When it comes to building a stunning, long-lasting deck with thermally modified wood, choosing the right hidden fastener is critical. Thermally modified wood, such as Thermally Modified Ash and Pine, offers exceptional durability, stability, and resistance to moisture, making it a top choice for outdoor decking. However, its unique properties require a specialized fastening approach.
Enter the Thermoclip by DeckWise, the hidden deck fastener recommended by AdvantageLumber.com for thermally modified wood decking. This innovative fastener is designed to maximize hold-down strength while preserving the integrity of brittle thermally modified wood.
Let’s discuss why the Thermoclip stands out and how it differs from fasteners used for traditional hardwood decking.
Why Thermoclip is Ideal for Thermally Modified Wood Decking
The Thermoclip by DeckWise is engineered specifically to address the challenges of installing thermally modified wood decking. Unlike traditional hardwoods like Ipe, Tigerwood, or Garapa, thermally modified wood is more brittle due to the high-temperature treatment that enhances its durability.
This brittleness requires a fastening system that avoids compromising the wood’s structure. The Thermoclip delivers with a design that combines a solid stainless steel insert embedded in a polypropylene shell, providing superior hold-down strength without penetrating the deck board itself.
This fastener’s robust construction ensures a secure connection between the decking and the joist, offering peace of mind that your deck will remain stable and beautiful for years. Compared to other hidden fasteners, the Thermoclip provides exceptional performance, making it the go-to choice for thermally modified wood species.
Key Installation Difference: Thermally Modified Wood vs. Hardwood Decking
One of the most significant differences when installing thermally modified wood decking versus hardwood decking lies in how the screw is driven with the hidden fastener. This distinction is crucial to avoid damaging the wood and ensuring a secure installation.
- Hardwood Decking (Ipe, Tigerwood, Garapa): For dense hardwoods, hidden fasteners typically require driving the screw at a 45-degree angle through the groove of the deck board and into the joist. This method “pins” the board to the joist, leveraging the wood’s strength to create a tight hold. The dense nature of hardwoods allows them to withstand this angled screw penetration without splitting.
- Thermally Modified Wood Decking (Ash, Pine): Thermally modified wood, however, is more brittle, and driving a screw at a 45-degree angle through the groove would likely cause the groove to split or crack. Instead, the Thermoclip system requires driving the screw straight down at a 90-degree angle into the joist. The screw does not penetrate the deck board itself, relying entirely on the fastener’s robust design to secure the board. The Thermoclip’s stainless steel insert and polypropylene shell provide the strength needed to hold the decking firmly in place without compromising the wood’s integrity.
This straight-down approach is a game-changer for thermally modified wood, ensuring a secure installation while preventing damage to the brittle grooves. Attempting to use a 45-degree angle with thermally modified wood could lead to costly repairs to the thermally modified wood deck boards.
Why Thermoclip Outshines Other Hidden Fasteners
The Thermoclip by DeckWise isn’t just about accommodating the unique needs of thermally modified wood—it’s about delivering superior performance across the board. Here’s why it stands out:
- Unmatched Hold-Down Strength: The combination of a solid stainless steel insert and a durable polypropylene shell ensures the Thermoclip provides exceptional holding power, keeping your deck boards securely fastened to the joists.
- Preserves Wood Integrity: By driving the screw straight down and avoiding penetration of the deck board, the Thermoclip prevents splitting or cracking, which is especially critical for brittle thermally modified wood.
- Corrosion Resistance: The stainless steel insert is built to withstand the elements, ensuring your fasteners remain rust-free and reliable in outdoor environments.
- Sleek, Hidden Appearance: Like all great hidden fasteners, the Thermoclip keeps screws out of sight, resulting in a clean, professional-looking deck surface that highlights the natural beauty of thermally modified wood.
- Trusted by Experts: Recommended by AdvantageLumber.com, a leading supplier of premium decking materials, the Thermoclip is a proven solution for thermally modified wood projects.
Tips for Installing Thermally Modified Wood Decking with Thermoclip
To achieve the best results with Thermoclip fasteners, follow these installation tips:
- Use the Right Tools: Ensure you have a high-quality drill with precise torque settings to drive the screws straight down at a 90-degree angle.
- Pre-Groove Boards if Needed: Some thermally modified decking may require pre-grooving to accommodate the Thermoclip. Check with your supplier for specific recommendations. AdvantageLumber.com offers thermally modified wood deck that is pre-grooved to save you time.
- Follow Manufacturer Guidelines: DeckWise provides detailed instructions for Thermoclip installation. Adhering to these ensures optimal performance and longevity.
- Inspect Joists: Make sure your deck joists are properly spaced and in good condition to provide a stable foundation for the Thermoclip fasteners.
Conclusion
For anyone building a deck with thermally modified wood like Thermally Modified Ash or Pine, the Thermoclip by DeckWise is the ultimate hidden fastener choice. Its innovative design, featuring a stainless steel insert and polypropylene shell, delivers superior hold-down strength while protecting the brittle nature of thermally modified wood.
Unlike hardwood decking, which requires a 45-degree screw angle, thermally modified wood demands a straight 90-degree approach to avoid splitting—a challenge the Thermoclip handles with ease.
Recommended by AdvantageLumber.com, this fastener ensures a secure, beautiful, and long-lasting deck that showcases the unique benefits of thermally modified wood. Choose Thermoclip for your next decking project and experience the difference of a fastener designed for excellence.
Ready to start your thermally modified wood decking project? Visit AdvantageLumber.com for premium Thermally modified wood decking materials and DeckWise.com Thermoclip fasteners to bring your vision to life!