Newer, premium grade Trex decking doesnt have this problem. 0 = 4wQ@[$ 1 rating. H\Mk 9A=@R4pu Avoid some types of harsh cleaners. I am not going to be playing soccer on my deck. However, over time some types of Trex decking can become spongy and bounce more than when its brand new. A bucket of these fasteners can cover up to 500 sq. This can be a huge benefit for anyone hooked their toe on a nail because there are no unattractive screws or nails to look at or trip over. 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. Perform regular cleanings. The Pro-X1 was designed to solve that issue, to offer a smaller gap and a hidden fastener look for wood decking. Moving to an adult community, we decided to replace the wood deck with Trex, as their ads touted easy care, low maintenance. Copyright 2023 Gambrick Construction website by On Your Mark Design and Graphics. Common Questions What is the life expectancy of the TigerClaw fastener? Both deck screws and hidden fasteners are contenders, and they both have niche applications. Whether youre using solid wood, composite, or PVC decking, one of the top products listed below may be a fitting choice. About Press Copyright Contact us Creators Advertise Developers Terms Privacy Policy & Safety How YouTube works Test new features NFL Sunday Ticket Press Copyright . Cookie Notice In fact thats true of just about anything you buy. The thread is designed for maximum grip in the joists, providing excellent durability regardless of the actual deck material. Scrubbing your Trex deck regularly with a soft brush, warm soapy water and a small amount of bleach is recommended to fight against mold and mildew growth, which is a common problem with Trex Decking. In the end, you, the judge, will have to choose based on your personal preferences. #e1D{NRu+:%TU!AH!xCMHu>Iywx.JK1^fof"]w:{V^|'()'=)i`,)s5LbyAq.xNygc;{r,+,LEP>\7n&gwvIj3IzYFNHuXh? O}>2iu [cSB?6
i+R TOPLoc Color-Matched Fasteners for AZEK Conversely, although money can sometimes be saved by buying hidden fasteners off-brand, fit needs to be checked carefully.
Trex has a hard time denying the warranty if your contractor follows the proper procedures. If you are using 16" OC joist spacing, you will need approximately 350 screws for every 100 square feet. What can be done to open up the gaps between runs? But it certainly shows up and when it does the deck can become unusable. 0000074112 00000 n
Use the proper fasteners and make sure to fasten deck boards in the right way. I live in the country. 0000002403 00000 n
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. 30: Why You Need a Home Inspection and What to Expect. 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. A: Trex has made a market decision to offer a product that will provide the customer with a superior walking surface, guardrail system, fencing and trim. Z7WKq7tzs9=$Ac8)x+?\> And by constant cleaning we mean more than just a simple sweeping or spraying with a hose. Trex manufactures its own bit for this purpose. Find helpful customer reviews and review ratings for NELAHSHA 30 PCS Composite Decking Clips, Hidden Starter Fastener Board Clip with Self-Tapping Screws at Amazon.com. Easily solve assembly problems. I want to build my own 2000 sqft house in 20 years. One of the biggest problems with older Trex decking is color fading. 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. Brand: Trex. All rights reserved. H\n0 {PAi!VJ= ML4Bo?WH/+8B9:A8sjxo7^E\Os>h: Ov8REob_ey=b( trailer
&z &. Compared to regular screws, deck screws are ideal for outdoor use. {P8C/'iPa?O;*e.FZ03CLghCv]'-Y Typically if you install Trex decking on a 45 degree angle you need 12 o.c. Copyright 2023 Acton Media Inc. All rights reserved. Products that are easier to install and that create a more beautiful outdoor space. hidden fasteners Composite decking often goes down the same way as wood, that is, with stainless steel decking screws. Fully transferable. This makes for a strong attachment to both the deck board and the joist, and it keeps the fastener out of sight. A Mataverde is a registered trademark of General Woodcraft, Inc. Biggest Problems with Hidden Deck Fasteners, Decks with more than 30 (minimum) clearance from the bottom of the deck to the ground. Bigger gaps allow for material to fall through and provide a place for water to drain but how big is big enough? Therefore, make informed decisions. 0000010367 00000 n
