FastenerS
2023 FIELD GUIDE
From the shelf to the jobsite — top fastener suppliers share challenges and successes.
THE 2022
SPONSORED BY
Deep into the second half of 2023, there’s no shortage of uncertainty in the hardware and building supply industry. Among the questions: what will happen if interests stay where they are? And what will happen if they drop precipitously?
Analysts have been describing an underbuilt housing market for years. Will demand finally break through this year, or next?
Those are just scratching the surface of uncertainties. But one thing is for sure. Home construction and remodeling goes nowhere without fasteners.
Looking at the big picture of residential construction, the last few years have had some ups and downs.
The first half of 2023 has seen 715,200 starts, compared to 839,500 in the first six months of 2022. That’s a decline of 17 percent.
SINGLE-FAMILY HOUSING STARTS
2019: 1,290,000 887,000
2020: 1,379,600 990,500
2021: 1,601,000 1,127,200
There are some challenges out there for dealers. Some of the biggest names in fasteners are stepping up at the jobsite and beyond to provide the products, the innovation and the support to make every job and every project come together better, faster or more efficiently.
Highlights of those products and innovations are gathered here, in the first-ever interactive Fastener Field Guide. Learn. Explore. Come back for more.
HBSDealer’s 2023 Fastener Field Guide
By HBSDealer Staff
H O M E
NEXT: FASTENMASTER
TO
THE
C A M O
B I G T I M B E R
H U T T I G - G R I P
P R I M E S O U R C E
S P A X
M I D W E S T
U 2 F A S T E N E R S
2022: 1,552,600 1,005,200
TOTAL STARTS
1-FAMILY STARTS
SIMPSON
THE INCREDIBLE, INDISPENSABLE FASTENER
Companies that expect to succeed in the fastener industry had better be prepared to elevate themselves in two key areas: Innovation and service.
The ideas behind those terms appeared again and again during interviews with leading suppliers of fasteners. Innovation could mean a sharper point or a more du-rable connection. Service could mean on-time, in-full delivery; or it could mean developing programs that attract customers to the product on the shelf, or help present the product in a way to avoid confusion or, worse, construction errors.
The companies on the following pages are part of the vanguard of manufacturers and suppliers who are advancing the segment to meet new building trends and business environments. It’s a segment not without its challenges.
It’s a segment not without its challenges. According to the 2022 HBSDealer Industry Scoreboard Survey, more than half the respondents described the current state of the supply chain as “getting better.”
While the supply chain issues that dented the construction industry post pandemic appear to be receding, it’s too soon to declare trans-Pacific victory. Consider that the same survey also revealed that just under half of the respondents described supply chain or as a challenge extending into 2022.And the challenge wasn’t only a global issue. The domestic problem of trucking material from ports in Houston or Los Angeles to the rest of country also rattled the industry.But through it all, fastener industry innovation has stood up to the interesting times, as competition to deliver products that make the complicated process of building or maintaining dwellings sim-pler, faster or –yes—cheaper.
On the front, the last several years have been busy. Annual single-family housing starts, the bread-and-butter metric for the lumber and building material business, in the past three years have increased significantly as the table to the left shows.
Among the examples: screws for concrete; packaging that works for retailer and customer; coatings that enhance durabil-ity, truss screws for stronger connections, and innovations such as built-on washer head styles for structural wood screws.
Meanwhile, analysts at TraqLine described the consumer fastener business in terms that sound inflation resistant. Home Depot and Lowe’s are by far the two largest players in the category, and the two retailers’ fastener performance is driven by their ability to attract shop-pers vs. other retailers. “Already in the store buying other items” is a top reason that influences purchase of a fastener at a specific retailer, TraqLine’s data shows. Also: “Convenience is a key driver.”
“Price paid is similar across retailers and is not a driver in this category.” TraqLine has found, “as price is not a top reason for retailer selection.”
That finding can be interpreted as evidence that the market demands durable, useful and functional fasteners above all other qualities. That makes sense, because other than the foundation itself, nothing is more foundational to a secure dwelling than the fasteners used to build it.
So far in 2022, year-to-date unadjusted single family starts are down 5.6 percent from the first nine months of 2021, on an unadjusted basis.
2019: 887,000
2020: 990,500
2021: 1,127,200
I N T R O
CAMO® Structural Screws
CAMO® introduces a full line of code-compliant structural screws, bringing the reliability and innovation they’re known for to deck substructures, interior framing, ledgers, and more.
