The Ultimate Deck Tool

For maximum bending force, ease of use, and overall functionality, The Hardwood Wrench™ really is the ultimate deck tool.

Created from hard anodized aircraft-grade aluminum, you will be able to build your deck with confidence knowing that it will always be the board that bends and never the tool. From tongue and groove ipe to composite decking, the Hardwood Wrench™ can effortlessly handle any and all decking species.

When you want to build a deck without increased labor and resources this deck board straightening tool will always:

• Straighten bowed boards with minimal effort
• Bend multiple boards at the same time easily
• minimize strenuous activity
• Require only one person to operate
• Adjusts to a variety of joist sizes effortlessly
• Speed up the installation process

Why did we decide to dedicate resources into creating the Hardwood Wrench™? From fastening to finishing, we are dedicated to making the deck building process easier and faster. By releasing products that produce safer decks, we are ensuring that decks all across the nation and the world are safer, stronger, and improve quality of life.

Learn more about this revolutionary deck tool.

Learn how to install deck fasteners using regular deck boards.

As in previous posts, I will be explaining some simple ways to make installing a deck with hidden deck fasteners easier.

One of the common misconceptions that people have is that hidden deck fasteners are best used with pre-grooved decking. While pre-grooved decking was made for deck fastening systems, you can have an immaculate looking deck surface with standard Eased 4 Edges / Standard 4 Sides (E4E/S4S) deck boards.

How?

By cutting a slot in the edge of the decking using a standard router or biscuit joiner. Of course, you’ll have to use a 5/32” slot cutting bit with your router to make sure that the slot is just the right size (a standard biscuit joiner cuts a 5/32” slot already). This process may take some time depending on the size and scope of your deck. However, you can save a boat load of time if you follow these simple guidelines:

• Mark each deck board with a pencil prior to installation.
  • Just make sure your marks are aligned properly with your joist spacing. Knowing the precise location where each slot will be cut ahead of time will save both time and energy.
• Make sure your tools are charged and sharpened.
  • Also have multiple bits handy for denser woods like ipe.
• If possible, rent a couple of routers or biscuit jointers and get someone competent with tools to help you. (I’m sure you can bribe your neighbor who you lend your tools to help out for an hour or two!)
• Use deck fasteners, and screws that are best suited for hardwood or composite decking.

At the Ipe Clip® Fastener Company, we manufacture deck fasteners that will work perfectly with practically every kind of decking available (except for pressure-treated or other unstable materials).

If you follow this advice, you’ll have a smooth deck surface that will also be much safer and require less maintenance in no time. Happy deck building!