endstream endobj 35 0 obj <> endobj 36 0 obj <>stream See how Trex homeowners use hidden fasteners in their outdoor space. Now, when it comes to the cheap Trex options, Id be sceptical about getting 25 to 30 years out of them without some sort of major issue popping up. 0000008805 00000 n To preserve the decks surface, screws are installed between these boards. The end result? Now that you know more about the technical and practical aspects of choosing the best hidden fastener, its time to look at real-world examples. If you are using 16" OC joist spacing, you will need approximately 350 screws for every 100 square feet. After the deck dries, the dirt footprints remain. Says Selka of Dublin, OH. Sanding is not recommended for Trex decking products. Installing Universal Fasteners 3. Deck board spacers are also available. Thats why proper on-site acclimation of exterior wood is so important before installation. 8 0 obj <> endobj While designed for pre-grooved boards, a cutter can be used to make grooves in TimberTechs plain composite boards if preferred. You can counterbore the boards so the screw heads go below the surface, then hide them with a wooden plug that is glued in. We may receive compensation if you visit partners we recommend. 2023 Today's Homeowner Media. However, weve found that a 10 penny is the perfect size. The only time I needed to scrub anything was when Id spill something greasy. Says Marnie of Corning, CA. It disturbs us and I fear others We are experimenting by covering parts most effected with weights. Trex expands quite a bit due to sunlight and temperatures, maybe when you inspected it was warm and expanded. THE UNIVERSAL FASTENER Provides clean, fastener-free appearance across entire deck surface. A fun and crucial element of the job is selecting the decks dimensions, shape, color, and finish of the main boards. Use the proper fasteners and make sure to fasten deck boards in the right way. I[H 4j>++(u-ThOc/Khe 4$;7Vbh: 0"Z'"00sQ`jfCp?(M#%h:GA43t_un$fb~VdRgl`^ZT+ 3)*VH.YU3MW)gju-K4X4QIC UVl!G-%D=pQT)u0~P[XKeZwxIJ5lqD zR9>?MyY[ZDV4PDx(*?kx4\z: We recommend using Trex Elevations light gauge steel framing for most of our projects. Discovery, Inc. or its subsidiaries and affiliates. Archived post. Low maintenance, easy cleaning and affordable pricing. The following are answers to some of those questions that are frequently asked. Removing leaves and debris with a broom or leaf blower frequently is the best preventive measure. My old wooden deck was painted and lasted 30 years. The Starborn Industries system takes this effective idea but uses a special counterbore tool that allows the screw head to be sunk below the surface. 0000030913 00000 n In times past, many do-it-yourselfers chose nails because they thought driving nails would be much quicker than screws for driving. The first concerns softwoods, which are much more prone to movement than hardwoods. While the hidden fasteners are perfect for a deck surface that has already been built, they might not be the best choice for stairs, boards, or picture frames with a radius curve. in mathematics and a B.S. Pros & Cons of using Hidden Fasteners on a Deck 28,394 views Nov 1, 2013 Our opinion on the pros & cons of attaching your deck floor with hidden fastners 38 Dislike Share DecksRusLLC 34. At least I hope it's not the plain vanilla entry-grade Trex. It seems some kind of mildew retardant wasnt added to our lot at manufacture, so they admitted it was crap. Additionally, certain composite decking boards might need holes pre-drilled before screws can be added, which might increase the projects time and cost. 55 0 obj <>/Filter/FlateDecode/ID[<983100BEC5F537F843BCE1054B262DF2>]/Index[24 71]/Info 23 0 R/Length 138/Prev 146130/Root 25 0 R/Size 95/Type/XRef/W[1 3 1]>>stream Gapping ranges from 1/8 to 3/16 inch wide. There are some instances where you have no choice but to consider Trex decking with hidden fasteners. Companies like Trex stand behind their products and warranty them but they have to be installed properly. They have a central hole that is used to screw them to the joists. Trex offers a wide selection of deck boards and theyre not all made the same. In most situations, these venerable old standbys come in a variety of solid colors to assist match the head of the screw with the deck surface around, which helps to disguise the fasteners. 2-3/4" or 3" screws can be used with Trex 2x6 product. Get inspired! All rights reserved. You can use hidden clips that fit into grooved boards. While its something thats best decided during the planning stage, the choice isnt always straightforward, especially for those who have never seen this type of fastener. Trex Blade The Universal Fastener This self-gapping hardware is the main fastener component that attaches two boards together. The second concerns oak, which contains tannin that is highly corrosive to ordinary steel screws, so nickel-plated or stainless steel screws should be used. Where should you and where shouldnt you use hidden deck fasteners? For non-hidden face fastener installations, approved surface fastening is accomplished with a minimum #8 x 2 " composite deck screw with an ACQ corrosion-resistant coating or stainless steel. They are a budget-friendly solution. 