Making waves in the deck industry over a decade ago with the invention of Edge fastening, CAMO has grown into an industry leader, continually bringing to market new innovative deck top solutions that help deck builders do their jobs easier, faster, and better. This new line of structural fasteners marks a next step for the brand, expanding beyond the deck top and providing their contractors and dealers more building solutions under a single brand.“
A HISTORY OF BUILDING BETTER
Helping contractors build better on the deck top has always been at the core of the CAMO brand. With our new best-in-category offering of structural screws, we get to help them build a better deck foundation and beyond. We strive to invent fasteners and tools that transform their work into something faster, easier, and better — and this new line of fasteners delivers on that mission,” says Scott Baker, CEO of National Nail, the parent company of CAMO.
CAMO’s comprehensive new structural screw offering efficiently covers all popular interior and exterior structural applications, from framing and multi-ply to ledger and truss. For dealers, efficiency is a key attribute of this line. Many screws do double-duty, allowing the dealer to consolidate their SKUs, saving inventory space and money. Their heavy-duty 5/16” flat head line, for example, contains code-compliant solutions for interior and exterior ledger, multi-ply, and multi-purpose structural framing needs. All CAMO structural screws are exterior-coated for interior and exterior use. This allows their truss screw to be used for interior connections as well as for beam-to-joist connections on a deck.
COMPLETE OFFERING
CAMO structural screws are IBC and IRC code-compliant, third-party tested, and certified by DrJ, an accredited certification body. They have published technical evaluation reports (TER) for general screw properties and specific applications, giving the contractor confidence in their connections. The applications, code compliance, and TER numbers are listed on the packaging for straightforward purchasing. The packaging also includes a QR code that takes you to a landing page to download product technical bulletins and TERs easily.
All counts of structural screws come in durable clamshells and nesting plastic pails for a cleaner, better-looking set.
An array of CAMO structural screws, one of three brands from Grand Rapids, Michigan-based National Nail, serving the building materials industry for more than 60 years.
INDUSTRY-LEADING COATING
In addition to PROTECH Ultra 4 coated structural screws, CAMO offers a line of hot-dip galvanized multi-purpose hex head fasteners for use in coastal environments. CAMO truly offers coast-to-coast structural fastener solutions.
With CAMO’s new structural screws comes the introduction of their industry-leading, proprietary PROTECH Ultra 4 coating system, featuring four layers that combine to provide ultimate corrosion resistance. Tested in accordance with ASTM G198, the coating meets or exceeds the protection of code-approved hot-dip galvanized (ASTM A153, Class D) in ground contact generaluse pressure treated lumber (AWPA UC1-UC4A). ASTMG198 testing requires 2880 hours of testing — 2X more than the industry standard 1440 hours (AC257).
BUILT TO LAST
CAMO Structural Screws will launch November 2022. Visit camofasteners.com to learn more.
CAMO Structural Screws are engineered to start fast, drive smooth, and hold strong. From the holding power of the head to the sharp point tip, every design feature was specifically chosen to create the highest-performing structural screw on the market. Their structural design values are the highest in the industry. Their strength equals time and money for contractors, who can use fewer fasteners per job.
CAMO Truss Screws help contractors make connections easier, faster, and better. Code-compliant and exterior-coated, their truss screws replace hurricane ties in both interior applications and exterior decking applications. Included in every pail, their hands-free truss guide helps contractors fasten at the right angle every time.
Truss Screws
Ledger Screws
Multi-Ply Screws
CAMO Ledger Screws are a faster, less-expensive, code-compliant way to install ledger boards. Their flat head finishes flush with the material, so it doesn’t get in the way of joist hangers or other materials. Available in three lengths for specific applications.
CAMO Multi-Ply Screws are available in specific lengths for both sawn and structural composite lumber beams. They replace through bolts and nails in these applications for faster, stronger, more secure connections.
NEXT: BIG TIMBER
CLICK TO VISIT:
F A S T E N M A S T E R
For the past 25 years, FastenMaster, a division of OMG Inc., has been developing innovative fastening solutions that make it faster, better and easier for the pros to do their job.
Since establishing a leadership position within the structural fastening category, FastenMaster has continued to hone its craft by developing new and innovative products that meet or exceed the industry’s expectations of what’s possible.
FastenMaster: Improving the Way Pros Do Their Jobs.
FastenMaster differentiates itself by continually soliciting contractor feedback and then developing highly engineered solutions that help improve installation productivity while delivering a premium finish. “This has been our true North Star and through this process, we have revolutionized the industry with several breakthrough and industry-leading products,” Shaffer said.
A DIFFERENT COMPANY—A DIFFERENT APPROACH
But it’s not just about making fasteners—it’s about people and working closely with customers and truly listening to their needs that has enabled FastenMaster to be highly successful.
