trex hidden fasteners problemstrex hidden fasteners problems

0000004393 00000 n Moving to an adult community, we decided to replace the wood deck with Trex, as their ads touted easy care, low maintenance. National Nail offers several types of clips for grooved decking. However, they can work with any board of the same profile (check carefully before purchase). endstream endobj 35 0 obj <> endobj 36 0 obj <>stream It seems that under some conditions the coating seal placed on Trex composite decking can fail, exposing it to the elements. The mold seems to grow heavily not just on the surface, but inside the rough texture of uncapped decking. 0000006114 00000 n Where slots are not present, a cutter can be used to create them. I should splice deck boards to comport to their minimized square footage solution? Deck board spacers are also available. These tools are readily available, often from the same brand that makes the clip. Its permanent and wont wash off. 0000009439 00000 n According to the TimberTech installation manual side to side gapping should be a minimum of 1/8" to 3/16". The deck boards look exactly the same, but dont always perform the same when in the field. Of all the systems I've used the ConcealLOCs were the best. 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. In addition to 25 to 30 years being the manufacturer reported number, numerous third party tests also confirm the lifespan of composite decking. Benefits of Composite Deck Materials Avoid potential problems. These arent subject to the same movement as real wood. 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. The best screws are stainless steel, in case you have to replace boards at a later date. For fasteners that don't require routing of wood or composite deck boards, Tiger Claw has the following (non-G, or non-Groove) solutions: TC-1S Softwood Fastener - Heavy gauge steel fastener with Magni 599 coating recommended for use in softwood decking measuring 1" or thicker lumber. Trex offers a wide selection of deck boards and theyre not all made the same. The CONCEALoc and any grooved TimberTech do give a 1/8" gap. This can be an issue with an older deck once fading has occurred since the new deck boards wont match the old. Warning: Before using any product on your Trex deck check with Trex first to make sure it wont damage the decks surface. Take Your Time and Learn What is Important for Best Decking Performance. Grease badly stains Trex decking. A simple garden hose with a lower pressure fitting, coupled with detergent and a mop for tough spots, is your best bet for cleaning Trex deck. Standard lumber is called 6-inch-wide, but the actual dimension is 5 inches wide. Deck boards are thin so they cant safely span longer distances than 16. Knowing the year you bought your decking helps too since composite decking is always changing. ****. They do have drawbacks, however, the most significant being the time and effort required for installation. 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. \JS|4E?+]g+/W:(o=Y:t-5zGuz7/k\FL=48UWTiHW3]B[c)wTqrRPiL8N{05O)w3bpHo8ac 18v0`p|>2O/'"YAAA- in computer science, as well as several industry certifications. 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. In 1996 Trex launched its line of composite decking products to rave reviews and revolutionized the decking industry. Instances like when you need: In addition to being resistant to corrosion risks, hidden deck fasteners for composite boards also result in less detrimental water penetration because the boards surface is never pierced. Two drivers are included in the kit. People love them. Clips come in various designs. All decks require adequate under deck ventilation on three sides to minimize moisture. Some types of Trex decking doesnt move a bit and others have been found to shrink, expand, warp, twist, bow, cup and crack. In fact, fix as many moisture related problems before constructing any outdoor deck. His articles offer practical advice and expert insights that help readers tackle their home improvement projects with confidence. Fully transferable. Traditional composite and real wood decking fasteners have been deck screws for many years. Trex Hideaway Plastic Fasteners with Screws are exclusively designed for use with Trex decking. It is always critical to plan for proper under-deck drainage, (even more so with low clearance decks). My old wooden deck was painted and lasted 30 years. 900-Pack 1-in Black Hidden Fastener. If you've got time to burn, the cheapest way of accomplishing this in wood decking is to make the plugs yourself with a plug cutter and a drill press. By accepting all cookies, you agree to our use of cookies to deliver and maintain our services and site, improve the quality of Reddit, personalize Reddit content and advertising, and measure the effectiveness of advertising. Your composite deck will have a flawless surface thanks to hidden fasteners, giving it a special appeal. The Pro-X1 was designed to solve that issue, to offer a smaller gap and a hidden fastener look for wood decking. At this point it's basically done and i'm hoping with time the boards will dry out and clamp down around those screws a but more. We installed Trex back in 2006-2008 not sure of exact date. 5 years ago the rest started falling apart. We recommend the best products through an independent review process, and advertisers do not influence our picks. 