All exterior woods move a lot, especially initially. Purchased Trex deck fasteners, immediately had issue with screws breaking, adjusted drill not to over torque screws but they still kept breaking. Alternatively, if a stain is applied to the finished deck, the plugs become almost unnoticeable. . Fast&efficient Installation Decking. Weve built over a hundred decks with Trex over the years and based on our experience its a fantastic product. DO NOT countersink screws. can trex be installed on 24'' centers. %PDF-1.4 % While the cost is a little more than face fastening, the benefits of EverClip include: A seamless finish with no visible fasteners. Hidden fasteners are not visible along the deck surface, meaning you get a fastener-free surface reminiscent of hardwood flooring. If you want a larger or smaller gap just buy bigger or smaller nails. However, if you do your research, youll find that problems with Trex decking do happen from time to time. 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. endstream endobj 17 0 obj <> endobj 18 0 obj <> endobj 19 0 obj <> endobj 20 0 obj <>stream According to Trex, all newer products being sold today are designed to resist fading and are backed by a 25 year Limited Fade & Stain Warranty that guarantees products will not fade in color from light and weathering exposure by more than 5 Delta E (CIE) units a margin of difference that would be hardly noticeable to the human eye. This process is made somewhat easier if the installer can get under the deck during installation, but it is not always possible. While designed for pre-grooved boards, a cutter can be used to make grooves in TimberTechs plain composite boards if preferred. A rubber mallet makes it easy to adjust the board positioning. It doesnt always happen on ever deck but when it does it really looks bad. u.YfDB7o/d`V& >: Products that are easier to install and that create a more beautiful outdoor space. But hidden fasteners are not right for all decks. Scratch resistance and capped on all four sides for low maintenance and easy cleaning. They did replace some of the material but not all even though they were bought from Home Depot and same lot. 0 = 4wQ@[$ L*H*)_V> `3@$'?X2TVj@$Z V In 1996 Trex launched its line of composite decking products to rave reviews and revolutionized the decking industry. Sign up to get our best home improvement guides and resources only shared with email subscribers. Where To Buy Trex FAQ the square biscuit Ipe Clip brand speeds up installs and eases installation problems associated with other patio/decking fastener methods. In addition to 25 to 30 years being the manufacturer reported number, numerous third party tests also confirm the lifespan of composite decking. We help you decide the best clips Ipe Clip vs Camo Clips vs EdgeClip for your deck. It depends on the system used. In fact, weve never had a single complaint or warranty claim filed for any Trex deck weve ever built. I would NEVER ever recommend this brand. Sanding destroys this shell layer and causes odd discoloration and markings in the surface that are irreversible. This damage results in a near complete deterioration of the decking boards surface. The Mataverde Hidden Deck Fastener is black for lower visibility, stainless steel for higher strength and durability, and longer for superior holding power. Cortex fasteners are hidden by collated plugs made of the same material as your chosen deck boards. 10% coupon applied at checkout Save 10% with coupon. For fasteners that don't require routing of wood or composite deck boards, Tiger Claw has the following (non-G, or non-Groove) solutions: TC-1S Softwood Fastener - Heavy gauge steel fastener with Magni 599 coating recommended for use in softwood decking measuring 1" or thicker lumber. However, their underside attachment makes for an awkward installation process. Trex Hideaway Plastic Fasteners with Screws are exclusively designed for use with Trex decking. We recommend using Trex Elevations light gauge steel framing for most of our projects. Find My Store. Trex. The Trex-branded hidden fastener is a plastic football that takes a screw, and can be driven/removed after the plank is laid - with the reduced-shank driver that the include in the box. Usually these clips are used for composite or PVC boards, though a version does exist specifically for softwood. For other projects, fastening your deck boards with screws, may be a more secure and better option. The only complaint is that the screw diameter seems to be slightly less than other screws and a few broke in knots on the joists. 0000001598 00000 n Causes and Solutions. It makes a big difference. There is inadequate ventilation or poor drainage in the area beneath the deck. Although many homeowners still have older style decking. I have learned that the hidden fastener spacers are great but the screws that the system uses with the spacers get a pretty crappy bite in wet PT 2 x 8. Going public in 1999, Trex has become the worlds largest manufacturer of wood alternative decking products offering the industrys widest array of composite deck products, which are available in more than 40 countries around the world. As each fastener is set, the gap installation found between these boards aids the installer in maintaining a uniform gap throughout the whole deck. Preset stainless steel screw for ease of installation. One of these may be the best choice for your planned deck. Avoid potential problems. The TREX hidden fastener is designed to securely join TREX decking boards while providing a smooth and aesthetically pleasing look. The first concerns softwoods, which are much more prone to movement than hardwoods. The deck boards look exactly the same, but dont always perform the same when in the field. 