When you’re building something that needs to last, strength is non-negotiable—but managing costs is just as important. Labor costs can quickly put a dent in your budget, but CAMO Structural Screws are here to help. With superior holding power and features designed to speed up the job, these screws are a smart and strategic choice for all your projects.

Faster, Easier Construction with CAMO Structural Screws 

CAMO Structural Screws are built to simplify your work, boost efficiency, and cut down on labor costs. Here’s how they do it:

No Pre-Drilling
One of the biggest time-savers is the ability to skip pre-drilling altogether. CAMO Structural Screws cut through wood with ease, thanks to their sharp points and unique design that minimizes splitting. Whether you’re framing or installing ledger boards, these screws let you move faster by eliminating extra prep work. Plus, less splitting means less material waste.

Easy Installation
These screws are designed with ease of use in mind. The Star Drive head reduces cam-out, meaning fewer stripped screws and less time wasted. Plus, CAMO includes the power bits you need, so you’re always ready to get the job done without fumbling for the right tool.

Exceptional Holding Power
CAMO Structural Screws are all about strength. Their deep threads and consistent thickness provide a solid grip for maximum holding power with fewer screws. When every screw does its part—and then some—to keep your structure rock-solid, your work is sped up and your overall fastener costs are cut down.

Built to Last
Featuring CAMO’s proprietary PROTECH Ultra 4 coating, these screws are built to last. CAMO Structural Screws are the only screw coating on the market tested to ASTM G198 standard, which required 2X longer testing and 3X more samples than industry standard. The advanced corrosion resistance minimizes the risk of future issues, helping you and your customers avoid unexpected repairs, replacements, and labor costs down the road.

The Right CAMO Structural Screw for Every Job

When you’re on-site, having the right fasteners is everything. CAMO offers a complete range of Structural Screws, each designed to tackle specific tasks with efficiency and strength. Whether you’re framing, securing ledger boards, or installing multi-ply beams, there’s a CAMO screw to get the job done faster and better—so you can keep moving forward without missing a beat.

• Framing Screws: Ideal for quickly assembling walls, floors, and other structural elements, these screws are designed for fast, reliable connections in both indoor and outdoor framing. Their deep threads and sharp points drive easily through various materials, reducing the time spent on securing studs or joists. With no need for pre-drilling, they make framing faster and more efficient, helping you meet deadlines without compromising strength.
• Ledger + Multi-Ply Screws: Designed to streamline ledger board and multi-ply installations, these screws save time by eliminating the need for pre-drilling, even through dense materials. The sharp point and aggressive thread design quickly engage multiple layers of plywood or engineered beams for faster, more secure connections. By providing high holding power in fewer steps, these screws also reduce the need for additional fasteners like lag screws or bolts, simplifying installations.
• Multi-Purpose Screws: Available in both Flat Head and Hex Head options, these versatile screws are built to handle a wide range of scenarios from deck posts and beams to general structural applications. Their high-strength design provides secure connections and eliminates the need for specialized fasteners like lag screws and through bolts, simplifying your work for quicker, more cost-effective installations.
• Truss Screws: Designed specifically for truss applications, these screws feature a cylinder head that easily countersinks for a flush finish. The full threading ensures a strong, reliable hold without the need for pre-drilling, even in dense materials. Perfect for fastening trusses, rafters, or other load-bearing elements, these screws deliver high holding power while streamlining the installation process.

Save with CAMO Structural Screws

CAMO Structural Screws are designed to make your job faster, more efficient, and cost-effective. With no need for pre-drilling and easy installation, you’ll reduce labor time and increase productivity, all while ensuring lasting durability. For your next project, trust CAMO to deliver the strength, speed, and savings you need.

When it comes to building decks, time is money. CAMO tools are designed to save you both, all while ensuring a quality build. As a contractor, you know the value of precision and efficiency, and CAMO delivers on both fronts. Let’s take a look at how three CAMO tools—MARKSMAN PRO®, DRIVE, and LEVER—can transform your deck-building process.