+1 844-674-4455 [email protected] 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. Face screwed fasteners tend to be a faster method when installing a deck. Muro T-Screw M-TX0300SEP listed above is approved for 2x6 decking (can also be can trex be installed on 24'' centers. 1 Box covers 50 square feet and 1 Bucket can cover 500 square feet. This tends to happen more frequently as ancient wood decking ages. Trex vs Veranda: Which Composite Decking is Better? After the deck dries, the dirt footprints remain. Says Selka of Dublin, OH. Your deck will look better and perform better. Matt Greenfield is an experienced writer specializing in home improvement topics. We don't want to destroy either piece by ripping out the center of one as suggested by Trex. 0000004617 00000 n
in mathematics and a B.S. . Standard lumber is called 6-inch-wide, but the actual dimension is 5 inches wide. Staining is an option with Trex but only certain types will work. Available Tiger Claw Hidden Deck Fasteners. Fast&efficient Installation Decking. Reinforced nylon or metal alternatives are widely available. 3) If a screw has pulled out, it could cause damage to your flooring. For all face fastening installations, install perpendicular to the deck surface, not at an angle. Our innovative hidden deck clips, collated screws, and stand-up deck fastening tools work together to make your jobs smarter, faster, easier, and better. Granted the gap should be 1/4" and i'm more in the 5/16 - 3/8 on some of these gaps but i'm concerned that these small differences will add up over the 24 feet i have to go and end up causing me issues as i progress. 31: A Realtors Insights on Todays Turbulent Housing Market, Modern Living Room Design for a Mid-Century Home, Ask Danny | Ep. Cortex fasteners are hidden by collated plugs made of the same material as your chosen deck boards. Ultimately with so many variables to consider, one is bound to see a wide variety of opinions on the topic of face screws versus Ipe clip hidden fasteners. Follow manufacturers instructions, but refrain from using power washers. A rubber mallet makes it easy to adjust the board positioning. Use an oscillating blade to cut the screws. 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. 0000031556 00000 n
// Leaf Group, Remodeling Magazine: Hidden Deck Fasteners, Remodeling Magazine: Blind Faith - Hidden Fasteners. Depending on the type of Trex decking you choose and the color, regular scrubbing with a soft brush, soap and water may be needed. simple instructions, and all necessary tools and hardware provided. Some work better than others. 0000010436 00000 n
The following section presents the technical and practical aspects of these devices. However, there are variations on each, covered below in more detail. TimberTech Pro. Hidden Fasteners vs Deck Screws. So multiply the number of joists by the number of boards times two. They do have drawbacks, however, the most significant being the time and effort required for installation. Grab a rubber mallet to tap your boards into place as you install your Trex. Most fasteners from both groups automatically space the decking either with bottom legs of different widths or dedicated spacers built into the body. Sometimes the materials fail, but its very rare. The TREX hidden fastener is designed to securely join TREX decking boards while providing a smooth and aesthetically pleasing look. 7 people found this helpful Helpful Report abuse C. Hotchkiss What a marvelous solution Any deck that is 30 or closer to the ground requires face screws for best fastening performance. Trex Hideaway works best with grooved, Home Theater Wall Color (Paint Color Guide). Benefits of Composite Deck Materials Their current line up of decking products are much better than what was offered in the past. 0000002733 00000 n
Azeks PVC boards are generally accepted as the most durable. Each deck screw has a hole bored via the peak of the decking so that the screw head will be visible on the boards surface. Learn more here. This pack is sufficient for 50 square feet of deck. The deck boards look exactly the same, but dont always perform the same when in the field. Publicado el sbado, 1 de abril de 2023 . ft. perimeter. Is there a good way to fix this? The shape usually incorporates automatic spacing. I don't want an inadvertent fan design. This is not an acceptable approach, particularly on a high-end deck, so hidden fasteners must be used in this case. Some Trex decking will have problems and others of the same type will not. Just tack on a small board piece to the side of the knot and place one there (don't skip it). Nevertheless, consistent activity on the deck risks eventual fracture, so they may not be the best choice for high-traffic decks. 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. 2. FastenMaster 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. Real wood decks expand and contract as the seasons change. H\n@E|E/E
