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Secret fix...

You can eliminate installation damage by using secret fixing, and because there are no nails or screws on the surface of the boards, there is no rust staining or danger of damage to bare feet. The smooth unbroken decking is also easier to maintain.

The first and last deckboards should be fastened to joists by screwing through the top of the board using 75mm galvanised screws.

DECK TIES

• Once the first row of deckboards has been fixed, position a deck tie (fig 5A) in the centre of the joist and edge of deckboard. You will find it easier to angle the deck tie to knock it into position (fig 6).

• Knock the deck tie so that spike A is fully located into the joist. Tap the deck tie so it ends up flush to the side of the deckboard and fix using a 40mm galcron annular ring nail (fig 6A). Repeat this procedure at each joist.
  

• Locate back edge of next board onto spike B. The preferred method for installing deck ties for both ease of installation and time is for the deckboards to be knocked into position by two people at the same time to prevent the board springing off the tie at either end (fig 7).

• This procedure is repeated for each deckboard until all boards have been fixed. Anchor the final board by screwing through the top edge. Countersink and fill the screw head to prevent rust and possible damage to bare feet. 

• For safety and to prevent movement, staggered boards must always meet over a joist. Use additional sections of joist or deckboard to increase the area for screwing (fig 8).

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