Deck screws are crucial parts for building high-quality decks. These components must be resilient enough to provide stable connections in deck boards while resisting harsh or variable weather conditions. Stainless steel and steel deck screws are the most common type of deck screws.
At Associated Fastening Products, we carry a wide variety of deck screw options, such as composite, metal-to-metal, and wood-to-wood. These can come with fastener coatings such as ceramic, polymer, and epoxy to add exceptional durability and rust protection. Learn more about the different materials and coatings we offer, along with their distinct benefits and uses.
What Screws Are Best for My Deck?
Choosing the right screw is crucial to ensure the aesthetic integrity and longevity of the deck. Consider the following factors and available options from Associated Fastening Products:
Deck Materials
The type of material used for deck construction can significantly impact the choice of deck screw. For instance, screws with a protective coating will generally offer exceptional corrosion resistance from the chemicals used in pressure-treated wood, while high-quality deck screws that offer secure anchoring capabilities and prevent common problems like mushrooming can prove an ideal choice for composite decking.
At Associated Fastening Products, we have options for common deck materials such as:
- Pressure-Treated Lumber: Our wood-to-wood deck screws for pressure-treated wood include Phillips, countersinking, and flat heads. Stainless steel deck screws have specialized coatings that can prevent corrosion and rust. Since pressure-treated lumber is soft, a 2.5-inch screw is typically sufficient.
- Composite Decking: Color-matching screws from Associated Fastening Products are available for composite lumber, with points designed to eliminate the need for drilling or screws with a six-sided drive for enhanced torque control. Since composite materials vary in density, we recommend 2.5 to 3.5-inch screws. However, it is best to consult the manufacturer’s recommendations.
- Hardwoods: Hard, dense decking materials such as IPE or teak benefit from deck screws with aggressive threads and sharper points to allow for easier penetration. These provide a secure hold without having to pre-drill holes, reducing the potential for damaging the wood. Since hardwoods are a dense material, a 3-inch screw from Associated Fastening Products can ensure a strong connection.
- Stainless steel framing: Stainless steel deck screws from Associated Fastening Products with additional features like a color-matched coating or a zinc-plating finish can help prevent corrosion in stainless steel framing.
Screw Materials and Coatings
Avoiding corrosion and rust are two primary considerations when selecting the correct deck screw from Associated Fastening Products. Materials such as alloy and stainless steel are popular due to characteristics such as:
- Resistance to the elements
- High durability
- Lower maintenance
Modern deck screws may also feature corrosion-resistant coatings such as ultra-guard to maintain their appearance and extend the screw’s longevity. We can also use color coatings such as WAR® to match materials for a seamless visual transition.
Screw Types
We carry several types of deck screws, each with distinct advantages and uses:
- Structural Screws: These longer and thicker screws make critical connections capable of bearing a load possible, providing the necessary strength for safety and structural integrity. These screws are ideal for attaching a deck to the ledger board of a house.
- Trim Head Screws: The smaller heads are commonly used to attach deck boards, offering an almost invisible, smooth finish. They are a great choice for aesthetic applications where screw head appearance is a concern.
- Deck Framing Screws: These screws are strong enough to support the deck’s structure and can be used to connect the deck’s frame, helping to prevent loosening over time. They can feature a TORX® for reduced cam-out and better torque transfer.
Installation
Deck screws from Associated Fasteners can include various features to simplify installation:
- Self-Tapping screws: These eliminate the need for pre-drilling, reducing the risk of splitting the wood and speeding up the construction process.
- Dual-Threaded Screws: Dual-threaded screws offer quick engagement with the decking material to provide a tight fit that securely anchors deck boards.
- Hidden Deck Screws: Deck screw covers line up with the decking material, using special color coatings to create an exact match with the material’s surface.
Contact Associated Fastening for Deck Screws
For over 35 years, Associated Fastening Products, Inc. has maintained a strong reputation for manufacturing and distributing high-quality standard and special fasteners. As a full-line supplier, we provide the OEM market with the quality, service, and product variety they need to meet the demands of their specific challenges. Our multiple distribution points throughout the United States provide us with the flexibility needed to service customers across the country.
Contact us or request a quote today to learn how our industry-leading deck screws can meet the needs of your next project.