The company supports the pro community with a large nationwide field team trained to go well beyond selling fasteners. While manufacturing fasteners may be its job, delivering innovative products that solve real problems for pros is its passion. “We firmly believe that one size does not fit all, and we have developed the LOK line of task-specific structural fasteners to meet specific application requirements,” Shaffer said. “Additionally, we are educators. We help many small businesses by showing them better options and faster, safer and better alternatives for their projects. We have converted many contractors to new ways of building, and to using screws where traditional nails, plates or straps were used, and we’ve demonstrated the clear productivity and performance advantages that FastenMaster solutions such as TrussBRACE, FrameFAST, Tiger Claw, LOKs and Cortex can provide.
SUPPORTING THE PROS
The company remains committed to providing professional contractors fastening solutions that improve jobsite safety and increase productivity. FastenMaster’s overriding philosophy is to develop products that make construction connections faster, stronger, easier and safer. In doing this, it believes that everyone wins.
Since being established in 1998, FastenMaster has sought to continually impress the industry with several breakthrough products, including:
25 YEARS OF INNOVATION
TrapEase, a non-mushrooming fastener designed specifically for composite decking.
We firmly believe that one size does not fit all, and we have developed the LOK line of task-specific structural fasteners to meet specific application requirements.
Web Shaffer Sr. VP and General Manager FastenMaster
Just as it has for the first 25 years, FastenMaster will continue to develop and launch innovative products that change and improve the way pros do their jobs. After all, it’s the platform on which the company has built its reputation for delivering winning solutions for projects.
A BRIGHT OUTLOOK
A few examples: its stalwart LOK line of fasteners has replaced traditional bolts with faster and easier installation alternatives; its stand-up tools are designed to not only make new construction safer and more efficient, but also ergonomically correct for better long-term health; and then there its line of decking and trim solutions, including Cortex, that help pros save valuable time while meeting code.
By actively listening to its pros, FastenMaster has helped contractors achieve great success by offering them the very best solutions in the market, according to Web Shaffer, senior vice president and general manager. “Developing productivity solutions through innovation has been our [objective] during the past 25 years and we expect to deliver even more new and innovative solutions to the market in the next 25 years,” Shaffer said.
Cortex Hidden Fastening System, a “through board” hidden system utilizing plugs and screws.
HeadLOK, among the first flat headed structural fastener.
ThruLOK, a fastener that eliminates through-bolts by using an innovative self-tightening nut to make connections in a fraction of the time.
TrussLOK (later replaced by FlatLOK), a fastener to connect multiple beams of LVL single sided, up to 4 ply.
Tiger Claw TC-G Hidden Deck Clip, a stainless-steel hidden decking clip for grooved boards.
TrussBrace, a truss bracing solution that includes both lateral and diagonal support in one connection.
HOME
FASTENMASTER
BIG TIMBER
HILLMAN
MIDWEST
NATIONAL NAIL
PRIMESOURCE
SIMPSON STRONG-TIE
SPAX
Download our 2023 Product Guide for more info now!
NEXT: CAMO
Big Timber Fasteners enjoys advantages few in the fastener world—or any world, for that matter—could match.
On the one hand, it is a division of the $10 billion-plus Marmon Holdings, a Berkshire Hathaway company, providing it with considerable financial might.
From another standpoint, its brand remains nimble and proactive, able to adapt to market demands swiftly, all the while paying close attention to its customer base.
Big Timber Fasteners: The Best of Both Worlds.
"Our company’s roots are deeply embedded in the rugged and breathtaking landscapes of Montana," Hodgkins adds. "Because of this we really understand and embrace the challenges that come from building within our natural world. Although our tagline is 'Mountain Tested'—and we are from the West—we offer a wide range of products designed and engineered to cover the unique environmental building conditions and professional demand of all regions coast to coast."
HOW DO YOU LEVERAGE YOUR BRAND STORY?
"The time that once existed in this country where fixing and building things was a common skill," states Hodgkins. "Society has shifted over time in such a way that those handy people are much more difficult to find. What we are hearing from our customers is that their customers and even their staff aren’t as knowledgeable about fasteners as they used to be. This can make fastener shopping feel daunting as there are many choices and many types of fasteners all of which are designed for certain types of applications."
WHAT ARE YOU HEARING FROM CUSTOMERS?
"To help solve this problem, Big Timber Fasteners has made shopping our brand simple by assigning different colors to each category. We’ve also added QR codes to our labels and other marketing elements that provides a consumer access to different types of information about the specific product or products that are being purchased.
HOW ARE YOU RESPONDING?
"We are creating more resources to help the end user select the correct fastener when there is no one to help answer those pointed questions to," notes Hodgkins. "One of those resources we are debuting here for the HBSDealer Fastener Field Guide is a short and simple online quiz that anyone can take and at any time. The ultimate goal with this is to help provide a consumer with enough information for them to succeed at the project they are working on. We are also releasing more video content, including our product “Drill Down” videos that help explain the features and benefits of each of our screw categories."
