Does Deck Jig make stainless screws unnecessary for cedar decking??

[John Burke]

Normally, stainless screws are used for cedar decking when face screwing to prevent discoloration/staining.

Since the Deck Jig drives the screws into the edge of the board deck board, I'm wondering if the added expense of stainless screws for cedar decking is unnecessary?? I live in the Atlanta, Ga area so salt water/air is not an issue.

Opinions/experience??

 

Thanks,

JB

[John Schaben]

Hi John - IMO, moving the screws from the top to the side doesn't significantly change the environment the screw lives in. Therefore, I wouldn't expect to change the material. I would think the blue coats would be adequate though.

[John Burke]

Hey John, Yep I agree. Same conditions/reactions will occur whether the screw is on the face or the edge. But I'm thinking, if the blue coats do eventually discolor the cedar and it's on the edge where it is not noticeable, then why go to the additional expense of the stainless screws?

My concern is, how far out the discoloration ring extends around the screw (if it discolors) and if it will bleed up on the face of the deck boards??

Thanks for the input!

 

 

 

[John Schaben]

Hi John - I really don't know. I've only used blue coats in pressure treated but haven't noticed any discoloration. Then again, they've only been out there a couple of years, when I first got the jig.