Products that are easier to install and that create a more beautiful outdoor space. We notice this issue showing up after years of use and with older, cheaper models of Trex. Heres a gallery of beautiful decks to remind you exactly why you wanted that Trex deck in the first place. But we also let them know that composite decks can last far longer. One of the biggest problems with older Trex decking is color fading. 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. The smaller shape allows for approximately 1 inch of tolerance in the positioning of the . . Made my eyes bug out!!! 24 0 obj <> endobj Considering Can running a skill saw with an 1/8 blade between each piece it to open up a gap for drainage? Says Bob regarding his horrible Trex deck gaps. With limited ventilation, face screws are the best option. For a flawless look across your entire deck, order Trex Hideaway Universal Hidden Fasteners. Some concealed deck fasteners only work with a specific decking material. Usually these clips are used for composite or PVC boards, though a version does exist specifically for softwood. This can be an issue with an older deck once fading has occurred since the new deck boards wont match the old. Another hidden fastener option is the prong fastener. 0000102199 00000 n Publicado el sbado, 1 de abril de 2023 . Copyright 2023 Acton Media Inc. All rights reserved. 0000008944 00000 n If you have to snap a line make sure you use blue chalk and plan on cutting the line so none of the blue remains. Properly pitched and drained ground below the deck. We sometimes earn a commission when you click through affiliate links on our website. Some installers and homeowners favor clip systems because they often hide the joist to build color continuity throughout the main deck surface. It features a stainless steel deck screw already set in the fastener for increased durability and easier installation. My son's deck has developed a problem that can most easily be addressed by removing one or two Trex pieces in the middle of the deck. If your question isn't answered here, you may also contact us with any questions you may have. We build using Trex composite decking regularly because its known for its gorgeous style and long lifespan. hWK(T@KHC56{,,J@"$Kb-$d"IrjrJ*T&9As$&|Ar~ *T&-*6t^yM7t^ad0RF#Had0RF#h=?\~?uxNz{>yXq}qE? 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. Therefore, make informed decisions. Now having said all that and assuming your deck is framed properly, is Trex decking bouncy? Copyright 2023 Trex Company, Inc. All rights reserved. Reinforced nylon or metal alternatives are widely available. In frequent high winds on the coast our new trex decking makes harmonic howling noise. 0000031270 00000 n These arent subject to the same movement as real wood. For this reason, Trex does not recommend using just any slot cutter when working with its deck boards. Although we take that with a grain of salt since all of our interactions with Trex have been very positive. Nail Guns are a big no-no for deck building, you can't get good hot dipped galvanized nails for a nail gun. We never use markers or snap lines with chalk. 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. If necessary, broken boards may usually be replaced by simply removing the screws in place. We recommend using Trex Elevations light gauge steel framing for most of our projects. Please visit MataverdeDecking.com for additional information about hidden deck fasteners, decking installation, hardwood decking options, deck galleries and more. Here's a short list or decks where you should not use hidden deck fasteners: Hidden deck fasteners can be a beautiful design element for a deck project - if your deck qualifies. If a stain occurs and cant be cleaned the only remedy is replacing the entire board. Avoid some types of harsh cleaners. If your building a new deck choose one of their premium models and make sure to frame the deck properly. In the places where they strip i can usually just move it 1/2" bit over on the joist and try again. The tub contains sufficient screws for around 450 square feet of deck, depending on joist spacing. It can be used with composites, PVC, pressure-treated lumber, or hardwoods. The product fades, warps, holds water, molds terrible, and now its literally falling apart! There are certain installations where hidden fasteners are critical, and for more than just aesthetic purposes. They are a budget-friendly solution. Here are some things to look for and possible solutions for any trouble you may be having. 51 0 obj <>stream You can counterbore the boards so the screw heads go below the surface, then hide them with a wooden plug that is glued in. Although each variation of hidden fastener has its own pros and cons, the general drawbacks remain the same. Self-gapping hardware is the main fastener component that attaches two Trex boards together. However, your choice will impact not just the decks visual appeal but also its structural soundness. 1 package of CAMO . 