

Clip systems typically conceal the joist to create color continuity across the deck surface, which some installers and homeowners prefer. The thickness of the clip determines the gap (3/16” – 1/4”), which is required for air and water flow. This gap installation between the boards helps the installer create a consistent gap across the entire deck as they set each fastener.
TREX HIDDEN FASTENERS INSTALL
Screws install in the gap between the boards, so the deck surface is not altered. Here’s how it works.Ĭlip Systems: For clip systems, rather than installing screws through the top of every deck board, clips are inserted in the grooved edges between the boards. Using hidden fasteners creates an unblemished surface for a superior aesthetic on your natural wood and composite deck.

It should be noted that most MoistureShield products do In addition, some composite decking boards may require holes to be pre-drilled before the screws can be inserted, which can add even more time and expense to a decking Inconsistent screw placement can contribute to an undesirable look across the deck surface. In addition, using deck screws is a very time-consuming option as installation not only calls for drilling each screw into the board, but also requires the installer to carefully monitor gap consistency. Since installation requires two face screws per joist intersection with every board, many homeowners find this aesthetically undesirable. Round 1: The Pros of Using Deck Screwsįor deck screws, each one is drilled through the top of the decking, so the head of screw will remain visible on the surface of the board. However, this decision you make affects not only the aesthetic quality, but also the structural integrity of your deck. In comparison, deciding between deck screws and hidden fasteners may seem pretty boring and unimportant. Choosing the size and shape of the deck and the color and finish of the deck boards is an exciting and very important part of the project. Whether you’re building a new composite deck from scratch or refinishing an existing one, it’s easy to get caught up in making the big choices. Deck Screws.” While there may not be as much action as the aforementioned boxing matches, keep reading as these two “Headliners of Hardware” go the distance to prove the pros and cons of each and find out which works best for our MoistureShield Composite Decking. Pacquiao?” Now, it’s time to see who rules as King of the Deck, “Hidden Fasteners vs. In this case, the first deck board will be flush with the edge of the rim joist.You remember the epic boxing battles over the years: “Ali vs. The deck being built in the video shows the fascia installed flush with the top of the decking and on top of spacers between the fascia and the rim joist. In this case, the first deck board would over hang the fascia by ¾”.Ī square-edge deck board should have a clean and non-grooved edged showing on the edge of the deck. The fascia board can be installed tight against the rim joist and flush with the top of the frame. The first deck board on a deck build should be positioned on the front rim of the deck, depending on how the fascia is going to be installed.
TREX HIDDEN FASTENERS CODE
Always make sure that you have a first aid kit nearby. For any home project, be certain to follow local code and permitting requirements. Eye protection, ear protection, gloves, long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, and reinforced toe shoes are recommended. So you're ready to get started? Watch our how-to tutorial before you start your build.īefore you begin any DIY project, make sure to wear the appropriate personal safety equipment.
