5 Common Myths About Composite Decking Debunked
27 January 2026Certified Performance: Understanding Ecoplast’s 34.4 MPa Structural Strength
5 February 2026
Screws vs. Hidden Fasteners
Introduction
When investing in high-end composite decking, the method you choose to secure your boards is just as important as the boards themselves. Traditionally, builders had to choose between the structural strength of face-screwing and the clean look of hidden clips.
At Ecoplast, we recommend a third, superior option: CAMO Edge Fastening. This system provides the "best of both worlds"—the mechanical grip of a screw with the seamless finish of a hidden fastener.
1. Traditional Face Screws: The Old Standard
For years, "face-screwing" (driving screws directly through the top of the board) was the only way to ensure a deck wouldn't budge.
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The Pros: It’s cost-effective and provides a very rigid hold.
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The Cons: It leaves hundreds of visible screw heads on your beautiful deck. Furthermore, piercing the protective "cap" of the composite creates entry points for moisture and can lead to mushrooming around the screw head.
2. The CAMO Edge System: Invisible Strength
The CAMO system changes the game by driving specially designed screws into the side (edge) of the board rather than the top.
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Seamless Aesthetics: Because the screws are hidden in the gaps between boards, your deck surface is 100% fastener-free. It’s perfect for bare feet and creates a high-end, luxury hotel look.
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Mechanical Integrity: Unlike clips, which simply "clamp" the board down, CAMO screws anchor the board directly to the joist. This provides superior resistance to lateral movement.
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Thermal Expansion: Composite decking naturally expands and contracts. The CAMO edge system allows for this movement without putting direct stress on the top surface of your planks.
3. Why Edge Fastening Beats Hidden Clips
While hidden clips are popular, they have one major flaw: board replacement. If a board in the middle of your deck gets damaged with a clip system, you often have to remove several rows to fix it. With the CAMO Edge System, each board is independent. You can back out the screws of a single board and replace it in minutes.
| Feature | Standard Face Screws | Camo Edge Fastening | Hidden Clips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Surface Aesthetics | Visible screw heads | Completely Clean | Completely Clean |
| Structural Grip | High (Direct to Joist) | Ultimate (Edge-to-Joist) | Moderate (Clip-based) |
| Thermal Expansion | Rigid (Stress points) | Controlled Movement | Natural Expansion |
| Board Replacement | Easy | Simple (Individual) | Difficult (System-wide) |
| Foot Safety | Risk of popping | Barefoot Friendly | Barefoot Friendly |
Conclusion: The Ecoplast Recommendation
For our international clients and professional contractors, we consistently recommend CAMO Edge Fastening. It preserves the integrity of our 34.4 MPa certified boards while delivering the flawless finish your project deserves. Whether you are building in the humid tropics or the Canadian frost, your fasteners should be as durable as your decking.
Summary of Benefits for Your Project:
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Barefoot Friendly: No popped screws or sharp edges.
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Easy Maintenance: Individual boards can be replaced without tearing up the deck.
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Superior Value: Increases the resale value of the property through a premium finish.
Master the CAMO Edge System
Experience the perfect blend of structural integrity and aesthetic beauty. Request our pro-installation guide for CAMO edge fastening today.