0000003275 00000 n Some Trex decking will have problems and others of the same type will not. The pack contains sufficient clips for approximately 100 square feet of decking. Canadian Tool and Supply 1/2-inch Composite Air Impact Wrench 740 ft-lbs Break-Away Torque (AIW-12C) . For all face fastening installations, install perpendicular to the deck surface, not at an angle. This translates into a greater cost for overall deck installation. Cross ventilation is best. They do have drawbacks, however, the most significant being the time and effort required for installation. Staining is an option with Trex but only certain types will work. If you are using 16" OC joist spacing, you will need approximately 350 screws for every 100 square feet. The fasteners want to grab onto the boards before they're in the right place. Make sure your deck design meets the requirements before investing in a beautiful deck. 1-866-427-2547. . 0000006986 00000 n Find helpful customer reviews and review ratings for 100 Pcs Composite Decking Clips, Fastener Board Clip Stainless Steel, Composite Decorative Plate Hidden Fixing Fastener Metal Clip with Stainless Steel Screw Flush Mounting Bracket at Amazon.sa. My old wooden deck was painted and lasted 30 years. Hidden fasteners provide a clean, finished look for a deck. For the installation circumstances below, hidden fasteners dont stand as the best option. 2-3/4" or 3" screws can be used with Trex 2x6 product. If your deck does not meet all the requirements below, dont use hidden deck fasteners. The wrong type can eat into your deck causing spots that wont come out. TimberTech Pro. While its something thats best decided during the planning stage, the choice isnt always straightforward, especially for those who have never seen this type of fastener. . His articles offer practical advice and expert insights that help readers tackle their home improvement projects with confidence. This unit is made with non-toxic, CARB-2 compliant laminated composite woods. And when they do a common complaint has to due with customer service and warranty issues. Just a few months after installation, mold started to appear. Trex. 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. The Best Way to Attach Runners on Wood Privacy Fence Posts. How To Manage Your Mental Health While Navigating the Housing Market, Biggest Issues Home Builders Are Facing in 2023, Todays Homeowner Radio Show Podcast | April 15, 2023, Todays Homeowner Radio Show Podcast | April 8, 2023, Todays Homeowner Radio Show Podcast | April 1, 2023, Ask Danny | Ep. Composite Deck Screws; . New comments cannot be posted and votes cannot be cast. xref For more information, please see our 77. Choose the Right Fastener That Works Best with Your Decking . Pantry Cabinet,Tall Narrow Cabinet With Doors And Adjustable Shelves,Wall Cabinet . 11. 0000009959 00000 n H; Using hidden fasteners creates an unblemished surface for a superior aesthetic on your natural wood and composite deck. Pre-assembled clip makes for quick and easy installation. It seems that under some conditions the coating seal placed on Trex composite decking can fail, exposing it to the elements. THE UNIVERSAL FASTENER Provides clean, fastener-free appearance across entire deck surface. No deductibles or hidden fees. What should I do? TigerClaw just partnered with Timbertech to develop the ConcealLOC HFS. This is where Trex hidden deck fasteners come into play. 0000004393 00000 n CAMO deck clips make installing grooved decking on wood or metal framing easy for everyone. 0000003908 00000 n Is there a good way to fix this? They do have drawbacks, however, the most significant being the time and effort required for installation. As my dogs walked across the deck, it left paw prints, which I immediately tried to sweep and then simply hose off, without success. Register today and take advantage of membership benefits. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00002X1WJ/?tag=skimlinks_replacement-20. 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. Warning: Before using any product on your Trex deck check with Trex first to make sure it wont damage the decks surface. One of the very ends of a board has somehow worked itself loose and popped out of the fastener. Deck board spacers are also available. Absolutely. CAMO Systems help you build better. Photos and videos 2023 Warner Bros. HWn6}7GUH H> "`l,zE9RD;q,EvO`!1\1.N% Q$(O>e4|5~)fmf+0rH=?6jtx%ml Aluminum Decking Review: Is It Better Than Other Decking Materials? Understanding their strengths and suitability for particular kinds of boards is vital in choosing the best hidden fasteners for a deck. His areas of expertise include software, security and infrastructure design. Pro Tip: Check with Trex before using any cleaning product on the deck. Fading issues are unpredictable and hard to understand. Here, we will discuss these common problems in detail. 0000001598 00000 n ft. perimeter. Trex also offers a starter clip for use along the house wall and front edges of your deck, where you won . Avoid problems with proper deck planning. Z7WKq7tzs9=$Ac8)x+?