Every deck job throws down its own set of challenges: warped boards, uneven gaps, fasteners that don’t stay put, installs that wear down your crew. You’ve got the grit to handle it all—but CAMO makes deck building easier, start to finish. With CAMO’s jobsite-proven tools and fasteners, you’re armed with everything you need to crush the toughest deck challenges. Here are the top ten—and how CAMO helps you dominate every one of them.

1. Water Infiltration

The Challenge: Moisture is the enemy below the boards—seeping into joists, causing rot, and threatening the long-term integrity of your frame.

The CAMO Solution: CAMO Joist + Ledger Deck Tape seals around fasteners to block water from getting in. It creates a durable moisture barrier that protects the substructure and keeps your framing dry, solid, and built to last.

2. Corroded Fasteners

The Challenge: Rusted-out fasteners can turn a solid deck into a liability. Corrosion weakens critical connections and opens the door for even more damage.

The CAMO Solution: CAMO Exterior Fasteners—available in PROTECH®-coated or 316 stainless steel marine grade—are built to stand up to the harshest environments, including coastal and saltwater builds. They drive easy, hold strong, and protect the integrity of your deck from day one and for years to come.

3. Starter Board Struggles

The Challenge: Getting your starter boards aligned and secured is a critical first step—but it can be slow, awkward, and prone to shifting.

The CAMO Solution: CAMO Starter Clips lock down your first grooved board quickly and cleanly, keeping it aligned while you lay down the field. No improvising, no slipping, no wasted time doubling back to fix your starting line.

4. Bowed and Warped Boards

The Challenge: Warped or bowed boards when working with pressure treated wood slow everything down. Wrestling them into place wastes time, throws off spacing, and kills your finish quality.

The CAMO Solution: Tame even the most stubborn pressure treated wood boards with the CAMO LEVER. This tool gives you the muscle to straighten boards and lock them in, fast—even when you’re flying solo.

5. Uneven Gaps

The Challenge: Sloppy gaps don’t just kill the look of your deck—they mess with drainage, trap debris, and lead to long-term problems you don’t want to deal with.

The CAMO Solution: Secure any grooved boards boards with CAMO Edge® Clips and WEDGECLIPS™—the built-in spacers make sure you get a consistent gap every time when working with composite boards. Or perfect your edge screw placement with CAMO Marksman Pro tools for hassle-free, automatic board spacing with pressure treated wood boards.

6. Difficult Angled Fastening

The Challenge: Deck patterns like herringbone or diagonal look sharp—but they’re slow to install and easy to mess up. Fastener alignment is trickier, and even a small spacing error can telescope across the deck, throwing everything off.

The CAMO Solution: CAMO WEDGECLIPS™are made for it. They hold boards down tight and keep spacing consistent, no matter the pattern. Pair them with the CAMO ClipDRIVE to lay down angled boards fast—and do it right the first time.

7. Fastener-Free Surfaces

The Challenge: Fasteners on the deck surface don’t just distract from the clean look your clients expect—they can also snag, catch, and wear down over time.

The CAMO Solution: Get that smooth, uninterrupted surface with CAMO universal hidden deck clips since the gusset holds boards down tight without visible fasteners. Prefer edge-fastening? CAMO Edge deck screws auger material out to reduce splitting and cracking and fasten through the edges of your boards for a fastener-free surface.

8. Popped Fasteners

The Challenge: Fasteners that back out over time aren’t just an eyesore—they’re a liability. Popped nails can cause trip hazards, callbacks, and kill the clean finish your clients expect.

The CAMO Solution: Lock it down with CAMO Hidden Deck Clips for a secure, screw-free surface that stays put. For edge-fastening, CAMO Edge Screws auger material out to reduce splitting and cracking. Guided by the MARKSMAN Pro tool, they angle in tight from the sides and hold strong—minimizing movement, relieving surface stress, and keeping boards locked for the long haul.

9. Physically Demanding Installations

The Challenge: Bending, kneeling, and crawling to fasten every board by hand takes a toll—on your time, your body, and your crew.

The CAMO Solution: CAMO stand-up tools take the strain out of installing decking. Use the CAMO ClipDRIVE™ when installing grooved decking with CAMO Clips, or the CAMO DRIVE® for fastening deck screws into the face or edge of boards. Both are stand-up tools built for speed and comfort—saving your knees and back and cutting down install time without sacrificing precision.

10. Time-Consuming Installations

The Challenge: Traditional decking methods can be slow and labor-intensive, eating up valuable time.

The CAMO Solution: Speed through your deck installations with the CAMO DRIVE or ClipDRIVE tool, designed to deliver fast, easy, and versatile deck fastening. Work even faster with the LEVER and CAMO Universal Deck Clips too and cut your installation times by half compared to by-hand installs with ergonomic stand-up tools that attach right to your drill.