TALK ABOUT YOUR RESOURCES?
"In terms of helping point someone in the right direction, we’d love feedback from industry professionals to help make us better in the future. That way we can keep delivering the products, services, and content that our customers truly need. Our amazing Big Timber family works hard to make high quality products that have been lab tested, field tested, and third-party certified, and delivered to the shelf quickly, but we are humble enough to know we can always do better.
WHAT’S IN STORE FOR THE FUTURE ... THE BIG TIMBER DIFFERENCE
"If readers of this article can take two minutes to answer a survey or schedule a conversation with us, we’d really appreciate hearing what they have to say. And that, I think, is the Big Timber difference: we listen, we aren’t afraid to venture out and try new things—and through that journey we all grow together."
“The Big Timber difference is: we listen, we aren’t afraid to venture out and try new things,” said Brent Hodgkins, national sales manager. “And through that journey we all grow together.”
"Not choosing the right fastener or using a fastener incorrectly can at best make for a frustrating product experience and, at worse, be a major safety issue. In response, we are rolling out more education materials and programing to support our customer and our customer’s customer," he adds. "We are increasing the amount of in-person fastener training we provide to our customer’s sales associates, and are rolling out short fastener guides, or 'cheat sheets' as a handy reference to help guide answer those questions that exist."
Download our Fasteners Guide for more info now!
What screw do I need?
Take the 1-minute quiz and find out!
H I L L M A N
NEXT: MIDWEST FASTENERS
Built on a strong foundation and set of values, the Hillman Group has continued to reinforce itself as a leader in the industry by delivering 50,000 fastener products to empower everyone from a construction professional or contractor to your everyday handyman or someone looking to accomplish the occasional project.
Whatever the task is at hand, Hillman has trusted products to finish it with a sense of pride. It is not just work—but the promise of a job well done that has put us in nearly every home in North America. Hillman’s expertise expands beyond the construction site, we’ve cultivated and maintained relationships with a variety of leading retailers who sell our brands as we in turn grow their business.
As Hillman has continued to build on its initial vision, fasteners have secured their spot as our leading product in sales. The Hillman brand has grown to include a variety of fastening solutions beyond our flagship brand, Hillman, which is broadly recognized by the green box as the leader in fasteners.
Hillman Group: Built From the Ground Up.
Established in 1964 by Max Hillman Sr. in Cincinnati, Ohio, where the corporate headquarters remains located, Hillman stands as a prominent supplier of hardware products and solutions across North America. Our specialized service model provides direct-to-store shipping, in-store service, and category management solutions. We have long-standing partnerships with leading retailers across hardware, home improvement, farm and ranch and LBM yards across the country.
Hillman introduced other fastener brands, DeckPlus® and Power Pro® to give retailers even more solutions and consumers a more well-rounded toolbox. DeckPlus is a line of fasteners specifically crafted to create the ideal outdoor living space with a lifetime guarantee of durability. With an expansive color range and use cases from PVC, wood, and composite, DeckPlus has the products to make your outdoor retreat dreams a reality. Power Pro is Hillman’s line of premium products engineered to answer the most pressing challenges with unmatched performance, innovation, and a new industry benchmark.
With growing demand from all sides of the business, “building never stops” hammers home our philosophy. Hillman continues to push the limits, because there is no finish line or final project.
Hillman’s Unwavering Strong Performance
Hillman Corporate snapshot:
The Hillman Group strives to deliver the highest quality products, Power Pro takes this to a new level. Developed in the heart of the Midwest, Power Pro is constantly in pursuit of perfection. Since the brand’s beginning in 2001 for interior and exterior wood screws, the Power Pro name has exuded precision and excellent execution of high-performance fasteners expanding to all base materials including wood, metal, cement board, concrete, brick, and block.
Power Pro’s Leading Edge
Through constant evolution and innovation, Power Pro's mission is to set the tone of the industry with features that are second to none. Power Pro engineers products to perform flawlessly for trade professionals, DIYers, and hobbyists alike.
Structural Lag screws are versatile and created for wood-to-wood construction, making them ideal for a variety of indoor and outdoor projects.
The Latest in Power Pro’s Line of Innovation
The entire Power Pro Structural Wood Screw line requires no pre-drilling and has an innovative thread design that provides 30% faster installation* and allows users to drive more screws per battery charge. The durable epoxy coating provides 4 layers of corrosion protection and is AC257 treated lumber certified. Built for durability and longevity, all Power Pro Structural Wood Screws have grade 5 strength.