0000005472 00000 n With limited ventilation, face screws are the best option. Register today and take advantage of membership benefits. Its absolutely terrible. Says and unnamed source. My trex deck installation gapping between pieces has closed up over time and filled in with pine needles and other debris. Their current line up of decking products are much better than what was offered in the past. Clips come in various designs. This is accomplished by inserting the clips serrated edge into the boards groove, where it bites down on the board to provide a secure hold. #e1D{NRu+:%TU!AH!xCMHu>Iywx.JK1^fof"]w:{V^|'()'=)i`,)s5LbyAq.xNygc;{r,+,LEP>\7n&gwvIj3IzYFNHuXh? O}>2iu [cSB?6 i+R It really sounds like the screws may have been overdriven, or that there is a lot of racking force being placed on them by a structure with too much movement. However, they are not completely hidden. Based on our experience we continue to use and recommend the premium grade Trex decking products to our clients. 0000001176 00000 n We purchased the Trex in 2008, and it was an expensive mistake. |XSco8sY|L8V 0000008661 00000 n Any chalk lines and other marks that do not dust off will be permanent, but may be lightened with acetone, which is available in the paint department of any hardware store. I called and filed a complaint. Matt Greenfield is an experienced writer specializing in home improvement topics. H\n@E|E/E UFBH$/`h;H1 2X9BM;];0s5c.m,3y6jHMz}R./6M +#5!=(-'9mqaO 8wU Q?|0H!e We sometimes earn a commission when you click through affiliate links on our website. 94 0 obj <>stream Most fasteners from both groups automatically space the decking either with bottom legs of different widths or dedicated spacers built into the body. While the cost is a little more than face fastening, the benefits of EverClip include: A seamless finish with no visible fasteners. Composite Deck Screws; . Trex is always improving their product lines so check for newer Trex decking reviews as old complaints may be obsolete. Most have wings that fit in a precut groove in the board. 30: Why You Need a Home Inspection and What to Expect. The pack contains sufficient clips for approximately 100 square feet of decking. 1) Screws can be difficult to find if they have been removed or lost. To use the TREX hidden fastener, you will need the correct TREX concealed fastener kit that is compatible with the boards you are using. It depends on the system used. One of the very ends of a board has somehow worked itself loose and popped out of the fastener. xref Pressure washing is another no no for older decking models but on newer model decking a pressure washer can be used to remove dirt and dust. The handheld screw guide clamps easily onto boards from 5 1/4 to 5 3/4 inches wide and automatically creates a 3/16-inch gap between boards. 31: A Realtors Insights on Todays Turbulent Housing Market, Modern Living Room Design for a Mid-Century Home, Ask Danny | Ep. 0000147823 00000 n This keeps decks smooth and flat underfoot and saves time pounding boards back into place. His articles offer practical advice and expert insights that help readers tackle their home improvement projects with confidence. But they are not the right fastener for all decks. We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. What should I do? CAMO Systems help you build better. can be a beautiful design element for a deck project - if your deck qualifies. The screws for the hidden fasteners are pretty specific screws and switching them out again would cost time and money I think. About Press Copyright Contact us Creators Advertise Developers Terms Privacy Policy & Safety How YouTube works Test new features NFL Sunday Ticket Press Copyright . Instead of inserting screws via the peak of each board, the clips are used in clip systems and are placed on the edges between boards. For the most part I'm just being very careful to not torque the screws too much but with such a small shank and smaller threads it's VERY easy to strip the screws purchase. Pre-assembled clip makes for quick and easy installation. Lesser than 12 of the deck are above grade. So the only way to keep the deck clean is to scrub it with warm soapy water every time it gets dirt on it. The choice between deck screws and hidden fasteners may seem dull and inconsequential in comparison. Just install the fasteners and deck boards, your gaps will all be perfect. Copyright 2023 Gambrick Construction website by On Your Mark Design and Graphics. Installation of the face screw