\> They also have a very sharp tip, thus allowing for easy penetration on hard surfaces like timber. Mataverde hidden deck fastener works great for a sleek look. Fasten them by hand with the included . FastenMaster 0000148524 00000 n In a nutshell, they devised a method to fasten the boards by driving screws at an angle along the board's edge - directly into the joist. %%EOF You might be better off w/ a nail gun or decking screws. Larger tubs cover around 100 square feet. Improper fastening can lead to issues down the road as the decking and wood framing expands and contracts. 0000147823 00000 n So that you don't need to lift the whole board. Thats the reason we have lemon laws for cars and laws protecting consumers. G) Sanding is not recommended for Trex decking products. H\n0 {PAi!VJ= ML4Bo?WH/+8B9:A8sjxo7^E\Os>h: Ov8REob_ey=b( Smaller is nicer but too small can be a problem. However, their underside attachment makes for an awkward installation process. 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. Arguing that they only replace defective product on a square footage basis. Order hidden edge-mount fastener clips for Ipe hardwood decking. Hidden fasteners solve the problem. /1 UeGQGI8IXod;%^Mu'DR'6]vw}fNN&CU6 The clips provide a spacing of inch. Hidden Fasteners vs Deck Screws. I want to build my own 2000 sqft house in 20 years. Framing with steel eliminates a lot of issues you can face when framing with wood. They are very strong and highly resistant to corrosion, thus ensuring outstanding durability. Your deck will look better and perform better. Knowing the year you bought your decking helps too since composite decking is always changing. Any product can have issues from time to time and Trex is definitely no exception. Lesser than 12 of the deck are above grade. There are several different approaches to hiding fasteners on a deck, and none is particularly complicated. Because with a Trex deck you cant sand or refinish the deck. In fact, using hidden deck fasteners inappropriately is a formula for failure. In 1996 Trex launched its line of composite decking products to rave reviews and revolutionized the decking industry. The hideaway Trex universal plastic fasteners come with screws and are specially designed for Trex decking products. There are several different approaches to hiding fasteners on a deck, and none is particularly complicated. Written by Chris Nolan on Tue, Oct 30, 2018 @ 05:10 AM . Similar to this, hidden fasteners provide deck builders with easy and speedy installation. endstream endobj 26 0 obj <>stream While great for driveways, wooden decks and siding, 1500 psi pressure washers will damage older decking, possibly voiding your warranty. Archived post. An old fashioned way of installing deck boards is to find a nail thats .25 and use them as spacers. A precision cutter also is available that will allow the correct groove to be cut into solid composite or real wood boards, further extending versatility. Based near Seattle, Josh Hulbert has been working in technical and leadership roles since 1998. Sometimes the materials fail, but its very rare. This process is made somewhat easier if the installer can get under the deck during installation, but it is not always possible. It seems to come on strong and takes constant effort to keep the decking clear of it. 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. 0000104848 00000 n I should splice deck boards to comport to their minimized square footage solution? I've read others have a similar problem but I haven't read if anyone has solved their problem. 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. A bucket of these fasteners can cover up to 500 sq. RYOBIs 18-Gauge Cordless AirStrike Brad Nailer The Ultimate Tool for On-the-Go Nailing! 1 package of CAMO 350 Fasteners covers 100 square feet. 1l:32< FL(D ++PZ[N8} fPr ~W<2zmf8|]#qs4 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. Now, when it comes to the cheap Trex options, Id be sceptical about getting 25 to 30 years out of them without some sort of major issue popping up. But it certainly shows up and when it does the deck can become unusable. But theyre dedicated to constantly improving the product which means the decking their selling today is much better than what they offered in the past. Use an oscillating blade to cut the screws. In other cases, it may be necessary to cut through the board to be removed and sacrifice existing fasteners before replacement. %%EOF Use the proper fasteners and make sure to fasten deck boards in the right way. Its worth the money to avoid costly problems in the future. This will help ensure the fastener stays fully straight while He has a passion for educating and empowering homeowners to make informed decisions about their properties. One of the problems with Trex decking is that it can be prone to . Once the Trex deck got loose, slightly pry it from the board. There is inadequate ventilation or poor drainage in the area beneath the deck. Benefits of Composite Deck Materials Color fading is something the company knows about and acknowledges. Trex Select. 