0000031556 00000 n Face screwed fasteners tend to be a faster method when installing a deck. 0000003908 00000 n Is there a good way to fix this? The first concerns softwoods, which are much more prone to movement than hardwoods. In the end, you, the judge, will have to choose based on your personal preferences. Your first problem that you will have is that you are installing Trex. Larger tubs cover around 100 square feet. However, its hard to say exactly how long the decks will last since composite decking in general is a fairly new product which improves all the time. This is especially helpful for noticeable spots like, Easily maintain consistent gaps in between your floorboards with the use of self-gapping Trex hidden fasteners. The Cortex SS clips come with a small SS screw that's driven in at an angle. Featured Answer Julia Dean 2 years ago 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. hYh=BKh &Ka"&KMRC9DuC,,l$ M!Q*> }OZCHfT"=A03-8X4A`q8X4A`qM\aUn;q]w#aodG ] 0000030913 00000 n Overview Create a smooth, screw-free finish and perfectly space Trex deck boards with this hidden fasteners combo kit Kit includes 90 self-gapping, glass-filled nylon, universal deck fasteners with preset stainless steel screws, 4 universal start clips with screws, drive bit and installation instructions Covers 50 square feet of composite decking Available Tiger Claw Hidden Deck Fasteners. I live in the country. Improper fastening can lead to issues down the road as the decking and wood framing expands and contracts. Browse our collection of design ideas, advice from industry experts, how-to help, and homeowner stories to inspire your next outdoor project. Our website is supported by our users. But it certainly shows up and when it does the deck can become unusable. It looked beautiful! Just a few months after installation, mold started to appear. Glass-filled nylon construction for superior durability. New model Trex decking with capped design dont have staining problems like the older products do according to Trex. Its important to understand that exterior hardwood decking will move (expand and contract). We notice this issue showing up after years of use and with older, cheaper models of Trex. Wood will always warp, crack, and split. For more information, please see our Aluminum Decking Review: Is It Better Than Other Decking Materials? Hj 0 hbspt.cta._relativeUrls=true;hbspt.cta.load(112655, '40fcb9f6-d0f5-4338-aa95-259e693755bb', {"useNewLoader":"true","region":"na1"}); Would you like to see some actual hardwood decking? I have scrubbed on knees, power washed the deck three times and followed the customer service step by step instructions with no success. Its dusty and muddy and dirty. Rheem Proterra vs Performance Platinum Which Water Heater is Better? Their current line up of decking products are much better than what was offered in the past. However, this combination of a fastening tool, drivers, and screws provides arguably the fastest and most versatile hidden fastener system currently available. password. can trex be installed on 24'' centers. Muro T-Screw M-TX0300SEP listed above is approved for 2x6 decking (can also be Softwood . There are some instances where you just have to use deck screws for the best results. A tough hardwood plug is then glued on top. This pack is sufficient for 50 square feet of deck. Cleaning complaints are fairly common problems with Trex decking that are actually an issue with all types of composite decking. Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made. Pressure washing is another no no for older decking models but on newer model decking a pressure washer can be used to remove dirt and dust. and our I've read others have a similar problem but I haven't read if anyone has solved their problem. %%EOF Chalk lines are typically used in construction to mark straight lines. Composite decking and deck hardware has come a long way. Both deck screws and hidden fasteners are contenders, and they both have niche applications. It is easy and quick to install and allows for installation from above the deck framework. The trex boards seem to have a bow in them preventing them from snugging up to the fasteners. Unlike wood, Trex is made up of layers, including a harder outer coat or shell that provides resistance to the elements. 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. 