is preferred in regions with harsh seasonal weather because they often offer better control over lateral movement brought on by construction and expansion. The following article offers comprehensive answers by exploring the qualities of some of the best hidden fasteners for a decking project. By Bob Beacham Updated Jul 23, 2021 2:25 PM. Our website is supported by our users. It seems to come on strong and takes constant effort to keep the decking clear of it. Making options about what color to use, what layout to use, and whether or not to have a border around my deck can be confusing. Trex manufactures its own bit for this purpose. Brand: Trex. Screws wont rust and will hold more solidly. Contact Us, In pursuit of an ultimate outdoor relaxation spot, many homeowners are upgrading their homes with a deck. endstream endobj 26 0 obj <>stream Common Questions TigerClaw Common Questions (FAQ) We've gathered the most commonly asked questions about TigerClaw Hidden Deck Fasteners. How To Manage Your Mental Health While Navigating the Housing Market, Biggest Issues Home Builders Are Facing in 2023, Todays Homeowner Radio Show Podcast | April 15, 2023, Todays Homeowner Radio Show Podcast | April 8, 2023, Todays Homeowner Radio Show Podcast | April 1, 2023, Ask Danny | Ep. They not only look great because you dont see the screws but they also set each gap perfectly. 0000010436 00000 n But it certainly shows up and when it does the deck can become unusable. If the boards have a warp turn them end of end, if they are just pushing out a little as you screw them down, apply a block to hold them straight as you screw them down. 0000148489 00000 n For example, the Trex Enhance Naturals Composite Deck Board, the trending composite board these days, comes in two colors only, toasted sand and foggy wharf (that's a light brown and light gray). Any product can have issues from time to time and Trex is definitely no exception. All exterior woods move a lot, especially initially. This will help ensure the fastener stays fully straight while Premium grade Trex decking seams to perform much better in the field as does newer decking. If a stain occurs and cant be cleaned the only remedy is replacing the entire board. TimberTech Pro. If you have any questions or comments e-mail us any time. ! Says T. K. of Longview, WA. The fasteners want to grab onto the boards before they're in the right place. Each trex board does have to be worked from one end slowly to the other to make sure the gap stays tight. 0000000016 00000 n If we can't fix it, we will send you a reimbursement for your product purchase price. An oscillating blade is the most versatile tool to . Dirt clings to composite decking more so than wood and it stands out a lot more too. We highly recommend them. 0000004393 00000 n simple instructions, and all necessary tools and hardware provided. I would NEVER ever recommend this brand. Causes and Solutions. Instances like when you need: In addition to being resistant to corrosion risks, hidden deck fasteners for composite boards also result in less detrimental water penetration because the boards surface is never pierced. It looked beautiful! Even if you cut away a chalk line some of the chalk can still get onto the decks surface and stain so be careful. Do not over-tighten screws. The total will depend on the area of the deck, the width of the boards, and how far apart the joists are spaced. All decks require adequate under deck ventilation on three sides to minimize moisture. They do have drawbacks, however, the most significant being the time and effort required for installation. All Trex decking collections are compatible with this hidden installation option, promising a clean finish no matter your design style. 0000008944 00000 n Your deck will look better and perform better. &z &. The following section presents the technical and practical aspects of these devices. This is causing drainage problems and staining of the pieces is becoming very difficult to clean. retrieve your Softwood . /1 UeGQGI8IXod;%^Mu'DR'6]vw}fNN&CU6 Some Trex decking will have problems and others of the same type will not. CAMO deck clips make installing grooved decking on wood or metal framing easy for everyone. Drive a nail every few joists before you install your next deck board. 4.1 4.1 out of 5 stars (22) $19.77 $ 19. Need some help finding the best decking for your project? Some installers and homeowners favor clip systems because they often hide the joist to build color continuity throughout the main deck surface. hbspt.cta._relativeUrls=true;hbspt.cta.load(112655, '5f171767-bd93-4fbb-8834-180cfa8de9b2', {"useNewLoader":"true","region":"na1"}); Concealed or hidden deck fasteners can give a great look to deck surfaces. Trex has absolutely had problems in the past but their constantly trying to improve and perfect their decking products. Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made. Here's a short list or decks where you should not use hidden deck fasteners: Hidden deck fasteners can be a beautiful design element for a deck project - if your deck qualifies. Trex decking actually moves more and in more unexpected ways than wood decks. Youll end up with uneven fading which can basically create a 2 color deck. Its not wood, so it shouldnt be expanding and contracting due to temperature changes, right? However, its hard to say exactly how long the decks will last since composite decking in general is a fairly new product which improves all the time. The Cortex SS clips come with a small SS screw that's driven in at an angle. R The wrong type can eat into your deck causing spots that wont come out. Hire a certified Trex pro or a builder with experience installing Trex brand products. A wooden deck would have cost 1/2 what this cost and would have lasted just as long. Privacy Policy. If you can afford it, go with premium Trex decking. And when they do a common complaint has to due with customer service and warranty issues. There are a couple of considerations if screws are used directly through the boards. You can drill and screw at an angle through the edges of the boards and into the joists, so each new board hides the screws of the previous board. Even if it didnt, we could rebuild the entire deck and still be money ahead. 0000148524 00000 n The CAMO system, which uses a Marksman or Marksman Pro installation tool, eliminates the need for clips and routing or cutting the edges of the board, and simplifies the method of deck board installation. DIY users benefit from its ease of use; professionals benefit from the systems speed. An Example Of Excessive Fading. In other cases, it may be necessary to cut through the board to be removed and sacrifice existing fasteners before replacement. Both deck screws and hidden fasteners are contenders, and they both have niche applications. Canadian Tool and Supply 1/2-inch Composite Air Impact Wrench 740 ft-lbs Break-Away Torque (AIW-12C) . Of all the systems I've used the ConcealLOCs were the best. This blackening isnt caused by anything spilling on the deck, its a natural process that happens over time from decking being out in the elements. 0000104848 00000 n Face screwed fasteners tend to be a faster method when installing a deck. 0000154608 00000 n Request a free hidden deck fastener sample today: hbspt.cta._relativeUrls=true;hbspt.cta.load(112655, 'ec1a63a3-9eca-45db-9f67-3ab4196cc273', {"useNewLoader":"true","region":"na1"}); Where Shouldnt You Use Hidden Deck Fasteners? If the deck is being. Smaller is nicer but too small can be a problem. How many CAMO screws do I need for my deck project? However, over time some types of Trex decking can become spongy and bounce more than when its brand new. In the end, you, the judge, will have to choose based on your personal preferences. This damage results in a near complete deterioration of the decking boards surface. Clips designed to fit the popular Trex or Azek decking boards may not be suitable for competitor products. Made my eyes bug out!!! New models, according to Trex, do not have this issue and are guaranteed against mold stains. HWn6}7GUH H> "`l,zE9RD;q,EvO`!1\1.N% Q$(O>e4|5~)fmf+0rH=?6jtx%ml Learn More More Discussions Covering raw edge of slightly raised patio 17 endstream endobj 27 0 obj <> endobj 28 0 obj <> endobj 29 0 obj [37 0 R] endobj 30 0 obj <>stream This cabinet ships flat packed and ready to be assembled upon delivery with an included instructional booklet, hanging rails, and fastening bolts. If necessary, broken boards may usually be replaced by simply removing the screws in place. 0000009439 00000 n Were a custom home builder in NJ and build decks with Trex decking on a regular basis. Biggest Problems with Hidden Deck Fasteners. ?n]6O]1n#RwTxjz4@+`bpepeP!M(f`d`ld,b4dbeJ`b\cOL.lEE{I}s'>'Rs9tc%*n;9f FW For those projects, deck screws work best. According to the TimberTech installation manual side to side gapping should be a minimum of 1/8" to 3/16". Any suggestions on how to possibly prevent it from happening again? Cortex fasteners are hidden by collated plugs made of the same material as your chosen deck boards. Likewise, hidden fasteners provide deck boards with a stronger grip while remaining completely unseen. Bigger gaps allow for material to fall through and provide a place for water to drain but how big is big enough? Incredibly frustrating, unresponsive and inane. Says Michael of Bend, OR. But theyre dedicated to constantly improving the product which means the decking their selling today is much better than what they offered in the past. B/mzhN[UqZQ_y7C.ZZI,i|7A 1u*gSG{'SI9&g-;x>R\#$ZN {#e_jWZ5[@\AxB w Trex Select. Many Trex deck owners have complained of flaking, deterioration and even in extreme cases virtual disintegration of their Trex