Composite decking tool (Parametric)

I designed this thing to facilitate installation of composite decking boards. Similar the tools you can buy from the manufacturer of your boards, this tool will helps ensure accurate board-board spacing and screw placement.

I provided a freecad file that can be used to make adjustments for other brands/needs. The uploaded stl file is sized specifically for affordable (<$2/bd ft) Veranda brand composite decking boards, which is commonly found at a popular big box store (the orange one). Dimensions are based on the manufacturer recommended fastener schedule and spacing, with a joist width of 1.5" (3/16" spacing between boards, with 2x screws 1" from edge of board, centered on the joist).

To use the tool: place it on the top of the board you are installing oriented with the prongs face down toward the joists. Now slide the tool on the board until the prongs stop on the side of the joist you are screwing to. The circular notches on the joist side now marks the ideal location for the 2 screws. Start 2 screws in these locations (don't drive all the way yet). While pulling on the board so it fits snug against the prong, finish driving the screws. Repeat until all boards are screwed down.

The 3/16" prong spacers can be useful for other situations besides 'field screws'. For example the prong can be used as a spacer for ripped boards as well (just "eyeball" the screw locations in this case).

Unless you are using nylon, you will probably have to print a few extras to keep the work going when one breaks on you. To give an idea how long they might last, I had a ~200sq ft decking job (~700 screws) that needed 4 printed tools (ABS, 3-wall thickness) to complete. I showed up on day 1 with 2 tools, and one broke half way through the day. I printed 2 more and showed up with 3 the next day... went home with 2 good ones. So you may go through about 1 tool per day if you are an average builder who is "not so careful" like me, more if you like to bang things around a lot as tempers flare, less if you are a very calm and gentle builder. Regardless who you are though, if you plan on using this tool daily you should print it in nylon... then it will last forever... more or less.

Anyhow, cheers and happy building!

Category: Hand Tools