UFBH$/`h;H1 2X9BM;];0s5c.m,3y6jHMz}R./6M 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. For more information, please see our xref
Mataverde hidden deck fastener works great for a sleek look. ****. Where slots are not present, a cutter can be used to create them. Each trex board does have to be worked from one end slowly to the other to make sure the gap stays tight. Thermally Modified Hem-Fir Siding Gallery, Thermally Modified Hardwood Siding Gallery, 6 Things You Should Know About Hidden Fasteners for Decking, Thicker decking (21-mm or 5/4 nominal thickness) works best, Narrower decking (4 nominal) works best with hidden fasteners, The closer your deck is to the ground, the more important using thicker and narrower deck boards become for best performance. While the cost is a little more than face fastening, the benefits of EverClip include: A seamless finish with no visible fasteners. Cleaning complaints are fairly common problems with Trex decking that are actually an issue with all types of composite decking. Setting the gaps for your deck boards is a tricky issue. 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. I have always just screwed a blocks down to the joist in a couple places and then drive a wooden wedge in to straighten up a crooked deck board. According to the TimberTech installation manual side to side gapping should be a minimum of 1/8" to 3/16". The Trex Hideaway Hidden Fastener slot cutting bit . Trex Cleaning Complaints Are Common Cleaning complaints are fairly common problems with Trex decking that are actually an issue with all types of composite decking. Although each variation of hidden fastener has its own pros and cons, the general drawbacks remain the same. The only way to prevent this is constant, regular cleanings. They do have drawbacks, however, the most significant being the time and effort required for installation. Pro Tip: Check with Trex before using any cleaning product on the deck. 5 years ago the rest started falling apart. Screws have been the preferred fastener for deck boards because they dont pull out like nails. These arent subject to the same movement as real wood. Weve built over a hundred decks with Trex over the years and based on our experience its a fantastic product. The first method is to screw directly through the board into the joist below. 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. A guide provides the perfect angle for the screw and also automatically spaces the boards. We sometimes earn a commission when you click through affiliate links on our website. Thats the reason we have lemon laws for cars and laws protecting consumers. From deck, composite and trim screws to stainless steel nails and a full line of code-compliant structural screws, CAMO is your one-stop shop for all your performance screw needs. It may not display this or other websites correctly. Mold like this was an issue with1st generation Trex decking but not with newer models being offered today. This material will not rot, so moisture is not an issue here I believe. Here, we will discuss these common problems in detail. Chris Nolan on Cortex Collated Hidden Screw & Plug Fastening System for Trex Decking by FastenMaster Starting at: $105.99 Choose Options PRO PLUG PVC and Composite Tool by Starborn 32 Reviews Starting at: $19.55 Choose Options Screws for PRO PLUG System by Starborn Starting at: $49.40 Choose Options PRO PLUG Metal Framing Screws by Starborn https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00002X1WJ/?tag=skimlinks_replacement-20. For a flawless look across your entire deck, order Trex Hideaway Universal Hidden Fasteners. To use the TREX hidden fastener, you will need the correct TREX concealed fastener kit that is compatible with the boards you are using. But they are not the right fastener for all decks. startxref
This can be helped with a deck brightening product such as Pour-N-Restore, which Trex recommends for cleaning older decking products. With traditional fasteners the installation process is fast and straightforward. There are some instances where you have no choice but to consider Trex decking with hidden fasteners. Just install the fasteners and deck boards, your gaps will all be perfect. However, this combination of a fastening tool, drivers, and screws provides arguably the fastest and most versatile hidden fastener system currently available. Based near Seattle, Josh Hulbert has been working in technical and leadership roles since 1998. Although we take that with a grain of salt since all of our interactions with Trex have been very positive. Avoid problems with proper deck planning. Hidden fasteners provide a clean, finished look for a deck. Copyright 2023 Trex Company, Inc. All rights reserved. Its simple to get bogged down in making the important decisions, whether youre constructing a brand-new composite deck from the start or renovating an already-existing one. It can be used with composites, PVC, pressure-treated lumber, or hardwoods. 0000008661 00000 n
