Thread: Decking screw choice

Hi VJ

I think all those stainless 304 screws are much of a muchness. My own preference is square drive, but not for any real reason, thats just what I prefer. Check that the flutes in the countersinks advertised in the screw package are carbide tipped and not steel, the price advertised would suggest they are steel. If so they will blunt quickly in Jarrah and need constant sharpening. Carbide is a little bit extra but well worth it.

Don't forget the plastic joist protector strips, also well worth it to prevent rot in the joists.

Regards
Twosheds

What about these - 1000pcs - 10g x 50mm Stainless Steel SS304 Decking Screws + Clever Tool | eBay

Everything you need and free postage.

I have used all the decking screw types except the cameo ones and the the only one that is any good in my experience is the SS Torx drive, they are brilliant, never snapped a head off or striped the torx slot when driving. I avoid the square drive ones like the plague and as for coated ones...what a joke!!

I can recommend the Camo ones; they really do improve the look of the deck as they are practically invisible. However if the boards are pre-used do they already have screw holes in them?

Scrooz is a forum sponsor I have used them before, excellent service.

just my 2 cents

cheers

Avoid the bunnings zenith brands and most likely all the absolute chinesium grade ebay offerings if you want to avoid screws chewing out as you try and drive them in.

I haven't used the scrooz brand deck screws but all there other stuff has been really quailty.

Originally Posted by twosheds

I think all those stainless 304 screws are much of a muchness. My own preference is square drive, but not for any real reason, thats just what I prefer.

Stainless every time, everywhere.

I converted to square drive a long time ago when they were fairly new in general use. Can screw them up tight and no stripping or slipping out like Phillips head, plus gives better control when nipping up on slow speed just below the surface. Drive bits last longer than PH2 as well, even in cheap steel.

Use the type with cutting ribs on the underside of the countersink head so they do their own countersinks if you're not using countersink pre-drill bits.

Originally Posted by twosheds

Don't forget the plastic joist protector strips, also well worth it to prevent rot in the joists.

I've spent a lot of time trying to work out the best type of joist protection. I think these strips are better than nothing but wonder if they create their own problem as the screws or nails penetrate the strip and probably allow water to get around the penetration and sit under the strip, particularly as the deck ages and heat and cold and expansion and contraction take their toll on all the materials. I'm inclined to think that a heavy coat of bituminous paint on top of the joists might be better as it probably self-seals better around the penetration and is bonded to the joist so there's no space for water to get between it and the joist.