Hidden Deck Fasteners » Hidden Deck Fasteners

Everything You Need In One Box

Maxwell Blake — Mon, 16 May 2011 19:21:48 +0000

The question has been asked time and time again, “What is included in the Ipe Clip® hidden deck fastener complete kit that is not included in the Ipe Clip® hidden deck fastener 100 count kit?”

The Ipe Clip® complete kit includes everything you need to complete your decking project. You receive the plugs needed to cover the face screws on your first and last board. Ipe Clip® hidden deck fasteners are always sold with stainless steel screws for the installation of your deck boards. We also include both the high speed drill bit for predrilling and a screw gun tip for use with a cordless drill. When using Extreme4™ or ExtremeKD™ hidden deck fasteners, 3 spacer tools will be included. And last, but certainly not least, an instruction sheet to help you get started.

The Ipe Clip® complete kit includes the following:

175 – Ipe Clip® Hidden Deck Fasteners
190 – #8×2” Stainless Steel Trim Head Screws
12 – 3/8” Tapered Ipe Plugs 1 – 1/8” High Speed Drill Bit
1 – T10 Star Drive Screw Gun Tip
1 – Instruction Sheet
3 – Spacer Tools (included with Extreme4™ & ExtremeKD™ fasteners)

The Ipe Clip® 100 count kit is just as the name implies. You receive 100 Ipe Clip® hidden deck fasteners and 100 stainless steel screws. If using the Extreme4® or ExtremeKD® fastener, you will also receive 3 spacer tools. And just like the complete kit, we always include an instruction sheet.

The Ipe Clip® 100 count kit includes the following:

100 – Ipe Clip® Hidden Deck Fasteners
100 – #8×2” Stainless Steel Trim Head Screws
1 – Instruction Sheet
3 – Spacer Tools (included with Extreme4™ & ExtremeKD™ fasteners)

Each kit obviously covers different square footage and is dependent on board size and joist spacing. If you need any help in determining which kit to use or how many to use, please give us a call and one of our sales representatives will be more than happy to assist you!

Maxwell Blake

The Proper Gap Spacing For Your Deck

Maxwell Blake — Wed, 20 Apr 2011 15:10:28 +0000

We received a call from a home owner last week. He was upset that his deck boards had expanded and were now butting up against each other and cupping. He had a mess and was understandably upset. I first asked what type of decking he had. He replied that it was kiln-dried decking. I then asked what type of deck fasteners he had purchased. He had no idea what type of deck fastener he had used but was certain that it was supposed to leave a 3/32” gap space. He made the same mistake other customers have made; using deck fasteners that leave a tiny gap space with deck boards that require a larger gap space. Unfortunately he made this discovery too late.

The Ipe Clip® Fastener Company has dedicated a lot of time in the training of all sales team members, dealers, and distributors. We do this to ensure that the right questions are asked so that the right product is chosen for each and every project.

Air-dried decking – Ipe Clip® Extreme™ fasteners which spaces boards at 3/32” should be used. Air-dried decking has a high moisture content which causes the wood to shrink as it acclimates. In other words, the gap between your boards will get larger so you want to use a deck fastener that starts with a small gap space. Ipe Clip®Extreme4™ can also be used. This leaves a 5/32” gap space. It’s a little larger but still does the job for those that want or need a slightly larger gap space.

Kiln-dried decking – Ipe Clip® ExtremeKD™ fasteners which offer a ¼” gap space should be used. Kiln-dried decking has a lower moisture content which results in the boards expanding as they acclimate. As you probably guessed, this means your gap spacing will come together so you will want to use a deck fastener that leaves a larger gap space during installation. Ipe Clip® Extreme4™ can also be used. This leaves a 5/32” gap space. It’s a little smaller but still does the job for those that want or need a smaller gap space.

Composite decking – Always check with and follow the manufacturer’s recommended gap spacing. Each is different and can vary from 3/32” gap spacing to 1/4″ gap spacing.

PVC Decking – Like composite decking, check with and follow the manufacturer’s recommended gap spacing. PVC decking is a little different in that the gap spacing for one part of the country may be different for another part of the county as PVC is more controlled by temperature.

Know what type of decking you have, know what the manufacturer’s recommended gap spacing is, and let us help you choose the Ipe Clip® brand fastener that’s right for you!

The Benefits of Hidden Deck Fasteners

Maxwell Blake — Tue, 22 Feb 2011 16:40:44 +0000

I know, we’ve heard the question many times before…… “Are hidden deck fasteners really necessary when building my deck?” Absolutely. There are many reasons why Ipe Clip® hidden deck fasteners are superior to face screwing your deck.

· The first is the obvious; the look. Ipe Clip® hidden deck fasteners create a truly pristine looking surface. There are no nail pops, mushrooming, or unsightly screws.

· Ipe Clip® hidden deck fasteners have superior hold down power than the traditional face screwing. Our deck fasteners are installed at a 45 degree angle. This angle creates a firmer, stronger, and more enduring hold to the joist.

