Strong connections start with the right fastener

By The Coffee Shops®. 

Proper fasteners improve the durability, reliability and installation efficiency of outdoor structures. 

The connections holding an outdoor structure together may not be highly visible, but their performance is critical. In an episode of From the Ground Up™, Karol Weyman spoke with Mark Petri of Petri Building and Design about selecting fasteners for decks, covered porches, patios and other exterior projects. 

Mark explained that outdoor living is common in the foothills west of Denver, where projects frequently feature timber and log accents. These applications require connections that are strong and, in many cases, concealed. Structural fasteners such as the K9 Fasteners Husky can create blind connections without leaving large metal hardware exposed. 

Problems can arise when crews use whatever fasteners happen to be available. Mark has seen decks connected with drywall screws, framing nails not rated for exterior construction or fasteners that were too short for the application. He said contractors have also encountered corrosion with competing products. “We really try and specify connections that will last and are simple to install on site,” Mark said. 

Corrosion resistance is particularly important because exterior assemblies face moisture, temperature changes and treated lumber chemicals. Mark said K9 Fasteners combines a zinc base coat with a triple ceramic coating designed to protect the fastener. He added that the ceramic coating also supports installation by helping fasteners move into tough materials. 

Reliability and ease of use can make a noticeable difference for crews working from ladders or scaffolding. Mark said contractors appreciate being able to seat a construction lag on the drill bit and drive it with one hand rather than struggling to hold the fastener in place. 

The product range also supports several job-site applications. Mark described Husky fasteners for structural connections, Doberman fasteners for decking and initial assembly and Greyhound fasteners for trim work. “Having the availability, having the performance and then having the longevity of the fastener just makes people sleep better at night,” Mark said. 

Listening to the full podcast or Watching the recording to learn more about selecting reliable fasteners for outdoor construction.