Introducing Power Pro Structural Wood Screws. A complete line of innovative, building code-approved fasteners that set a new benchmark for industry performance. Power Pro Structural Screws are engineered for speed, low energy consumption, strength, and durability. The line-up features 5 patented screw type:
*Independent testing to prove 30% faster than competitive brands
Power Pro secured its place at major retailers by tirelessly striving for excellence and flawlessly refining its product line.
Engineering Innovation
Power Pro has continued to innovate in the following categories:
Power Pro® ONE® Multi-Material Screws are the ONE screw you’ll ever need. ONE Multi-Material Screws work seamlessly with multiple materials including wood, drywall, plastic, metal, and masonry.
The categories of fasteners span a wide range including:
• Core fasteners, including nuts, washers, bolts and screws • Specialty “hard to find” fasteners • Engineered fasteners, including power screws and structural lags • Anchors, for hollow and solid wall applications
Power Pro® Cement Board Screws were specifically constructed with a broad purpose — to securely fasten to all brands of cement board. Power Pro Cement Board Screws were designed to increase mortar adhesion, provide a cleaner finish, and deliver faster installation.
Power Pro® Metal Screws drive up to 20% faster, have greater pullout values, and self-drill into metal up to 1/8” thick, making them an excellent solution for metal fastening projects.
Power Pro® Concrete Screw Anchors is the only concrete fastener pros and DIYers alike will ever need, offering higher pullout values, and greater corrosion protection. Power Pro Concrete Screws are I.C.C. Building Code approved.
Power Pro® Structural Wood Screws are the newest addition to Power Pro’s groundbreaking lineup. Continue to the next section to discover how this breakthrough is setting a new standard in the industry.
TimberTite® are heavy duty hex head screws best suited for landscape, walls, decks, fencing and other wood-to-wood construction.
Lumbertite® are heavy duty flat head screws crafted for general wood-to-wood construction without pre-drilling.
LedgerTite® screws are designed to directly fasten to the rim joist of a house without pre-drilling or the need for a washer.
TrussTite® screws are specifically designed to join engineered lumber together (LVL, PSL, and LSL).
Employees: Distribution centers: Customer locations: Total company products: Website:
3,800 22 40,000 112,000 hillmangroup.com
Click here for our full video series for Power Pro Structural Screws.
NEXT: PRIMESOURCE
Midwest Fastener has been serving retailers and builders since 1967. The Kalamazoo, Michigan-based company has grown well-beyond the geography suggested by its name to a network that includes six distribution centers serving coast-to-coast markets.
Midwest Fastener Secures Growth With Contractors.
“It's a contractor screw that it comes with a star drive and a self-drilling tip,” Thies explained. “The way we like to talk about is: ‘It has everything a deck builder needs, and nothing the builder doesn't need.’ It's a very good screw, just not the best screw we have. The idea was We wanted to be able to fill that segment at that opening price point.”
The company is not finished growing, according to Nick Thies, construction fastener category marketing manager, who spoke to HBSDealer recently.
That growth will be driven by market knowledge and product innovation. Case in point: the BuildRight Contractor Pack.
THE BUILDRIGHT CONTRACTOR PACK
Described as the biggest product line launch of the year, the Contractor Pack was a highlight from 2023, Thies said.
“We take a tiered approach to the construction fastener segment where you've got your better and your best levels,” he said. “So, the contractor pack represents the better. Its performed very well from a metrics standpoint. One that I particularly like to share is the number of retailers that have embraced. And all the metrics have been promising and encouraging.”
Thies elaborated on the star drive, which has earned respect as a premium drive design that simply offers more points of contact between the screw and the driver. It’s caught on particularly in the United States, while the square drive has grabbed a foothold in Canada.
But either way, those two drive types go a long way to mark a product as a premium screw, and. outperform a traditional Philips head.
The star drive is just going to really eliminate your cam outs and stripping of your bit. You can run just hundreds, even thousands of screws on a single bit before any type of failure. We've done it here in testing and I've done it in my personal life.
Nick Thies Construction Fastener Category Marketing Manager Midwest Fastener
The company is hoping is to replicate the value proposition of the Contractor Pack across the organization.
MAINTAINING DELIVERY THROUGH DISRUPTION
“The star drive is just going to really eliminate your cam outs and stripping of your bit,” Thies said. “You can run just hundreds, even thousands of screws on a single bit before any type of failure. We've done it here in testing and I've done it in my personal life.”
Building better products is only part of business success. Bringing them to market is at least half the battle. And here, Midwest relies on its field team of about 200 knowledgable pros.
“They know their stuff, they really do,” Thies said. “And yeah, they're a wonderful asset to us and most importantly to our dealers.”