Perfect Angle and Spacing with MARKSMAN PRO

Over time, traditional face fastening has revealed its drawbacks, from the visible screws that can detract from your deck’s appearance to the potential hazards of fasteners popping up over time. With the MARKSMAN PRO edge fastening system, you eliminate these issues by driving screws at the perfect angle, hidden from view, ensuring a clean finish while speeding up installation and reducing mistakes.

MARKSMAN PRO guides streamline edge fastening whether you’re working with treated lumber, cedar, hardwood, composite, PVC, or even narrow boards. Just place the MARKSMAN PRO tool on your board over the joist, load two CAMO Edge Deck Screws, and drive them in with your drill. The tool guides the screws precisely through the edge of each board for an easy, fastener-free deck surface. 

MARKSMAN PRO guides also create uniform gaps between your deck boards, eliminating the need for jigs or spacers—and the endless double-checking—which can eat up time, especially on larger projects. With CAMO MARKSMAN PRO, the spacing is built right into the tool, guaranteeing the perfect gap spacing for proper drainage and a consistent deck surface.

Speed Meets Precision with CAMO DRIVE®

To speed up your decking board installs even more, reach for the CAMO DRIVE tool and cut your fastening time up to half. This stand-up fastening system attaches to your drill and lets you quickly install your deck boards without bending over or getting on your knees. 

The quick-change nose pieces make swapping out for different jobs a breeze:

• Install grooved decking with CAMO Universal Deck Clips. (If you install clips exclusively, check out the CAMO ClipDRIVE.)
• Face-fasten with CAMO Collated Face Screws
• Edge-fasten with CAMO Collated Edge Screws

CAMO DRIVE makes the entire process easy, and it’s indispensable if you’re working solo. You can fasten pressure-treated wood, composite, PVC—whatever you’re working with—up to twice as fast from a standing position, delivering ergonomic comfort along with quick results.

Straighten and Secure with CAMO LEVER®

Wrestling with warped boards is not only frustrating, it’s also a real time-waster that can slow down your project progress. The CAMO LEVER eliminates that struggle, straightening even the most stubborn boards with a simple turn of the handle. And that’s just the beginning.

The CAMO LEVER not only straightens but also locks in rows, boards and clips, keeping everything secure as you move along. CAMO LEVER lets you lay out your deck—6, 8, 10 rows at a time—locking your grooved boards and deck clips in place so that you can screw them all down at once. No more jumping between laying boards and securing fasteners!

When you batch your deck-building tasks, your installs are more efficient, with better focus and fewer errors. You can also get more done with fewer crew members. With CAMO LEVER, what used to require two people can now be done solo, freeing up someone to take on other work.

Streamline Your Decks with CAMO Tools

CAMO tools are game-changers for contractors like you who want to build quality decks efficiently. From ensuring proper spacing and drainage with MARKSMAN PRO to speeding up installation with DRIVE and straightening and securing boards with LEVER, these tools help you streamline your process. And saving time and increasing accuracy means more projects completed in less time—and more satisfied customers. Build better and faster with CAMO tools.

Ready to transform your limited urban space into a stylish oasis with a thoughtfully designed deck? This guide will equip you with design hacks and expert tips to maximize your outdoor experience, even in the smallest backyard.

Unlocking Space in Your Urban Deck Design

First, let’s explore some space-saving layouts and features that can help maximize your square footage.

