Text-Based CAMO Edge Fasteners – Installation Guide for Hardwood Decking

(Accessibility-friendly version of the full 25-page CAMOcertified HTML resource.)

## Introduction to CAMO Edge Fastening for Hardwood Decking

CAMO Edge Fasteners are a hidden fastening system used to install dense Brazilian hardwoods such as Ipe, Cumaru, Tigerwood, Garapa, and Purpleheart. The CAMO system drives screws into the edge of each hardwood board at a precise angle so that no screws show on the surface.

This guide explains the tools, screws, spacing, techniques, and best practices required to install hardwood decking using the CAMO Marksman tool and CAMO edge screws.

The CAMO system is designed for use with ungrooved (square-edge) hardwood decking.

## Overview of the CAMO Edge Fastening System

### What the System Includes

The CAMO Edge Fastening system uses:

• CAMO Marksman® tool

• CAMO Edge screws (305 or 316 stainless steel recommended for hardwoods)

• A driver bit sized for CAMO fasteners

• Optional CAMO accessories depending on installation style

### How CAMO Works

• The Marksman tool straddles the board and automatically sets the screw angle.

• Screws drive into the edge of the board, not the top surface.

• A gap is set between boards by the tool’s built-in spacers.

• Screws enter the joist at a consistent downward angle for secure holding strength.

• The result is a clean deck surface with no exposed face screws.

## CAMO Benefits for Brazilian Hardwoods

Hardwood installers choose CAMO because:

• It leaves the top of the deck completely smooth with no visible screws.

• It reduces the risk of splitting the board surface.

• It helps maintain clean, even spacing between dense hardwood boards.

• It avoids face screws except at perimeter or picture framing locations.

• Edge fastening helps stabilize hardwood without restricting natural movement.

Hardwoods move across their width with changes in moisture. CAMO fasteners hold boards securely while still allowing natural seasonal expansion and contraction.

## Compatible Hardwood Decking Profiles

CAMO can be used with square-edge boards in the following sizes:

• 1×6

• 5/4×6

• 1×4

• 5/4×4

• Other square-edge hardwood boards that accept angled edge screws

Grooved boards typically use hidden clips. CAMO is recommended for square-edge hardwood decking only, or in combination with clips for perimeter and starter rows.

## CAMO Marksman Tool Options

CAMO offers multiple Marksman tools. Common variations include:

### CAMO Marksman Pro®

• Adjustable for various board widths

• Creates uniform spacing (often 3/16″)

### CAMO Marksman Pro-X1®

• For narrow boards

• 1/16″ spacing

### CAMO Marksman Edge Tool

• Designed for hardwood installers needing flexibility in screw angle

• Works well for hard, dense materials

The correct tool ensures consistent screw placement and even spacing.

## CAMO Edge Screw Specifications

### Screw Type

For Brazilian hardwoods, use:

• 305 stainless steel CAMO Edge screws, or

• 316 stainless steel CAMO Edge screws (best for coastal environments)

### Screw Features

• Trim-style head

• Reverse rake tip to reduce splitting

• A “shouldered” shank that pulls boards tight while preventing mushrooming

• Lubricated finish for easier hardwood penetration

### Length Recommendations

Most CAMO hardwood installations use 2⅜” stainless edge screws.

## Preparing for Installation

### Acclimate the Hardwood

• Store decking dry and out of direct sunlight.

• Promote airflow between rows using spacers.

• Do not store directly on the ground.

### Prepare Joists

• Ensure joists are level.

• For older framing, verify screw holding strength.

• CAMO screws must fully penetrate joist material.

### Required Tools

• CAMO Marksman tool

• High-quality drill/driver

• Spare driver bits

• End-seal wax for cut ends

• Carbide-tipped saw blades

• Spacers, chalk line, and tape measure

## Step-by-Step CAMO Installation Instructions

### Step 1 — Lay Out and Straighten the First Board

Position your first hardwood board along the house or starting edge. Use a straight edge or chalk line for alignment.

Because CAMO installs through the sides, you may still need face-fastening tools (like Pro Plug) for the very first board.

### Step 2 — Position the CAMO Marksman Tool

Place the Marksman tool so it straddles the first board.
The tool automatically:

• Centers itself

• Sets the screw angle

• Sets the gap for the next board

### Step 3 — Drive the CAMO Edge Screws

Using the provided driver bit:

• Drive one screw through the guide on the left side of the tool.

• Drive one screw through the guide on the right side.

Each screw enters the board edge at a precise angle and sinks into the joist.

Avoid overtightening. Overdriving may weaken wood fibers or distort spacing.

### Step 4 — Remove the Tool and Place the Next Board

Pull the tool off the secured board.
Slide the next board into position against the built-in spacers on the Marksman tool.

Boards should sit snug but not forced.

### Step 5 — Continue the Pattern

Repeat the process:

1. Position the tool

2. Drive two screws

3. Move the tool forward

4. Set the next board against the spacers

Continue until the deck surface is fully installed.

### Step 6 — Handling the Last Board

The final row often requires face fastening. Use:

• Stainless steel trim-head screws, or

• Pro Plug System screws + hardwood plugs for a concealed finish

A small gap should still be maintained to allow airflow and drainage.

## Board Spacing Guidelines with CAMO

Spacing varies by Marksman model:

• 3/16″ spacing is common for hardwood installations.

• 1/16″ spacing is available with certain tools.

• The tool you choose sets the spacing automatically.

Hardwoods generally require consistent spacing for airflow and moisture balance.

## Working With Hardwood Movement

Hardwoods expand across their width in humid conditions and shrink in dry conditions. CAMO helps control this movement by:

• Securing each board along both edges

• Creating consistent spacing

• Reducing lateral shifting

Even with CAMO, adequate airflow beneath the deck is essential to prevent cupping.

## Handling Butt Joints

For butt joints:

• Maintain a small gap (approx. 1/16″)

• Position screws so each board end is fully supported by a joist

• Stagger joints when possible for visual appeal

• Ensure end wax is applied after each cut

## Edge Boards, Picture Framing, and Perimeter Rows

CAMO edge fastening works on the interior rows of the deck. For edges, use:

• Stainless steel trim-head screws, or

• Plug systems to conceal screw heads

Boards near walls or borders cannot accept the Marksman tool and must be face-fastened.

## Cutting & Sealing Hardwood Boards

### Cutting

• Use carbide-tipped saw blades

• Cut in a well-ventilated area

• Avoid forcing the saw through dense hardwood

### End-Waxing

• Seal cut ends immediately

• Prevents cracking and moisture loss

• Required for every hardwood deck job

## Safety & Workmanship Notes

• Wear eye, ear, and dust protection

• CAMO screws are sharp; handle carefully

• Keep tools dust-free for consistent screw seating

• Inspect boards before fastening to avoid locking in defects

## Troubleshooting: Common CAMO Issues

### Stripped Screws

• Use fresh driver bits

• Avoid overdriving

• Ensure the bit is fully seated before drilling

### Gapping Issues

• Use the correct Marksman tool

• Apply equal pressure when placing each new board

### Splitting Wood Fibers

• Use stainless screws only

• Ensure screws are installed at the intended angle

## Maintenance After Installation

Even with hidden fasteners, hardwood decks require simple maintenance:

• Clean as needed

• Apply hardwood oil (optional)

• Inspect perimeter screws annually

• Brighten the deck if graying occurs

For full restoration instructions, reference the Messmer’s Cleaner & Brightener system.

## Contact Information

Brazilian Wood Depot
6770 Buford Highway NE
Atlanta, GA 30340

Phone: 770-242-0045
Email: sam@bwdepot.com

End of Text-Based Reference Section