When investing in a premium outdoor space, the details are just as important as the boards themselves. Choosing the right composite deck fasteners is a critical decision that balances structural integrity, budget, and the final “wow” factor of your project.
Are you looking for the rugged reliability of traditional screws, or the sleek, barefoot-friendly finish of hidden systems? In this guide, we compare face screws vs. hidden fasteners to help you decide which is best for your composite decks.
What Are Face Screws? The Traditional Choice
Face screws are the traditional fastening method for both composite and natural wood decking, that are driven directly into the deck boards from above. These screws are visible on the surface of the deck, providing a straightforward and secure method of installation.
Why Choose Face Screws?
Superior Holding Power
Directly penetrating the board ensures maximum lateral stability—the ideal choice for high-traffic areas and stairs.
Cost-Effective
On average, face screws cost 40-60% less than hidden fastening systems, keeping your project on budget.
Ease of Maintenance
Replacing a single board mid-deck is quick and non-destructive, unlike complex hidden systems.
Face Screw Considerations
- Pre-drilling Requirements: Pre-drilled holes are generally necessary for most composite materials to prevent potential splitting or splintering that can occur when driving screws directly into the boards.
- Visual Impact: Visible screw heads affect the deck’s aesthetic appearance.
- Color-Matched Options: To minimize the visibility of fasteners, some suppliers provide screws that match the color of the surrounding deck surface, helping to conceal the fasteners for a more aesthetically pleasing deck.
Pro-Tip: The “Plug” Compromise
If you like the strength of screws but hate the look of metal heads, consider a plug system. This involves countersinking the screw and covering it with a small plug made from the exact same composite material, making the fastener nearly invisible.
What Are Hidden Fasteners? The Modern Aesthetic
Hidden fasteners are the gold standard for modern composite deck beauty. These systems typically involve clips that fit into the grooved edges of the boards, hidden from view once the installation is complete.
Types of Hidden Fasteners
For hidden fasteners installation, Bongywood offers a variety of hidden fastener clips for deck board installation. These clips are inserted into the grooved edges between boards, allowing screws to be installed within the gap rather than through the top of the deck boards.
- Plastic Clips: Economical option for standard installations
- Aluminum Clips: Increased durability for demanding environments
- Stainless Steel Clips: Premium option with maximum longevity
- Start/End Clips: Specialized fasteners for perimeter boards
The Benefits of Hidden Fastening Systems
Seamless Finish
No visible screw heads mean a clean, high-end look that mimics interior hardwood flooring.
Barefoot Safety
Without protruding screw heads or potential splinters, the deck is much safer for children and pets.
Automatic Spacing
Most hidden clips act as spacers, ensuring a consistent gap for perfect drainage and airflow.
Hidden Fastening Considerations
- Higher Cost: Hidden fasteners are typically more costly than traditional face screws.
- Removal and Replacement: If a board needs to be replaced, removing it from hidden fasteners can be difficult without damaging the adjacent boards. This can make maintenance and repairs more challenging and costly.
- Limited Applications: hidden fasteners may not be suitable for all projects, such as stairs, picture frames, or boards with a radius bends due to their structural limitations.
At a Glance: Face Screws vs. Hidden Fasteners Comparison Table
| FEATURE | Face Screws | Hidden Fasteners |
|---|---|---|
| Aesthetic | Visible screw heads (can be distracting unless plugged) | Clean, seamless "screw-free" look |
| Barefoot Safety | Potential for snags or hot screw heads | 100% safe and smooth surface (ideal for kids/pets) |
| Cost | Low / Budget-friendly | Premium pricing (material + specialized clips) |
| Installation | Quick and straightforward for DIY | Efficient with spacing clips; requires grooved boards |
| Structural Grip | Maximum stability; prevents warping/shifting | Moderate to High; allows for natural thermal expansion |
| Best Used For | Solid boards, stairs, ramps, and perimeters | Main deck surface, pool areas, and grooved boards |
Which Composite Deck Fastener is Right for You?
The decision between face screws and hidden fasteners ultimately depends on your priorities and project specifics. Here’s a guide to help you decide:
Choose Face Screws If:
- Working with a limited budget: If budget is your major concern, face screws offer a more affordable solution.
- Installing in high-traffic areas: For high-traffic areas or stairs with significant load, the superior holding power of face screws is recommended to ensure structural stability.
- Planning a DIY installation: Face screws are typically easier to install for DIY projects.
- Prioritizing easy repairs: Face screws allow for straightforward board replacement without disrupting the surrounding structure
Choose Hidden Fasteners If:
- Prioritizing long-term durability
- Seeking a premium appearance: If the look of your deck is a top priority, hidden fasteners may be the better choice.
- Installing in barefoot areas: If children will be using the deck barefoot, the smooth surface provided by hidden fasteners can enhance safety and comfort.
- Working with a professional installer: For a professional finish and seamless integration, hidden fasteners may require professional installation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it better to use face screws or hidden fasteners for composite decking?
It depends on your priorities. Hidden fasteners provide a clean, modern aesthetic without visible screw heads, making them safer for bare feet. However, face screws offer stronger board retention and are generally 20-30% cheaper than hidden systems.
Are hidden fasteners more expensive than face screws?
Yes. On average, hidden fastener systems cost more per square foot due to the specialized clips and the requirement for grooved-edge boards. Installation labor can also be slightly higher for certain clip systems compared to traditional top-down screwing.
Can you use face screws on grooved composite boards?
While possible, it is not recommended. Face screws are best used on solid-edge boards. For grooved boards, hidden fasteners are designed to fit perfectly into the side channels, providing a more professional and stable finish.
Do hidden fasteners hold as well as face screws?
High-quality hidden fasteners (like stainless steel clips) provide excellent hold for standard deck layouts. However, for high-traffic areas, stairs, or picture-frame borders, face screws (or plug systems) are often preferred for their superior “shear strength” and ability to prevent board shifting.
Final Thoughts
Whether you choose the traditional strength of face screws or the modern elegance of hidden fasteners, the key to a long-lasting deck is using high-quality materials. At Bongywood WPC, we provide the specialized hardware designed specifically for our wood-plastic composite ranges.
Ready to start your project? Contact our team today for a sample of our composite decking and a recommendation on the best fastening system for your home.
