Menu Close

hidden deck fasteners | what's best| beautiful waterfront deck with hidden fasteners banner pic - Gambrick

7 Best Hidden Deck Fasteners

Decking can be installed with a lot more than just nails and screws these days. Hidden deck fasteners secure the deck boards from beneath the surface, creating a clean look that’s as smooth as hardwood flooring. Hidden deck fasteners can be used with composite, vinyl, cedar, ipe or just about any other decking material you want. Because they’re just as strong as screws but provide a much nicer finish, hidden fastening systems are a superior product to traditional deck fastening methods. The cost is slightly more than most screws, however, since you don’t have to worry about screw lines, they can be faster and easier to install. Hidden deck fasteners can save you money on installation and provide a much cleaner finish.

Decking Grooves Are For Hidden Deck Fasteners

Ever wonder what those grooves on the sides of a deck board are for? That grooved edge is for use with a hidden deck fastening system. Because their so popular, just about every decking manufacturer makes decking with a both solid or grooved edge. You can also router the edges of solid deck boards yourself to create a slot that accepts hidden deck fasteners. This comes in handy when working with real wood since they generally don’t come with pre-cut grooves.

It’s important to note that grooved boards don’t have a standard groove size. You should verify with the manufacturer that the hidden fasteners you want to use are compatible with your choice of decking boards before ordering. Most hidden deck fasteners are compatible with the major decking brands like Trex, Timbertech or Azek. The benefit of grooving your own boards is that you can make the groove however you like. If you take your time, the added labor can result in a tighter fit.

Here are descriptions of the most popular hidden fastener systems with comments, tips and reviews.

Camo Hidden Deck Fasteners

Hidden deck fastening system by Camo. Designed to easily attach treated lumber, hardwood, cedar, composite or PVC deck boards directly to the deck frame, creating a beautiful, fastener-free deck surface. Easy to use and affordable. The Camo hidden deck fastener system works on just about every type of decking.

hidden deck fasteners camo marksman pro system

Marksman Pro

  • For use with treated, hardwood, cedar, composite and PVC deck boards.
  • Fits any 5-1/4″ to 5-3/4″ deck board.
  • Automatic 3/16″ spacing.
  • Dual screw guides fasten both sides of board with single tool placement.
  • Clamping action grips deck board.
  • Heavy-duty, contractor-grade tool.
  • Easy to use.
  • Helps keep deck boards straight and even.

Easy To Use & Versatile

Camo Hidden Deck Fastening System. This system uses the Camo Marksman tool to install deck screws at an angle into the side a deck board to create a super clean floor surface. The CAMO Edge Deck Fastening System works on any treated lumber, hardwood, cedar, composite, or PVC deck board and offers a Limited Lifetime Warranty that guarantees against rust and corrosion for the life of the project.

CAMO deck screws and a CAMO Marksman tool combine to deliver a fastener-free deck surface at a competitive price compared with other hidden deck fasteners. The system includes:

  • Edge Fasteners
  • Marksman and Marksman Pro tools
  • Driver Bits

CAMO Edge Deck fasteners were independently tested and exceeded Uplift Resistance and Thermal Cycling industry standards in all solid and grooved wood, composite, and PVC boards tested. You can purchase stainless steel or coated screws in 1-7/8″ for 5/4 decking and 2-3/8″ for 2×6 decking.

The Camo hidden deck fastener is one of our favorites to work with. It’s really easy to use. The Marksman Pro is basically a jig that makes sure your screws go in perfect every time and that the deck boards are always spaced correctly. A great tool if your a homeowner without much deck building experience.

Also a great hidden deck system if your a pro. Give this jig to any laborer and they’ll be able to lay perfect deck boards all day long.

Camo Hidden Deck Fasteners: Parts

hidden deck fastening system marksman pro x1 by Camo

BUY ME ON AMAZON

Camo Marksmen Pro hidden deck fastener tool.

  • Positions CAMO Edge Fasteners to create a fastener-free surface
  • Use on 5-1/4 in. to 5-3/4 in. wide deck boards
  • Works in conjunction with CAMO edge fasteners

camo hiddendeck fastener protech coated screws 1750 pcs bucket

BUY ME ON AMAZON

Camo Edge Deck Screws.