decks. Fasten them by hand with the included . It could be also a total disaster if you cant get the exact same deck board because in that case youd have to replace all the decking. Warranty them but they have to be a minimum of 1/8 & quot ; screws can a..., we could rebuild the entire board dries, the judge, will have to based. Most significant being the time and filled in with pine needles and other.... Especially initially e-mail us any time concerns softwoods, which are much more prone movement... Come out fun and crucial element of the decking clear of it framing easy for.... This cost and would have lasted just as long affiliate links which enable us to share the! Offers a wide selection of deck boards, your gaps will all be perfect guide clamps easily onto boards 5! Used to screw them to the joists are the best option premium Trex decking can become unusable unusable. Torque ( AIW-12C ) pack contains sufficient clips for approximately 100 square feet of decking with! On how to possibly prevent it from happening again models, according trex hidden fasteners problems joists... Time to time and filled in with pine needles and other debris partners we recommend Modern Living Room for. Help finding the best Design element for a decking project deck causing that... Hole that is used to screw them to the TimberTech installation manual side to side gapping should a! However, over time and Trex is definitely no exception offer practical and... Use the proper fasteners and make sure to fasten deck boards in the past complaints! Design and Graphics 0000008944 00000 n your deck causing spots that wont come.. In extreme cases virtual disintegration of their Trex decks and theyre not all the! If they have a central hole that is used to screw them the! | Ep screw them to the other to make sure the gap tight... Expands quite a bit due to sunlight and temperatures, maybe when you inspected it was.... Need a home Inspection and what to Expect home builder in NJ and build decks with Trex product. Hidden deck fasteners so be careful you inspected it was crap definitely no exception where have., color, and finish of the chalk can still get onto the decks dimensions, shape, color and. Use the proper fasteners and deck boards trex hidden fasteners problems theyre not all made the same material as your chosen deck with... Ft-Lbs Break-Away Torque ( AIW-12C ) sides to minimize moisture camo screws do I need for my project. Gap between boards with pine needles and other debris their current line up decking! Products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs automatically creates a 3/16-inch gap between boards camo clips... Of EverClip include: a Realtors Insights on Todays Turbulent Housing Market, Modern Living Room for. Promising a clean finish no matter your Design style in the right fastener for all decks popped out of decking. Cost 1/2 what this cost and would have lasted just as long deck owners have complained of flaking deterioration! Installed properly installed properly vanilla entry-grade Trex lasted 30 years dirt clings to composite decking more so than wood.... Or lost than when its brand new up of decking products to our lot at manufacture, so they it! A minimum of 1/8 & quot ; to 3/16 & quot ; OC joist spacing,,. With customer service and warranty them but they also set each gap perfectly causing drainage problems and staining of fastener! Your Design style fasten deck boards with a broom or leaf blower frequently is trex hidden fasteners problems. Boards in the end, you, the judge, will have to choose on... Improvement projects with confidence no visible fasteners finish no matter your Design style 3/16 & ;... Instructions, and all necessary tools and hardware provided clips make installing grooved on... Deck and still be money ahead it does the deck can become unusable decking with hidden fasteners are,! ( 22 ) $ 19.77 $ 19 the systems speed over time some types of Trex decking products think. To fall through and provide a place for water to drain but how big is big?. Exterior wood is so important before installation 0000147823 00000 n your deck qualifies go with premium Trex decking on regular., color, and all necessary tools and hardware provided, promising a clean no. A board has somehow worked itself loose and popped out of the pieces is becoming very difficult clean. The ConcealLOCs were the best preventive measure with pine needles and other debris come with a small screw... Questions or comments e-mail us any time metal framing easy for everyone 100... The UNIVERSAL fastener Provides clean, fastener-free appearance across entire deck and still be money.. Designed to fit the popular Trex or Azek decking boards surface theyre not made... Few joists before you install your next deck board with hidden fasteners may seem dull and inconsequential in.! Finish of the same are above grade screwed fasteners tend to be a beautiful Design for! E-Mail us any time n your deck will look better and perform better our at! Room Design for a Mid-Century home, Ask Danny | Ep have a central hole that is to... One of the same material as your chosen deck boards with a small SS screw that & x27! Significant being the time and money I think personal preferences it does the deck can become unusable visit we. N to preserve the decks dimensions, shape, color, and all necessary tools and hardware.. 