And that’s how you take on—and crush—the top deck issues with CAMO by your side. You’re out there raising the bar with every build—faster installs, cleaner finishes, and rock-solid results. Grab CAMO tools and fasteners for your next deck project, and set a new standard of deck-building excellence. Build it once, build it right, and build it to last with CAMO.

Building a floating deck is a great way to add extra outdoor living space without the hassle of digging or pouring concrete—and CAMO BLOCK makes it even better. These innovative blocks replace and outperform traditional cement block footings, providing a superior foundation for your free-standing deck project. Count on CAMO BLOCK for situations where traditional footings aren’t an option, and complete your new deck quickly while preserving your existing landscape. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a first-time DIYer, CAMO BLOCK foundation blocks make it easy to get your floating deck project off the ground fast and with total confidence.

CAMO BLOCK: The Lightweight, Heavy-Duty Solution

CAMO BLOCK takes the hassle out of creating a solid foundation for your floating deck. With lightweight convenience and impressive strength, it’s designed to save you time, effort, and frustration—providing a foundation that’s easier to handle and install than traditional cement blocks, while delivering exceptional performance. Here’s what makes CAMO BLOCK the top choice in deck blocks:

• Easy-to-Handle: Stackable and weighing just 2.16 lbs., CAMO BLOCK is 18 times lighter than traditional concrete alternatives, making transportation and placement a breeze.
• Strong and Reliable: Each BLOCK supports up to 1,800 lbs. with the strength needed for a secure foundation without the bulk of cement blocks.
• Perfect Fit for Every Joist: CAMO BLOCKS are molded to fit standard joist (and post) sizes, whether you’re using 2×4, 2×6, or 2×8 wood joists or 2-inch metal joists.
• Easy Installation: CAMO BLOCK can be set up on any solid surface and even used on uneven ground with minimal leveling—and without time-consuming site preparation. CAMO BLOCK also saves money on the materials and labor associated with traditional footings.
• Durable: Made from polyolefin, these blocks resist cracking and chipping, even in cold weather, and the vented design promotes proper drainage to reduce the risk of mold and rot.

How to Use CAMO BLOCK for Your Floating Deck

Building a floating deck is simple, and with CAMO BLOCK, the process is even easier: No need to dig, pour concrete, or install beams or posts! CAMO makes it easy with their complete installation guide, but here’s all it takes:

1: Position CAMO BLOCKS

Remove 2 inches of topsoil, then fill with 3 inches of paver base material and compact it. If the ground is uneven, dig out to ensure each BLOCK is sitting on a level surface. Now, lay out your CAMO BLOCKS, spacing them up to 60 inches apart, based on your deck’s design (check out the CAMO BLOCK Installation Guide for the number of blocks you’ll need) and local building codes. No beams are required; the BLOCKS provide all the support you’ll need for your joists.

2: Insert Joists

Place your 2×4, 2×6, or 2×8 wood joists (or 2-inch metal joists) directly into the BLOCKS. CAMO BLOCKS are precision-molded to securely hold the joists in place.

3: Attach Decking

With the joists positioned, you can attach your decking. The weight of the decking, combined with the secure joist placement in the BLOCKS, keeps the structure stable.

If you’re installing grooved boards with clips, use CAMO LEVER to lock your boards into place so you can secure them quickly and precisely (and without an extra pair of hands). To really speed up your decking installation, attach CAMO ClipDRIVE to your drill for comfortable clip fastening while standing. For edge or face fastening, choose the CAMO DRIVE Stand-up Tool.

Build Smarter with CAMO BLOCK

Choose CAMO BLOCK and fly through your floating deck project, confident that your base is solid and reliable. Built to support your deck—and all the activities that will happen there—CAMO BLOCK makes foundation prep quick and easy, saving you time and effort. Build efficiently with CAMO for killer results and lasting quality you can count on.

Building a deck doesn’t have to be a weeks-long project! With the right tools and a bit of preparation, you can transform your outdoor space in just a weekend. CAMO products are designed to make deck building faster and easier while delivering professional results. Whether you’re an experienced DIYer or tackling your first big project, this guide will help you confidently build your new deck in record time.

How CAMO Fast-Tracks Your Weekend Deck Build

CAMO tools and fasteners are designed to simplify deck construction while delivering quality results. Here’s how they can make your weekend project a success:

• Ease of Use: CAMO’s innovative tools are intuitively designed and easy-to-use, reducing the learning curve for first-time builders and weekend warriors.
• Speed and Precision: CAMO tools ensure consistent board spacing, alignment, and precise fastener placement, saving time on adjustments and delivering a professional finish.
• Everything You Need: CAMO offers an impressive variety of game-changing, deck building and board fastening solutions that make deck building easier, from heavy-duty foundation blocks that are lighter than cement blocks to rugged structural fasteners and hidden deck clips.
• Time-Saving Design: CAMO tools streamline every step of the deck-building process, from aligning boards to securing fasteners, helping you complete your project faster—and better.

