Building A Deck
Deck building detail pages:
Decking Fastener Guides
The proper selection and installation of decking fasteners is essential to long-term deck performance. The most common decking fasteners are nails, screws, and hidden fasteners. Fasteners in contact with pressure-treated wood must be corrosion resistant.
See the Decking Fastener Options for selection tips and Decking Fastener Schedule for proper nailing patterns for nails and screws.
Decking Fastener Options
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Selection |
Common nails are an economical choice. Ring-shank or spiral-shank nails offer improved holding power. Available in collated strips for power fasteners. |
Deck screws are commonly used and offer better fastening performance than nails. Screws remain tighter over time and allow for easy replacement of decking. Available in collated strips for power fasteners. |
Hidden deck fasteners come in three basic types – biscuit, bracket and prong – and are concealed from overhead view. Hidden fasteners offer a smooth “nail-free” appearance, but have higher material and labor costs. |
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Installation |
See Decking Fastener Schedule below. Nail carefully to avoid unsightly hammer marks. Pre-drilling is recommended, especially near board ends to prevent splits. |
See Decking Fastener Schedule below. Countersink screws flush with the deck surface. Pre-drilling is recommended, especially near board ends to prevent splits. Auger points help start screws faster. |
Check with manufacturers of hidden fasteners to determine proper fastening schedules. |
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Durability |
Hot-dipped galvanized fasteners offer the minimum code acceptable corrosion resistance in contact with pressure-treated wood. Do not use standard carbon steel or aluminum fasteners. Choose 304 or 316 stainless steel for superior corrosion resistance and best appearance. For seaside applications, 316 stainless is recommended. (See fastener corrosion guidelines.) |
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Decking Fastener Schedule
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Decking |
5/4 x 6 |
2x4 |
2x6 |
5/4 x 6 |
2x4 |
2x6 |
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Nails |
(2) 8d |
(2) 10d |
(2) 10d |
(3) 8d |
(2) 10d |
(3) 10d |
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Screws |
(2) #8x2-1/2" |
(2) #8x3" |
(2) #8x3" |
(3) #8x2-1/2" |
(2) #8x3" |
(3) #8x3" |
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