The use of screws instead of nails

[Inland_Empire_CA]

I am in SoCal USA,

do most building codes allow the use of screws in place of nails for floor, ceiling and wall framing and build-up beams. I am refering to the yellow zinc plated screws or deck screws. size 8, 3-31/2 inches long.

I trust screws better especially in tailnailing.

Thanks

[Don_P]

No they do not satisfy code for structural applications unless they are of equal material (they typically aren't) and diameter.
Deck screws, drywall screws, etc. are normally hardened and brittle with low/unpredictable shear characteristics. There are screws that are useable for framing, they will say so on the box and will have an "ESR" or code approval number on the package.

You can search around the AWC's connections calculator or some of the references on their website and learn more.
http://www.awc.org/calculators/index.html

[diy149]

As Don_P already said, your every day garden variety screw does not have the correct strength ratings to do what nails do in those situations.

There are screws that are engineered to be stronger, these are structural screws.

I know of two companies but would suppose there are more:
GRK Fasteners carries a few lines. I used the RSS (Rugged Structural Screw) and was pleased. Simpson makes the SD (Strong-Drive) product designed to replace nails in certain situations.

Both companies publish load values or ratings for their products.