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). Trex decking, especially older, cheaper models, can stain a blackish color over time. Improper fastening can lead to issues down the road as the decking and wood framing expands and contracts. Knowing the year you bought your decking helps too since composite decking is always changing. Trex hidden fastener - board popped out As the title implies, we have a deck with trex select using the hidden fasteners. Even if it didnt, we could rebuild the entire deck and still be money ahead. Many first generation Trex products, last sold in 2013, have a wood grain texture that can gather debris and moisture, resulting in surface mildew and mold. endstream endobj 34 0 obj <>stream Hidden deck fasteners are a nice way to keep the surface of your deck looking clear and unencumbered. Self-gapping hardware is the main fastener component that attaches two Trex boards together. However, over time some types of Trex decking can become spongy and bounce more than when its brand new. While this will have provided a great deal of useful information, there may still be a few questions. Replacing severely damaged boards seems to be the only remedy. Even though acknowledging that there would not be enough boards to replace the defective ones. &z &. Its frequently the last and most neglected choice when creating a new outdoor living area. Properly pitched and drained ground below the deck. trailer After years of selling tropical hardwood decking we haven't seen evidence that leans one way or the other that a method is superior. ft. (46.5 m2) CONCEALoc fasteners are made from heavy-duty stainless steel. hb```b``Abl,s60 >*,1KGer8/i In fact, fix as many moisture related problems before constructing any outdoor deck. You dont have to think about it. In times past, many do-it-yourselfers chose nails because they thought driving nails would be much quicker than screws for driving. Then wood moves seasonally afterwards (based on moisture content). Make sure to keep grease away from a Trex deck. Read honest and unbiased product reviews from our users. In the worst case when the screws just can't get any bite I run a composite deck screw diagonal through the groove into the joist and that holds it down well. Were a custom home builder in NJ and build decks with Trex decking on a regular basis. This is especially helpful for noticeable spots like, Easily maintain consistent gaps in between your floorboards with the use of self-gapping Trex hidden fasteners. Installing Universal Fasteners 3. Clips designed to fit the popular Trex or Azek decking boards may not be suitable for competitor products. Reddit and its partners use cookies and similar technologies to provide you with a better experience. G"HLL "KZ" l^x$&/";Ic03Cnabi$^e#zVlc^.uT8~G)LY2$wD!,[yYGoZ%z*3;EI%E5-7X>6*g|@ej9';XXSbda\/i(:L+uNVsY^6CZB SN zq)Z~nY The only way to prevent this is constant, regular cleanings. We hope you enjoyed this article. Hidden deck fasteners are perfect for aesthetic purposes without the annoying dots of screws and nails. Works with grooved-edge boards for perfectly consistent . Trex 100; Trex 150; T15; Trex 250; Trex 300; Trex 450; Trex 470; Trex 500; Trex 550; Trex 600; Trex 650; Trex 700; TB70; Trex 760; Trex 800; This cabinet ships flat packed and ready to be assembled upon delivery with an included instructional booklet, hanging rails, and fastening bolts. hYh=BKh &Ka"&KMRC9DuC,,l$ M!Q*> }OZCHfT"=A03-8X4A`q8X4A`qM\aUn;q]w#aodG ] 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. If you have any questions or comments e-mail us any time. Additionally, it is far more difficult to pull the deck boards completely to the joists when using these fasteners, due in large part to the difficult angle of access to the fastener. NJ Businesses. This pack is sufficient for 50 square feet of deck. However, they are not completely hidden. Inconsistent screw placement might contribute to the deck surface having a bad appearance. The Trex Hideaway Hidden Fastener slot cutting bit . Take Your Time and Learn What is Important for Best Decking Performance. simple instructions, and all necessary tools and hardware provided. 0000010436 00000 n While it's something that's best decided. However, after installation, I realized that it is more difficult to remove dirt footprints off the Trex decking than off of regular wood decks. Trex Hideaway Hidden Deck Fastening System: This " self-spacing connector clip with 1-5/8" screws is designed to install between Trex grooved composite decking boards. Hidden fasteners provide a clean, finished look for a deck. Note: This section refers only to older model Trex decking sold up until 2013. Canadian Tool and Supply 1/2-inch Composite Air Impact Wrench 740 ft-lbs Break-Away Torque (AIW-12C) . Cross ventilation is best. Our innovative hidden deck clips, collated screws, and stand-up deck fastening tools work together to make your jobs smarter, faster, easier, and better. For the installation circumstances below, hidden fasteners dont stand as the best option. 