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The most popular method is using wood screws through the decking and into the framing members. This is the basis of the following guidelines.
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The screws used to attach decking are not common wood screws. They are designed specially to fasten decking, resist the wood treatment chemicals and weather conditions. Many of these specialized screws are expensive. 50 to 100% more then common wood screws.
Good quality decking screws are available from most home centers and lumber sources. Purchase the right screw for the application.
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5/4 x 6 ACQ PT decking: #8 gauge, 2-1/2” or 3” ACQ compliant coated.
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2x6 ACQ PT decking: #8 gauge, 3” or 3-1/2” ACQ compliant coated
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5/4 x 6 Cedar decking: #8 gauge, 2-1/2” or 3” stainless steel
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2x6 cedar decking: #8 gauge, 3” or 3-1/2” stainless steel
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Composite decking: Use specialized composite decking screws.
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The decking screws come in various head designs and drives. The most common is #2 & #3 Phillips® flat or bugle type heads and #1 & 2 square drive flat or bugle type heads. Less common but growing in popularity is the star shaded driver heads.
The type of drive you use is based on what works best for you. All have positive and negative features but will perform the job of holding the decking down and in place.
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If a decking screw drive slips or starts to strip during installation then remove it. Pre-drill that location with a bit slightly smaller then the screw diameter. Then install a new screw in the pre-drilled hole.
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If a screw drive slips or strips and the screw cannot be removed. Clamp a vise type pliers over the head of the screw and rotate until the screw is removed. Pre-drill that location and install another screw.
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Pre-drill sizes for decking screws:
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#6 wood screw: 3/32” drill size
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#8 wood screw: 1/8” drill size
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#10 wood screw: 5/32” drill size |