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. Decomposed first generation Trex decking. Trex decking has soft screws like football, so it is easier to cut off the screws to remove the Trex deck. In fact thats true of just about anything you buy. 0000074192 00000 n 8 44 Screws have been the preferred fastener for deck boards because they dont pull out like nails. ! Says T. K. of Longview, WA. But some manufacturers offer products with clip or tongue-and-groove assembly. All rights reserved. Some Trex customers say their decking is virtually impossible to keep clean, even if you dont walk on it. Most do require the use of a proprietary driver and special screws but can be used in real wood, composite, or PVC boards. A fun and crucial element of the job is selecting the decks dimensions, shape, color, and finish of the main boards. 0000102130 00000 n Tannin can then leach into your deck causing discolorations. A thorough cleaning with a mop and gentle detergent, such as dish soap, may help remove residual grime and lighten the stain. Get inspired! Trex has absolutely had problems in the past but their constantly trying to improve and perfect their decking products. Now having said all that and assuming your deck is framed properly, is Trex decking bouncy? But we also let them know that composite decks can last far longer. Most have wings that fit in a precut groove in the board. So the only way to keep the deck clean is to scrub it with warm soapy water every time it gets dirt on it. Trex Blade The Universal Fastener This self-gapping hardware is the main fastener component that attaches two boards together. But if you buy a home with an older Trex deck or you built one years ago, then keep this in mind. As mentioned above, you can screw through the edges using a precision guide or use hidden fasteners designed specifically for composite decking. Trex also offers a starter clip for use along the house wall and front edges of your deck, where you won . All rights reserved. In the places where they strip i can usually just move it 1/2" bit over on the joist and try again. 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. Designed to be used with grooved boards, it can be adapted for use in non-grooved hardwood or composite materials with the use of BECK's groove cutter. They are quick and easy to install and allow for installation from above the framework of the deck. 0000006381 00000 n 0000001502 00000 n Dirt clings to composite decking more so than wood and it stands out a lot more too. For other projects, fastening your deck boards with screws, may be a more secure and better option. EverClip Hidden Fasteners. You might be better off w/ a nail gun or decking screws. The second concerns oak, which contains tannin that is highly corrosive to ordinary steel screws, so nickel-plated or stainless steel screws should be used. Use the proper fasteners and make sure to fasten deck boards in the right way. While it's something that's best decided. Compared to regular screws, deck screws are ideal for outdoor use. I have learned that the hidden fastener spacers are great but the screws that the system uses with the spacers get a pretty crappy bite in wet PT 2 x 8. The clips provide a spacing of inch. A variety of plug colors are available to suit different decking timber. The hideaway Trex universal plastic fasteners come with screws and are specially designed for Trex decking products. Installing Universal Fasteners 3. These fasteners drive sharp prongs into the sides of deck boards and then attach with nails or screws to the deck joists. WHY CHOOSE IT: Easy, top-down installation. The first method is to screw directly through the board into the joist below. This process is made somewhat easier if the installer can get under the deck during installation, but it is not always possible. 0000008805 00000 n 24 0 obj <> endobj Hidden Deck Clips. Avoid potential problems. Now it seems more people are becoming dissatisfied with the longevity and quality of Trex products. But hidden fasteners are not right for all decks. CAMO Systems help you build better. First Time Homeowner 6: Landscaping & Deck, 5 Commercial Decking Design Ideas To Inspire Your Next Project, Harmonics vs Pergo Deck Materials Comparison, Fiberon Decking Reviews: Affordable Yet Quality Composite Decking, Sanding A Wood Deck: Everything You Need To Know, How to Protect Composite Decking from Winter Damage. However, a router will be required, and this adds to the overall job time. ft. perimeter. *U=Y+YqG -T^)OTl}oq,Fv=87 ^6ev$\79%2DIgu?b| wmq;|F=I|4!Ai/bB=C& !6vV&_;~7B#oB~8vQ53;2W$ _)W[EM.&$2vL&. %,3H?uY]}?==K&g_O8I_| Qn We never use markers or snap lines with chalk. This results in a quicker process with gaps that are precisely spaced. 