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What screws and tools to use with Composite, PVC and Wood decking
Anna Sotsky
What screws and tools to use with Composite, PVC and Wood decking
1. Grooved PVC & Composite Decking Boards
Decking that is grooved on both sides allows for installation using hidden fasteners, creating a sleek deck surface without any visible screws. These grooved boards are typically used for the primary decking area, which includes everything except for the deck picture frame and steps.
How should you attach grooved decking boards?
To install grooved decking boards, it is important to use clipping systems instead of screws and fasteners. While many decking brands offer their own specific decking clips, there are also universal decking clip manufacturers that produce clips that fit perfectly with many different decking brands.
Decking clips can be made from either stainless steel or durable plastic material, depending on the brand and manufacturer. Although some clips are made from plastic, there is no need to be concerned as they are designed to be long-lasting and able to withstand regular use on your deck. Stainless steel is always used for screws when it comes to decking clips.
1.1. Brand Specific Decking Clips
1.2. Decking Clips from Third Party Manufacturers
Several screw manufacturers have created universal clips that are suitable for installing a variety of decking brands, and DeckMart stocks the CAMO clip, which is a top third-party manufacturer of hidden fasteners for decking. The CAMO clip is both universal and simple to install, and is competitively priced compared to clips that are specific to particular brands. The CAMO clip is highly regarded among contractors, but it can also be used effectively by DIY enthusiasts. Moreover, it is compatible with multiple decking brands carried by DeckMart, including TimberTech/AZEK, TREX, Fortress, Fiberon, and Clubhouse.
Note: Certain brands of Composite & PVC decks, such as Zuri and TruNorth, require specific clips provided by the manufacturer and are not compatible with universal deck clips. To find out more information, please consult your local supplier.
CAMO Hidden deck Clips
A straight installation layout of decking boards is achieved by using these clips in combination with a deck wood substructure.
2. Square Edge PVC & Composite Decking Boards
Decking boards with square edges do not have side grooves and are therefore intended to be installed using face screws. These square edge boards are typically used for the picture frame of the deck, as well as for stair treads and other areas where visible deck grooves would detract from the appearance of the deck.
The recommended type of screws for a given board may vary depending on the shape of the underlying surface. Composite boards may have either a Scalloped or Solid back side, while PVC boards are always solid in shape.
2.1. Plug System
DeckMart offers Starborn Pro Plug System, which is just one of several available Deck Plug systems. The Pro Plug® System for PVC and Composite is an easy-to-install plug fastening system that is considered superior for use with PVC/Composite Decking, and it supports a variety of leading decking products. The system includes:
Epoxy-coated carbon steel or stainless steel screws in various lengths (from 2" to 3"),
Unique patented tool for driving screws to the correct depth and tapping in plugs for an even surface,
Plugs made from actual PVC/Composite deck material for a perfect match.
2.2. Color Matching Screws for Composite & PVC Decking
A wide selection of colour-matching screws for composite and PVC decking is available in various colors that can match popular decking products such as TREX, TimberTech, AZEK, Fortress, and ZURI, among others. DeckMart provides Starborn's Cap-Tor colour-matching screws, available in sizes ranging from 2" to 3". Cap-Tor® xd screws are engineered to provide a consistent, uniform finish in composite and PVC decking. Cap-Tor xd is approved for use with all major deck brands. The screws come in two material options: epoxy coated carbon steel and stainless steel.
3. PVC & Composite Fascia Boards
Fascia and Riser decking boards are commonly utilized to cover the deck structure from the sides, stair stringers from the sides, and deck stair risers. Since they lack any load-bearing capacity, these boards are only intended for vertical installation. Some contractors also create planters from these boards to enhance the look of your backyard space.
To install Fascia & Riser Synthetic Decking Boards, DeckMart suggests using face-screwing with either fascia screws or trim head screws. For composite boards, especially, DeckMart recommends using Fascia Screws over the Trim head screws since Fascia Screws have a bigger head that secures the board more securely by gripping a broader section of the Fascia board. A unique Fascia tool must be used to screw in Fascia screws ideally flat with the board.
Many fastener manufacturers now provide Plug systems for Composite fascia and riser boards. However, DeckMart does not recommend using a Plug system for these types of boards due to the fact that Fascia and Riser boards are much thinner than regular decking boards.
DeckMart offers two types of Starborn screws for fascia installation: Fascia screws and Trim Head screws. The Fascia screws are available in Epoxy coated Carbon Steel and Stainless Steel options, while the Trim Head screws are only available in Stainless Steel.
The Fascia System is designed to work with fascia boards that are between 1/2" to 3/4" thick. To use the Fascia System, use the Fascia Tool to pre-drill and countersink all holes in the fascia board. The stop collar indicates when the hole is complete. Then, set the fascia board in place and fasten with Fascia Screws. Drive the screws until they are flush with the fascia board, but be careful not to over-tighten. It's important to note that the fascia board should hang from the screws to allow for expansion and contraction.
4. Grooved Hardwood Decking Boards
Grooved hardwood decking boards are wooden planks used for outdoor decking. The boards are typically made of hardwoods such as ipe, mahogany, teak or other durable woods that are resistant to weathering and insect damage.
