how do hidden deck fasteners work

How Do Hidden Deck Fasteners Work?

Decks are a great addition to any home, providing an outdoor space for relaxation, entertainment, and family time. The majority of decks are constructed using deck screws or nails to fasten the deck boards to the joists. However, deck screws and nails can detract from the deck's beauty and may cause tripping hazards. Hidden deck fasteners have emerged as a popular alternative, offering a sleek and safe option for deck construction. This article discusses how hidden deck fasteners work and their numerous benefits.

What Are Hidden Deck Fasteners?

Hidden deck fasteners are specially designed connectors that connect decking boards to the underlying joists without visible fasteners on the surface of the deck. Hidden deck fasteners come in different types and sizes, and their selection depends on the type of decking material, joists' spacing, and other factors. Some of the popular types of hidden deck fasteners include biscuit-style, clip-style, track, and screw-type.

How Do Hidden Deck Fasteners Work?

Biscuit-style Hidden Deck Fasteners

Biscuit-style hidden deck fasteners work by inserting a biscuit-shaped connector into the side of the decking board's edge slot, aligning it with the joist, and then screwing it in place. The biscuit connector holds the decking board securely in place while keeping the screws hidden from view.

Clip-style Hidden Deck Fasteners

Clip-style hidden deck fasteners attach to the decking board's groove, and then the clip is either tapped or slid individually into place, after which a screw is inserted through both the clip and the joist. The clips are available depending on the decking board's material, but the majority are made of stainless steel, which makes them an ideal choice for outdoor use.

Track Hidden Deck Fasteners

Track hidden deck fasteners use a channel inside a groove to connect each decking board. With track fasteners, the clips are usually pre-installed into the tracks, which serve as guides on the joist. After positioning each decking board, the fastener is then screwed into the joist's edge through the clip.

Screw-type Hidden Deck Fasteners

Screw-type hidden deck fasteners work by inserting an angled screw through the decking board directly into the joist. The screws remain hidden from view while securing the decking boards firmly in place.

The Benefits of Hidden Deck Fasteners

Safety

Hidden deck fasteners provide a safer deck surface because there are no exposed fasteners that may cause tripping hazards or injuries. Additionally, due to their design, they reduce the risk of moisture rot, which can weaken the deck's structure over time.

Easier Deck Maintenance

Using hidden deck fasteners means that there are no visible screws or nails to remove before carrying out any deck maintenance or repair work. This makes maintenance easier and faster.

Improved Deck Aesthetics

Hidden deck fasteners give decks a sleek, modern look that showcases the beauty of the deck's natural materials. There are no visible nail or screw heads that can detract from the deck's overall aesthetic appeal.

Longer Deck Lifespan

Hidden deck fasteners provide a longer deck lifespan since they do not penetrate the deck's surface, reducing the risk of water damage, rot, and mold. Additionally, with no exposed screws or nails, there is less cracking, splitting, or warping of the deck boards.

Conclusion

To conclude, hidden deck fasteners are a fantastic way to build a great-looking, easier-to-maintain, and safer deck. Depending on the desired fastening method, material, and joist spacing, different types of hidden deck fasteners are available. There are many reasons to choose hidden deck fasteners, including improved aesthetics, safety, maintenance, and a longer lifespan. So, if you're thinking of building a new deck, consider using hidden deck fasteners.