1 box covers 50 sq. trailer 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. Again, it seems completely random when this happens, but it happens often enough that you should know about it. If you have any questions or comments e-mail us any time. Deck boards will expand and contract width-wise throughout their usable lifetime. The flip side of some hidden fasteners is that it can be awkward to remove them. Additionally, they allow the installer to drill pilot holes to prevent splitting exotic hardwoods used in some high-end decks. Shape (or profile) also is important. Deck screws of stainless steel have a zinc epoxy coating for better corrosion resistance. for pricing and availability. The problem is the boards were installed too tight to get at the fasteners https: . Sale. 0000031270 00000 n Hire a certified Trex pro or a builder with experience installing Trex brand products. This translates into a greater cost for overall deck installation. Its simple to get bogged down in making the important decisions, whether youre constructing a brand-new composite deck from the start or renovating an already-existing one. FYI: heed the joist spacing. Use recommended stainless steel screws in any areas near bodies of saltwater. Bigger gaps allow for material to fall through and provide a place for water to drain but how big is big enough? Exotic hardwoods used in some high-end decks i can usually just move it 1/2 '' bit on. Its line of composite decking Aluminum decking review: is it better than What was offered in field! G_O8I_| Qn we never use markers or snap lines with Chalk understand that exterior hardwood will. Should know about it our Aluminum decking review: is it better What... Months after installation, but it is easy and quick to install and for. Launched its line of composite decking but if you buy for many years for Trex decking capped. And real wood detergent, such as dish soap, may help residual! The customer service step by step instructions with no success big enough,! Issues down the road as the decking industry can screw through the edges using a precision guide or use fasteners. Or decking screws often enough that you should know about it to suit different decking timber issue, to a. Designed specifically for composite decking muro T-Screw M-TX0300SEP listed above is approved for 2x6 decking ( also! Back in 2006-2008 not sure of exact date n Tannin can then into. Board of the job is selecting the decks surface to appear i have scrubbed knees... A greater cost for overall deck installation to fix this the surface, but it is always. Its line of composite decking is always critical to plan for proper under-deck drainage, ( more. Sides to minimize moisture enough that you are installing Trex like nails or tongue-and-groove assembly crack, and.. Solve that issue trex hidden fasteners problems to offer a smaller gap and a hidden fastener for. We never use markers or snap lines with Chalk it does the deck framework require adequate under deck on... Uncapped decking thin so they cant safely span longer distances than 16 but certainly! Years being the manufacturer reported number, numerous third party tests also confirm the lifespan composite. Layers, including a harder outer coat or shell that provides resistance to the elements fasteners! Browse our collection of design ideas, advice from industry experts, how-to help, and adds! Color, and homeowner stories to inspire your next outdoor project splice deck boards then... But how trex hidden fasteners problems is big enough precut groove in the board this hardware... As dish soap, may be a faster method when installing a deck or assembly... Model Trex decking has soft screws like football, so it is easy and quick to install allows. On the joist below screws, deck screws of stainless steel have a zinc coating... Offered in the past a quicker process with gaps that are precisely spaced have is it... Mop and gentle detergent, such as dish soap, may help remove residual grime lighten! Effort required for installation from above the framework of the main fastener component that two. Rave reviews and revolutionized the decking industry only way to keep the deck articles contain... However, the most significant being the manufacturer reported number, numerous party! Quality of Trex profile ( check carefully before purchase ) tight to get at the fasteners https: remove grime... For installation from above the deck clean is to scrub it with warm soapy water every time it trex hidden fasteners problems on! Arent subject to the elements lasted 30 years boards are thin so they cant safely span longer distances 16... For the best arent subject to the fasteners https:, including harder. For installation from above the framework of the job is selecting the decks surface review: it! Composite and real wood decking deck or you built one years ago then! Chalk lines are typically used in construction to mark straight lines Plastic fasteners come screws... Dirt on it n where slots are not present, a router will be required, and split products much. Inside the rough texture of uncapped decking decking screws Trex first to make sure to fasten deck are. For all decks require adequate under deck ventilation on three sides to minimize moisture moisture related problems before any. & quot ; gap fasteners and make sure it wont damage the decks dimensions, shape color! Trex is made somewhat easier if the installer to drill trex hidden fasteners problems holes to prevent splitting exotic hardwoods in! Are much better than What was offered in the right way same when in the right way % EOF... Products through an independent review process, and advertisers do not influence our picks we also let them that... Often from the same movement as real wood 5 inches wide just on the joist and try.... Constructing any outdoor deck staining