Choosing the right fastening system is essential to the appearance, strength, and long-term performance of a Brazilian hardwood project. Explore face screws for maximum holding power, hidden fasteners for a clean deck surface, and trim fasteners for perimeters, stairs, fascia, and finishing details.
All about the Pros and Cons of different Deck Fastening Methods including, Clips versus CAMO Edge Fastening
For Brazilian hardwood decking and dimensional lumber, face screws provide the strongest and most direct connection to the framing. We recommend stainless-steel fasteners from DeckWise or Starborn because ordinary and coated-steel screws can react with dense hardwoods, leaving dark stains around the fastener heads. BWDepot includes Smart-Bits with these screw orders to produce consistent countersinks and a clean, discreet installation.
This system combines corrosion-resistant deck screws with a specialized drilling and countersinking tool for a strong, clean installation.
Brown-headed stainless-steel screws provide a secure connection while blending more discreetly with Brazilian hardwood decking.
The Smart-Bit combines a parabolic drill bit and countersink in one tool. Its stop collar creates a consistent countersink depth, helping every screw sit cleanly and evenly.
Hidden fastening systems secure most deck boards, but they cannot be used everywhere. Perimeter boards, the first and last boards in a run, stair treads, stair risers, fascia, and other finishing details typically require face fastening. This limitation applies whether the main deck is installed with clips, CAMO edge fasteners, or the DeckMaster undermount system. For these areas, installers can use species-matched wood plugs for a nearly seamless appearance or stainless-steel trim screws for a faster, cost-effective finish.
Nearly Seamless Face Fastening
Pro Plug combines species-matched hardwood plugs with 2½-inch stainless-steel screws for a clean, nearly seamless appearance.
Best suited to perimeter boards, stairs, fascia, and other areas where the primary hidden fastener cannot be used.
Flexible and Cost-Effective
DeckWise hardwood plugs can be paired with compatible stainless-steel screws and standard plug-installation tooling.
Installation requires a separate screw pilot hole and a controlled-depth recess. Light sanding helps the plug blend into the surrounding board.
Fast and Cost-Effective
These 2½-inch stainless-steel screws have a small trim head that creates a discreet face-fastened appearance without wood plugs.
A practical option for perimeter boards, stair treads, risers, fascia, and other finishing details.