0 3O 543. But hidden fasteners are not right for all decks. Trex manufactures its own bit for this purpose. All decks require adequate under deck ventilation on three sides to minimize moisture. Opens in a new tab. Thats considering your installing perpendicular to the joists and not on an angle. Whether youre using solid wood, composite, or PVC decking, one of the top products listed below may be a fitting choice. 10% coupon applied at checkout Save 10% with coupon. They even sent a company out to clean the deck, which didnt do anything, and killed all my flowers. Says E of Toms River, NJ. Under normal circumstances the answer is No, Trex decking isnt bouncy. changes, and extreme cold are no problem for the Trex Hideaway hidden fastener. And this creates a secondary issue where some of the deck is in sunlight and some isnt. See how you can bring speed, excellent performance, and time and cost savings to every deck build with our game-changing systems. One of the very ends of a board has somehow worked itself loose and popped out of the fastener. Read honest and unbiased product reviews from our users. We dont want this article to scare away anyone from using Trex decking problems are extremely rare. %PDF-1.4 % We have tested nearly every deck screw, concealed and hidden deck fastener on the market. I would think it would work the same with the hidden fastener you would just leave the ones at the wedge for last as the others will then be holding it. Cleaning with a soft bristle brush and warm soapy water per the cleaning instructions and waiting for it to dry still doesnt clean it. I called and filed a complaint. We purchased the Trex in 2008, and it was an expensive mistake. Installing Universal Fasteners 3. The trex boards seem to have a bow in them preventing them from snugging up to the fasteners. A variety of plug colors are available to suit different decking timber. Azeks PVC boards are generally accepted as the most durable. We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Hidden Fasteners vs Deck Screws: Which Is Better? Trex. A guide provides the perfect angle for the screw and also automatically spaces the boards. Your composite deck will have a flawless surface thanks to hidden fasteners, giving it a special appeal. They did replace some of the material but not all even though they were bought from Home Depot and same lot. However, they can work with any board of the same profile (check carefully before purchase). Note: This section refers only to older model Trex decking sold up until 2013. H\n0yCBji+q L4 0000002403 00000 n The problem is the boards were installed too tight to get at the fasteners https: . As the title implies, we have a deck with trex select using the hidden fasteners. hidden fasteners Composite decking often goes down the same way as wood, that is, with stainless steel decking screws. 94 0 obj <>stream 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. I live in the country. Trex hidden fastener - board popped out As the title implies, we have a deck with trex select using the hidden fasteners. Composite decking and deck hardware has come a long way. 0000003943 00000 n The choice between deck screws and hidden fasteners may seem dull and inconsequential in comparison. Any deck that is 30 or closer to the ground requires face screws for best fastening performance. This is not an acceptable approach, particularly on a high-end deck, so hidden fasteners must be used in this case. Where To Buy Trex FAQ This starter pack covers around 30 square feet. As mentioned above, you can screw through the edges using a precision guide or use hidden fasteners designed specifically for composite decking. Screws are not provided but are readily available. Nothing works. If the boards have a warp turn them end of end, if they are just pushing out a little as you screw them down, apply a block to hold them straight as you screw them down. Most do require the use of a proprietary driver and special screws but can be used in real wood, composite, or PVC boards. We have a fastening option for you regardless of the design, color, or style you choose. Trex Hideaway provides a clean, fastener-free appearance across the entire surface of the deck. in mathematics and a B.S. They have a central hole that is used to screw them to the joists. If the deck is being. For the most part I'm just being very careful to not torque the screws too much but with such a small shank and smaller threads it's VERY easy to strip the screws purchase. ft. (4.6 m2) 1 bucket covers 500 sq. Removing leaves and debris with a broom or leaf blower frequently is the best preventive measure. Dirt clings to composite decking more so than wood and it stands out a lot more too. In plug systems, the screws are inserted with a good counter sink to make it possible to insert a tiny plug and fill up the hole with the main deck surface. Although you can use a TC-G slot cutter for some types of Trex decking, it is not designed for use with boards that are thicker than 1 inch. 0000004617 00000 n Hidden deck fasteners solve several common complaints in deck construction; they force even board spacing, keep unsightly nail or screw holes off the face of deck boards and remove the need for driving fasteners in a perfectly straight line. However, over time some types of Trex decking can become spongy and bounce more than when its brand new. Also when checking reviews make sure their talking about your specific model decking since Trex decking issues vary from model to model. By Bob Beacham Updated Jul 23, 2021 2:25 PM. Subscribe & Get Exclusive Home Improvement Guides. So multiply the number of joists by the number of boards times two. The first method is to screw directly through the board into the joist below. 