The 3 Greatest Advantages Of Using Hidden Fasteners On Your Deck

When building a deck, it is essential to have the proper tools. First, you need to get some advice about the decking accessories you require, depending on the deck’s material. For example, if you make your deck out of tropical hardwoods or composite and want a smooth and aesthetic look, using hidden fasteners is the right way to go. 

Hidden Fasteners are decking holders you can use to build a deck without visible screws on the top of the boards. With these fasteners, you get a genuinely barefoot-friendly deck with a clean and smooth surface. 

So now that you know what these hidden fasteners are, here is a guide on how to use them. Each wooden board is fixed to a clip, achieving a faster, easier, and more flexible assembly method. The system also provides easy removal of the deck boards if necessary (even in the middle of your structure). In addition, hidden fasteners give a strong holding power thanks to the serrated edges on the clip and proper board spacing.

At Brazilian Lumber, we offer a variety of decking accessories that will deliver adequate performance for stunning results. In this case, we want to recommend the EB-TY Premium Hidden Deck-Fastening System from Simpson Strong-Tie, one of the brands for which we are authorized distributors. 

But before we go into detail about this system and the advantages of using hidden fasteners, we provide you with a glossary of technical terms used throughout this content. 

• Beams: Hefty framing members are attached horizontally to the posts to support the joists.
• Joists: Horizontal framing members fastened on top of the beam with the ledger to support the decking.
• Ledger: A board attached to the house to support one side of the deck.
• Posts: Timbers are set vertically to support the deck framing. Posts are used on all but the shortest decks. The posts can be cut off below the deck surface, or they may rise above the surface to provide support for the railing.

Simpson Strong-Tie’s EB-TY Premium Hidden Deck-Fastening System is the perfect example of a strong fastening method to ensure durability and beauty at the same time. 

The system has three elements: 300 series of stainless steel that provides a firm hold to the boards, a black-painted 6-lobe trim-head screw for a concealed finish, and a patent-pending EB-GUIDE and impact-ready drill a bit for a more precise attachment to the joist. Click here and learn how to use it on your next installation in just 4 steps. 

Now that you know what hidden fasteners are and which product we recommend most, it’s time to define their advantages. Here is a list of the 5 greatest reasons you should prefer hidden fasteners for your decking.

1. Use Hidden Fasteners To Get A Seamless Look

Build a deck that is truly barefoot-friendly!

As hidden fasteners are not visible between boards or under the joists, you get a clean look that everybody will love. 

Hidden fasteners are strong connectors that do their job out of sight, allowing for a consistent and elegant deck finish. Many years ago, people used to reinforce the security on their deck by putting nails on top of each board. Of course, now that is unnecessary, not only when using hidden fasteners. 

The point here is that some people may think that because hidden fasteners provide a smooth appearance, they may be less firm, but that is far from the truth. Another advantage of using hidden fasteners is that you won’t have to worry about rusty nails or splinters over time. 

2. Hidden Fasteners Are Easy To Install

Looking for a simple and fast system to connect your deck boards? Well, hidden deck fasteners will give exactly that. These connectors come with pre-assembled clips for a quick and stress-free installation. 

Basically, all you have to do when using hidden fasteners in an installation is insert them into the grooves of your deck and secure them with a screw drilled into the joists.  You also have to pre-drill the wood if you are using hardwood. An extra benefit of using hidden fasteners is that they are great for keeping an even spacing across the entire deck. 

The use of hidden fasteners is also a time-saving option. Since the system is simple, no additional tools or multiple steps are required to complete the installation process. These fasteners do not require permanent maintenance, so they also help you save money in the long run. 

 3. Hidden Fasteners Are Child & Pet-Friendly

Any piece of hardware left uncovered can be a hazard, especially for children and pets. A, they can pull on the accessory or B, they can step on it and fall or hurt themselves. The solution to avoid both situations is to have a seamless surface that they can walk on safely and comfortably. How? By using hidden fasteners. 

If you are thinking of building a deck in your backyard, your number one concern should be to make it safe for everybody. This includes keeping them from running the risk of falling, splintering, or hurting themselves while walking on the deck. 

A deck is a place to gather with friends and family, enjoy summer evenings, play with the kids, or have a relaxing time. But all of that can be ruined if a nail comes loose and someone gets hurt. With hidden fasteners, enjoy and walk free of worries.

Long story short, if you are looking for a deck with a clean, seamless surface, go for hidden fasteners. These connectors won’t be visible between or on the boards, while still providing a firm hold on the deck. With hidden fasteners, your deck will be as impressive and secure as you’ve always wanted.