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Camo Deck Fasteners Common Questions

We’ve gathered the most frequently asked questions about the CAMO Deck Fastener System. If your question isn't answered here, you may also contact us with any questions you may have.

Installation and Warranty

What type of warranty is available?

Please see the CAMO Warranty (pdf) for complete information.

Can I use regular deck screws or trim head screws with the CAMO system?

No, the CAMO system installation tools are specially designed for CAMO screws. The CAMO system requires the Marksman or Marksman Pro tool, a CAMO driver bit and CAMO screws to work properly. CAMO fasteners are available in Stainless Steel and ProTech Coated.

How many CAMO screws do I need for my deck project?

If you are using 16" OC joist spacing, you will need approximately 350 screws for every 100 square feet.

Do I need to use the CAMO Driver Bits?

Yes, the CAMO System requires CAMO driver bits. The driver bits set the depth of drive for the CAMO fasteners.

How do I get accurate deck spacing during installation?

The CAMO tool spacer teeth automatically spaces your deck boards at 3/16".

Product Questions

What type of decking boards are compatible with CAMO Deck Fasteners?

Camo fasteners work with Composite, Cedar, Treated, PVC and Hardwood decking. The 1-7/8" screws are compatible with 5/4" decking. CAMO Hidden Deck Fastening System has been independently tested. View the Thermal Cycling Architectural Testing Report (pdf) and Uplift Resistance Architectural Testing Report (pdf).

How long will the Marksman installation tool last?

The Marksman Pro tool is a heavy duty tool that is built to last for many deck installations. The Marksman DIY tool is a light duty installation tool that is intended for a single deck installation.

Are CAMO Driver Bits included or sold separately?

Many fasteners include driver bits. CAMO driver bits are designed for ungrooved and grooved deck boards. Many Fasteners include drivers:

  • 100 quantity packs do not include driver bits
  • 350 quantity packs include 1 driver bit
  • 700 packs include 2 driver bits
  • 1750 quantity packs include 2 driver bits

What type of decking is compatible with the Marksman or Marksman Pro installation tools?

The Marksman Pro and Marksman installation tools are compatible with 6" wide decking. The tools are compatible with treated lumber, hardwood, cedar, composite or PVC deck boards.

Trouble Shooting

How do I avoid mushrooming or splitting?

Mushrooming is caused by pushing too hard or forcing the screw in. CAMO will work properly by using gentle pressure. Simply let the screw do the work. The screw will begin to spin and start to remove board material before it bites and drives. Applying too much pressure will result in splitting or mushrooming.

How will CAMO install with extremely cold weather?

Extreme cold weather (below freezing) can cause some boards to become brittle. In this situation, use less drive pressure and allow the CAMO fastener to auger decking material slowly.

What if the Fastener is not driving in all the way?

Check your screw guides. Material may have built up on the guides. CAMO includes a clearing tool for this purpose. You may also use a driver bit to clear the guide. If your guides are clear, check to see if you missed the joist. If the fastener has nothing to "bite into", it will not drive all the way in.

My Marksman tool is stuck on the deck board. What should I do?

If a CAMO Marksman tool is stuck on the deck board, it is typically because the CAMO fastener is not fully driven into the joist. Don't try to pull and remove the tool because you may break it. Rather, remove the screw by reversing the drill and backing it out or continue to force the screw into the deck board. Driving the screw in the rest of the way is the recommended method. Once driven in, remove the tool and continue with your project.