Understanding Tigerwood Decking Profiles
Tigerwood decking is available in various profiles, and the specific profile of your chosen boards will dictate the type of hidden fastener system you can use. The most common profiles for hidden fastening are grooved-edge boards and square-edge boards that can be routed on-site. The standard availability for Tigerwood decking is typically a 5/4"x6" (1" x 5.5") profile, which can come in either grooved or square edge.
Grooved-edge boards feature a pre-milled channel along the sides of the board. These grooves are designed to accept specific clips or fasteners that slot into them, securing the board to the joist without visible screws on the deck surface. This is often the simplest approach for hidden fastening.
Square-edge boards have straight, un-milled edges. If you intend to use a hidden fastening system with square-edge Tigerwood, you will need to route a groove into the edges of each board on-site. This requires specialized tools and adds a step to the installation process but offers flexibility if grooved boards are not available or if you prefer a custom groove depth. Given Tigerwood's hardness, this routing process requires appropriate tools and careful execution to avoid splintering or damage.
Types of Hidden Fastener Systems
Several types of hidden fastener systems are available, each with its own method of attachment and compatibility. For Tigerwood, systems designed for dense hardwoods are generally recommended.
Edge clips are a common type for grooved boards. These clips typically sit in the groove and are screwed into the top of the joist, holding the board in place. The design of the clip also influences the spacing between boards, which is important for drainage and air circulation.
Side-mount fasteners, often used with square-edge boards, involve screwing a fastener into the side of the board at an angle, securing it to the joist below. These fasteners are typically self-gapping and designed to pull the boards tight. For Tigerwood, pre-drilling pilot holes for these fasteners is essential due to the wood's density to prevent splitting.
Clip-and-rail systems provide a continuous channel that accepts board edges. These can offer consistent spacing and support but may require specific subframe preparation. The choice often comes down to the manufacturer's recommendations for their grooved decking or the installer's preference for square-edge routing.
Subframe Compatibility and Installation
The type and condition of your deck's subframe are critical for hidden fastener performance. Hidden fasteners rely on a stable and level subframe for proper installation and long-term stability. Ensure your joists are spaced appropriately for your decking board thickness and local building codes.
Always consult the specific fastener manufacturer's instructions for their recommended joist spacing. If your existing subframe does not meet these requirements, adjustments may be necessary.
Pre-drilling is almost always required when working with Tigerwood, regardless of the fastener type. This density, while contributing to its durability, also means it is prone to splitting if fasteners are driven without pilot holes. Use carbon-tipped drill bits for best results, as standard bits can dull quickly.
Calculating Fastener Quantity: A Hypothetical Example
The deck will use grooved-edge boards.
First, calculate the number of boards needed for the 10-foot width. Since boards are typically sold in fixed lengths, you would likely purchase 12-foot or 10-foot lengths depending on your layout. For a 10-foot run, 10-foot boards would be ideal.
Next, determine the number of joists that each board will cross.
It's always advisable to purchase an additional 10-15% for waste, mistakes, or future repairs. This calculation is a starting point; always refer to the specific fastener product's coverage estimates.
Choosing for Durability and Appearance
The choice of hidden fastener also influences the long-term durability and appearance of your Tigerwood deck. Fasteners should be made from corrosion-resistant materials, such as stainless steel, to withstand outdoor exposure and the natural tannins in Tigerwood. Using incompatible metals can lead to staining or premature fastener failure.
Consider the gap created by the fastener. Consistent gapping is essential for proper water drainage and air circulation, which helps prevent moisture buildup and potential issues like cupping or warping.
Finally, while hidden fasteners eliminate visible screws, ensure the chosen system allows for easy removal and replacement of individual boards if maintenance or repairs are needed. Some systems offer easier access than others, which can be a practical consideration for a material like Tigerwood that is designed to last over 25 years.
Before you order
- Verify if your Tigerwood decking boards are grooved-edge or square-edge.
- If square-edge, confirm if you plan to route grooves on-site or use a side-mount system.
- Check the fastener manufacturer's compatibility with dense hardwoods like Tigerwood.
- Ensure the fastener material is corrosion-resistant (e.g., stainless steel) for outdoor use.
- Confirm the recommended joist spacing for the chosen fastener system.
- Account for pre-drilling requirements for Tigerwood's density.
- Calculate the quantity needed, including an allowance for waste or spares.
- Consider the aesthetic impact of the resulting board gap and ease of board replacement.
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
Why are hidden fasteners recommended for Tigerwood decking?
Hidden fasteners provide a clean, smooth deck surface that highlights the natural beauty and unique grain of Tigerwood without visible screw heads. They can also help prevent surface splitting that can occur with face-fastening, especially in a dense hardwood like Tigerwood, if not installed correctly. This method also supports consistent board spacing for better drainage and air flow.
Can I use hidden fasteners with any Tigerwood board profile?
Hidden fasteners are primarily designed for grooved-edge decking boards. If you have square-edge Tigerwood boards, you would typically need to route a groove into the edges of the boards on-site to accommodate most clip-style hidden fasteners. Alternatively, some hidden fastening systems are designed to be screwed into the side of square-edge boards at an angle, but pre-drilling is essential due to Tigerwood's hardness.
What tools are needed for installing hidden fasteners with Tigerwood?
You will need standard decking installation tools, plus a drill with carbon-tipped bits for pre-drilling pilot holes for fasteners, as Tigerwood is very dense. If using square-edge boards and routing grooves, you will also need a router with an appropriate bit. Always refer to the specific fastener and decking manufacturer's instructions for a complete tool list.
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