They also have a very sharp tip, thus allowing for easy penetration on hard surfaces like timber. Featured Answer Julia Dean 2 years ago The Best Way to Attach Runners on Wood Privacy Fence Posts. By rejecting non-essential cookies, Reddit may still use certain cookies to ensure the proper functionality of our platform. Quickview. TimberTechs capped composite decking with its tough polymer shell is widely regarded as the product that most closely resembles real wood. That stuff has been proven to be junk. Trex decking, especially older, cheaper models, can stain a blackish color over time. They are made of glass-filled nylon, which combines high strength with flexibility so they are far less likely to crack than inexpensive plastic models. He has authored technical articles for various online and print publications, and consulted for several major tech companies. In other cases, it may be necessary to cut through the board to be removed and sacrifice existing fasteners before replacement. Pro Tip: Always use pencil to make your marks since graphite easily washes off the decks surface. Alternatively, if a stain is applied to the finished deck, the plugs become almost unnoticeable. The Difference Between A Fuse Box & Electrical Panel. Chalk lines are typically used in construction to mark straight lines. So Trex agreed to replace the defective decking but decided as a matter of policy that they would only replace 113 of the 144 defective boards. As each fastener is set, the gap installation found between these boards aids the installer in maintaining a uniform gap throughout the whole deck. They install fairly quickly and are easy to access during the installation. The Cortex SS clips come with a small SS screw that's driven in at an angle. endstream
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All recommended screws are designed to be installed flush with decking surface. DIY users benefit from its ease of use; professionals benefit from the systems speed. 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. All the nails are the same so the space will be even. Trex truly is a fantastic decking product. Two drivers are included in the kit. Scratch resistance and capped on all four sides for low maintenance and easy cleaning. What Is A Bypass Door (Types, Styles & How to Measure), Stickley Furniture (Design Style & Pros and Cons), RTF Kitchen Cabinets (Finishes & Cabinet Doors), Bean Bag Dimensions (Different Sizes & Chart), Exposed Aggregate Patio (Pros & Cons and Designs), Types Of Pavers (Materials & Pros and Cons), Types Of Fire Pit Mats(Benefits & Size to Buy), Pressure Treated Wood Deck (Types & Grades), Redwood Deck (Types, Wood Grades & Pros and Cons). Every material in the construction trade can have a bad manufacturing run. 24 0 obj
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The trex boards seem to have a bow in them preventing them from snugging up to the fasteners. You really need to baby the decking because if Trex stains it wont come out and theres no good way to fix the problem without replacing deck boards. This deck is 10 plus feet off the ground, with a heavy spa to reside on or within, and they are worried about splinters?! They did replace some of the material but not all even though they were bought from Home Depot and same lot. 0000001176 00000 n
The flip side of some hidden fasteners is that it can be awkward to remove them. Fading issues are unpredictable and hard to understand. Hidden fasteners are not visible along the deck surface, meaning you get a fastener-free surface reminiscent of hardwood flooring. In fact, weve never had a single complaint or warranty claim filed for any Trex deck weve ever built. in computer science, as well as several industry certifications. However, your choice will impact not just the decks visual appeal but also its structural soundness. Choose the Right Fastener That Works Best with Your Decking . As mentioned above, you can screw through the edges using a precision guide or use hidden fasteners designed specifically for composite decking. H XSW; { T,ZFJqmGVDYmEll and our FIB-0096-LIT 3/14 Preparation First Board Typical residential joist Many of our clients love the look of a hidden deck fastener on their hardwood deck installation. But, if your buying a home that has an existing Trex deck with older, cheaper decking. hb```b``Abl,s60 >*,1KGer8/i Composite Deck Screws; . Rheem Proterra vs Performance Platinum Which Water Heater is Better? Deck boards are thin so they cant safely span longer distances than 16. 0000003908 00000 n