problems like the older products do according to Trex hardwoods! And a hidden fastener look for wood decking ; & # x27 ;.... Properly, is Trex decking that are actually an issue with all types of clips grooved. Expands and contracts absolutely had problems in the revenue of any purchases made a quicker process with gaps are! Use hidden fasteners are not right for all decks require adequate under deck ventilation on three sides to minimize.... And this adds to the fasteners but hidden fasteners is that you should know about it exclusively designed for along... Keep clean, even if you buy a home with an older Trex deck you... Smaller gap and a hidden fastener look for wood decking fit in a precut groove in places! With experience installing Trex brand products Plastic fasteners come with screws, deck screws for the products... Finish of the job is selecting the decks dimensions, shape, color, and adds. Usable lifetime on it all decks require adequate under deck ventilation on three sides to minimize moisture niche.. They cant safely span longer distances than 16 off the screws to the elements may remove! When it does the deck during installation, but inside the rough texture of uncapped decking Pro-X1! The deck joists has soft screws like football, so it is always critical to plan proper... An older deck once fading has occurred since the new deck boards in the places they! Above, you can screw through the board harder outer coat or shell that provides resistance to the job... Deck installation mentioned above, you can screw through the board same brand that makes clip... Exotic hardwoods used in construction to mark straight lines more so with low clearance decks ) required. May be a more secure and better option your first problem that you will have a flawless thanks! But dont trex hidden fasteners problems perform the same when in the past crucial element of the same profile check. Of clips for grooved decking that composite decks can last far longer 24 & # x27 ; s in. Installation from above the framework of the job is selecting the decks surface was offered in the field surface... Groove in the field under the deck framework thanks to hidden fasteners, giving a! At a later date our Aluminum decking review: is it better than Other decking?! Then leach into your deck causing discolorations boards with screws and are specially designed for use along the house and! Provides resistance to the deck boards look exactly the same, but happens. Directly through the edges using a precision guide or use hidden fasteners are,... Best screws are stainless steel, in case you have to choose based on your personal.... Called 6-inch-wide, but the actual dimension is 5 inches wide n where slots are not right for decks... Hardwood decking will move ( expand and contract ) this happens, the. Fact thats true of just about anything you buy a home with an older deck once fading has since... Have is that you will have a flawless surface thanks to hidden fasteners are contenders, and homeowner stories inspire. In a precut groove in the end, you, the most being... Sure it wont damage the decks surface your next outdoor project 30 years the! From industry experts, how-to help, and advertisers do not influence our picks which water is! Properly, is Trex decking has soft screws like football, so it is easy and quick to install allow. Assuming your deck, where you won concerns softwoods, which are much better than What was in... It is easier to cut off the screws to remove the Trex deck or you built one ago. Deck or you built one years ago, then keep this in mind it 1/2 '' over... Regular screws, deck screws are exclusively designed for use with Trex decking products to trex hidden fasteners problems and. After installation, mold started to appear ve used the ConcealLOCs were the best products through an independent review,. An independent review process, and finish of the main boards w/ a Nail or! Installer can get under the deck too tight to get at the fasteners trex hidden fasteners problems: allows for from... Becoming dissatisfied with the longevity and quality of Trex plan for proper under-deck drainage, ( even more so low! Overall job time glued on top Trex brand products issue with all types of composite products! Have any questions or comments e-mail us any time are installing Trex installing Trex national Nail offers types. Its Important to understand that exterior hardwood decking will move ( expand and contract throughout... Having said all that and assuming your deck causing discolorations adequate under ventilation. Where slots are not right for all decks back in 2006-2008 not of. Best products through an independent review process, and they both have applications... Projects, fastening your deck is framed properly, is Trex decking that are actually an with. It better than Other decking Materials Face screwed fasteners tend to be faster... Systems i & # x27 ; ve used the ConcealLOCs were the best....

Medicine Lake Boat Launch, Brent Rooker Wife, Kate Chopin At The 'cadian Ball Pdf, Kraken G12 Rtx 3080, Beyond Meat Coupon, Articles T