## How the DeckMaster System Works

DeckMaster includes:

• Specialized undermount brackets

• Stainless steel screws designed for upward fastening

• Layout guides to ensure proper spacing and alignment

The brackets attach directly to the top or sides of the joists, depending on the framing layout. Once installed, each bracket contains screw portals that allow upward fastening into the board above.

Fastener Location

All screws are installed:

• From below the deck boards

• Through the bracket system

• Into the underside of the hardwood board

This eliminates all visible fasteners from the decking surface.

Key Benefits

• No screw heads on the surface

• Enhanced safety (no raised screws)

• Preserves full hardwood grain appearance

• Reduces surface cracking caused by face-screws

• Creates a premium, uninterrupted finish for high-end hardwood decks

## Compatible Decking Materials and Board Sizes

The DeckMaster Undermount System is compatible with:

• Ipe, Cumaru, Tigerwood, Garapa, Massaranduba, and other dense hardwoods

• 1×6 hardwood decking

• 5/4×6 hardwood decking

• Additional square-edge profiles depending on joist orientation

Grooved boards are not required because the fasteners do not connect to the board edges.

## Bracket Styles and Installation Orientation

DeckMaster brackets may vary by model, but all share key characteristics:

Common Attributes

• Crafted from corrosion-resistant steel

• Pre-punched screw slots

• Designed for upward fastening into deck boards

• Compatible with 16″ or 24″ joist spacing

• Can be installed at deck perimeters and field rows

Mounting Styles

1. Top-Mounted Brackets

   • Installed directly on the top edge of the joist

   • Provide maximum vertical stability

2. Side-Mounted Brackets

   • Installed on the vertical face of the joist

   • Useful when structural or design elements limit top access

## Preparing the Deck Frame

Proper framing ensures the undermount system works correctly.

Joist Preparation

• Confirm joists are straight, aligned, and flush

• Ensure joist spacing matches the required bracket interval

• Joists must be structurally sound for upward screw penetration

Ventilation Requirements

As with all hardwood decks, airflow beneath the deck is critical for:

• Moisture control

• Reducing cupping

• Allowing hardwood boards to expand and contract naturally

DeckMaster works best when installed over framing with unrestricted airflow.

## Step-By-Step Installation Instructions (Pages 1–4 Overview)

### Step 1 — Install the DeckMaster Brackets

• Position brackets along the joists using the spacing layout shown in the guide.

• Fasten the brackets securely to the joists using the recommended screws.

• Ensure brackets sit flush and level so the deck boards install evenly.

### Step 2 — Prepare the Deck Boards

• Sort boards based on length, color, and grain appearance.

• Pre-seal cut ends with end wax to prevent checking.

• Align boards perpendicular to the brackets for final fastening.

### Step 3 — Begin Upward Fastening

• Place the first deck board on top of the frame.

• From underneath, drive the upward-facing stainless screws through the bracket slots and into the underside of the board.

• Do not overtighten; secure the board firmly without distorting it.

### Step 4 — Continue Row-by-Row Installation

• Install additional boards by repeating the fastening sequence.

• Maintain consistent spacing as established by the bracket system.

• Check alignment after every few boards to ensure a straight layout.

## Joist Spacing and Board Alignment

DeckMaster systems typically work with:

• 16″ OC joist spacing (standard)

• 24″ OC spacing where permitted

Proper spacing ensures:

• Correct load distribution

• Even support for long hardwood boards

• Predictable upward screw grab strength

Alignment must be checked as installation progresses because undermount fastening depends on bracket accuracy for consistent placement.

## Screw Type and Performance Considerations

Stainless Steel Screws

The system uses stainless screws to prevent:

• Corrosion

• Staining from steel contact

• Fastener failure due to wood density

Upward Fastening Impact

Driving screws upward reduces:

• Surface splitting

• Board penetration damage

• Mushrooming typical of top-screwed hardwoods

This method is especially effective for ultra-dense species like Ipe.

## Installing Perimeter Boards and Trim

The undermount method may not reach:

• Outer picture-frame borders

• Stair treads

• Tight wall-adjacent areas

In these cases, use stainless steel surface screws paired with a plug system to maintain a hidden appearance.

## Maintenance & Inspection

The undermount system requires minimal ongoing maintenance:

• Inspect upward screws annually from below

• Look for framing changes or settling that may require tightening

• Clean debris from between joists to prevent trapped moisture

The top of the deck remains easy to clean with no visible fasteners.

## Limitations and When to Use Alternative Systems

DeckMaster works best for:

• Decks with open, accessible undersides

• Premium hardwood installations where appearance is critical

It may be less suited for:

• Second-story decks with limited underside access

• Retrofit installations on existing framing

• Projects requiring rapid installation without underside work

Alternative fastening systems include:

• Side-groove hidden clips

• Edge-screw systems (CAMO Marksman)

• Face-screw + plug methods (Pro Plug)

## Safety & Work Considerations

• Always wear eye, ear, and dust protection

• Use ladders, crawl-space supports, or work platforms as needed

• Check that tools can reach required fastening angles beneath joists

• Use only stainless steel screws with hardwoods

## Contact Information

Brazilian Wood Depot
6770 Buford Highway NE
Atlanta, GA 30340

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

Customers are encouraged to leave a 5-star Google Review after completing their project.

End of Text-Based Reference Section