  • Offers more points of contact for optimal performance
  • Works on treated lumber, hardwood, cedar and composite
  • Penetrates the board without splitting

Camo hidden deck fastener screw bits

BUY ME ON AMAZON

Camo Hidden Deck Fasteners Driver Bits.

  • Works on treated lumber, hardwood, composite or PVC deck board
  • Fastener-free deck surface is easy to install
  • Built-in shoulder prevents over-driving the screw

Camo Installation Guide

Installing the Hidden Deck Fastening system by Camo is a simple, easy to learn process. Simply follow the step by step instructions shown in the pics below.

Cortex hidden deck fastener system screws and plugs

Step 1

Install the first board by screwing and countersinking directly into the face of the deck board and into the joist; glue a decking plug in the hole.

You won’t be able to use the Marksmen Pro to secure the first board, which is against the house, because there isn’t enough room for the jig to fit.

camo hidden deck fasteners marksman pro x1 tool

Step 2

Simply squeeze the handle and move the Camo Marksmen into position. Slide the metal clamps into the gaps between deck boards. Position the jig over the joist and release the handle. Once released the clamps grab the deck board, holding the jig in place. Make sure to press the jig down hard against the deck board. If it isn’t pressed down firmly the screws won’t go in at the correct angle or depth.

Positioning the jig correctly also makes sure deck boards are evenly spaced.

hidden deck fasteners by camo marksman pro x1 tool loading with screws installation

Step 3

Load screws into the slots at each end of the Camo Marksmen.

camo hidden deck fasteners marksman pro x1 tool installation

Step 4

Screw in the deck screws all the way until the Camo bit can’t go any more.

Once both screws are installed squeeze the handle and release the clamp.

Move the Camo Marksmen to the next joist and repeat the process starting from step 2.

Trex Hideaway Hidden Deck Fasteners

All Trex decking is available with a grooved edge, hidden deck fastener option. When using grooved-edge boards, Trex’s hidden deck fastening system installs between the deck boards, fastening them to the joists with no visible deck screw heads on the walking surface. This precision also creates perfectly consistent spacing between the boards for a flawless look across the entire deck.

Even though Trex Hideaway hidden deck fasteners are designed for use with Trex decking, they work with just about any decking with a groove. They even sell a bit for making the grooves yourself if your decking has a solid edge. The clips are super easy to use, extremely versatile and come with starter and edge clips for a super clean finish.

hidden deck fasteners Trex hideaway clip

Trex Hideaway Hidden Deck Fasteners

  • For use with all grooved Tex decking.
  • All Trex decking products are available grooved.
  • Automatic 3/16″ spacing.
  • One clip holds 2 boards.
  • Starter clips included for edge boards.
  • Contractor-grade.
  • Easy to use.
  • Helps keep deck boards straight and even.

Trex: Innovative Decking Products

Trex is an innovative company, offering performance-grade outdoor living products, smart tools and hidden deck fasteners. An elegant upgrade to traditional stainless steel and composite deck screws.

Trex Hideaway Hidden Deck Fastening System: This ¼” self-spacing connector clip with 1-5/8” screws is designed to install between Trex grooved composite decking boards. 1 Box covers 50 square feet and 1 Bucket can cover 500 square feet. Trex also offers a starter clip for use along the house wall and front edges of your deck, where you won’t be able to fit a standard Hideaway clip.

You can purchase a groove cutter to router a slot on the side of solid composite deck board edges. Trex Hideaway hidden deck fasteners are also designed to work with the Trex Steel Frame System.

This is a very easy Hidden Deck Fastening System to use. Just push the decking board in place and screw down the clips. Technically it’s designed to be used with Trex boards but pretty much all decking manufacturers have the same groove so they can be used to install almost any brand decking.

Trex Hideaway Hidden Deck Fasteners: Parts

Hidden deck fastener system Trex Hideaway clips

BUY ME ON AMAZON

Trex Hideaway Installation Guide

Using the Trex Hideaway Hidden Deck Fastening system is a simple, easy to learn process. Simply follow the step by step instructions shown in the pics below.

