Composite Decking Fasteners

You’ve probably heard the expression “God is in the details.” Well, when it comes to creating a truly unique and beautiful deck design, the right mix of details can create a heavenly result.

Every deck is essentially a blank canvas. Adding design details such as ornamental post caps, decorative balusters and deck inlays, can turn your blank canvas into a custom deck that is a work of art.

Not sure which details will work best for your tastes and design parameters?

Deck design software can help you envision how your deck will look with the addition of certain details. The Deck Visualizer is a free online program that allows you to choose from a selection of scenes and then dress up each with a variety of designer details, such as wood color, railing design, and baluster and post cap accessories.

Designer touches are limited only by your imagination – and creativity in forming combinations. In addition to ornamental post caps and decorative balusters – which we’ve talked about before in this blog – there are many other ways to customize your deck, including:

• Deck inlays – A deck inlay can be anything from decorative stone or ceramic tile to a design made up of different colored composite deck boards placed at interesting angles.
• Reversible boards – Unlike standard deck boards, Latitudes Intrepid composite deck boards can be placed with either side facing up. Each side has its own unique texture (woodgrain or brushed) and color variance, allowing you to create an interesting design while using just one type of decking material.
• Picture framing – By installing a trim board around a deck, you can give your wood deck surface a unique appearance, and protect plank ends that can deteriorate over time when exposed to the elements.
• Hidden fasteners – Strategically placed nails or screws can be incorporated into a deck’s design, but for an ultra-clean look, consider Latitude’s Equator hidden fastener. Concealed below the deck surface, Equator composite deck hidden fasteners fit into the groove on the side of the deck board secured at each joist to eliminate pre-drilling and allow for quick and easy installation, leaving a deck looking smooth and sleek. Installing the right hidden fastener will make your composite deck barefoot friendly.
• Recessed lighting – Deckorators recessed lighting kits use compact, ultra-bright, low-volt LED lights to make decks more appealing and accessible after dark. Build them into stairs, step-downs and anywhere you need illumination both for looks and safetypurposes.
• Benches and boxes – Built-ins are a hot deck trend and you can use Latitudes composite decking to build curved composite benches and planter boxes around your deck.

Whether you choose to add just one detail or many, designer touches can truly make your deck one-of-a-kind – and make you feel like you have your own little slice of heaven in your own backyard.

Most pools are positioned in direct sunlight for most of the day so virtually any type of patio or deck material is going to get warm and may even be hot on bare feet. You can minimize any discomfort by choosing a lighter color of composite decking (such as cedar or gray) or a lightly tinted deck stain for lumber decking.

A dark colored pool deck surface will get warmer than light colored surfaces during the day and may even provide warmth after the sun sets as the deck surface radiates heat.

Latitudes composite decking is slip and fade resistant – providing a natural-looking, barefoot-friendly pool deck surface. Available in four classic colors (cedar, gray, redwood and walnut) and two tropical (koa and adobe), Latitudes deck boards comes in two profiles – solid and slotted. For a fastener-free surface on your pool deck, combine the slotted profile deck board with the Equator hidden deck fasteners to help assure that no one steps on a hot protruding nail or screw.

Choosing the right hidden fastener for composite decking is pretty simple, but it's important to choose a system that allows each deck plank to expand and contract for varying weather cycles. Some of the more popular hidden fasteners systems are made of UV resistant plastic or metal. These hidden fasteners brands include the Equator hidden fastener (made specifically for composite decking), TigerClaw, Eb-Ty, Phantom and Lumber Loc.

When installing Latitudes slotted composite decking or other decking products that have a 5/32” groove, the patented Equator hidden fastener accommodates for the expansion and contraction in the boards width and length which occurs naturally in composites / synthetic deck boards. Read my blog post on how the Equator hidden fastener can even be used with the extra thick Latitudes Marine decking.

The Equator fastener installs in the grooves of the slotted composite decking and virtually eliminates the need for pre-drilling. What's more, the system automatically gaps each board with the proper spacing—ensuring a painless, easy installation. The fastener is not exposed, so your deck surface remains eye-catching and uninterrupted by screw patterns.

With a hidden fastener system, you'll give your deck an extra-clean touch without any visible blemishes such as nail pops or mushrooms. And when you choose the innovative design of the Equator hidden fastener, it’s what you don’t see that makes all of the difference!

Check out another one of my blog posts on hidden fasteners.

Latitudes Captiva composite decking is made with the proven Strandex technology employed in all Latitudes composite decking, coupled with the innovative co-extruded cap stock material found on premium Latitudes Capricorn tropical composite decking. The result is a stain- and fade-resistant decking product offered in gray, cedar and walnut. With a natural-looking woodgrain pattern on one side, Latitudes Captiva balances aesthetics and value in an ultralow-maintenance composite deck board.

Latitudes Captiva decking will be available beginning February 2011 through Latitudes’ distribution network and by special order.

By adding Captiva to our Latitudes family of composite decking, we have one of the most diverse, attractive and user-friendly decking lineups in the industry.

