Choosing the right hidden fasteners for composite decking can make a significant difference in the overall appearance, durability, and ease of installation of your deck. In this guide, we’ll explore the benefits of hidden fasteners, how to select the best ones for your project, and some popular options on the market. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a professional contractor, understanding the advantages and installation process of hidden fasteners will help you create a sleek, long-lasting deck that you can enjoy for years to come.
Should You Use Hidden Fasteners for Composite Decking?
The choice between traditional and hidden fasteners for composite decking ultimately depends on your personal preferences. However, if you’re seeking our recommendation, we would undoubtedly advise using hidden deck fasteners. The benefits they offer far outweigh any potential drawbacks. Not only do they contribute to a nail-free, sleek and beautiful appearance for your deck, but they also help minimize the chances of screws loosening or protruding over time and thus enhance the safety. Additionally, hidden fasteners can enhance the durability of your decking by maintain the integrality of your decking baords. Moreover, they make for easier installation. While traditional fasteners have their place, hidden fasteners can truly elevate the look and longevity of your composite decking.
How to Choose Hidden Fasteners for Composite Decking?
Choosing the right hidden fasteners for composite decking involves considering several factors. The best hidden deck fasteners are those that fit seamlessly with your decking project. Many decking board manufacturers have their own hidden fastener systems designed specifically for their products. Using the same brand for both deck boards and fasteners can help maintain your warranty and ensure compatibility.
For example, Trex has universal hidden fasteners for their deck boards. Using Trex’s proprietary hidden fasteners ensures that your trex deck boards are securely fastened and that your deck’s warranty remains intact. Camo didden fasteners are versatile and can be used with most types of grooved deck boards. Camo offers a universal solution that works with various decking brands and materials. If you’re unsure which system to choose, our deck project planners are here to help. We can guide you through the planning and installation process to make your project easier.
Popular Hidden Fasteners for Composite Decking on the Market
1. Trex Hideaway Hidden Fasteners
The Trex Hideaway Hidden Fastener is a ¼” self-spacing connector clip with 1-5/8” screws, designed to fit between Trex grooved composite decking boards. Made from glass-filled nylon and colored black, this universal clip also works with the Trex Steel Frame System. It ensures a smooth, screw-free finish and evenly spaces Trex deck boards.
2. Feelingwood Fast-Installation Hidden Clip
The Feelingwood Fast-Installation Hidden Clip is the only nail-free hidden fastener among these hidden fasteners for composite decking. Crafted from top-grade nylon for long-lasting durability, this innovative deck clip secures your deck easily through rotation rather than driving screws, saving you a lot of time and effort during installation.
3. ConceaLoc Hidden Fasteners
Timbertech manufactures the ConceaLoc Hidden Fastener to work with its XLM, Earthwood Evolutions, and Twin Finish grooved deck boards. The brown stainless steel clip allows for a 1/8” to 3/16” deck board gap. These clips come with stainless steel screws and a 25-year warranty, ensuring long-term reliability.
4. CAMO Edge Clip Hidden Deck Clip
The CAMO Edge Clip Hidden Deck Clip is compatible with all leading composite, PVC, capped composite, and hardwood grooved boards. It features a stainless steel screw and gusset for extra strength and holding power. Each clip comes fully assembled with a plastic spacer that creates a gap for airflow and drainage. The fastener stays in place for easy installation, allowing you to pre-lay deck boards before fastening.
5. Ipe Clip Standard Hidden Deck Fasteners
Manufactured by DeckWise, the Ipe Clip Standard Hidden Deck Fastener has a round clip that fits between pregrooved Ipe hardwood or composite deck boards, creating a 3/32″ gap spacing. Made from UV-resistant fiberglass-reinforced material, these clips come in brown, black, and grey to match various decking needs.
6. Tiger Claw TC-G Hidden Fastening Clip
The TC-G Hidden Fastening Clip is made from 304-grade stainless steel, ensuring durability even in saltwater environments and with ACQ or chemically treated lumber. Tiger Claw fasteners use a unique installation process with heavy-gauge stainless steel and a black oxide coating clip. This method creates a seamless finish without visible screws, enhancing the overall look of your deck.
Do You Need to Use Hidden Fasteners with the Same Brand Deck?
It’s always a good idea to use the same brand of hidden fasteners and deck boards when possible. This ensures compatibility and helps maintain the warranty on your deck boards. For example: Trex designs its own line of hidden deck fasteners for use with Trex deck boards. The same goes for AZEK TimberTech, Deckorators, DuraLife, Envision, and Fiberon. Each of these brands offers proprietary hidden fasteners designed to work seamlessly with their decking products.
Using matched brands simplifies the installation process and ensures that the fasteners and deck boards are designed to work together, providing the best possible performance and longevity.
Do You Need Specific Deck Boards to Use with Hidden Fasteners?
If you’re planning to use hidden deck fasteners, you need deck boards with grooved edges. Most composite decking brands offer grooved-edge options. The groove is what allows the hidden fastener to attach your boards without driving a hole through your deck surface.
However, if you want to use hidden deck fasteners but don’t have grooved deck boards, you may be able to create grooves yourself. You can use a slot cutting router bit to cut a groove into the side of your deck boards. Just make sure the grooves are the right size and the right height to match the hidden deck fasteners you plan to use. This can be a meticulous process, so it’s generally recommended to choose boards with pre-made grooves.
How to Install Deck Boards with Hidden Fasteners
Every hidden deck fastener system will install slightly differently. You can find full installation instructions on the product page of each hidden fastener system. However, here is a general guide to give you an idea of the process:
- Prepare Your Deck Frame: Ensure your deck frame is properly constructed and the joists are evenly spaced according to your decking manufacturer’s recommendations.
- Fit Fasteners into Grooves: Slide the hidden fastener clip into the groove on the side of the deck boards. Make sure each fastener is properly aligned and positioned according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Secure with Screws: Drive the hidden fastener screw into the deck frame joists. This step attaches the fastener and holds the deck board down securely. The screws should be driven straight to ensure a firm hold.
- Repeat the Process: Continue fitting the fasteners and securing the screws for each deck board. Make sure to check for consistent spacing and alignment as you go.
- Final Checks: Once all the boards are installed, go over the entire deck to ensure all fasteners are properly secured and the boards are evenly spaced. Make any necessary adjustments.
If you need assistance, our team can help plan your installation. Contact us for a streamlined and successful deck-building experience. We offer guidance and support at every step, ensuring your deck is built to the highest standards.