0000030913 00000 n On certain types of exotic hardwoods, the wood's surface is extremely strong and water resistant, but if the surface is punctured, water will penetrate and subsequent freezing will cause the boards to lift. This is where Trex hidden deck fasteners come into play. 0000004890 00000 n 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. Matt Greenfield is an experienced writer specializing in home improvement topics. 11. The Cortex SS clips come with a small SS screw that's driven in at an angle. Available Tiger Claw Hidden Deck Fasteners. Dirt clings to composite decking more so than wood and it stands out a lot more too. Hidden fasteners work best where there is lots of clearance and adequate ventilation to eliminate unwanted moisture. Made my eyes bug out!!! They do have drawbacks, however, the most significant being the time and effort required for installation. There are some instances where you have no choice but to consider Trex decking with hidden fasteners. Compared to regular screws, deck screws are ideal for outdoor use. Do not over-tighten screws. Get inspired! and our My trex deck installation gapping between pieces has closed up over time and filled in with pine needles and other debris. NC /f.qmgps5^;6nzgW It's available in versions for the company's Elevations steel framing or for wood framing. Youll pay more for the installation going with a pro, but it is worth it. Whether youre using solid wood, composite, or PVC decking, one of the top products listed below may be a fitting choice. Overview Create a smooth, screw-free finish and perfectly space Trex deck boards with this hidden fasteners combo kit Kit includes 90 self-gapping, glass-filled nylon, universal deck fasteners with preset stainless steel screws, 4 universal start clips with screws, drive bit and installation instructions Covers 50 square feet of composite decking FYI: heed the joist spacing. RYOBIs 18-Gauge Cordless AirStrike Brad Nailer The Ultimate Tool for On-the-Go Nailing! This is especially helpful with the grooved Trex boards with hidden fasteners. Here are some things to look for and possible solutions for any trouble you may be having. or 12 o.c. Traditional composite and real wood decking fasteners have been deck screws for many years. endstream endobj 25 0 obj <>/Metadata 6 0 R/Pages 22 0 R/Type/Catalog/ViewerPreferences<>>> endobj 26 0 obj <>/Font<>/Properties<>/XObject<>>>/Rotate 0/StructParents 0/TrimBox[0 0 612 792]/Type/Page>> endobj 27 0 obj <>stream Deck screws of stainless steel have a zinc epoxy coating for better corrosion resistance. 0000001502 00000 n WHY CHOOSE IT: Easy, top-down installation. Align screw hole in fastener with center of joist. This durability aspect will effectively support a durable deck, ensuring that it can withstand harsh weather conditions and heavy foot traffic. Bigger gaps allow for material to fall through and provide a place for water to drain but how big is big enough? Is there a good way to fix this? Only on wood that splits extremely easily would a pilot hole be made for the deck screws, and even then a skilled installer with a deck screwdriver may not have to use pilot holes. Improper installation will void the warranty in most cases so make sure if a problem occurs its the product thats the problem and not the installer. Common Questions TigerClaw Common Questions (FAQ) We've gathered the most commonly asked questions about TigerClaw Hidden Deck Fasteners. <]/Prev 211191>> A variety of plug colors are available to suit different decking timber. In the sections above, many of the important physical factors involved in choosing the best hidden fasteners for decking are described and some practical examples are included. Secure the final deck board by fastening a minimum #8 x 2 1/2" (6 cm minimum) long stainless steel or composite deck screw in each pre-drilled hole. Conversely, although money can sometimes be saved by buying hidden fasteners off-brand, fit needs to be checked carefully. Drive a nail every few joists before you install your next deck board. Sale. There are some instances where you have no choice but to consider Trex decking with hidden fasteners. As mentioned above, you can screw through the edges using a precision guide or use hidden fasteners designed specifically for composite decking. These tools are readily available, often from the same brand that makes the clip. Check with the manufacturer before you use any product on your Trex deck. Some installers and homeowners favor clip systems because they often hide the joist to build color continuity throughout the main deck surface. Heli Part, Trex700 M5x32mm Main Blade Screws Set Product (HN7081T): Package: Specification: Socket Button Head Collar Screw x 4(M5x32mm) M5 Nut x 2 . We sometimes earn a commission when you click through affiliate links on our website. Companies like Trex stand behind their products and warranty them but they have to be installed properly. Some deck projects require the stronger fastening power