Can You Nail Decking Boards

When installing decking boards, you can either use nails or screws. Both of them have advantages and disadvantages. Understanding each type of fastener will help you decide on what to use.

Is it better to nail or screw decking boards?

The Consensus: For a deck build it’s best to use a combination of nails and screws. … Screws are superior for laying down the decking. They hold things flush better and have a better fastener/tensile strength, which keeps boards from popping up over time.

Can you use a nail gun on decking boards?

Use a nail gun primarily for affixing the decking and trim (or fascia) boards, with stainless-steel-finish nails to avoid rusting. For adequate penetration, nails should be one-and-a-half inches longer than the boards.