The connection to dealers has also been bolstered by Midwest’s ability to maintain delivery through the supply chain disruptions that erupted with the COVID pandemic.
“We were actually proud that our ship percentage really didn't dip that far compared to many, many others in this industry,” Theis said. “We never had a sort of panic kick in. We did obviously have some challenges that we had to work through, but I don't believe our fill rates ever dipped below 90 percent.
“We're back up to around 97-98 percent now,” he said. “And the focus now is to better position ourselves for the next something like COVID happens.”
That kind of proactive planning mainly involves a hard look at sourcing, and creating a diverse supplier base. “The main thing is: Our purchasing department is looking forward now and how can we keep it stable with what may happen in the next 5, 10, 15 years, globally.
With the success of the BuildRight Contractor Pack, Midwest Fastener is now turning its attention to backfilling some of those other lines where the better-best approach can be amplified. “We have lots of additions happening here and there across our construction fastener line.”
“We do think it's one of the best values on the market,” he said. “That's where it really shines.”
Brought to you by Midwest Fastener. Our new BuildRight deck screw is a quality yet affordable fastener. Engineered to be the most cost-effective deck screw on the market, it has only the most important features. With its exterior coating, type-17 cutting tip, and star drive, it has everything a deck builder needs and nothing they don’t. The exterior coating is recommended for treated lumber and outperforms HDG. It’s the perfect screw for those wanting a quality fastener without spending a day’s paycheck.
What’s next? Thies described a series of incremental improvements across its lineup.
WHAT'S NEXT AT MIDWEST FASTENER?
Features include:
• Star Drive • Exterior Coating • Type-17 Tip
Click above to watch a video on the BuildRight Contractor Pack.
NEXT: HILLMAN
In empowering you to build a better deck, we inspire you to build a better gathering place. A better community. A better life. Through innovation, we’re changing the tools, the old way of thinking, and the time it takes to build a deck.
CAMO: The Better Way to Build a Deck.
Launching a new fastening method in an industry that had done things the same way for years, CAMO was born from innovation. We push ourselves to think outside the norm in continuing to invent better tools and fasteners to help the ‘Everyday Doer’—the pro deck builders, remodelers and DIYers—build the best possible deck.
CAMO is the better way to build a deck. In empowering you to build a better deck, we inspire you to build a better gathering place. A better community. A better life.
Our pride comes from creating new solutions for old problems. Through innovation, we’re changing the tools, the old way of thinking, and the time it takes to build a deck.
INNOVATION IS IN OUR DNA
As a 100% employee-owned company, our purpose is simple, and it’s shared—"Inspire People to Build Better.” Whether supporting our customers, suppliers, fellow employee-owners and their families or the communities in which we live and work, it’s relevant and simple to do. Inspire whoever we engage with to help them become better.
OUR ‘WE’RE IN THS TOGETHER’ MINDSET
When people use our products, they’re not just building a deck, they’re building something better. A foundation for people to enjoy life, celebrate milestone, and gather. A space that is an extension of their homes and often the best part of their day. To deliver on this, we must listen:
We are looking to jobsites and asking contractors and ourselves, “what is something that has always been done a certain way … how can we make it better, faster, or easier?”
HOW WE ARE RESPONDING
Cornerstones is the first indicator that as an organization we are not in this game merely for ourselves or corporate profit. There is a fundamental belief that our responsibility is not only to the growth of our company but also a commitment to the success of our employee owners, our customers, our vendor partners and, perhaps most importantly, the people that use our products. It is not only the “what” we do but “how” we operate our business that distinguishes us in the industry.
OUR 'CORNERSTONES'
Its history of technology innovation runs deep, and continues to this day with its CAMO system, which is changing the face of decking.
WHY CAMO IS A BETTER WAY
CAMO Edge Fastening: achieve a fastener-free system on square decking with this easy and affordable hidden fastening system. Marksman tools automatically establish spacing between boards and direct CAMO Edge screws into the edge of the board, leaving a fastener-free deck surface.
In connecting, listening and learning from the Everyday Doer, we have surprised them with products no one else thought of, for example:
“Because Innovation is woven through the fabric of the organization so intensely, it is difficult to identify a single innovation that makes us most proud,” said Dani Zizak, Chief Marketing Officer. “I personally am most proud of the constant institutional, almost fanatical drive, plus mindset to create better products and systems for our brand users. We say it all the time: 'We innovate for the men and women that use our products.' This is the spirit of our CAMO brand purpose: 'We exist to invent new and better, to break the limits of how it’s always been done, creating connections that have the power to transform.'”
