Starborn Clip&Rip® Universal Hidden Deck Clip

Compatibility

Clip&Rip® works with most brands of grooved PVC and Composite deck boards, including Trex®, TimberTech®, Fiberon®, MoistureShield®, Armadillo® and more. It also works with most styles of 5/4 hardwood and thermally modified deck boards.

For square-edged boards, including hardwoods, refer to the board manufacturer's conversion guide for recommendations on cutting an appropriate groove.

System Components

• Clip&Rip®: Glass-filled nylon clips, pre-assembled with black head coated 305 stainless screws.
• Starter Clips (Sold Separately): Stainless clips with 305 Stainless Screws.

Important Information

• Before installing, check to ensure all joists are perfectly level and structurally sound.
• Always test the product first to validate its appearance and function. If you have any concerns, do not proceed further. Contact Starborn for assistance: info@starbornindustries.com
• Clips cannot be reused once fastened for the first time.
• To reduce the risk of injury, follow the instructions of your power tool manufacturer and always use safety glasses. Do not put screws in your mouth.
• Never use an impact driver. Install with a standard drill with torque settings.
• For non-grooved hardwood boards, use 5/4" thick boards to ensure the groove can be cut high enough to allow the clip adequate space to fasten properly.

Installation Steps

First Board Installation with Starter Clip (Sold Separately)

1. Screw a starter clip at every joist, aligning them so that the deck board is level. Ensure the screw is driven perpendicular to the joist in a straight and steady fashion.
2. Once all starter clips are installed, push the first deck board into the starter clips.
3. As an alternative, Starborn offers Cap-Tor® or Pro Plug® systems for surface-fastening methods. Secure the first board following instructions included with the kit.

Diagrams:

• Standard Installation: Diagram shows a deck board being aligned and inserted into starter clips attached to joists.
• Picture-Frame Installation: Diagram illustrates a deck board being fitted into starter clips to create a decorative frame around the deck's perimeter.

Installing the Deck Clip

1. Insert the strip of clips with the arrow (➡️) pointing forward into the leading board groove. Center over the joist.
2. Drive the screw down in a straight and steady fashion until the head of the screw is flush with the clip. Do not overdrive the screw.
3. Lift up on the strip to break off the installed clip. Do not twist.
4. Install clips at every joist along the length of the board.
5. Place the next board into position. Holding the deck board at a slight angle, push the deck board into the previously installed clips. Check gapping between boards to ensure consistency.

Tip: Adjust the torque setting on the power drill to help reduce the risk of over-driving the fastener and maintain consistent results.

Diagrams:

• Diagram shows a clip strip being inserted into the groove of a deck board, centered over a joist.
• Diagram shows a screw being driven through the clip into the joist until the screw head is flush with the clip.
• Diagram shows lifting the clip strip to break off the installed clip.
• Diagram shows a deck board being angled and pushed into previously installed clips.

Fastening Butt Joints

1. Refer to board manufacturer's instructions for spacing between board ends.
2. Using a double joist, place a fastener at the end of each board. Do not use one fastener for both boards.

Diagram: Diagram shows two deck boards meeting end-to-end over a double joist, with a clip installed on the end of each board.

Installing at an Angle

1. Refer to board manufacturer's joist spacing requirements, which may differ when installing boards at an angle.
2. For a diagonal board pattern, start with a small triangular piece of decking in a corner nearest the house and work your way out.
3. The clip should be fastened on-center to the joist.

Diagram: Diagram illustrates a diagonal deck board installation, showing clips positioned on joists for angled boards.

Last Board Installation with Cap-Tor®/Pro Plug® (Sold Separately)

1. Fasten final boards using either picture-frame or standard layout.
2. Refer to board manufacturer's instructions for proper spacing between boards and/or attached wall structures.
3. It is recommended to use the Cap-Tor® or Pro Plug® Systems offered by Starborn.

Diagrams:

• Standard Installation: Diagram shows the final deck board being installed using the standard clip method.
• Picture-Frame Installation: Diagram shows the final deck board being installed using the picture-frame clip method.

Estimated Clips Needed

Warranty

Starborn warrants its products to be free from defects in material and manufacturing. Starborn's liability is limited to the purchase price of the product.

Corrosion Information

Approved for pressure treated lumber. For salt water and other corrosive environments, 316 stainless steel is recommended. All metal fasteners have the potential to corrode. Follow all board manufacturer instructions. For more information, visit starbornindustries.com/ci.