Trex hideaway hidden deck fastener system edge clip

Step 1

Install the first deck board with a Trex Hideaway starter clip. First, install the clip against the house with a screw. Once all the clips are installed push the first deck board into place. Starter screws come included with every box of Hideaway clips.

Trex Hideaway hidden deck fastener clip and screw

Step 2

Insert a Trex Hideaway clip into the groove securing it with the pre-loaded screw. Make sure the decking board and clip are pushed in as tight as they can go. Any wiggle room will result in uneven deck boards.

Trex hideaway hidden deck fastener decking and clips

Step 3

Continue installing clips. Make sure to center each clip on a corresponding joist. Don’t forget to push each board and clip in as tightly as possible to keep the boards even.

Trex hideaway hidden deck fastening system edge board L clips starter clips

Step 4

Install the edge clip bent down securing the last board to the rim joist if your using a Fascia board. If not secure the last board with a screw and plug just like the other hidden deck fastening systems.

Eb-Ty Premium Hidden Deck Fastening System

There’s nothing like premium decking to add the perfect finishing touch to a beautiful outdoor living space. When investing in exotic hardwood, redwood, composite and cedar decking, it’s vital to choose the right fastening method to ensure durability while letting the beauty of the material shine through.

Eb-Ty hidden deck fasteners by Simpson are super strong and provide a clean deck finish with minimal screws.

Eb-Ty hidden deck fastener clip closeup installation pic

Eb-Ty Hidden Deck Fasteners

Pristine. Precise. Perfection.

This oval shaped biscuit type hidden deck fastener is made from super strong polypropylene plastic. Designed to fit in the slotted edge of decking boards to create a screw free deck surface.

The new EB-TY Premium Hidden Deck-Fastening System is the ideal solution that blends strength with ease of installation in a fastener that won’t detract from the deck’s finished appearance.

Because Simpson Strong-Tie has redesigned the award-winning EB-TY Hidden Deck-Fastening System by integrating a Type 300 series stainless-steel reinforcing plate that adds stiffness to hold boards in place securely, yet maintains flexibility when seasonal contraction and expansion occur. Combine this innovative new design with our EB-GUIDE pre-drilling tool, and you have a system that not only provides hidden strength, but is also easy to install.

Metal Reinforced Clips For Additional Strength:

  • Provides greater holding power and increased pullover resistance
  • Stainless-steel plate ensures lasting durability in demanding environments
  • Prevents over driving of the screw

Radius Design For Easier Alignment

  • The patented arc shape of the EB-TY also helps ease insertion—works with pregrooved and biscuit-cut slots
  • Chamfered edges for easier board alignment and installation of successive boards
  • 3/16″ and 1/4″ spacings offer expansion compensation

Angled Screw Attachment

  • Ensures direct attachment of the board to the joist
  • Keeps the board from “walking” or sliding
  • Allows tighter spacing

Covers The Joist

  • Protection from direct exposure to sun and rain
  • Visually more appealing after installation

Eb-Ty Premium Hidden Deck Fasteners: Parts

Eb-Ty hidden deck fasteners metal reinforced decking clip

Type 300 series stainless-steel plate reinforces EB-TY Premium, providing greater structural strength, increased holding power and pullover resistance

Eb-Ty hidden deck fastener screw for installation

Black-painted 6-lobe trim-head screw provides a concealed finish, blends in with EB-TY fastener

Eb Guide by Eb-Ty hidden deck fasteners made by Simpson installation guide

Includes patent-pending EB-GUIDE and impact-ready drill bit for more precise fastening to joist, ensuring the proper fastening angle

BUY ME ON AMAZON

Eb-Ty Installation Guide

Installing the Eb-Ty Premium Hidden Deck Fastening system is a simple, easy to learn process. Simply follow the step by step instructions shown in the pics below.

Cortex hidden deck fastener screw being installed with plug

Step 1

Install first board by applying construction adhesive and screwing and countersinking directly into the face of the deck board and into the joist; glue a decking plug in the hole.

