The Benefits of a Hidden Fastener Decking System

A beautiful deck isn’t just about choosing the right boards, it’s also about how those boards are fixed in place. The method of installation can dramatically impact the final appearance, safety and long-term performance of the deck.

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Thu, 28 Jul 2026

What is a Hidden Fastener System?

We believe the best way to install a deck is using hidden fasteners. Unlike traditional screws or nails, these innovative clips are installed discreetly between the boards, locking them securely to the substructure without visible fixings on the surface.

A groove runs along each side of the board which allows the boards to be held in place by the fasteners.

Hidden fasteners enable a soft installation, this means the deck boards are not drilled into directly. Avoiding damage to the boards ensuring longevity and an aesthetically pleasing finish.

Hidden fasteners are commonly known as secret fixings as they are screwed into the joist framework, thus hiding them from sight.

Hidden Fastener Components

The hidden fastener system is comprised of starter fasteners and hidden fasteners, with a choice of whether you want the gaps between your decking boards to be 3mm or 6mm. They will hold the boards in place across the main body of the decking.

Starter Fasteners

Nearly all builds require starter fasteners, this fastener is a metal clip used to secure in the first and last board of each run. Essentially it supplies the stability to the outer edge of the decking.

  • We recommend one box of 100 starter fasteners for every 25 square metres of decking, but this can vary with the design of the deck.

3mm Fasteners

3mm fasteners are made from stainless steel and are secure clips that are screwed directly into the joist, creating a 3mm gap between boards. The narrower gap is ideal if the deck is a lighter colour, as the decking looks best when the gap visibility is reduced.

6mm Fasteners

Our standard 6mm fasteners are made from 100% recycled nylon and, as the name suggests, create a 6mm gap between the boards. The benefit of a 6mm gap between boards is the accessibility it provides. If required a screwdriver can fit between boards and undo the fasteners, thus releasing a singular board.

This is great if you want to take up a singular board as the reprisal makes minimal impact on the rest of the deck area. This is also great if you are a self / first time installer as it gives you a bit more breathing room when installing the deck.

We can also provide decking gap inserts for our 6mm clips to prevent items falling between the boards.

A Cleaner, More Professional Finish

One of the most immediate advantages of hidden fasteners is the seamless look they create. Without visible screw heads or nail holes, the surface of the deck remains smooth and uninterrupted, allowing the beauty of the decking material to take centre stage.

A hidden fastening system delivers:

  • Uniform board spacing for consistent, symmetrical lines

  • No protruding screws or patchy fastener marks

  • A sleek, high-end appearance that enhances the overall aesthetic

Enhanced Safety and Comfort

Visible screws can work loose over time, creating uneven surfaces or sharp edges that may catch bare feet, furniture or clothing. Hidden fasteners eliminate these risks by securing the boards from below the surface.

The result is a completely smooth deck surface that’s safer for children, pets, and anyone walking barefoot, perfect for family gardens and more.

Reduced Maintenance Over Time

Traditional screw-down decks often require maintenance as fixings corrode, rise or loosen with seasonal movement. A hidden fastener system helps avoid these issues entirely.

Because the clips allow for slight board expansion and contraction, the deck naturally adjusts to temperature and humidity changes without putting stress on the fixings.

This reduces the risk of:

  • Warping or buckling boards

  • Cracked or splintered surfaces

  • Fastener corrosion or staining

Over the lifetime of the deck, this translates to fewer repairs and longer performance.

Easier Alignment

Hidden fastener systems are designed to make installation simpler and more consistent. The clips automatically create a precise gap between boards for drainage and ventilation, helping to maintain performance and reduce moisture build-up.