Why Choose Face-Fastening for Garapa?
Its density, however, means it is resistant to nailing and screwing without proper preparation. Face-fastening, when executed correctly, creates a strong mechanical connection between the deck board and the substructure, which is crucial for a dense material like Garapa. This method minimizes board movement and helps prevent cupping or warping over time.
Beyond structural integrity, face-fastening offers a distinct aesthetic. The visible fasteners can be a design choice, especially when using high-quality screws designed to complement the golden tones of Garapa. Alternatively, opting for wood plugs can conceal the fasteners, creating a smooth, unblemished surface that highlights the natural beauty of the wood.
Selecting the Right Screws for Garapa Decking
The type of screw used is paramount for Garapa decking. Stainless steel screws are generally recommended for exterior hardwood applications due to their corrosion resistance, which is vital for longevity and preventing staining on the wood.
Consider screws specifically designed for hardwoods, often featuring specialized threads and tips that reduce driving torque and minimize the risk of splitting. Confirm with your installer that the chosen screws are appropriate for the specific dimensions of your Garapa boards and substructure material.
The Importance of Pilot Holes
Drilling pilot holes is not optional when face-fastening Garapa decking; it is essential. Garapa's density makes it resistant to nailing and screwing without this preparatory step. Attempting to drive screws directly into Garapa without pilot holes will almost certainly result in splitting the boards, damaging the screw, or both.
The diameter of the pilot hole is critical. It should be slightly smaller than the shank of the screw, allowing the screw threads to grip the wood effectively without forcing or splitting. Your installer should use a drill bit gauge to ensure the correct pilot hole size for the specific screws being used.
Integrating Wood Plugs for a Seamless Look
For a truly refined finish, wood plugs can be used to conceal face fasteners. This method involves drilling a slightly larger hole, or counterbore, at each fastener location, deep enough to accommodate the screw head and a wood plug. After the screw is driven, a matching Garapa wood plug is glued into the counterbore, then sanded flush with the deck surface.
This technique creates a smooth, uninterrupted surface, showcasing the golden color of the Garapa. It requires precision in drilling and careful selection of plugs that match the decking material. While more labor-intensive, the aesthetic payoff can be significant, especially for premium deck projects where visual continuity is a priority. Ensure your installer has experience with this method and can achieve a consistent, high-quality finish.
Worked Example: Face-Fastening a Garapa Deck Section
Consider a hypothetical 10-foot by 12-foot deck section using 1" x 5.5" (5/4"x6" nominal) Garapa decking boards.
The deck section is 120 inches (10 feet) wide. Therefore, 120 inches / 5.625 inches per board = approximately 21.33 boards. You would need to purchase 22 boards to cover the width. This calculation does not account for waste or cuts, so it is always advisable to order extra.
If wood plugs are desired, a counterbore would also be drilled at each location, requiring 396 plugs and the associated adhesive and sanding.
Before you order
- Confirm the specific type and length of stainless steel screws recommended for Garapa by your installer.
- Verify that your installer plans to pre-drill pilot holes for every screw.
- Discuss the option of using wood plugs for a concealed fastener look and understand the additional labor and material costs.
- Review the screw pattern and spacing to ensure it aligns with best practices for hardwood decking.
- Ask about the tools and techniques your installer will use to ensure consistent pilot hole and counterbore depths.
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
Can I use a nail gun for Garapa decking?
Garapa is a dense hardwood, and nailing it directly without pre-drilling can lead to splitting the boards. While some specialized pneumatic nailers are designed for hardwoods, face-fastening with screws into pre-drilled pilot holes is generally the preferred and most secure method for Garapa decking to prevent damage and ensure long-term stability.
How do I prevent screws from stripping in Garapa?
Preventing screws from stripping is crucial when working with dense hardwoods like Garapa. This can be achieved by using the correct pilot hole size, which should be slightly smaller than the screw shank. Using high-quality stainless steel screws with appropriate threads for hardwoods, and driving them at a consistent, controlled speed with a powerful drill, also helps. Avoid over-tightening the screws.
What kind of maintenance do face-fastened Garapa decks require?
Garapa decking itself requires minimal maintenance for its natural resistance to rot, decay, and insects. For face-fastened decks, routine cleaning to remove debris and occasional re-application of a finish (if desired) will help maintain its golden color. If wood plugs are used, periodically check for any loosening or signs of wear, though properly installed plugs should remain secure for many years.
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