Eb-Ty hidden deck fastener Eb Guide being used to pre drill and install an Eb-Ty clip

Step 2

Predrill using the EB-GUIDE drill guide.

Eb-Ty hidden deck fastener clip being installed with a screw

Step 3

Place EB-TY Premium in deck board groove. Fasten with trim-head screw (included) through the EB-TY and deck board and into the joist.

Eb-Ty by Simpson hidden deck fastener clip installed with a screw

Step 4

Apply construction adhesive to the joist. Slide adjoining deck board onto exposed EB-TY Premium radius sides. Repeat Steps 2 and 3 and install last board using Step 1.

Cortex Hidden Deck Fasteners

The Cortex Hidden Fastening System is the fastest, easiest way to hide fasteners in composite, wood, and PVC decking boards. Cortex offers a strong connection between the deck board and joist. It hides fasteners across the entire deck, first and last board, perimeter and stairs.

Cortex hidden deck fastener screws and plugs

Cortex Hidden Deck Fasteners

  • TORX ttap Drive System: This system is almost impossible to strip-out. In addition, the stability button keeps the fastener straight through installation.
  • Modified Fastener: New thread design reduces installation torque and dramatically increases fastener strength. Length moves from 2 ½”.
  • Stronger Setting Tool: Optimized for extreme pro contractor use. Stronger bit material and industrial grade felt will enable you to install 350 fasteners on one Cortex Setting Tool.

Easy To Use & Versatile

Cortex Hidden Fastening System: This system is different from most other hidden decking fastening systems because it doesn’t involve clips installed between deck boards. Cortex uses a Torxttap drive system to drill screws below the deck surface which leaves a small hole filled later with color matched plugs. These plugs create a smooth floor surface without clips.

Cortex is manufactured by Fastenmaster and is compatible with PVC, Composite and Capped Composite decking. You can purchase color matched plugs for all lines of Azek, Evergrain, Trex Accents, Select, Transcend, Enhance, Clubhouse, Fiberon, Gossen, Kleer, Timbertech Earthwood Evolutions, Twin Finish, XLM, Wolf and Paralam brands. 

You can use the Cortex Hidden Deck Fastening System with any type of wood but you’ll have to make the plugs yourself.

FastenMaster fully guarantees the performance of the Cortex Deck Hidden Fastening System when installed per the installation instructions for the lifetime of the deck. The coating on the fastener is guaranteed against corrosion in pressure treated wood.

FastenMaster also guarantees: The Cortex plugs will not rise above the deck surface. The Cortex plugs will weather to the same tone as the matching composite decking. Weathering process can take a few weeks or months depending on the specific board and intensity of the sunlight.

Cortex Hidden Deck Fasteners: Parts

Make sure when you order your cortex screws you get the the correct color plug to match your decking. And also check the quantity on the box. Some say linear ft. and some square feet. We use linear ft. for edge and trim boards and square ft. for the main deck areas.

cortex hidden deck fasteners 100 linear ft box

BUY ME ON AMAZON

Cortex hidden deck fastening system – medium

  • TORX ttap drive system
  • 100 Linear ft. per small box
  • 224 Screws. 300 Plugs. 2 Setting tools.

cortex hidden deck fastening system small box of 100 sq ft

BUY ME ON AMAZON

Cortex hidden deck fastening system – small

  • TORX ttap drive system
  • 100 Square ft. per medium box
  • 350 Screws. 400 Plugs. 3 Setting tools.

Cortex hidden deck fastener large box 300 sq ft.

BUY ME ON AMAZON

Cortex hidden deck fastening system – large

  • TORX ttap drive system
  • 300 Square ft. per large box
  • 1050 Screws. 1200 Plugs. 4 Setting tools.

Cortex Installation Guide

Installing the Hidden Deck Fastening system by Camo is a simple, easy to learn process. Simply follow the step by step instructions shown in the pics below.

Cortex hidden deck fastening system screw being installed with cortex plug

Step 1

Using the Cortex setting tool, drive the Cortex deck fastener to the preset level below the deck surface.