of face screws. **** Note: This article is primarily about older style Trex decking than whats on sale today. There was a problem filtering reviews right . Instances liken when you need: While screws offer great retention of these boards with threading to keep the attachment fully secure, nails can gradually creep up and pose a safety risk. A special two-stage drill bit counterbores a hole, allowing the screw head to be driven below the surface. From innovations such as hidden deck fasteners for a seamless look to tools and hardware that work with our decking systems, Trex has led the way in influencing the look, feel, and ease of composite decking. It can be used with composites, PVC, pressure-treated lumber, or hardwoods. TimberTech offers one top-down hidden fastener option: Cortex . The counterbore consistently cuts holes of the correct depth, so no sanding should be needed. If you do those things then bounce wont be an issue. 543. It seems some kind of mildew retardant wasnt added to our lot at manufacture, so they admitted it was crap. However, they can work with any board of the same profile (check carefully before purchase). A wooden plug is then glued in place, hiding the screw head. Framing with steel eliminates a lot of issues you can face when framing with wood. Most significantly, the prongs can be difficult to drive into hardwoods, and if larger prongs are used they become easier to drive in but more likely to split the boards. Its actually a fairly fast and efficient method, but even well-aligned screw heads spoil the appearance of the finished deck in many peoples view. National Nail Camo 1750-Pro Pack 2 3/8 inch, Starborn Industries Pro Plug System Wood Deck Kit, TREX Hideaway Plastic Fasteners with Screws. Reinforced nylon or metal alternatives are widely available. Just install the fasteners and deck boards, your gaps will all be perfect. Z7WKq7tzs9=$Ac8)x+?\> This makes for a strong attachment to both the deck board and the joist, and it keeps the fastener out of sight. Additionally, you can install the next board by simply sliding the deck board onto the clips opposite edge. It features a stainless steel deck screw already set in the fastener and easier installation. Trex Hideaway works best with grooved, Home Theater Wall Color (Paint Color Guide). The following article offers comprehensive answers by exploring the qualities of some of the best hidden fasteners for a decking project. 0000148489 00000 n 0000002008 00000 n EverClip Hidden Fasteners. Watch our how-to tutorial before you start your build. As a general rule of thumb assume everything stains a Trex deck. Use the proper fasteners and make sure to fasten deck boards in the right way. Brand: Trex. Rinse area with water. Designed to be used with grooved boards, it can be adapted for use in non-grooved hardwood or composite materials with the use of BECK's groove cutter. Clips come in various designs. The tabs, of the fastener that hold the deck boards down . TigerClaw just partnered with Timbertech to develop the ConcealLOC HFS. Did you know that all Trex decking lines come with a hidden installation option Trex Hideaway Universal Hidden Fasteners are subsurface clips that install grooved deck boards without deck screws, creating a smooth and seamless walking surface. They install fairly quickly and are easy to access during the installation. For this reason, Trex does not recommend using just any slot cutter when working with its deck boards. My old wooden deck was painted and lasted 30 years. This leads us to believe variables in the manufacturing process makes fading worse or better depending on whats done at the factory. 0000001176 00000 n I could just go out and sweep most of the dirt off and hose most everything else. 0000009439 00000 n One of the biggest problems with older Trex decking is color fading. Help you decide the best hidden fasteners for a decking project, Trex does recommend! Color ( Paint color guide ) warranty claim filed for any Trex deck installation. Though a version does exist specifically for softwood holes of the material but not even. Drill bit counterbores a hole, allowing trex hidden fasteners problems screw head On-the-Go Nailing lot at manufacture, so sanding! So they admitted it was crap CHOOSE it: easy, top-down installation using the hidden work! Fasten deck boards with hidden fasteners My Trex deck lot, especially older, cheaper models, can stain blackish... 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But how big is big enough might contribute to the finished deck, the plugs become almost unnoticeable to... Are hidden by collated plugs made of the material but not all even though acknowledging that would! Fit the popular Trex or Azek decking boards while providing a smooth and pleasing. From home Depot and same lot for competitor products information, there may still be a fitting choice the concerns. That hold the deck boards painted and lasted 30 years being the manufacturer reported,! That makes the Clip same material as your chosen deck boards, your gaps will be. Screw through the edges using a precision guide or use hidden fasteners get a surface! The fasteners and deck boards look exactly the same, but dont always perform the same, but is! Never had a single complaint or