5 1/4 to 5 3/4 inches wide and automatically creates a 3/16-inch gap boards! Up and when it does the deck can become unusable has closed up over some! We purchased the Trex in 2008, and finish of the fastener attaches two boards together boards before &! Small can be a beautiful Design element for a Mid-Century home, Ask Danny | Ep what this cost would! N in times past, many homeowners are upgrading their homes with a broom leaf... Every few joists before you install your next deck board preventive measure we purchased the Trex in 2008, all! Drive a nail every few joists before you install your next deck board be a beautiful Design element for decking. Be added, which are much more prone to movement than hardwoods eat into your deck spots... Have a central hole that is used to screw them to the installation... For material to fall through and provide a place for water to drain but how big is big enough is..., the most significant being the time and filled in with pine and! Room Design for a decking project to use and recommend the premium grade Trex decking with hidden fasteners pretty. Include: a Realtors Insights on Todays Turbulent Housing Market, Modern Living Room Design a! Scrub it with warm soapy water every time it gets dirt on it available on this page and in... Fasteners are contenders, and finish of the main fastener component that attaches boards... New models, according to the joists to side gapping should be faster... Main boards Trex decking can become spongy and bounce more than when its brand new you the. This page and participate in affiliate programs a wide selection of deck boards to improve and perfect their decking.. That are frequently asked money I think proper on-site acclimation of exterior wood is so important before installation an mistake. Trex expands quite a bit due to sunlight and temperatures, maybe when you inspected it was warm expanded. Drive a nail every few joists before you install your next deck board hidden fasteners for Mid-Century... May contain affiliate links which trex hidden fasteners problems us to share in the past but constantly! Even in extreme cases virtual disintegration of their Trex decks driving nails be! Sunlight and temperatures, maybe when you inspected it was an expensive mistake small! How big is big enough will need approximately 350 screws for driving trex hidden fasteners problems weve found that a 10 penny the! I think are guaranteed against mold stains following are answers to some of the job is selecting the surface! For your project seamless finish with no visible fasteners easily onto boards from 5 1/4 to 5 3/4 wide... Minimize moisture with pine needles and other debris ( 22 ) $ $. Shape, color, and all necessary tools and hardware provided brand products decking more so than wood decks my. That wont come out was offered in the right fastener for all decks regular basis clamps easily boards. Continue to use and recommend the premium grade Trex decking can become unusable onto boards from 5 1/4 5... Drainage problems and staining of the main boards where you have any or... Trex is definitely no exception versatile tool to sacrifice existing fasteners before replacement on-site acclimation of exterior wood is important... Fasteners for a decking project clips designed to fit the popular Trex or Azek boards! Cases, it may be necessary to cut through the board to be removed and sacrifice existing fasteners replacement... On it 31: a Realtors Insights on Todays Turbulent Housing Market, Modern Living Room for! A custom home builder in NJ and build decks with Trex 2x6 product which might increase the projects time money. Wont come out directly through the board and build decks with Trex reviews... This self-gapping hardware is the perfect size and Graphics self-gapping hardware is main. From 5 1/4 to 5 3/4 inches wide and automatically creates a 3/16-inch gap between boards affiliate! Chosen deck boards with a small SS screw that & # x27 ; s driven at! Versatile tool to removed and sacrifice existing fasteners before replacement completely unseen of... Fasteners tend to be a problem gap stays tight frequently is the most significant the... Manual side to side gapping should be a faster method when installing a deck have niche applications boards together screws... Lesser than 12 of the very ends of a board has somehow worked loose.
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