You won’t be able to use the Marksmen Pro to secure the first board, which is against the house, because there isn’t enough room for the jig to fit.

cortex hidden deck fastening system screws being installed with plugs

Step 2

Continuously drive the fastener at one speed until the setting tool disengages on its own. Do not stop and start the drive as this may affect the finished appearance. It is important that the Cortex screw is driven perpendicular to the deck, with two screws per joist.

Positioning the jig correctly also makes sure deck boards are evenly spaced.

Cortex hidden deck fastener screws being installed with a drill and cortex plugsStep 3

The setting of the Cortex screw creates a cored hole in the deck surface.

cortex hidden deck fasteners plugs being installed with a hammer

Step 4

Place the Cortex engineered plug into the hole with the deck surface side up. Gently tap the deck plug into the cored hole until the plug is flush with the deck surface.

Concealoc Hidden Deck Fasteners

The Concealoc hidden deck fastening system by Timbertech is designed to easily attach grooved Timbertech or Azek deck boards directly to the deck frame, creating a beautiful, fastener-free deck surface. Easy to use and affordable. The Concealoc hidden deck fastener system is made for and designed by Timbertech but works on just about any decking with a groove.

The CONCEALoc Hidden Fastener System is designed for installation of edge-grooved planks, ensuring a smooth, safe, and attractive deck surface. The “wings” on each CONCEALoc Fastener insert into side grooves in adjoining Deck Boards. Hidden below the surface of the deck, they are securely held to the top of the underlying structural joists with a single stainless steel screw (included) and insure proper and consistent spacing of the deck boards. Ingenious!

Concealoc hidden deck fastener made by timbertech

Concealoc Hidden Deck Fastening System

  • For use with XLM, Earthwood Evolutions, Twin Finish and Azek grooved deck boards.
  • Fits any 5-1/4″ to 5-3/4″ deck board.
  • Automatic 1/8″ to 3/16″ spacing.
  • Heavy-duty, contractor-grade clips.
  • Easy to use.
  • Stainless steel clips and screws won’t rust.
  • Works with other grooved deck boards.

Easy To Use & Versatile

Timbertech manufactures the Concealoc hidden deck system to work with its XLM, Earthwood Evolutions, Twin Finish and Azek grooved deck boards. However the clips work on any treated lumber, hardwood, cedar, composite, or PVC deck board with a groove. Timbertech sells a router bit separately designed specifically to groove boards for use with the Concealoc clips.

CONCEALoc fasteners are crafted from Grade 304 stainless steel for a powerful and long-lasting hold without the worry of corrosion or water-damage. CONCEALoc hidden fasteners are engineered to set directly into the side grooves of your composite decking without penetrating the capstock and then is solidly attached into the deck joist with a stainless steel screw (screws included). Adjustable to suit your deck project’s need, CONCEALoc hidden fasteners are able to create a board spacing of 1/8 inch to 3/16 inch for a uniformed look without the extra work.

CONCEALoc fasteners can also be used with all non-grooved decking planks, simply use the CONCEALoc Router Bit to effortlessly create your own grooved composite decking. (sold separately).

Purchase ConceaLoc clips in 175, 900 or 1750 count containers with compatible drill bits included.

This product comes with a 25 year warranty.

Concealoc Hidden Deck Fasteners: Parts

concealoc hidden fastener deck clips and screws by Timbertech

BUY ME ON AMAZON

Concealoc Hidden Deck Fastener – small

  • Use on 5-1/4 in. to 5-3/4 in. wide deck boards
  • 1/8″ to 3/16″ gap.
  • 175 Clips. 85 Sq. ft. of coverage.

concealoc hidden deck fasteners large bucket by Timbertech

BUY ME ON AMAZON

Concealoc Hidden Deck Fastener – small

  • Use on 5-1/4 in. to 5-3/4 in. wide deck boards
  • 1/8″ to 3/16″ gap.
  • 900 Clips. 500 Sq. ft. of coverage.

concealoc by Timbertech extra large bucket of hidden deck fasteners

BUY ME ON AMAZON

Concealoc Hidden Deck Fastener – small

  • Use on 5-1/4 in. to 5-3/4 in. wide deck boards
  • 1/8″ to 3/16″ gap.
  • 1750 Clips. 1000 Sq. ft. of coverage.

