500 RPM to prevent seizing; you can also apply a drop of wax or slow down the trigger pull speed—this will make a big difference.
Installation Guide (Simplified)
Installing Sinsun stainless steel roofing screws is easy—even if you’re not a seasoned pro. No specialized tools are needed, and you’ll cut installation time by 30% compared to traditional screws.
Customer Feedback
I tried 410 first because it was cheaper, but it had surface rust around the ventilation outlets. Changed to Sinsun 304. The cows' ammonia didn't hurt them. The self-drilling point also easily penetrates our steel cladding. "My roofer was impressed."
"We put together pre-engineered buildings with thick purlins." Many stainless screws break or strip. The Point 5 tip on the Sinsun 410 is magnetic and sharp, and it bites. We used only two dull bits to finish a job with 2,000 screws. This is the most durable structural stainless screw we've used for the money.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What’s the difference between 304, 316, and 410 stainless steel roofing screws?
A: 304 is general purpose (farms, suburbs). 316 has molybdenum for salt water (coasts, pools). 410 is hard and magnetic (thick steel, structural). Pick by environment.
Q: Can I use 410 stainless screws near the ocean?
A: No. 410 will show rust pitting within 2-3 years. Use 316 within 1 km of salt water. 410 is for inland structural work only.
Q: Are 316 stainless steel roofing screws worth the extra cost?
A: Yes, if you’re within 1 km of salt spray or chemicals. For inland, 304 is fine. The cost difference is about 30-40%, but replacing screws on a beach house costs more.
Q: Do stainless steel roofing screws need special washers?
A: All Sinsun stainless screws come with bonded EPDM washers – same as our carbon steel line. No special washer needed. EPDM resists UV and temperature.
Q: Why are 410 stainless screws magnetic but 304 and 316 aren’t?
A: 410 is martensitic stainless – hardened by heat treatment, which makes it magnetic. 304 and 316 are austenitic – non-magnetic. Magnetism doesn’t indicate quality.
Q: What grade should I use for a swimming pool enclosure?
A: 316. Chlorine vapors in high humidity will corrode 304 within a few years. 316’s molybdenum resists pitting from chlorides.
Get Your Custom Quote Today
Whether you need small batches for a residential project or bulk orders for a large industrial job, Sinsun has you covered. We understand high-end projects demand high-quality fasteners, so we never cut corners. Contact our team now for a competitive quote—we’ll help you pick the right screws, deliver on time, and ensure your roof stays secure for decades. No rust, no leaks, just reliable performance you can trust.
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