• • Deck Shapes: Avoid complex shapes that can fragment the area and make it feel smaller. Stick to simple square or rectangular configurations that efficiently utilize your available space. Or, choose an L-shaped design that offers additional deck space with distinct zones, like a grilling station separated from your living and dining space.
  • Second-Story Decks: Explore the possibility of a second-story deck to maximize outdoor space. This is a great way to gain square-footage and create a private haven above the hustle and bustle of the city. Below, you can retain your yard or garden—or add a cozy patio.
  • Stair Placement: Tuck your stairs along the side or in a corner of the deck. This frees up valuable deck space for furniture or activities that would otherwise become just a space-eating walkway.
  • Railings: Avoid railings with thick posts and balusters. Opt for slim railings or those that provide a feeling of openness, like cables, metal mesh, or glass.
  • Multi-Purpose Built-ins: Planters and pergolas serve triple duty, allowing you to add greenery, privacy, and shade. By carefully integrating them, you can also save space while creating an interesting, cohesive design.
  • Under-deck Storage: Benches with storage can help wrangle clutter on your small deck, but plan to take advantage of hidden under-deck storage to stash even more items out of sight.
    

Modern Material Pairings for Urban Decks

When it comes to decking materials, consider options that create a modern feel and complement your urban environment. Here are some decking-and-railing pairings to spark your imagination:

Stained Wood

Stained wood may sound traditional, but there are plenty of ways to achieve a new twist on this classic for your city deck.

• Dark and Bold: Consider wood decking with a charcoal or smoky gray stain for a contemporary feel—and the added advantage of hiding dirt. Pair this with sleek metal railings for a bold urban look.
• Light and Breezy: For an airy feel, consider stain colors like light gray, driftwood, and taupe to reflect light and make your small deck feel larger. Complement these with glass railings for a minimalist look that maximizes your view.
• Colors with Personality: Your deck can be a great canvas for modern tones. Deep teals, refreshing blues, and sunny golds all make unique statements. Complement these stain colors with bright aluminum railings or artistic custom panels with a modern flair.

Composite & PVC Decking

Both composite and PVC decking offer a modern aesthetic in a low-maintenance package. Consider these stylish options for your urban deck:

• Wood-Grains: These manufactured boards mimic the look of real wood. Choose a straight grain pattern for a clean and contemporary aesthetic, and check out newer offerings designed with the look of interior hardwoods for seamless transitions from the indoors to the outside. Complement your choice with horizontal cable railings for a clean look and clear views.
• Solid Colors: Solid color composite or PVC deck boards come in a variety of hues. Consider a deep navy, a Caribbean blue, or a bright citrus shade to spice up your deck. Solid colors make a statement and pair well with minimal décor. Sleek black metal railings with a matte finish offer a pleasing contrast to their richness, perfect for a unique, sophisticated vibe.

Decking Layouts to Maximize Visual Space

The orientation of your decking boards can significantly impact the overall look and feel of your deck. While traditional parallel installation is the most common, alternative orientations can create the illusion of more space for your small deck.

• Diagonal Decking: This is a classic trick for making a small space feel larger. Running the deck boards diagonally draws the eye across the deck, creating a sense of expansiveness.
• Perpendicular Decking: For attached decks, orienting the boards perpendicular to the home can visually extend the feeling of the deck space outward from the house. This works best on rectangular decks, where the long side runs parallel to the house. 

These installations are more complex than parallel layouts, so factor in additional labor costs if you’re hiring out. Alternative orientations can also affect weight-bearing capacity, so be sure to call in a professional to assess the specific requirements of your design as needed, and always adhere to local building codes.

Fast & Easy Deck Installation with CAMO

Now that you’re inspired to transform your urban space with a stylish new deck, it’s time to consider efficient building solutions. CAMO offers a variety of products and tools designed to streamline your installation process.

• CAMO MARKSMAN Pro Tools: These tools are specifically designed for edge-fastening deck boards with CAMO Edge deck screws, creating a beautiful fastener-free surface. They work with a variety of deck materials, including pressure treated lumber, cedar, redwood, hardwood, composites, and PVC decking.
• CAMO DRIVE Tools: Just attach the DRIVE or ClipDRIVE tool to your drill and comfortably install your decking twice as fast.
• CAMO WEDGECLIP: These pre-assembled deck clips eliminate the need for pre-drilling and ensure consistent spacing between your deck boards. WEDGECLIP’s are designed for grooved wood, composite, and PVC deck board installations in any deck pattern on your wood joists.
• CAMO LEVER: This helpful tool straightens warped boards and secures them for fastening, replacing the need for extra hands and making your urban deck an achievable DIY project you can tackle yourself.
• DECK IN A BOX: This convenient kit includes everything you need to install 500 square feet of grooved composite decking, offering flexibility for larger projects—or perfect for partnering up with your favorite neighbor on twin decks. It includes board benders, hidden deck clips, and a stand-up tool for clip fastening–perfect for taking on your urban deck with ease.

