The composite decking clips market is large, and it can be difficult to find the best option.
You may end up buying a clip that doesn’t work for your project, or you might be confused about what kind of clip you need.
This article will compare 4 of the best composite decking clips and fixing on the market so that you can figure out which one is right for your needs!
Before you start its worth noting that you will need around 20 composite decking fasteners per square meter.
T-Clip
The first clip we will look at is the T Clip. This composite decking fastener has a patented design that makes it easy to install and remove, which means you can change your mind about where things go if necessary!
These clips are made from durable plastic so they won’t rust or corrode over time.
T clips fit 99% of composite boards. They create a 5mm gap which is perfect for most decking. The tough Nyloplastic design is durable and discrete.
One thing to look for with T Clips is the screws, if they come with silver screws they can be overly visible in the decking. Opt for black screws instead to keep them hidden from view.
These clips are generally great to work with and far cheaper than most alternatives on the list. Composite decking Clips don’t need to be fancy so these are our top choice.
Second in line is the stainless steel terrace clip
These clips are a little more expensive than the T Clips but they’re worth it. They have an 8mm gap which is perfect for thicker boards.
They’re tougher than plastic counterparts.
Made from 1mm thick stainless steel they will last as long as your decking does. They have an amazing design that’s both strong yet easy to install with just one hand.
The main advantage of the steel terrace clip is its ability to flex. Composite decking expands and contracts with the weather and this clip is designed to accommodate that.
The stainless steel decking clip is the best performer overall but still not our top choice. We feel that at almost double the cost they don’t offer a noticeable advantage over the T clip above.
Universal galvanised clips
The third type are universal galvanised clips which can be used for wooden and composite decking.
They are rarely seen but can be very useful due to their ability to solidly fix boards in place without marking the surface.
Universal galvanised clips work more like a nail than a clip which gives and extra degree of security.
Universal Decking Clips will keep your deck boards firmly in place.
They are made from galvanised steel for extra strength and durability, will last a lifetime, and have an easy to use ‘push-through’ fixing which is hidden behind the board so there’s no need for screw holes or nails!
This type of decking clip has the lowest profile of all the clips which can be highly desirable for a clean look. The reason they are in number 3 is that they are a little more difficulty to install than clips specifically designed for composite
Decking screws
Our fourth choice is to use decking screws. This is only really an option for solid boards as they tend to drive to deeply into hollow composite boards.
Using screws to fix the composite decking boards in place will save money and hold them securely however it’s a much more time-consuming process due to the need to work out where the joists are lining up with the centre of the decking boards.
Other obvious downsides of this method are:
1) The screws will be visible on the surface of the decking boards.
2) If you need to move a screw , it will leave a hole in the surface of the decking.
3) It’s a lot more difficult to replace the screws if they age and don’t want to come out.
Overall screws can be a good option if you are careful and precise, they will save you plenty money compared to clips but the chances of them spoiling the finish are fairly high.
If you are going to use screws then you need to drill pilot holes to avoid splitting the boards.
Essential tools for installing decking clips
Then installing decking clips (and the rest of the decking) you will definitely need an electric screwdriver. With over 40 screws per square, you will be using the screwdriver for a while.
If you are planning on saving money with DIY this is probably the one area you should break that rule.
We recommend impact drivers for their ability to screw through almost anything but if you are looking for something which can both drill and screw (although not as well as an impact driver) here are are few of our top picks.
Makita DTD152Z
Makita DTD152Z Impact Driver is a sturdy little workhorse that can put up with all weather and has an exceedingly long battery life. This top choice for screwing anything into anything, from decking to outdoor furniture, won’t let you down when it comes to power or convenience!
Bosch PSB 1800 LI-2 cordless combi drill
Bosch PSB 1800 LI-2 cordless combi drill is not the best all rounder on the market but it comes with some unique features that make up for its shortcomings. For example, this product includes two battery packs and a drill function which most other drills do not come equipped with.
This makes Bosch’s products an excellent choice if you are looking to purchase your first power tool or need something inexpensive for light duty projects around the house.