Tools and Materials

CAMO Deck Essentials

• CAMO BLOCK: Ultra-durable, floating foundation bases to hold joists or posts for freestanding, low-profile decks, eliminating the need for digging or concrete
• CAMO Joist + Ledger Deck Tape: Self-adhesive butyl tape creates a waterproof membrane to protect wood deck framing
• CAMO Structural Screws: Code-crushing and highly corrosion resistant for secure, structural connections
• CAMO LEVER: Expertly designed to bend and lock deck boards in place for faster installation and uniform alignment.
• CAMO Hidden Deck Clips: Pre-assembled, one-pass fasteners for securing grooved deck boards, with consistent spacing for a fastener-free surface

OR

• CAMO MARKSMAN Edge Guide and CAMO Edge Deck Screws: Cleverly crafted for edge fastening square deck boards with consistent spacing and screw placement, while reducing splitting and cracking

Other Deck Materials You’ll Need

• Pressure-treated wood, composite, or PVC decking boards
• Lumber for joists, beams, and blocking
• Drill
• Circular saw
• Measuring tape
• Level
• Safety gear (gloves, goggles, etc.)

Building a Freestanding Deck

Here, we’ll focus on a freestanding deck without railing or steps—ideal for creating an outdoor retreat in a weekend. Whatever plan you ultimately settle on, you can count on CAMO products to bring ease and precision to every step of your build.

Before the Big Weekend

Plan and Prep

• Design: Keep your deck design simple and rectangular for a quicker build. Decide between a ground-level deck or slightly elevated platform deck. By keeping the height low (up to 30 inches), you can stabilize your deck using convenient CAMO BLOCK support bases.
• Site Preparation: Clear the site and ensure the ground is compact and stable. You can use CAMO BLOCKS on any stable surface, including uneven ground with a little leveling.
• Pressure treated lumber: When working with PT lumber, make sure it is fully dried out before building your deck. Learn more with our guide to pressure treated decking. 
• Tools and Permits: Assemble your tools and materials. Your freestanding deck may not require a permit, but check with your local building authority before construction and allow enough time—usually one to two weeks—in case permits are needed.

Day 1: Foundation and Framing

Let’s get this project started!

Lay the Foundation

For a Ground-Level Deck:

• Level and place CAMO BLOCKS at evenly spaced intervals, a maximum of 60 inches apart, with joists placed 16 inches on center. The precision-molded BLOCKS hold the joists, streamlining your project and eliminating the need for beams.
• If your joist spans are short (under 8 feet), blocking may not be necessary but can still be used for added stability or to attach fascia boards. See Build the Frame.

For an Elevated Platform Deck:

• Use CAMO BLOCKS to stabilize your posts (4×4 or 6×6, up to 30 inches) that will support your deck beams.
• Level and space the blocks no more than 60 inches apart for stability and proper load distribution, then place the posts into the BLOCKS. 
• Secure the beams perpendicular to the posts using CAMO Multi-Purpose Hex Head Structural Screws. Place the screws one inch from the top and bottom edges of the beam where it intersects the post and drive them straight through the beam on each side.
• Double-check that all supports are level and square before moving to the next step.

Build the Frame

For an Elevated Platform Deck:

• Space your joists evenly at 16 inches on center, attaching the joists to the beams using joist hangers and CAMO Structural Screws. 
• Add blocking (short pieces of lumber installed perpendicular to the joists) between the joists for additional support and to secure fascia boards later.
• Use structural screws to fasten blocking and secure any additional connections.
• Confirm that your project is level and square before proceeding.
• Apply CAMO Joist + Ledger Deck Tape and ensure that all surfaces are clean and dry. 

Day 2: Decking Installation

This is where it all comes together!

Install Deck Boards

With CAMO, you have the flexibility to choose between edge-fastening with CAMO Edge Deck Screws or using CAMO Hidden Deck Clips, depending on your decking board profile. Use either method to create an uninterrupted, fastener-free deck surface—quickly.

To Edge-Fasten Square Boards:

• Begin at one edge of the frame, aligning the first deck board.
• Attach the CAMO MARKSMAN Edge Guide to your drill. The MARKSMAN ensures precise screw placement and no spacing between deck boards. The MARKSMAN tool is the preferred method when building with PT lumber because no spacing allows for shrinkage as the wood dries over time. 
• Load CAMO Edge Deck Screws into the MARKSMAN’s guide.
• Drive the screws into the sides of the deck board and down into the joist. Continue along the length of the board, securing it to the frame.
• Repeat the process for each subsequent board.