With careful planning and attention to detail, your urban oasis is well within reach. By leveraging CAMO’s innovative deck tools and clips, you can efficiently build a modern deck that makes a big impact in your small space. Enjoy your chic retreat as you relax, entertain, and create backyard memories in the heart of the city.

Dreaming of a deck where the familiar horizontal layout takes a stylish turn? Diagonal decking offers a distinct shift in perspective, breathing fresh life into your outdoor space. Get inspired by creative decking design ideas, and learn how to achieve a successful angled installation with our tips.

Diagonal Decking Designs

Explore these diagonal decking ideas to spark your creativity for a custom retreat that’s truly special.

• Framed Field

Combine diagonal decking with border accents in distinct colors or materials—from subtle contrasts to bold statements—for a polished picture-frame border that adds definition.

• Diagonal Stripes

Alternate the color or material of deck boards in diagonal stripes for visual interest and a sense of movement. Consider varying the stripe widths by laying more or less boards.

• Diamond Pattern

Arrange diagonal decking boards into diamonds for a classic design that brings elegance to your deck.

• Diagonal Definition

Delineate specific deck areas, such as the dining, firepit, and grilling zones, with diagonal decking sections.

• Chevron Pattern

For a modern take, consider a sophisticated chevron pattern that complements contemporary settings.

• Herringbone Style

Achieve an impressive effect with a herringbone configuration. Mix colors or wood species to further enhance the pattern.

• Spiral Layout

Arrange diagonal decking in a spiral pattern radiating from a central point for a dynamic, eye-catching design.

• Inlaid Geometrics

Experiment with shapes and motifs by combining horizontal, vertical, and diagonal boards into custom geometric inlays.

Diagonal Decking Tips

Ready to turn your design vision into reality? Here are some tips for installing your diagonal decking.

1. Plan Ahead
   Plan your layout to optimize material usage and minimize waste. Account for board orientation, seam placement, and features like stairs or railings.
    
2. Ensure Proper Support
   Follow manufacturer guidelines and local codes for joist spacing and sizing. Consider reinforcing joists and support beams to accommodate the unique stresses of diagonal decking.
    
3. Keep the Surface Clear
   Don’t let visible fasteners detract from your diagonal decking pattern. Choose hidden deck fasteners so your decking can shine.
    
4. Select the Right Hidden Fasteners
   Choosing the right hidden fastener for your diagonal decking depends on three key factors:
   

• • Reliability
    Choose deck fasteners with the holding strength and stability for a secure, long-lasting decking surface.
    
    CAMO WEDGECLIP™ fasteners were designed for any deck as it offers superior lateral movement resistance and stronger uplift holding power than other clips on the market.
     
  • Compatibility
    Make sure your fasteners are compatible with your decking and framing materials.
    
    CAMO WEDGECLIP™ is warranted for use with the leading grooved deck boards and are compatible with wood, composite, capped composite, and PVC decking. WEDGEMETAL™Clip is also suited for angled installations on metal framing.
    

• • Ease of Use
    Many clip systems require time-consuming pre-installation: A first pass for initial placement between boards, then revisiting each for the final screw down.
    
    CAMO Clips are different. They’re designed for efficient and easy installation. The clips create consistent 3/16-inch spacings and stay in place for quick, one-pass fastening. CAMO also includes a Never-Miss Guide for precision alignment every time. For even faster installation, attach the CAMO DRIVE® or CAMO ClipDRIVE® tool to your drill to install up to 5X faster from a comfortable standing position.

