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Installation Instructions

TimberTech CONCEALoc Fastener System


Installation Instructions

It is extremely important to read the instructions before getting started with your deck installation, as it will save you time and money.

CONCEALoc Installation Instructions (PDF)

Getting Started

TimberTech CONCEALoc Hidden Fasteners were designed exclusively to install TimberTech composite grooved and solid planks.

IMPORTANT! Read all instructions carefully and completely to ensure proper installation.

WARNING! Parts have sharp points & edges. Use extreme caution when handling & installing. Wear safety glasses at all times.

Coverage

Multiply the number of joists by the number of decking boards to equal the number of fasteners needed.

Example: 175 CONCEALoc Hidden fasteners cover approximately 100 sq. ft. of decking.

Additional Information

For use in areas with minimal obstructed continuous airflow such as roof and on-grade applications with a minimum of 1-1/2" sleeper system supported by and connected to the substructure over which the deck is built. To aid water run-off the deck should slope 1/2" for every 8’ away from the house. Pre-drilling is required when within 1-1/2" of the ends of the plank and in cold weather. When applying screws, a raised area of material or mushroom effect may form around the head of the screw. To minimize this effect, dimple the plank with a 1/8" drill bit, penetrating the plank 1/8". The use of composite deck screws can also minimize this mushrooming effect.

Required Tools and Supplies

  • Safety Glasses
  • Power screw gun
  • Router with slot-cutting blade (optional)

Installation Process

STEP 1

Install the First Plank

  • Pre-drill with 5/32 drill bit and fasten outer edge of the first plank at each framing support; from the edge using #8 x 2-1/2” high quality coated, stainless steel or composite deck screws. Stainless steel finish nails may also be used for first and last board attachment.

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STEP 2

Position CONCEALoc Fasteners

  • Fully insert the CONCEALoc fastener into grooved edge of plank. Screw hole should be lined up with the center of support joist.

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STEP 3

Install CONCEALoc Fasteners

  • Install provided screw at 45° angle through the fastener and into the joist while applying pressure on the fastener.
  • Install one fastener and screw at each joist.
  • Make sure fastener is in full contact with edge of plank and the screw is holding the fastener down tight to the deck board.
  • Screw hold should be lined up with the center of the joist.

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STEP 4

Complete Installation

  • Place the next plank into position against the fasteners. Slightly raise the outer edge of the plank being installed and slide it onto the fastener until the plank contacts the spacer tab.
  • A light hand tapping may be required.
  • The last plank will need to have the outside edge attached using the method described in Step #1. It may be necessary to rip the last plank to fit.

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Helpful Tips

STEP 5

Proper Gapping

  • Check the gap between the planks for consistency. Apply light force to ensure board is fully installed.
  • Repeat previous steps until deck is complete.

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STEP 6

How to Install at Butt Joints

  • All butt joints must be doubled up (install a small framing board alongside the joist) for proper fastener attachment.
  • Install fasteners and screws at each joist of the first board including the joist at the joint.
  • Install second board in the same fashion and place a second fastener at the joint attaching it to the framing block.
  • All butt joints must have a 1/8” gap between the boards.

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STEP 7

How to Install on Angles

  • When the deck is located in a corner of the house, start with small triangular piece of decking in the corner and work your way out.
  • Offset the center 1/2” towards the long point of the joist, so screw will not exit the side of the joist when driven.

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STEP 8

How to Replace a Plank

  • Make two parallel cuts down the center of the board to be replaced, then remove the center piece.
  • Using a small pry bar, remove the remaining pieces of decking from the tabs.
  • Using a reciprocating saw, remove the tabs on the side of the board with the screw heads showing.
  • Position new board into place, and carefully drive onto remaining tabs.
  • Once the board is set into position, secure the loose edge with finish nails.

STEP 9

How to use CONCEALoc with Solid Planks

  • Create a 2” long groove on the edge of the plank at every joist or groove the entire length of the plank.
  • Use a 1/4” slot cutting bit (Freude model #56-112, Bosch #85610M).
  • Flip the plank over and start the groove 3/8” off the bottom of the plank.
  • Set the depth of the cut to a minimum of 7/16”.
  • Follow instructions for installing CONCEALoc Hidden Fasteners.

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