Concealoc Installation Guide

Installing the Conceloc Hidden Deck Fastening system by Timbertech is a simple, easy to learn process. Simply follow the step by step instructions shown in the pics below.

concealoc hidden deck fasteners starter clips for edge boards

Step 1

Strongly attach your first and last composite deck board without having to flaw or blemish your deck surface by face-fastening them down with the versatile starter L-Bracket. Allowing you to secure your starter and end boards directly to the deck frame and then continue on with the CONCEALoc Hidden Fastener system for a smooth, clear deck surface your family and friends will love.

(L-Clips sold separately)

concealoc deck fasteners being installed with a drill

Step 2

Simply push one end of the Concealoc clip firmly into the groove and screw it into the deck joist. Make sure to push hard into the groove as far as the clip will go and screw into the center of the joist. Install one clip per joist. Make sure when installing deck boards you push hard to maintain an even deck spacing. Any wiggle room will result in uneven spacing.

concealoc deck clips installed between deck boards

Step 3

Concealoc clips sit in between the groove. Once you install clips on every joist push the next deck board into the clip firmly and start installing the next row of clips. Repeat until you get to the last board.

concealoc hidden fasteners

Step 4

Use either a Concealoc L bracket or Cortex screw with matching plug for the edge boards.

Tigerclaw TC-G Hidden Deck Fasteners

The TC-G Hidden Deck Fastening System by Tigerclaw has been specifically designed to work in 5/4” decking boards. The TC-G clips works in pre-grooved decking planks or non-grooved decking planks using our TC-150 slot cutter (sold separately).

The clip’s sharp prongs embed into the upper portion of the groove for strong holding power. The stainless-steel screws ensure a lasting connection between decking board and joist.

Tigerclaw TC-G hidden decking fasteners small bag

TC-G Hidden Deck Fastening System

  • Available in a hand driven or pneumatic gun installation method
  • Spacer tabs on the clip automatically gap the decking 3/16” for a consistent look
  • Made of 304 stainless steel
  • Designed for installation in 5/4” decking boards.
  • Approved for use in saltwater applications and ACQ or chemically treated lumber
  • The TC-G reduces wood splitting, wood rot and board cupping. Comes with a 25-year warranty.
  • For a completely fastener-free surface, use with our Cortex System for stairs, first, last and perimeter boards

Fast and Easy To Use

Adaptable and versatile, the FastenMaster Tiger Claw TC-G Hidden Deck Fasteners are the ideal choice for attaching a wide majority of grooved decking material. Specifically designed to work with 5/4 inch thick deck boards, the TC-G fasteners feature sharp prongs that embed into the groove of the deck board for superior holding power and a lasting connection between the decking and joist. Create a beautiful, clear deck surface free of visible screws or fasteners for a gorgeous outdoor living space family and friends will love to gather on with Tiger Claw TC-G Hidden Deck Fasteners. Made from durable, corrosion-resistant Grade 304 stainless steel, the Tiger Claw TC-G clips deliver an attachment you can trust and create a consistent 3/16 inch board spacing across the outdoor space for an immaculate look.

The Tiger Claw TC-G Hidden Fastener system by FastenMaster is ACQ-compliant and compatible with grooved boards including Trex, Fiberon, Wolf, Veranda, Brazilian Redwood, Ipe, Ironwood, Teak, Cambara, and more.

Working with non-grooved or square edge deck boards? Use the TigerClaw Router Bit to create the perfect side-groove in one easy motion.

Tiger Claw TC-G Fasteners are available in packs of 90 to cover approximately 50 square feet and a pail of 900 to cover approximately 500 square feet.
The 90 pack of TC-G clips include the fasteners, stainless steel screws, and a square drive bit, while the 900 pail of Tiger Claw TC-G includes only the fasteners and is meant to be used with Collated Pneumatic Screws and the Tiger Claw Pneumatic Gun for quick installation of larger outdoor projects.