Ready to take on a deck project with a twist? Reach for CAMO Clips: With unbeatable strength, reliability, and easy installation, they’re your go-to hidden deck fasteners to bring your diagonal decking designs to life.

Home improvement is undergoing a shift. Homeowners, fueled by a desire for customization and cost-effectiveness, are increasingly embracing DIY projects—especially deck building. This presents an opportunity for building supply retailers.

The Rise of the DIY Deck Builder

The world of deck building is expanding! While professional contractors have always been a cornerstone of the industry, today, thanks to online tutorials, instructional videos, and accessible solutions like those from CAMO, a growing number of homeowners are tackling their own deck projects. These individuals, spanning generations and skill levels, are eager to add value and enjoyment to their outdoor spaces.

Simplify DIY Decks, Strengthen Your Business

This surge in DIY interest presents retail opportunities for an expanded customer base and increased sales. Empower your customers to confidently realize their DIY deck dreams with high-quality CAMO products, ranging from hidden deck clips and exterior fasteners to deck tape and foundations, along with user-friendly tools that make their installations a breeze. Everything works together to simplify deck building for your DIYers.

Here’s how CAMO benefits both your DIY customers and your business:

• Faster Builds, Happier Customers: Many DIYers are weekend warriors, and time is precious. CAMO products are designed to streamline the deck-building process with innovative products like our lightweight CAMO Block foundations. These instant foundations, which can be installed on various surfaces, save DIYers the time and complexity associated with traditional concrete blocks. It’s just one way that CAMO delivers fast results and greater customer satisfaction.
• Pro Results, No Expertise Needed: Deck building can be daunting, but CAMO makes it easy. Our WEDGECLIP™ hidden deck clips come pre-assembled, require no partial installation, and stay in place until fastened. This allows DIYers to achieve the professional, fastener-free deck surface everyone wants. Great results bring a sense of accomplishment and pride, leading to more projects in the future.
• Easy Installations: Deck building can be physically demanding, especially for homeowners tackling large projects themselves. Tools like the CAMO LEVER® for straightening and locking in boards and the ClipDRIVE® Stand-Up Tool for board fastening reduce exertion and frustration, making the process more manageable for DIYers of all skill levels. Sales of efficient CAMO tools not only increase purchase totals but also minimize product returns and exchanges.
• Everything you need: Deck in a Box is an all-in-one bundle that provides everything you need to install 500 sq. ft. of grooved decking. This single-box kit includes deck benders, hidden deck clips, and a stand-up tool for fastening the clips, ensuring you have all the tools and materials necessary for the job. Deck in a Box is perfect for both professional contractors and DIY enthusiasts, making deck installation straightforward for anyone with basic DIY skills. 

In-Store Strategies

Here are some strategies to leverage the power of CAMO products and capitalize on the DIY deck trend:

• Merchandising Program: Attract DIYers and contractors with effective product showcasing through the CAMO Destination Dealer merchandising program. Display CAMO products on a variety of merchandisers, like wire racks or wing stackers, to educate customers and lead them to informed buying decisions and comprehensive solutions.
• Product Demonstrations: Host occasional in-store demos showcasing the CAMO DRIVE®, ClipDRIVE®, and LEVER tools to pique customer interest and address any initial apprehension about DIY deck building. Offer customers an opportunity for hands-on experience with the tools.
• Bundled Packages: Create bundles that combine CAMO hidden deck clips, exterior fasteners, deck tape, and CAMO tools for specific deck sizes along with other adjacent products to simplify the buying process and encourage customers to purchase everything they need for their deck project in one go.
• DIY Email Campaign:  If you have an existing email marketing program, consider including an email campaign focused on DIY deck building and how CAMO makes the process easy.

From faster project completion to professional-looking results, CAMO empowers DIYers while fostering customer satisfaction and loyalty for your business. Support the growing legion of determined DIYers with user-friendly CAMO products and transform your deck-building section into their one-stop shop for project success.