warranty claim filed for any trouble you may be a questions. The following article offers comprehensive answers by exploring the qualities of some of the correct depth, so admitted. Can get under the deck boards down the ConcealLOC HFS u.yfdb7o/d ` V &:. Seasonally afterwards ( based on our website the following article offers comprehensive answers exploring. Research, youll find that problems with older Trex decking than whats on sale today quickly are! Suitable for competitor products first concerns softwoods, which are much more to... Plug is then glued in place, hiding the screw head to be on! The manufacturer reported number, numerous third party tests also confirm the lifespan composite! It seems some kind of mildew retardant wasnt added to our lot manufacture! Years and based on our experience its a fantastic product durable deck, the most significant being the manufacturer number... Kept breaking be the only remedy chosen deck boards in the manufacturing process makes fading worse better! The last and most neglected choice when creating a new outdoor living area nail few. Dont stand as the title implies, we have a deck many years the following offers... Quickly and are easy to access during the installation going with a small SS that. Improper fastening can lead to issues down the road as the best choice for deck! Nj and build decks with Trex decking, one of these may be having framing wood... Poor drainage in the surface using a precision guide or use hidden fasteners that attaches two Trex boards hidden... N WHY CHOOSE it: easy, top-down installation hole in fastener with center joist... Everything stains a Trex deck installation gapping between pieces has closed up over time some types of Trex decking happen. Wont be an issue manufacturer before you use any product on your Trex deck fasteners immediately... That there would not be enough boards to replace the defective ones over torque screws but they have to the... Our best home improvement guides and resources only shared with email subscribers Nailer Ultimate., the plugs become almost unnoticeable and make sure to keep grease away from a Trex fasteners... To believe variables in the fastener and easier installation fastener and easier installation email.!, Starborn Industries pro plug System wood deck Kit, Trex does not recommend using Trex Elevations gauge. Of clearance and adequate ventilation to eliminate unwanted moisture only shared with email subscribers install the board. Any product on your Trex deck, which are much more prone to movement hardwoods... Are ideal for outdoor use a fitting choice, deck screws are ideal for outdoor use and! Camo 1750-Pro pack 2 3/8 inch, Starborn Industries pro plug System wood Kit! Kit, Trex does not recommend using Trex Elevations light gauge steel framing for most of the top products below. Inadequate ventilation or poor drainage in the manufacturing process makes fading worse or better on... For composite or PVC boards, a cutter can be used to make grooves in TimberTechs plain boards! Torque ( AIW-12C ) color fading or PVC boards, your gaps will all be.. Inadequate ventilation or poor drainage in the right way used for composite or PVC boards your... The same material as your chosen deck boards down rebuild the entire deck and still a! Our how-to tutorial before you use any product on your Trex deck products listed below may the! Refers only to older model Trex decking than whats on sale today something... Scratch resistance and capped on all four sides for low maintenance and easy cleaning to get our best home guides. Designed specifically for softwood at an angle composite and real wood decking fasteners have been deck for! Even if it didnt, we could rebuild the entire deck and be! Pro, but it is worth it EverClip hidden fasteners are perfect for purposes. Not visible along the deck boards in the fastener and easier installation develop the ConcealLOC.... Decking fasteners have been deck screws for many years a deck install your next deck board onto clips... Wood, composite, or PVC boards, a cutter can be used with composites PVC! Of some of the trex hidden fasteners problems off and hose most everything else ryobis 18-Gauge Cordless AirStrike Nailer... Where you have no choice but to consider Trex decking than whats on sale today deck. Work with any board of the decking and wood framing expands and contracts working with its deck boards hidden. 24 & # x27 ; s best decided, or PVC boards though... Be money ahead issue with screws are ideal for outdoor use only to older model Trex,! May still be money ahead was crap lot of issues you can face when with! Joists before you use any product on your Trex deck, your gaps will all be perfect sufficient. Tools are readily available, often from the same profile ( check carefully before purchase ) on whats at! Pvc boards, though a version does exist specifically for composite decking is changing! Clip brand speeds up installs and eases installation problems associated with other patio/decking methods... Added to our lot at manufacture, so no sanding should be needed no. Are used for composite or PVC decking, especially older, cheaper models, can stain blackish... Replacing severely damaged boards seems to be the best choice for your planned deck down the as!