The boards are typically installed using hidden fasteners or clips, which attach to the sides of the boards and are then screwed into the joists below. This creates a seamless, smooth surface for the deck
DeckMart suggests purchasing composite or PVC decking boards as they offer comparable durability and longevity with less maintenance needed, while also contributing to environmental conservation.
IPE DeckWise clips are specially designed fasteners used to secure IPE hardwood decking boards to the deck's underlying joists. They are made of high-quality stainless steel or plastic, and are designed to withstand the outdoor elements and resist corrosion, rust, and decay.
The clips work by attaching to the side of each deck board and then screwing into the underlying joist, creating a secure, invisible fastening system that allows for natural expansion and contraction of the wood. This helps to prevent the warping, splitting, and cracking that can occur with traditional fastening methods.
One of the unique features of IPE DeckWise clips is their ability to provide uniform spacing between each deck board, ensuring a consistent and aesthetically pleasing appearance. This spacing also allows for proper water drainage and air circulation, which helps to reduce moisture buildup and prolong the life of the deck.
5. Square Edge Hardwood Decking Boards
Square edge hardwood decking boards are wooden planks used for outdoor decking that have straight, unrounded edges. These boards are typically made of high-quality hardwoods such as ipe, mahogany, teak, or other durable woods that are resistant to weathering and insect damage.
Square edge decking boards have a smooth, flat surface with straight edges that create a clean, traditional look. They are available in various widths and thicknesses, and can be stained or finished in a variety of colors and textures to match the aesthetic of the outdoor space.
Similar to the recommendation for grooved hardwood decking boards, DeckMart suggests the use of synthetic decking boards rather than natural wood square edge decking boards.
The installation of Square Edge Hardwood decking boards involves securing them to the underlying joists with any of the following methods:
A plug system for wood
Face screws with color-matching trim heads
Edge screws with Trim Head, utilizing the Camo edge tool for assistance.
Starborn Smart-Bit Pre-drilling and Countersinking Tool for Decks and Woodworking
$26.99 -$36.39
5.3. Edge screws with Trim Head, utilizing the Camo edge tool for assistance.
CAMO Marksman Edge tool
$23.00
CAMO Driver Bit for Square Edge Boards
$5.58
CAMO Predrill Bit
$10.78
6. Redwood Decking Boards
A redwood decking board is a type of board made from the redwood tree species, typically used as a surface material for outdoor decks. Redwood is a type of softwood that is highly valued for its natural durability, resistance to decay, and attractive appearance. Redwood decking boards are often chosen for their rich reddish-brown color, as well as their natural resistance to moisture and insect damage.
Redwood decking boards can be used to create a variety of different deck designs, including traditional or contemporary styles. They can be finished with a clear sealant or a semi-transparent stain to enhance their natural beauty and protect them from the elements.
The installation of Redwood decking boards involves securing them to the underlying joists with any of the following methods:
Face screws with color-matching or Stainless Steel trim heads
Camo Edge screws with utilizing the Camo edge tool for assistance
6.1. Face screws with color-matching Flat head screws
Starborn Smart-Bit Pre-drilling and Countersinking Tool for Decks and Woodworking
$26.99 -$36.39
6.2. Camo Edge screws with utilizing the Camo edge tool for assistance
CAMO Marksman Edge tool
$23.00
CAMO Driver Bit for Square Edge Boards
$5.58
7. Cedar Decking Boards
A redwood decking board is a type of board made from the redwood tree species, typically used as a surface material for outdoor decks. Redwood is a type of softwood that is highly valued for its natural durability, resistance to decay, and attractive appearance. Redwood decking boards are often chosen for their rich reddish-brown color, as well as their natural resistance to moisture and insect damage.
Redwood decking boards can be used to create a variety of different deck designs, including traditional or contemporary styles. They can be finished with a clear sealant or a semi-transparent stain to enhance their natural beauty and protect them from the elements.
The installation of Redwood decking boards involves securing them to the underlying joists with any of the following methods:
Face screws with color-matching or Stainless Steel trim heads
Camo Edge screws with utilizing the Camo edge tool for assistance
7.1. Face screws with color-matching Flat head screws
Starborn Smart-Bit Pre-drilling and Countersinking Tool for Decks and Woodworking
$26.99 -$36.39
7.2. Camo Edge screws with utilizing the Camo edge tool for assistance
CAMO Marksman Edge tool
$23.00
CAMO Driver Bit for Square Edge Boards
$5.58
8. Pressure Treated (PT) Decking Boards
Pressure-treated decking boards are wooden boards that have undergone a process of chemical treatment to increase their resistance to rot, decay, and insect damage. The boards are made from softwoods, such as pine or spruce, which are more susceptible to damage than hardwoods.
The treatment process involves placing the boards into a large cylinder, where they are subjected to high pressure and vacuum. This process forces a preservative solution into the wood fibers, making them resistant to insects, fungi, and decay. The preservative solution typically contains copper, which is a natural deterrent to insects and fungi.
The boards have a greenish or brownish tint when new, but will weather to a grayish color over time.
It is important to note that pressure-treated decking boards contain chemicals that may be harmful if ingested or inhaled, and should be handled with care. It is also recommended to wear protective clothing and gloves when handling the boards, and to avoid burning or sanding them, as this can release harmful dust and fumes.
To ensure optimal installation, DeckMart suggests using Camo Edge screws in combination with the Camo Edge tool when installing pressure-treated decking boards.