Latitudes Captiva decking is available in 12-, 16- and 20-foot lengths, in slotted and standard boards. Slotted boards are capped on one side and feature the patented Equator® hidden fastener. The fastener’s unique design automatically gaps each board and delivers automatic, consistent alignment of deck boards for striking results and considerable savings. Latitudes Captiva is backed by a 25-year limited warranty. In addition, Latitudes Captiva is barefoot-friendly and proven not to splinter, split or rot, providing long-lasting beauty and comfort with no sealing, painting or staining required. Captiva composite decking is perfect for pool decking, walkways, porches or anywhere ultralow-maintenance decking is preferred.

See what one satisfied Latitudes Decking and Railing customer says.

"I chose the Latitudes Intrepid deck system for a number of reasons. I liked the natural look of wood with very little maintenance, it is splinter-free, not hot to walk on barefoot and the Equator hidden fastener system minimized the number of face screws that gave my deck a clean look. I also used the Latitudes Intrepid composite rail system because of the matching color, hidden fastener and concealed mounting hardware. This composite deck railing system provided me with the clean, seamless appearance that I was looking for. I am very confident in my decision to choose Latitudes composite decking and composite railing and know with very little maintenance I can enjoy my deck for many years!"

Gina Leggett, Roanoke, Indiana

Latitudes deck stones are stylish deck tile add-ons and are the perfect alternative or complement for composite lumber decking or treated lumber decking when deck surface transitions are desired. Latitudes deck stones can be used in virtually any area on the deck and are well suited for outdoor kitchens, deck grilling areas and raised fire pits on a composite lumber deck. Deck stones also add deck safety in areas where you plan to grill or add a portable fire pit.

An easy-to-install deck accessory
Deck stones / deck tiles can be installed on new or existing conventional wood framed decks and are capable of supporting typical building loads. The high-strength fiberglass substrate frame attaches easily to 16" on-center wood joists with hidden fasteners. Latitudes Deck Stones are available in durable 16-inch-square Smoke slate or Riverstone real granite deck tiles, deck stepping stones are interlocking and self-draining and do not require mortar.

View the Deck Stone installation video

If you want to preserve and build a tree into a pressure treated lumber deck or composite lumber deck, then be sure to incorporate the tree into your deck design or deck plans.

Begin construction near the tree by running a beam in front and behind the tree between two double wood joists running perpendicular to the house surrounding the tree. The joists should then be fastened on both sides of the tree with their load being relocated around the tree. Install diagonal supports at the corners between the joists and the tree to allow for a round opening.

For an added touch, consider installing landscape lighting in the tree opening or recessed LED deck lighting in treated wood or synthetic decking planks surrounding the tree. Top off the deck railing posts with ambient lights using Deckorators solar post caps. When dark, lights will make the tree and surrounding deck railing stand out.

Build with caution when constructing a deck around a tree. A tree’s root system is very complex and can be easily damaged during construction, especially if you need to dig piers for vertical support. In addition, the root system of the tree must be able to receive enough water to live, so make sure planks are spaced accordingly (about 1/4 inch between each deck board). It’s important to leave enough room around the trunk of the tree (at least 3 inches on all sides) for growth. If designed and constructed properly, you’ll be able to enjoy an attractive deck featuring a unique, natural centerpiece.

If you're considering replacing / refacing your old worn out lumber deck boards with new composite deck boards, make sure you have proper board spacing based on the manufacturer's recommendations.

When composite deck boards are not spaced correctly you’re setting yourself up for deck drainage issues, dirt and debris buildup and potential expansion/contraction problems, as deck boards expand and contract with changes in the temperature.

One of the best solutions to achieve proper spacing on composite deck boards is to use a hidden fastener system to install your decking instead of deck screws. The patented Equator hidden deck fastener pre-gaps each board with the proper ¼” spacing and its special design allows for proper side-to-side expansion and contraction. These hidden deck fasteners are compatible with most grooved / slotted composite boards.

One box (175 pieces) of Equator hidden fasteners will install 100 square feet of 6" wide (5-1/4" actual) deck boards on 16" centers, or 87 square feet of 6" wide (5-1/4" actual) deck boards on 12" centers.

Read one of my past blog posts for additional information on hidden deck fasteners.

An outdoor swimming pool combined with a pool deck is a great way to have fun and relax with family and friends from late Spring into early Fall, or maybe all-year-round depending on the climate. Outdoor pools and pool decks from the Midwest to New England are typically open from Memorial Day to Labor Day. But pools and pool decking in hot southern climates like Atlanta and Miami may be open most of the year.

Adding pool decking to your outdoor living area
Whether you have an above-ground swimming pool or an in-ground swimming pool, there are a few things to consider before you add a swimming pool deck.

• Which type of pool decking material do your prefer (low maintenance composite lumber, pressure treated lumber, tropical lumber, concrete, stone pavers, other)?
• Choose a composite deck color or treated wood stain that complements your outdoor space

Pool deck safety is important
Make sure you choose a pool decking material that has a slip-resistant surface. Composite decking such as Latitudes Intrepid has a reversible brushed/woodgrain finish that is slip-resistant. Abaco tropical hardwood decking has a ribbed / grooved top surface on one side which allows for good traction in wet areas such as around pools.

