The 7 Best Hidden Deck Fasteners
This wiki has been updated 24 times since it was first published in November of 2018. Hidden fasteners provide a clean, aesthetically pleasing look for your hardwood, vinyl, or composite deck. They’ll also help to ensure a smooth surface that's safe to walk on, without any sharp, exposed nail heads. The choices featured here include simple metal or plastic clips as well as hardware made to be installed using pneumatic tools, so you’re sure to find a solution that meets your needs. When users buy our independently chosen editorial recommendations, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.
1. Tiger Claw TC-G
2. Trex Hideaway Universal
3. DeckWise Ipe Clip Extreme
Editor's Notes
April 16, 2019:
Some deck boards come conveniently manufactured with a grooved edge to accommodate hidden fasteners. (If yours aren’t, you can also router their edges to create this slot.) A compatible selection on our list is the Tiger Claw TC-G, which are made to work in 5/4-inch boards. They're made with tough stainless steel and a protective coating, and are designed for use on a wide variety of materials.
For a budget-friendly choice, look to the Kreg Protec-Kote, which comes with 700 weather-resistant screws that feature flat-bottom heads for a secure hold, and the square drive ensures less spinning and more driving. Note that you’ll need to install these using the manufacturer’s Deck Jig system (sold separately), which features a hardened steel handle for drilling holes, and rings to ensure accurate spacing of the boards.
For a connector that comes in your choice of three colors and that’s made to resist UV radiation, check out the DeckWise Ipe Clip. Installing them involves drilling pilot and countersink holes, and inserting a hardwood plug. The manufacturer also sells its Ipe Oil finish to coat your deck’s surface after installation, which helps to protect it against the elements.
For safety’s sake, always exercise proper caution when working with power tools and sharp hardware, and wear protective glasses when necessary.
4. Kreg Protec-Kote
5. NewTechWood PCHFS50
6. Tiger Claw TC-2S
7. Grabber Construction DMP125
Karen Bennett lives in Chicago with her family, and when she’s not writing, she can usually be found practicing yoga or cheering on her kids at soccer games. She holds a master’s degree in journalism and a bachelor’s in English, and her writing has been published in various local newspapers, as well as “The Cheat Sheet,” “Illinois Legal Times,” and “USA Today.” She has also written search engine news page headlines and worked as a product manager for a digital marketing company. Her expertise is in literature, nonfiction, textbooks, home products, kids' games and toys, hardware, teaching accessories, and art materials.