Perfect sunny days relaxing on your deck are here, and regular maintenance is a must. Even composite or treated decking materials degrade over time, and replacing decking fasteners is a necessary part of repairs.
Whether you’re replacing a board or two or starting from scratch, choosing which fasteners to use can make a big difference. Walking down the fastener aisle in your local hardware store, you’ll notice many options available. While most can get the job done, some are a step above the rest.
Today, we’re getting into the details of all things deck fasteners. It doesn’t matter if you’re a weekend warrior or a pro; there’s always something new to learn.
Most deck fasteners on the market are screws due to their durability and superior strength as compared to decking nails. Nails are more likely to back out, are harder to remove without causing damage, and have a high probability of warping.
Deck screws can directly fasten the deck boards to the joists. This solid connection prevents deck boards from coming loose and shifting over time. They typically have coarse threads that help provide a firm grip and holding power in the wood.
Deck screws are either coated or fabricated from materials that make them resistant to the elements.
A #2 Phillips drive has a plus-shaped slot that allows for more torque to be put on the driver to ensure a tight fit. A #2 Phillips drive tends to strip easily and can slip if driven at an angle or with inadequate pressure.
Instead of a #2 Phillips drive, most deck screws feature a star-shaped drive which is a six-point drive that helps to eliminate cam-outs and head shear.
Most deck screws materials that provide the perfect balance of durability and longevity. Materials like stainless steel and polymer-coated deck screws prevent corrosion and prolong the life of your deck.
The most common material used for deck screws in coastal areas or near water is stainless steel which offers increased corrosion resistance and exceptional strength. They also resist the acids found in natural cedar and redwood so that the screws will not stain the wood due to corrosion.
On the other hand, polymer-coated fasteners resist the chemicals used in pressure-treated wood and resist weather-related corrosion.
When installing self-drilling screws, you’ll want to use a power drill equipped with an appropriately sized driver bit. Many deck screws include a self-drilling tip that removes the need to pre-drill a pilot hole in your deck boards.
Pro Tip: Generally, you’ll use around 350 deck screws per 100 square feet of decking, assuming 6 in. wide boards and 16 in. joist spacing.
Composite decking screws come in a wide variety of colors and use polymer coatings. You can get a clean finish using material-matched plugs or securing your deck boards from the sides.
Trimmed head fasteners disappear beneath the surface of your deck while also getting rid of dimpling. They can be used on a variety of decking materials and can help prevent your decking material from splitting when using a power tool. Use fewer screws and save on time and costs by choosing DeckForce® screws for your next project.
Another way to achieve a clean look is with hidden deck fasteners, such as the Grip-Rite® Ninja™ Hidden Deck Clip. Used with grooved deck boards, these clips drill directly into the joists and hold decking in place. With this option, you won’t have any holes to fill after securing your planks.
Hardwood decking requires more robust fasteners with strong holding power and anti-corrosive properties. Grip-Rite® MAX Stainless Steel Deck Screws are the preferred premium exterior fastener on job sites due to their increased holding power and quick engagement, creating a solid connection for lasting longevity.
DeckForce® Exterior Wood Screws are the ultimate choice for decking projects. Reinforced with the PrimeGuard® Nano coating, they provide weather protection, strength, and durability. The T 17 Autopilot tip prevents splitting wood, while the wedge lock head guarantees a secure, seamless finish.
Stainless steel fasteners are the best for building a deck around a pool or any body of water. Stainless steel fasteners resist corrosion and pitting from chlorides, which makes them durable for these humid climates. Grip-Rite® MAX Stainless screws are ideal for high-humidity areas and areas near the coasts.
PrimeGuard® coated products are rust-resistant in typical residential exteriors. PrimeGuard® coated screws come with a ten-year warranty when used in a typical outdoor environment application. Provided the coating isn’t compromised during installation, we will stand by our product for up to ten years!
PrimeGuard PLUS® is our premium coating formula that’s guaranteed to protect against rust and corrosion for the serviceable life of the project in typical residential settings. Ensure the coating remains intact throughout installation and avoid using harsh chemicals afterward.
PrimeGuard® Nano coating provides ultimate weather protection backed by a Lifetime Warranty. It’s designed for use in specific wood applications, such as treated lumber, to ensure your project stays secure and pristine throughout its lifespan.
PrimeGuard Max® marine grade stainless steel resists corrosion and exposure to the elements. You can use these screws in harsher environments, such as near swimming pools, docks, and other humid areas.
Now that you know which deck fastener will work best for your project, you can buy with confidence!
Grip-Rite® is preferred by professionals nationwide for our high-quality fasteners, building products, tools, and accessories that provide innovative yet reliable solutions. Visit https://grip-rite.com/ to find the retailer nearest to you.