TC-G Hidden Deck Fasteners: Parts

Tigerclaw hidden deck fasteners box of clips

BUY ME ON AMAZON

TC-G Hidden Deck Fastener – small

  • Use on 5-1/4 in. to 5-3/4 in. wide deck boards
  • 3/16″ Gap
  • (90) Clips
  • (92) 1-5/8″ Stainless steel screws
  • Covers 50 sq. ft.

Tigerclaw hidden decking fasteners bag of clips

BUY ME ON AMAZON

TC-G Hidden Deck Fastener – medium

  • Use on 5-1/4 in. to 5-3/4 in. wide deck boards
  • 3/16″ Gap
  • (90) Clips
  • (92) 1-5/8″ Stainless steel screws
  • Covers 50 sq. ft.

Tigerclaw hidden deck fastening clips large bucket

BUY ME ON AMAZON

TC-G Hidden Deck Fastener – large

  • Use on 5-1/4 in. to 5-3/4 in. wide deck boards
  • 3/16″ Gap
  • (900) Clips
  • (920) 1-5/8″ Stainless steel screws
  • Covers 500 sq. ft.

TC-G Installation Guide

Installing the Conceloc Hidden Deck Fastening system by Timbertech is a simple, easy to learn process. Simply follow the step by step instructions shown in the pics below.

Cortex hidden decking fasteners installed with screws and plugs

Step 1

Install the first board by screwing and countersinking directly into the face of the deck board and into the joist; glue a decking plug in the hole.

You won’t be able to use the TC-G clip to secure the first board which is against the house so it has to be screwed in. Using a plug will ensure a clean finish.

Tigerclaw hidden decking fastening clips

Step 2

Simply push one end of the TC-G clip firmly into the groove and screw it into the deck joist. Make sure to push hard into the groove as far as the clip will go and screw into the center of the joist. Install one clip per joist. Make sure when installing deck boards you push hard to maintain an even deck spacing. Any wiggle room will result in uneven spacing.

Tigerclaw hidden deck fastener pneumatic installation gun

Step 3

Tigerclaw makes a pneumatic gun for installing TC-G clips. The tool features a unique nose piece that holds clips in the correct position every time, firing a screw nail (scrail) through the clip into the joist – fastening the deck board to the joist in one step.

Finish installing clips and decking either by hand with a drill or the optional Tigerclaw pneumatic gun.

trim head decking scew being installed

Step 4

Use either a Cortex screw with matching plug or a colored head screw for the final edge boards.

Ipe Hidden Deck Fasteners

Installation of Ipe Clip hidden deck fasteners with a 1/4 in. gap is fast and trouble free. Homeowners get a clean, high end, and smooth deck surface. Ipe hidden deck fastening system utilizes an edge mount system to attach grooved or slotted hardwood decking boards. This installation method makes Ipe fasteners practically invisible after installation.

Ipe hidden deck fastener box of clips

Ipe Clip

  • For edge mount grooved or slotted hardwood deck boards ensuring a smooth surface
  • Lab tested to be up to 3X stronger than other edge mount systems without steel inserts
  • Molded polypropylene with hardened stainless steel insert for added hold-down
  • Polypropylene provides UV and chemical resistance; black oxide coated steel insert resists corrosion
  • Integrated gap spacer leg automatically spaces deck boards at 1/4 in. gap
  • Hidden inside board gaps creating fastener-free deck surfaces
  • Installed on 1 side of boards only for natural expansion and contraction of boards

Easy To Use & Versatile

This patented deck clip is camouflaged between gaps, keeping the fastener concealed. Ipe clips are injection molded from plastic polypropylene providing further chemical and UV resistant properties. These  hidden deck clips are manufactured with a stiff black oxide coated stainless steel insert for strength. The insert firmly holds decking to joists for a prolonged hold-down.

