Even with a hidden fastener system, there are a few areas where, due to the limitations of the hidden fastening tool or system, you can’t hide the fastener. Some might consider this the “Persian Flaw” of their deck, but if you want perfection—a smooth, beautiful, fastener-free deck surface—you’ll want to check out the FastenMaster video below, TigerClaw TC-G deck fasteners, and FastenMaster Cortex plugs for decks and trim.
Watch and see how the TigerClaw TC-G and the FastenMaster Cortex work together to hide every fastener on the deck surface:
For the field of the deck, the TC-G Fastener works great. But when it comes to the first board, the last board, perimeter boards, and stairs, if you didn’t have the Cortex FastenMaster, you’d have to settle for visible fasteners.
The video shows how you can use the FastenMaster Cortex to hide all fasteners, even in those troublesome spots.
The Cortex FastenMaster System is extremely straightforward. It comes with screws, a setting tool, and a plug that’s made from the same material as the decking board.
Using the Cortex screw and setting tool, drive the fastener without pre-drilling on your solid decking boards. For scalloped Trex Enhance boards, use the installation guide includde for pilot hole pacement to ensure you're drilling through the thickest part of the board. Then set the plug with a hammer. A final optional step is to look away, and then look back again and see if you can find it.
It practically disappears.
This, of course, is exactly what you want—a completely smooth, fastener-free deck surface that looks great.
After checking out the video, you’ll be ready to confidently handle this project, and the DIY Home Center has you covered—we have both the TigerClaw TC-G and FastenMaster Cortex available now. Use our DeckMatch tool to find the perfect color match from FastenMaster for your deck.