Since most pools are under full sun, it's important to know that the deck surface may become hot. I strongly recommend using hidden fasteners on pool decks. Protruding metal fasteners can heat up under direct sunlight and burn the bottom of your feet or even cut bare feet. If securing wood or composite pool decking with traditional top screw fasteners, always countersink the fastener's head.

Making your home the hub for fun and entertainment can be as easy as creating the space and inviting folks in. But it’s important to make sure your outdoor living spaces are as safe as they are fun. If you already have a deck, give it a thorough spring checkup. See if you have any loose railings or balusters, and inspect the structure of your deck for rotting wood, corroded or loose fasteners and any mold and mildew.

If you find that your deck needs repairs, consider updating it with new composite decking and railing. Latitudes, a leading composite decking brand, offers several unique decking and railing combinations, each offering superior strength and resistance against the rotting, fading and warping that typically occur with wood due to varying weather cycles.

Low-maintenance composite decking never requires staining or sanding, and is available in several natural-looking colors. Latitudes Capricorn composite decking offers the rich look of tropical hardwood. From a safety standpoint, all of the deck surfaces are slip-resistant and splinter-free—definitely a consideration when you’re designing a space to entertain.

Are you planning to build a new deck this year? Before you begin construction, think carefully about how you’re going to use your deck. Create a space for an outdoor kitchen or barbecue area, and perhaps a place for relaxing and keeping an eye on the kids. You might even want to consider a place for dining.

You could also consider installing deck stones by Latitudes. Use these self-draining, real stone tiles to create a fire or grease barrier under your grill. You can also use these stones if incorporating a fire pit into your deck plans—making it a favorite hangout for teens and late-night marshmallow roasting.

When safety is paramount, be sure to plan for lighting. There are many new products that provide direct or ambient lighting to help make your deck and outdoor living area safer for you and your guests, even late into the night. Latitudes and Deckorators both offer low-voltage, LED recessed deck lights, which can be set to turn on automatically at dusk, adding a measure of security to your home.

Deck lighting using eco friendly solar lighted post caps come in styles ranging from the basic to the dramatic. The new Dynasty copper post cap light offers Asian flair in a Craftsman-inspired copper and gunmetal that offers illumination and high style. Post cap lights are designed to fit on virtually any railing post on your deck. And with solar caps, no wiring is required.

If your existing deck simply needs to be refreshed—or needs sturdier rails to make it safe—the easiest way to update is with new balusters or rails. Deckorators offers a durable, powder-coated aluminum exterior railing system that is sold in kits, complete with rails, post sleeves and post caps to help put a whole new face on a tired-looking deck.

This deck building season, consider spending some of your home improvement dollars on the safety of your deck and the outdoor living areas of your home. These entertainment spots not only beckon to friends and neighbors, but add safety and value to your home.

If you're thinking about having a new dock built or are about to replace an existing dock, then consider two popular types of decking material—natural lumber decking and composite lumber decking. Each type of dock / deck building material has it's own unique benefits, and each has passed the test of time in unforgiving elements.

Natural Lumber Decking

Pressure-treated wood decking is a great option for a tighter budget. The classic look of wood gives a more rustic feel, and can be stained or painted to match virtually any color scheme. Pressure-treated decking can be notched for installation of hidden deck fasteners for a clean, fastener-free appearance.

Tropical hardwood has a highly desired exotic look and is very durable. Hardwood species like Ipe have been known to last over twenty years. Tropical decking like Abaco can span greater distances to accommodate wide 24" on center joist spacing. Some hardwood decking comes pre-grooved for use with a hidden fastener system.

Composite Lumber Decking

Composite decking is manufactured from wood fiber and plastic to form a plank that requires less maintenance and typically has a longer lifespan than natural wood decking. Composite lumber is similar in cost to tropical hardwood and has many of the same benefits. Like tropical hardwood, Latitudes Marine composite decking allows for long 24" on-center joist spans. Latitudes Marine also incorporates a profiled edge specifically designed for docks, boardwalks and walkways. Additional benefits of composite lumber decking is that it's barefoot friendly, slip-resistant and comes in a variety of colors that never need to be sealed or stained.

Composite decking is an excellent choice for above or in-ground pool decks. Whether you're a do-it-yourself or a professional deck builder, consider installing composite deck building material in your pool or spa area for its aesthetics, barefoot friendly, slip-resistant surface and its low maintenance performance. Most composite lumber deck boards now days are available with hidden fasteners and in several attractive colors to complement your home and outdoor living area. 

When planning your new composite lumber pool deck, don’t let the deck railing system be an afterthought. There are several attractive options on the market that will complement your home and pool design, ranging from aluminum and composite to vinyl.

Metal deck railing, with an all glass panel infill or glass balusters, is one of my favorite styles, as it allows for unobstructed views of the pool area.