WHAT WE ARE HEARING FROM CUSTOMERS
We are doubling down on our understanding of the end user and how we can make their jobs better and easier. We will continue to innovate not only in product but also in our delivery and support systems, packaging, retail presentation and service levels.
Our contractors want a full innovative product pipeline that promises to improve the way they work, shorten installation times, and offer solutions to problems they aren’t even aware of yet.
Dealers tell us to keep it up with the clear, concise, and highly visual marketing efforts for retail. Our Destination Dealer sets set us apart from our competitors and offer a best-in-class shopping experience.
The “we’re in this together” mindset is evident in everything we as employee owners do at National Nail. “I am far more inspired to work smarter and better for the people in the trenches with me than nameless, faceless shareholders that aren’t personally involved in our business,” Dommenick said. “Put simply, when I walk in the door in the morning, I see the people that I am fighting for—that perspective is priceless for me.”
CAMO CLIPDRIVE Stand-Up Deck Fastening System: Our innovative EDGE hidden deck clips and stand-up fastening tool work together to make jobs smarter, faster, easier, and better. Bring speed, excellent performance, and time and cost savings to every deck build with this game-changing system. Designed for fastening CAMO Universal Deck Clips, the ergonomic, lightweight tool attaches to any drill and allows you to stand comfortably while fastening any grooved deck board.
Code-Compliant Structural Screws: CAMO offers a full line of high-performing, code-compliant structural screws for all your deck, framing, and general construction needs. They are engineered to start fast, drive smooth, and hold strong. No pre-drilling is required. They feature our industry-leading proprietary coating, PROTECH Ultra 4, for superior corrosion resistance.
We innovate for the men and women that use our products.
Dani Zizak Chief Marketing Officer National Nail
NEXT: PRIME SOURCE
As the housing market has changed, and homeowners are shifting their priorities to outdoor living spaces, contractors need the right fasteners to meet their needs. PrimeSource Building Products is delivering, by offering NEW, innovative products from Grip-Rite and RailFX that help contractors create beautiful, durable decks, fences, and cable railings faster and easier than ever.
Grip-Rite and RailFX Help Contractors Meet the Demand for Outdoor Living.
NEW: New PrimeGuard Nano Coating PrimeSource Building Products boosts its offering of innovative, durable fasteners with the new Grip-Rite DeckForce™ exterior screws.
According to Michael Engle, Senior Director of Branded Product at PrimeSource Building Products, homeowners are no longer satisfied with standard deck installations. “More homeowners want decks and patios where they can enjoy the outdoors, without having to worry about replacing corroded screws,” said Engle. “They want screws that blend into the deck or fence material or are even invisible. That provides a seamless look that separates a stunning deck from a good one.”
With the increased demand for decks, fences, and cable railings, and with labor at a premium, contractors need fasteners that will help them get jobs done quickly and at a high level of quality. They need fasteners that are easy to use, don’t require special tools or training, and that are installed right, every time.
GRIP-RITE DECKFORCE™ EXTERIOR SCREWS
Save Time on Deck Installation Jobs The new Grip-Rite Ninja™ Hidden Deck Clip is the simple solution for building strong, stable decks with multiple board patterns in less time, using just one type of fastener.
GRIP-RITE NINJA™ HIDDEN DECK CLIPS
The patent-pending design features Compression Fit levers that hold the clip in place, accelerating deck board installation, while serrated teeth grip the boards in the groove to create secure connections. The universal fit of the Grip-Rite Ninja™ Hidden Deck Clip means this single style clip may be used to create multiple deck patterns: straight, diagonal or herringbone, while providing a seamless surface finish.
Express Mount Brackets™ Cut Time and Cost in Half A new, patent-pending product from RailFX , the innovative Express Mount Brackets™ make it easier and faster to install cable railing. By eliminating the need to drill holes in deck posts, they can cut the amount of time required to install cable railing in half, while also significantly reducing material costs.
RAILFX EXPRESS MOUNT BRACKETS™
Grip-Rite Structural Screws Provide Reliable Performance Offering reliable solutions for decks, fences, pergolas and other load bearing exterior projects, Grip-Rite Structural Screws deliver the quality and value contractors expect. Offered in both Dual Drive and Flat Head styles, Grip-Rite Structural Screws are available in multiple package sizes to accommodate projects large and small.
STRUCTURAL SCREWS
NEXT: SIMPSON STRONG-TIE
That’s been the driving force behind PrimeSource Building Products’ introductions in 2023. With its Grip-Rite screws and RailFX brackets, contractors can do more jobs, and serve a broader range of customers.
The brackets simply mount to the outside of each deck post, delivering a unique “floating cable” appearance. The new universal drilling template makes installation easy, without specialty tools or training.