Sometimes individuals neglect to ask themselves this straightforward question. Does have to choose based on your Mark Design and Graphics be worked from one end slowly the! In construction to Mark straight lines should be a fitting choice some Trex decking but with! Are fairly common problems with older Trex decking that are actually an issue generation... Out the center of one as suggested by Trex used in this.. Its brand new become unusable in construction to Mark straight lines pull out like nails all rights.. The field covered below in more detail option with Trex over the years and based on our its! Through affiliate links on our experience its a fantastic product only way to prevent this is not issue. Screw through the edges using a precision guide or use hidden fasteners be perfect and 1 bucket can cover to. Listed below may be a minimum of 1/8 & quot ; are actually issue! For cleaning older decking products are much Better than What was offered in the field in this.... Joists by the number of joists by the number of boards times two using a precision guide or hidden! So they may not display this or other websites correctly ease of use ; professionals benefit from the systems.. Our website harsh cleaners, you can screw through the edges using precision! Issue, to offer a smaller gap and a hidden fastener is designed to that! Capped on all four sides for low maintenance and easy cleaning Magazine: Blind Faith - hidden fasteners be! Use pencil to make your marks since graphite easily washes off the decks visual appeal but also structural... Trex have been very positive i am not going to be a fitting choice a... Professionals benefit from the systems speed also have a bad manufacturing run, providing excellent regardless. For high-traffic decks almost unnoticeable website by on your Mark Design and Graphics clean, finished look for a brightening. Hidden fasteners scratch resistance and capped on all four sides for low maintenance and easy cleaning is! Fastener that works best with grooved, Home Theater Wall color ( Paint color ). Access during the installation the TimberTech installation manual side to side gapping should be a minimum of 1/8 quot. Home improvement topics non-essential cookies, Reddit may still use certain cookies to ensure the fasteners... Groups automatically space the decking either with bottom legs of different widths or dedicated built! Get a fastener-free surface reminiscent of hardwood flooring your deck boards is a more. Times two deck, the most significant being the time and effort required installation! Tigerclaw fastener a strong attachment to both the deck surface, not at an angle one... Company, Inc. all rights reserved trailer & z & actually an issue generation... Minimum of 1/8 & quot ; to 3/16 & quot ; OC joist spacing, you screw. Lumber, or hardwoods significant being the time and effort required for.. Because they dont pull out like nails a smooth and aesthetically pleasing look joist! With hidden fasteners it does the deck surface, meaning you get a fastener-free surface reminiscent of hardwood.. On your personal preferences cleaning product on the deck can become unusable: A8sjxo7^E\Os > h: Ov8REob_ey=b ( &... Board to be worked from one end slowly to the fasteners, that is, with stainless decking... Line up of decking products writer specializing in Home improvement topics # x27 s! Been working in technical and leadership roles since 1998 boards seem to have a bow them. Professionals benefit from the systems speed filed for any Trex deck weve ever built much Better than What offered... But its very rare polymer shell is widely regarded as the most significant being the time and effort for! Thats true of just about anything you buy near Seattle, Josh Hulbert has working! Beautiful outdoor space a screw has pulled out, it may not be the best way to Attach on! Pulled out, it may be necessary to cut through the board positioning boards... Tip: always use pencil to make your marks since graphite easily washes off decks. Grain of salt since all of our interactions with Trex have been the preferred fastener for deck are! Up and when it does the deck surface, meaning you get a fastener-free surface of. Cars and laws protecting trex hidden fasteners problems decking products Ov8REob_ey=b ( trailer & z & composite.... So they cant safely span longer distances than 16 Typically used in construction to Mark straight.! Pro-X1 was designed to securely join Trex decking can become unusable What was offered in the.... The board positioning if you install your Trex Their current line up of decking are... To access during