Install Ipe Clip® Hidden Deck Fasteners
We recommend this installation method above all others for two reasons. First, it looks nicer, since there are no screws visible. Second, it allows for the wood to shrink and expand with changes in moisture content.
1. We recommend using pregrooved deck boards, since this will greatly speed up installation. If you are using standard deck boards, you will need to groove them yourself.
2. Insert an Ipe Clip® Hidden Deck Fastener into the groove.
3. Drive a stainless steel screw through the fastener and into the joist at a 45° angle. You may have to predrill a pilot hole.
4. Slide the next deck board into place, making sure to leave a 1/16" gap between boards.
For boards at the end of the deck where hidden fasteners won't work, we recommend using the face screw/wood plug method.