If you’ve ever installed a hidden fastener deck system, you know that not all clips are created equal. Some are a breeze to use, while others make you question why you didn’t just go with good old-fashioned face screws. One system I’ve had my hands on recently is the Camo Edge Clip, and I’ve got some thoughts on how it stacks up against other popular brands like Trex and TimberTech.
Table of Contents
What Is the Camo Edge Clip?
The Camo Edge Clip is a hidden deck fastening system designed for grooved composite deck boards. Unlike some other systems that have fiddly installation methods, Camo’s clips are engineered for easy installation with a simple drive tool and a standard impact. The clips grab the edges of the deck board and tighten down, pulling everything together for a secure fit.
Camo Edge Clips can be seen here.
Fast and Easy Installation
One of the biggest selling points of the Camo Edge Clip system is its ease of use. The clips are designed to be installed before the next board is even laid down, which speeds up installation significantly. This is a major time-saver compared to other systems where you have to struggle to align and secure each clip as you go.
Installation Steps
- Your first board either can be face screwed or a starter clip can be used
- Slide the legs of the clip over the joist and insert 1/2 of the clip into the previous board, do not tighten the screw yet.
- Once all of the clips have been installed. Slide the next board into the receiving end of the clips.
- Ensure the boards are tight to the spacer and tighten the screw.
Note: Where there are doubled joists or butt seams, the legs of the clip can be broken off to allow for the clip to be installed.
Strong and Secure Hold
The Camo Edge Clips create a tight grip on the deck boards. The angled design pulls the boards together, which helps minimize movement over time. Some other systems don’t do as good a job at preventing board creep, especially in climates with a lot of temperature swings.
Clips Stay in Place
A big frustration with some hidden fastener systems is how clips can fall out or shift while installing, making the job much harder. Camo has tackled this issue by designing the clips to clamp securely to the side of the joist. This means they stay in place rather than falling off while you work, reducing frustration and making installation smoother. With other systems, clips often slide around or drop to the ground, which slows everything down. Camo’s approach keeps them right where you need them, making solo installation much easier.
Decking Considerations
While Camo Edge Clips work great on standard grooved deck boards running perpendicular to the joist. If you are running your board diagonally the legs of the clip will prohibit the clip from sitting properly. There’s no sense in breaking the legs off every clip so an alternative product may be better.
Camo has tons of other options available in addition to the brand-specific fasteners. Check them out here.
Aesthetics and Final Thoughts
Camo clips are tucked away, but depending on the angle, you might still see a hint of the fastener in the gap between boards. Trex and TimberTech’s clips are often a little more hidden. It’s not a deal-breaker, but if you’re a stickler for a seamless look, it’s something to consider.
If you’re looking for speed, ease of use, and a strong hold, Camo Edge Clips are a solid choice. They install faster than Trex Hideaway and TimberTech CONCEALoc.
At the end of the day, it depends on your project. If you’re building a straightforward deck and want a hassle-free install, Camo Edge Clips are a great option. But if you’re going with a more complex design or using a specific brand of decking, you might want to stick with their recommended fastening system.
Either way, a good hidden fastener system makes a world of difference in the finished look of your deck. And anything that makes the job easier while still delivering a strong, clean result? That’s a win in my book.
Check out the edge clips here
Another one of my favorite deck installation tools is the Marksman pro. https://amzn.to/4kKNTVg
If you want to see more of the deck that was installed for this article. Read about the 100 year old oak beams and the mounting system we used! https://thetoolbeltdigest.com/the-best-concealed-post-base-simpson-strong-tie-cptz/