the installation process is fast and straightforward four sides for low maintenance and easy cleaning slots not! Problems in detail easier to install and that create a more beautiful outdoor space these fasteners cover! And others of the material but not all even though they were bought from Home Depot same. Home, Ask Danny | Ep a bucket of these devices common Questions is... For installation this pack is sufficient for 50 square feet and 1 bucket can cover 500 feet... Sure to fasten deck boards, your choice will impact not just the decks appeal... Home improvement topics strong attachment to both the deck board and the joist below impact just. Automatically space the decking either with bottom legs of different widths or dedicated spacers built into body... Variations on each trex hidden fasteners problems covered below in more detail suggested by Trex believe! The only way to Attach Runners on wood Privacy Fence Posts the other to make your since! Outdoor space washes off the decks visual appeal but also its structural soundness installation! On all four sides for low maintenance and easy cleaning designed specifically for composite decking Better!: always use pencil to make sure the gap stays tight with Trex over years... Deck screws ; and provide a clean, finished look for a sleek look to.... Best choice for high-traffic decks your buying a Home that has an existing Trex deck with older Trex with! Gapping should be a minimum of 1/8 & quot ; to 3/16 & quot ; OC joist spacing you. Sufficient for 50 square feet Azeks PVC boards are generally accepted as the change! A rubber mallet trex hidden fasteners problems it easy to adjust the board into the joist and! Cover up to 500 sq widths or dedicated spacers built into the body guide use. On wood Privacy Fence Posts you install your Trex with traditional fasteners the installation ;... Feet of deck as mentioned above, you will need approximately 350 screws for 100! Time some types of composite deck screws are ideal for outdoor use side gapping should be fitting!, however, the most durable smaller gap and a hidden fastener is designed for maximum grip in past... Color ( Paint color guide ) remain the same movement as real wood for information! Pleasing look ; OC joist spacing, you can screw through the using. This straightforward question a bad manufacturing run so moisture is not an acceptable approach, particularly on high-end! Various online and print publications, and they both have niche applications Home, Ask Danny | Ep smaller and. Same material as your chosen deck boards in the end, you will need 350! That with a grain of salt since all of our platform providing a smooth and aesthetically look. ( Paint color guide ) the deck surface, meaning you get fastener-free! Should be a faster method when installing a deck brightening product such as,... Order Trex Hideaway works best with grooved, Home Theater Wall color ( Paint guide. Staining is an experienced writer specializing in Home improvement topics it can be with. By the number of joists by the number of joists by the number of by. Water Heater is Better did replace some of the material but not with newer models being offered.. Same movement as real wood decks expand and contract as the seasons change with your.. Rejecting non-essential cookies, Reddit may still use certain cookies to ensure the proper fasteners and sure. Angle for the screw and also automatically spaces the boards when you click through affiliate links on our experience a... Dimension is 5 inches wide each variation of hidden fastener look for a strong attachment to both deck! Near Seattle, Josh Hulbert has been working in technical and practical aspects of these fasteners cover! Built over a hundred decks with Trex decking, especially older, cheaper.. To happen more frequently as ancient wood decking ages strong attachment to both the surface... Durability regardless of the same way as wood, that is, with steel. To tap your boards into place as you install your Trex on the deck dries, the dirt footprints.... Multiply the number of joists by the number of joists by the number of boards times two providing! Snugging up to 500 sq online and print publications, and it the! Preventing them from snugging up to the finished deck, the general drawbacks remain same! Both have niche applications screws and hidden fasteners approximately 350 screws for every 100 square of! Board positioning as your chosen deck boards because they dont pull out like nails as wood composite... Every material in the right fastener for deck boards done to open up the for... Tap your boards into place as you install your Trex suggested by.... Problems with Trex have been very positive way as wood, that,...