Why Choose Face-Fastening for Angelim Decking?
Face-fastening involves driving screws directly through the face of the deck board into the joist below. This method provides a strong mechanical connection, securing each board firmly to the substructure. For a dense and stable hardwood like Angelim, known for its air dry density of 5.58 lbs/bf and specific gravity of 0.79, this direct attachment can be particularly effective in resisting movement and ensuring long-term stability.
Angelim's natural resistance to termites and moisture also makes it a suitable candidate for outdoor applications where a robust fastening method is paramount. While pre-drilling is recommended for Angelim due to its density, the ease of installation is often cited as an advantage. This method allows for a clear visual inspection of each fastener, which can be beneficial during installation and future maintenance.
The choice of face-fastening often comes down to balancing aesthetics with a desire for a straightforward, durable attachment. When considering Angelim, its yellowish-beige heartwood, which darkens to a pinkish-brown, can be complemented by well-chosen fasteners or discreet plugs.
Selecting the Right Screws for Angelim Hardwood
The type of screw used is critical for face-fastening Angelim decking. Due to Angelim's density and natural resistance, standard screws may not perform adequately or could cause splitting.
When discussing screws with your installer, inquire about specific features such as self-tapping tips, which can help initiate the hole, and aggressive threads designed for hardwoods.
Head type also matters. Trim head screws offer a smaller, less conspicuous finish, while bugle head screws provide a larger bearing surface that can help prevent pull-through. The choice depends on the desired aesthetic and the installer's preference for driving. Always confirm the screw material's compatibility with Angelim's natural properties to avoid discoloration or premature fastener failure.
The Importance of Pilot Holes and Countersinking
Pre-drilling pilot holes is essential when face-fastening Angelim decking. As a dense hardwood, Angelim can split if screws are driven without proper preparation. The pilot hole diameter should be slightly smaller than the screw's shank, but large enough to prevent excessive friction and wood splitting. Your installer should use a drill bit specifically sized for the chosen screws.
Countersinking is the process of creating a conical recess for the screw head to sit flush with or slightly below the deck board surface. This prevents the screw head from protruding, which can be a trip hazard and can also catch debris. For Angelim, consistent countersinking is vital for a smooth, finished appearance, especially if you plan to leave the fasteners exposed or use plugs.
Discuss with your installer the depth of countersinking. For exposed fasteners, they might aim for flush. If plugs are being used, the countersink needs to be deep enough to accommodate the plug without it standing proud of the surface. A consistent depth across all fasteners contributes significantly to the deck's overall aesthetic quality.
Considering Plugs for a Refined Finish
For those seeking a cleaner, more refined look than exposed screw heads, wood plugs offer an excellent solution. Plugs are small pieces of wood, typically made from the same species as the decking (Angelim, in this case), that are glued into countersunk holes over the screw heads. This creates a surface where the fasteners are virtually invisible, allowing the natural beauty of the Angelim's yellowish-beige to pinkish-brown heartwood to take center stage.
If considering plugs, ensure your installer uses a specialized plug cutter to create plugs from matching Angelim stock or sources pre-made Angelim plugs. The plug's grain should be aligned with the deck board's grain for the best visual integration. After gluing, the plugs are typically sanded flush with the deck board surface.
While plugs add an extra step and cost to the installation, they can significantly elevate the deck's aesthetic. Discuss with your installer the process, drying time for the adhesive, and the sanding requirements. This method is particularly popular for premium hardwood decks where a seamless finish is desired.
Worked Example: Face-Fastening a 12x16 Foot Angelim Deck
Let's consider our hypothetical 12-foot by 16-foot deck.
Each 1x6 board is approximately 5.5 inches wide. For a 12-foot wide deck, you would need approximately 26 boards (144 inches / 5.5 inches per board).
This estimate does not account for waste or cuts. If using plugs, you would need 624 plugs and the corresponding adhesive. This example highlights the significant number of fasteners and plugs required, emphasizing the importance of accurate material estimation and discussing these details with your installer.
For this project, you might consider [Lumber Plus Stainless Steel Deck Screws](https://www.lumberplus.com/fasteners/deck-screws) for their corrosion resistance and strength. If you opt for plugs, ensure they are made from Angelim to match your deck boards. You may also need [Lumber Plus Deck Board Spacers](https://www.lumberplus.com/tools/spacers) to ensure consistent gaps between boards.
Before you order
- Verify screw length is appropriate for board thickness and joist penetration.
- Discuss screw head type (trim head vs. bugle head) and its impact on aesthetics.
- Confirm the plan for pilot hole drilling: diameter and depth.
- Discuss countersinking method and desired depth for flush or plug-ready finish.
- If using plugs, confirm source (matching Angelim), grain alignment, and adhesive type.
- Review the installer's experience with face-fastening dense hardwoods like Angelim.
- Obtain a detailed estimate for fasteners and plugs, including any waste factor.
Confirm installation details, approved uses and warranty terms in the current instructions for the exact product and profile. Your installer should verify the substrate, structure and applicable project requirements.
Questions to help you decide
Is pre-drilling always necessary for Angelim decking?
Yes, pre-drilling is highly recommended for Angelim decking. Angelim is a dense hardwood, and driving screws directly into it without pilot holes can cause the wood to split, especially near the ends of the boards. Pre-drilling ensures a clean entry for the screw and helps prevent damage to the deck boards.
What kind of screws should I use for face-fastening Angelim?
These grades offer excellent corrosion resistance, which is crucial for outdoor applications and prevents staining of the wood. Look for screws designed for hardwoods, often featuring self-tapping tips and aggressive threads.
How do plugs affect the maintenance of an Angelim deck?
Wood plugs, when properly installed and glued, can provide a seamless finish that is easier to clean than exposed screw heads where dirt can accumulate. However, if a board needs to be removed for repair, the plugs must be carefully drilled out, which can be a more involved process than simply unscrewing an exposed fastener. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning and re-oiling, will be similar regardless of whether plugs are used.
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