Ipe hidden deck fasteners deliver a fastener free, clean deck surface at a competitive price compared with other deck fasteners. The system includes:

  • Edge Fasteners
  • Screws
  • Spacers
  • Bits, tips and plugs

Ipe hidden deck fasteners are tested to be up to 3X tougher compared to other leading edge mount fastening systems. When installing the Ipe clip, deck boards are secured only on one side. This permits natural expansion and contraction on the width of hardwood deck boards.

Manufactured as a biscuit style deck fastener, the Ipe clip fits into the board’s edge side slots. Installers can router the required 5/32 in. side groove, use a biscuit joiner or choose to purchase pre-grooved boards from a lumber yard. Deck screws should be drilled at a 45° angle down through the fastener, then into the board bottom groove edge and into the joist.

Fitting each deck board side to side with the Ipe fastener assures even 1/4 in. gap spacing due to the integrated spacer leg.

Ipe Hidden Deck Fasteners: Parts

Ipe hidden deck fastener kit

BUY ME ON AMAZON

Ipe Clip Hidden Deck Fastening System

The Ipe hidden deck fastening system comes with everything you need in one box. Ipe clips come is different sized boxes for different sized jobs so make sure you buy enough for whatever size deck your building.

Ipe Clip Installation Guide

Installing the Ipe Hidden Deck Fastening system is simple and easy to learn. Follow the step by step instructions shown in the pics below.

ipe being plugged

Step 1

Install the first and other edge boards by screwing and countersinking directly through the face of the Ipe decking and into the joist. Glue a plug in the hole.

Ipe deckwise clip installStep 2

Push the Ipe clip all the way into the groove. Make sure it stays flat and level.

Ipe clip being screwed in

Step 3

Drive a screw on a 45 degree angle through the lower edge of the groove and into the joist.

Make sure the Ipe clip stays level and flat.

Ipe wrench being used as a Ipe clip is crewed in

Step 4

Use an Ipe decking wrench to straighten boards as you screw the clips in.

Ipe Deck Wrench

Having an Ipe deck wrench with you when your building a deck is an invaluable tool to have on the job. If any of the deck boards aren’t pushed all the way into the clip then the deck spacing will start to run off. With screws you can easily compensate a little as you go but it’s harder with clips. If the boards are even a little twisted it can be hard to push them all the way in without some help. Here are a few deck wrenches we use and recommend.

adjustable deck wrench

BUY ME ON AMAZON

EasyGo Deck Board Bending Bow Straightening Tool

  • Board Bender – Almost all natural deck wood slats come with a bow to the left or to the right. This Bow tool takes out the bow so you can make a nice clean deck with boards space matching.
  • One Person Operation – Can be used as push OR pull depending on the situation. Locks into place so you can hammer the nails.
  • Quick and Easy – This Bow bender is quick and easy to use., Allows decks to be installed accurately and quick.
  • Strong – This steel tool is built to last. Use over and over again year after year.

deck wrench

BUY ME ON AMAZON

Cepco Tool BW-2 BoWrench Decking Tool

  • Decking tool for one-person straightening of deck boards
  • 24-inch handle closes 2-inch gaps; joins tongue and groove; can push or pull
  • Heavy-gauge steel construction
  • Custom size or adjustable size grippers available from manufacturer
  • 26 by 4-1/2 by 1-1/2-inches; 5-pounds

BUY ME ON AMAZON

DeckWise Hardwood Wrench Deck Board Straightening Tool for Hardwood, Thermal Wood, PVC, Pressure Treated, and Composite Decking

  • Cam locks in place for true hands free “one man” operation.
  • Capable of bending multiple boards simultaneously.
  • High quality anodized aircraft grade aluminum with hardwood handle.
  • Adjusts to various sized joist thicknesses.
  • MADE IN THE USA.

Best Hidden Deck Fasteners Gallery

Conclusion

With so many great options and styles to choose from when building a deck, choosing the right fastener is an important decision. Hidden deck fasteners are by far our favorite was of securing the decking. They leave a nice clean finish without ugly screw heads showing all over the place.

Whether you want a home that’s classy, modern, fun, country or quirky, a beautiful deck is a great addition to any home.

If you have any questions or comments e-mail us any time. We’d love to hear from you.

Related Posts