Deck fastener debate: GIip, screw or plug?

fN rHe pesr, the question for deck Iinstallers had alwavs been "salvanized nail or screw?" But with the introduction of ACQ wood treatment in the 1990s came the advent of epoxy-coated deck screws that could withstand the corrosive nature of the new chemical. Now, the question seems to have evolved into "clip, screw or I plug?" That's because when a homeowner invests tens of thousands of dollars into a brand new outdoor living space, they want it to be perfect. And in order for it to be perfect, builders and do-it-yourselfers need to understand that not all deck fastener systems are alike. Plugs, screws and clips all have their advantages and disadvantages.

Hidden clip systems have grown in popularity over the years because of the high-end finish they bring to a deck. Homeowners love the fact that the majority of their deck is screw free. However, in addition to making both the initial building application and future repairs time consuming. certain clip systems may not withstand the expansion and contraction of the deck boards well, which could result in a squeaky deck.

During our 63 years in the redwood business, Big Creek has developed a reputation for being a reliable supplier of high quality lumber. We produce a wide range of grades and dimensions, custom cut timbers, pattern stock and fencing. Order full, mixed or partial truckloads.

Because PVC and composite decking are now manufactured by a very large group of decking companies in a large array of colors, many fastener manufacturers are now producing stainless steel deck screws with colored heads. This is a great way to conceal the screw head while still having the holding power of topdown fastening for hardwood, composite and PVC decking.

The latest deck fastener innovation came with the advent of the newest type of decking. Most deck manufacturers now produce capstock decking products, which are deck boards with a hard outer shell often filled with recycled materials. This presented a new challenge to fastening manufacturers. In capstock decking, traditional composite screws tend to leave attached shards of plastic around the screw head, as well as cause the hard outer shell to dimple and stretch, causing a white discoloration.

The first screw on the market to work with both composite and capstock decking is Starborn Industries' Cap-Tor screw. It is available in 10 colors of stainless steel and epoxy coated steel.

Another popular method that offers a great balance between holding power and the appeal of hrdden clip systems is plugging. Previously considered a very time-consuming process, plugs offer the ability to securely fasten hardwood, composite, and PVC decking, while aesthetically hiding screw-heads. In fact, the newest plugging systems for hardwoods have been specially engineered to quickly and consistently install plugs in less than half the time of traditional plugging methods.

While there are many fastener choices out there, in the end, the knowledge you offer can make the difference between satisfied homeowners offering referrals to your builder clients and complaining customers necessitating numerous callbacks.

- Ryan Unick is a deck products specialist at Starborn Industries, Inc. Reach him via www.sturborni nd u st ri e,s.com.