· Ipe Clip® hidden deck fasteners are designed for air-dried decking, kiln-dried decking, pvc decking, and composite decking. Each decking material requires different gap spacing to allow for the natural contraction and expansion of deck boards. Our fasteners are designed specifically with this in mind, offering 3 different gap spaces.

· Ipe Clip® hidden deck fasteners are installed differently depending on the type of decking material. Hardwood decking is installed by screwing down through half of the deck board then down into the joist; all at a 45 degree angle. This keeps the deck board attached to the joist while allowing it to naturally move on it’s width. Composite and pvc decking is installed by screwing through the fasteners and straight down into the joist, allowing it to naturally move on it’s length.

The benefits of using Ipe Clip® hidden deck fasteners far out-weigh any other option.

Maxwell Blake

The Right Deck Tools Are Essential

Maxwell Blake — Fri, 11 Feb 2011 19:07:11 +0000

Did you know that Ipe Clip® offers a wide variety of tools to help with your decking projects? Constructing a deck can be time consuming, especially if you want to do it right. But why spend needless time on the project when you don’t have to? Read below to find some tools to make your deck building more efficient and much easier.

Cordless Screw Gun – Preferably one with an adjustable clutch. It will save you tips and screws while ensuring you don’t over drive the screws during installation.
Pre-Drilling – Use a high speed drill bit when pre-drilling. It will keep your screws from breaking and it will help to keep your hardwood from splintering.
Ipe Clip® brand hidden deck fasteners – You definitely want a fastener that will hold up. Ipe Clip® Extreme™ deck fasteners are an edge mount system and offer a stainless steel core that gives exceptional hold down strength.
Gap Spacing – The correct gap spacing for your deck is of utmost importance. Know what type of decking you have whether it be composite, pvc, air-dried hardwood or kiln-dried hardwood. Each requires a different gap space. Ipe Clip® brand fasteners are designed specifically for this in mind. We offer 3 different gap spaces to ensure the proper spacing needed for your deck.
Hardwood Wrench™ – The Hardwood Wrench™ is a must when it comes to straightening bowed and warped boards. Its cam locks into place, holding the board for you and giving you the ability to work hands free on your deck without assistance. It truly makes a one man installation possible.

Whether you are a first time deck builder or the seasoned professional, Ipe Clip® offers just the right tools to make your deck building project easier.

Reclaimed Wood for Outdoor Decking

Maxwell Blake — Wed, 26 Jan 2011 15:41:19 +0000

As the awareness of the impact that harvesting lumber has on the environment rises, so does the interest in utilizing reclaimed wood. Reclaimed wood is just that; recycled wood that has been reclaimed from many different sources such as old barns and buildings, water tanks, factories and warehouses, and train trestles to name just a few. Reclaimed wood is a great source to build a unique, one of a kind deck that possesses superior characteristics than what is provided today. It’s stronger, more stable, and more durable. This wood has been around, in most cases, for over a century and has had the opportunity to go through the cycles and changes of weather, humidity, and temperatures far longer than newer woods. When choosing to use reclaimed wood, there are a few things to keep in mind.
•   There is limited supply. Make certain there is enough for your decking project
•   It’s often difficult to match colors and patterns
•   More often than not, it is more expensive due to the expenses incurred in sourcing the wood
•   Sometimes there are pieces of metal in boards from broken off nails
•   It can be difficult to determine with absolute the exact species unless you cut and examine it
Having warned you of the cautions, reclaimed hardwood decks are beautiful! Don’t expect every board to perfectly match and enjoy the natural patina and finish these old boards provide. You will have a deck with both beauty and history!

PVC Decking

Maxwell Blake — Wed, 29 Dec 2010 17:29:58 +0000

Choices, choices, and more choices…..

Although hardwood decking tops the list as the most used decking material, recently there has been a burst of interest shown in PVC decking. Although we, at Ipe Clip®, still prefer a beautiful hardwood Ipe deck, the interest shown in PVC decking is certainly cause for review.
PVC decking is installed quite similar to hardwood decking. You want to start with a ground clearance of at least 12” to allow for adequate air flow. We recommend that joist spacing not exceed 16” on center when perpendicular to joists and no more than 12” when deck boards are positioned at a 45 degree angle.

There are major differences between hardwood deck boards and PVC deck boards:

1. The movement each makes over time is different. While hardwood decking will naturally move on its width, PVC decking will naturally move on its length.

2. Hardwood deck board’s movement is primarily dependent upon moisture content while PVC deck boards are primarily dependent upon temperature changes.

3. Ipe Clip® hidden deck fasteners are installed with the screw at a 45 degree angle, through half of the deck board, and then down into the joist. PVC decking will be installed using the very same Ipe Clip® hidden deck fasteners except the screw will be driven straight down through the fastener and into the joist allowing for the natural movement on its length.