To Install Grooved Boards with Hidden Clips:

• Position the pre-assembled CAMO Hidden Deck Clips in the groove of the first board, aligning the clips over the joists.
• Insert the next deck board into the clips, making sure it’s properly seated and aligned.
• Drive the fasteners into the joists with one of these methods:
  • For handheld installation, use the CAMO NEVER-MISS Guide for straightforward screw placement.
  • For faster, standing installation, use the CAMO ClipDRIVE tool. Attach the ClipDRIVE to your drill (not an impact driver) and start with the lowest torque setting, increasing only as needed. The ergonomic, height-adjustable handle and weighted nose make it easy to target and drive the screw heads, speeding up the install–without bending or kneeling.
• Repeat the process for each subsequent board, using the CAMO LEVER to align and lock multiple boards and clips in place and further streamline your build. 

Finishing Touches

• Trim overhanging boards with a circular saw for a clean edge.
• Optionally, secure the fascia boards to the rim joist or blocking using CAMO Premium Trim Screws to create a finished deck perimeter.

Tips for a Smooth Weekend Deck Project

• Pre-Cut Lumber: Have your materials cut to size beforehand to save time during construction.
• Read the Instructions: Review manufacturer recommendations and guidelines ahead of time to avoid surprises and achieve the best results.
• Enlist Help: A buddy can assist with aligning joists or securing boards, but if you’re short on volunteers, don’t worry: CAMO tools simplify deck installation, making the build process manageable even if you’re going solo.
• Rely on CAMO: Leverage the precision and efficiency of CAMO products and tools to minimize mistakes and speed up the process.

Ready to Build Your New Deck?

By following these steps and using CAMO tools, you can confidently build your new deck in just a couple of days. To transform your outdoor space with minimal time and effort, choose CAMO for the deck tools and products you need, then mark your calendar—your new deck is only a weekend away!

Deck safety depends on secure connections, and it all starts at the ledger board—the critical point where the deck meets the house. A failure at this juncture can lead to serious structural issues or even collapse. Let’s take a look at why CAMO Ledger Screws are the go-to choice for strong deck-to-house connections that you and your customers can rely on.

Why the Ledger Board Matters

The ledger board carries a significant portion of the deck’s load, including furniture, people, and even snow accumulation. As the connection point between the deck and the house, it transfers the weight of the deck to the house structure. Any weakness in the ledger area can jeopardize this transfer, compromising the entire deck’s stability.

Choosing the right ledger board fastener is crucial for a safe, long-lasting deck.

Fortunately, there’s a clear choice for superior performance: CAMO Ledger Screws. To highlight their advantages, let’s compare them with an old-style fastener you’re probably familiar with: lag bolts.

Reach for CAMO Ledger Screws, Ditch the Lag Bolts

Yes, lag bolts were a common way to attach ledger boards to decks. However, CAMO Ledger Screws— specifically designed to address common ledger board connection issues and ensure long-term structural integrity—are gaining popularity as the smarter choice:

• Ease of Use: CAMO Ledger Screws are self-starting and typically don’t require pre-drilling. This eliminates the extra step of creating a separate pilot hole for the lag screw and reduces the risk of potentially weakening the wood.
• Reduced Splitting: The design of CAMO Ledger Screws with their slash threads helps to minimize splitting of the wood during installation, a common issue with lag screws.
• Stronger Connection: CAMO Ledger Screws are made from high-quality steel and have a unique thread pattern that provides exceptional holding power compared to lag screws for a deck that can withstand significant weight and better resist lateral movement.
• Reduced Risk of Pull-Through: The large flat head provides maximum pull-through resistance, preventing the screws from pulling out under pressure. This is a common problem with traditional lag screws that can potentially lead to deck failure.

On top of these benefits, CAMO Ledger Screws take deck safety and performance to the next level at the ledger in two more important ways. First, their strength surpasses code requirements. Rigorously tested and certified, these screws provide complete confidence that your decks are built to the highest standards. Second, they feature the ultimate corrosion shield. Our proprietary PROTECH Ultra 4 coating system boasts four layers that combine to provide the best corrosion protection and ensure strong connections that last for the life of your decks.

For easy ledger board installation and decks built to last, the choice is clear: Grab CAMO Ledger Screws.

Confidence You Can Build On

Selecting CAMO Ledger Screws for your deck’s core connection proves your unwavering commitment to safety and long-term performance. But don’t stop there, that’s only the beginning: Rely on the full line of CAMO Structural Screws and CAMO Deck and Trim Screws to ensure every aspect of your project, from the ledger board to the decking through to the finishing trim, is secure and stands up to time and the elements. Experience the CAMO difference with fasteners, including Hidden Deck Clips, designed for every stage of your deck construction. From start to finish, CAMO has you covered.

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.