Composite Decking Hidden Fasteners Vs Screws

Instead of using screws composite decking makers have designed hidden fastening systems that create a clean smooth surface while providing a solid stable connection to the deck frame.

Composite decking hidden fasteners vs screws. The duralife step clip and fastenator systems are ideal for installing interior deck boards while the cortex plugs are great for hiding screws on steps edge boards and benches. Rather than installing screws through the top of every deck board clips are first attached to the framing boards and the decking is then attached to the clips. Duralife decking offers three composite decking hidden fastening systems to make deck installation fast easy and flexible. If you love the clean look of a fastener free install then check out our selection of hidden deck fasteners for composite decking grooved boards softwoods hardwoods and more.

And a 1 1 4 2 screw if you are using a hidden fastener depending on the type of fastener. The camo system can be used for all types of composite pvc or solid wood decking materials and comes with a limited lifetime warranty. If you are installing fascia or risers always use composite decking screws regardless of the particular decking product line you ve chosen. Because they re just as strong as screws but provide a much nicer finish hidden fastening systems are a superior product to traditional deck fastening methods.

Hidden deck fasteners can be used with composite vinyl cedar ipe or just about any other decking material you want. Camo hidden deck fastening system. Each method has its benefits and shortfalls and ultimately the specific environment of the project along with customer preferences can make that decision clear for. On most decking this means using a 2 1 2 screw if you are face screwing.

Do i have to use a composite screw. A reverse thread ensures the screw sits cleanly at level with the composite deck board. Painted head screws for fastening decking when installing a tropical hardwood deck such as an ipe deck contractors are immediately faced with the question of whether to use face screwed or hidden fasteners to secure the deck. This system uses the camo marksman tool to install deck screws at an angle into the side of the deck board to create a fastener free floor surface.

I ve had a discussion twice today with customers on this subject so i thought i d post an analysis and my thoughts on the subject. Screws used with composite decking typically have a much smaller head and tighter threads. There are a lot of things to consider although pre grooved boards are more expensive 35 40 lf milling upcharge you will use less screws. Generally though 1 1 2 penetration into the floor framing is desired.

If the fasteners will be exposed to continual salt air near large bodies of water or swimming pools or used in any other areas where corrosion is more likely to occur always use 305 grade or 316 grade stainless steel decking screws.