0 0000001176 00000 n The nails act as a spacer just like when you install tile. In effect, one fastener is needed for each edge of the board, fixed into each joist. I've repaired a couple of hidden fastener deck jobs were they had worked themselves loose from the decking allowing the boards to become misaligned. Color-Matched Fasteners Color-matched fasteners pair well with all TimberTech decking, providing a secure hold without taking away from your deck's beautiful design. A special two-stage drill bit counterbores a hole, allowing the screw head to be driven below the surface. A thorough cleaning with a mop and gentle detergent, such as dish soap, may help remove residual grime and lighten the stain. Many Trex deck owners have complained of flaking, deterioration and even in extreme cases virtual disintegration of their Trex decks. Contacted trex, representative didn't. Something as simple as leaves or branches sitting on a Trex deck can stain. These specially designed fasteners are equally effective at providing hidden fixing for either of these popular boards. 900-Pack 1-in Black Hidden Fastener. 8 44 Pros & Cons of using Hidden Fasteners on a Deck 28,394 views Nov 1, 2013 Our opinion on the pros & cons of attaching your deck floor with hidden fastners 38 Dislike Share DecksRusLLC 34. I could just go out and sweep most of the dirt off and hose most everything else. Because of this acknowledgement you can be sure when you buy a Trex deck you will have color fading. If you want a larger or smaller gap just buy bigger or smaller nails. That stuff has been proven to be junk. 7 people found this helpful Helpful Report abuse C. Hotchkiss What a marvelous solution This tends to happen more frequently as ancient wood decking ages. It is always critical to plan for proper under-deck drainage, (even more so with low clearance decks). Reddit and its partners use cookies and similar technologies to provide you with a better experience. Make sure your deck design meets the requirements before investing in a beautiful deck. I think this might also have something to do with the PT being a bit wet (Pacific Northwest weather). TimberTechs capped composite decking with its tough polymer shell is widely regarded as the product that most closely resembles real wood. Just install the fasteners and deck boards, your gaps will all be perfect. Check with Trex before using any cleaner on your decking. Blackening like this happens more in dark areas that dont get much sun. Wed love to hear from you. The main deck boards have a nominal width of 6 wider. 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 Hj 0 And while their customer service and warranty department could be better, they do offer a good warranty which will protect you if major defects occur. Adequate under-deck ventilation on three sides of the deck. Chris Nolan on Mold like this was an issue with1st generation Trex decking but not with newer models being offered today. 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. Any suggestions on how to possibly prevent it from happening again? The CONCEALoc and any grooved TimberTech do give a 1/8" gap. The thread is designed for maximum grip in the joists, providing excellent durability regardless of the actual deck material. Traditional composite and real wood decking fasteners have been deck screws for many years. R However, hidden fasteners are dependably a wise choice for composite decking and can offer your deck the stunning appearance youll love for years to come. 31: A Realtors Insights on Todays Turbulent Housing Market, Modern Living Room Design for a Mid-Century Home, Ask Danny | Ep. . SEE PRODUCTS. and our Download the "Ultimate Guide to Selecting thee Right Decking" today. This makes for a strong attachment to both the deck board and the joist, and it keeps the fastener out of sight. You can find these, While there are pros and cons of hidden deck fasteners, d. eck screws remain a viable option for fastening your floorboards. Cortex fasteners are hidden by collated plugs made of the same material as your chosen deck boards. 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. The best screws are stainless steel, in case you have to replace boards at a later date. H\Mk 9A=@R4pu Shape (or profile) also is important. Standard lumber is called 6-inch-wide, but the actual dimension is 5 inches wide. TimberTech offers one top-down hidden fastener option: Cortex . Trex Hideaway works best with grooved, Home Theater Wall Color (Paint Color Guide). You dont have to think about it. From my experience with composite decking the more fasteners the better.

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