Don’t be intimidated by all the choices that are now available for your decking needs. PVC decking can be installed just as easily as hardwood decking. There are no additional tools or equipment required. Ipe Clip® makes a hidden deck fastener for each decking project no matter the type of decking. Just give us a call and we’ll be happy to help you choose the right products for your decking needs.

Deck Building Tips – Your Deck Needs To Breathe

Mr. Ipe Clip — Thu, 16 Sep 2010 19:47:49 +0000

Did you know that your deck needs to breathe? Well, not exactly like we do, but it still needs air nonetheless. Without proper ventilation and air circulation, your beautiful deck can cup, warp, check, and possibly decay. This mistake can even lead to the failure of your decking surface. Who wants to see that happen when you’ve put your hard earned money and effort into it?

How do you prevent those deck problems from occurring?

Adequate ventilation is essential for the long term stability of your deck. Below you will find steps that you can take before and during installation that will help to eliminate the above mentioned problems.

Ensure your deck is not built above moist, leafy ground. If so, use high quality landscape fabric covered with gravel or stone under the deck.
Avoid bark mulch under or around your deck as this is full of mildew spores.
Utilize Ipe Clip® Hidden Deck Fasteners and follow recommended gap spacing.
Coat your decking surface using Ipe Oil™ Hardwood Deck Finish
Make sure all end grains are coated with Ipe Seal™ Hardwood End Grain Sealer.
Construct your deck at a pitch to allow for proper drainage.
Build your deck with a minimum of 12” ground clearance.If this is not possible, reduce your joist spacing to 12” and coat all four sides of your deck boards with Ipe Oil™.

By following these simple guidelines, your deck will stay healthy and mildew-free for years to come.

Deck Fasteners Beat the Heat & Maintain Structural Integrity

Mr. Ipe Clip — Mon, 16 Aug 2010 17:47:52 +0000

This summer has been hot….very, very hot. The heat has proven why installing deck fasteners is a smart and economical choice.

As you might imagine, the heat has taken its toll on a number of decks across the country. I’ve been reading on many home improvement forums about homeowners worried about their decking structural integrity. During a summer like this, decking can really take a pounding from intense heat and humidity. The worst complaints are coming from people who drove screws straight through their decking. They thought they were saving money, but in intense weather like this, cracks, splits, and warping can really be a problem.

The answer? For these deck owners, the best thing is to wait until the weather gets a little more normal, then get the deck inspected. If some boards need to be replaced, they can be done so without having to worry.

Not surprising, I haven’t been reading about these complaints with anyone who installed their decking with deck fasteners made by Ipe Clip®. Not to toot our own horn, but it makes sense. If you own or are building a deck with Ipe Clip® brand hidden deck fasteners, your hardwood or composite decking gets the best chance of acclimating to any weather condition better than if you had driven screws through the boards. This is because using a hidden fastener such as Ipe Clip® allows for the natural movement of the boards through the changes in the seasons and weather.

Pay close attention to how the decking reacts in the heat when you have deck fasteners installed.

Find your local Ipe Clip® deck fastener dealer and give your deck a long, healthy life.

Buying Deck Fasterners – Clearing the Confusion

Dan Schiefer — Mon, 04 Jan 2010 14:00:46 +0000

There are so many different types of deck fasteners. Some are made of metal, some are made of plastic, and some, like the Extreme™ and ExtremeKD™ are made of both.

When you use a hidden deck fastener that combines the strength of stainless steel with the enduring qualities of plastic, you will extend the life of your deck. This combination of materials also ensures that you save a ton of money thanks to the greatly reduced maintenance issues. What does this mean for you?

More time spent enjoying your deck instead of slaving over it.

When you do your research and compare deck fasteners, you’ll quickly realize that because the Extreme™ and ExtremeKD™ require diagonal installation, you’ll also end up building a deck that is proportionality stronger too.

Want to learn more? Contact us today to discover why the Ipe Clip® brand of deck fasteners is perfect for your deck building needs.

Ipe Clip® Deck Fastening Systems – An All-In-One Solution

Dan Schiefer — Mon, 28 Dec 2009 14:00:51 +0000

At the Ipe Clip® Fastener Co., we have a great solution for homeowners, deck builders, and anyone else who is looking for a cost-effective solution to building their deck.

We sell complete kits for each of our unique and virtually indestructible deck fasteners.

Our Deck Fastening Systems comes complete with:

175 – IPE CLIP® Hidden Deck Fasteners
190 – Stainless Steel Screws
12 – 3/8″ Tapered Ipe plugs
1 - 1/8″ High Speed Drill Bit
1 – Screw Gun Driver Bit
1 – Instruction Sheet

Each kit will cover approximately 100 square feet of deck surface (coverage based on 5-1/2” wide board with 16” joist spacing). The best part? We offer you the chance to customize your kit. We can accommodate you if you need different size screws, a different grade screw, or even a screw with a colored head to match the fastener!

Call us today to learn more and to get started on building a stress free and immaculate deck!