For contractors who want to expedite a premium railing installation and provide options to their customers, RailFX Express Mount Brackets™ offer a time saving solution to finish jobs quickly. And for homeowners, there is no simpler way to achieve a high-end cable railing look…that they can easily install themselves.
A Screw for Every Material The Grip-Rite DeckForce™ screws are offered in two different models specifically engineered for wood or composite decking. For use with both treated and non-treated wooden decks and fences, the wood screws feature an auto-pilot tip, dual-action auger threads, a diamond-file shank and a patent pending wedge-lock head. The composite screws are suited for composite and PVC decking, and feature saw teeth, as well as hi-lo and clear-out threads with an undercut head. Both designs are offered in a variety of colors to match nearly any deck material.
These screws are designed to provide deck and fence installers with exceptional performance in wood, composite, and PVC materials. Featuring a groundbreaking new technology, the PrimeGuard Nano Coating provides unmatched protection from Mother Nature. The molecular structure of the PrimeGuard Nano Coating ensures a seamless seal and long-lasting durability that is backed by a lifetime warranty.
More homeowners want decks and patios where they can enjoy the outdoors, without having to worry about replacing corroded screws.
Michael Engle Sr. Director of Branded Product Primesource
With the end goal of finishing projects faster and easier, expertly engineered Grip-Rite DeckForce™ exterior screws are an ideal solution for pro deck and fence installers and DIYers.
®
S I M P S O N S T R O N G - T I E
A leader in structural systems research and technology, Simpson Strong-Tie is one of the largest suppliers of structural building products, with a deep commitment to providing exceptional products and services to its customers.
“Very similar to the pillars our company was built on, we have a relentless focus on the customer,” said Scott Park, director, fastening systems. “We’re not newcomers to the fastener industry, and we have never lost sight that we want to build trust with our customers and make sure they are supported.”
Simpson Strong-Tie: Relentless Focus on Customers.
"We’re about more than just filling an order," Park said. "We want to understand our customers’ needs. A big part of us is to provide higher quality. Any company can have short-term success, but without high-quality product over the long term you won’t last in this industry. Our fasteners hold up structures, and we take that seriously.
HOW DOES SIMPSON STAND APART?
"Structural fastening continues to grow each year," adds Park. "Today contractors want a strong, secure connection but they are also looking for fast and easy installation. The Strong-Drive SDWS Timber screw that we introduced is designed to provide an easy-to-install, high-strength alternative to through-bolting and traditional lag screws. This screw is ideal for the contractor and the DIYer. When you have a product that helps the contractor, they keep coming back for that. Considering that the industry is still feeling the pinch of the labor shortage, supplying new and innovative systems that allow them to work faster and safer is a goal of ours.
WHAT'S NEW?
"Beyond labor shortage questions, customers want to be confident that the product that they need—or is in the plan— will be available to them," stated Park.
"We want to be the leader in pro-grade construction fastening, and we’re putting the resources behind it," Park adds. "As construction expands, we are investing. One area where we are investing is mass timber; we’re investing in that market and creating new products around it because it is an up-and-coming industry that has been big in Europe for awhile. We want to be the partner of choice for the mass timber industry.
WHAT'S NEXT FOR SIMPSON?
NEXT: SPAX
"Our customers know they can trust our fasteners, that it will do what we say it will do, and that we will be around to stand behind it.
"At Simpson," says Park, "having product available and ready to ship is one of our core principles, right behind relentless customer focus.
"Overall, we’re really focused on being the leader in this industry and want to provide solutions that solve industry problems. We continue to partner with distribution and retail but also with contractors and engineers to understand everyone’s problems."
"Maintaining inventory levels so we have product—and can handle those fluctuations of available material—is very important to us.
"To that end, we are expanding to new warehouses in key locations to have product closer to customers. We just opened Salt Lake City, Denver and Kent, Wash. We’re also expanding our Columbus, Ohio, manufacturing facility, and will be moving into a new facility in Gallatin, Tenn., where we manufacture fasteners. We will be starting construction soon."
"Things are definitely not normal, or even pre-pandemic. We still see a lot of up and down availability in the construction market in raw materials, packaging, or any number of things."
"Quik Stik is an example of an installation tool that provides contractors with a versatile solution that makes fastening rafter and truss connections fast, safe and easy. What’s more, Quik Stik is designed for use inside the structure.
"Another new product, Timber Drive, which hit the market a few weeks ago, is a tool for stand-up operation while driving large structural screws," detailed Park. "It’s designed for heavy-duty jobs that require repetitive fastening, such as boardwalks and piers, that require hundreds of structural screws. The ergonomic design of Timber Drive makes it faster and easier to work while improving safety. Key features include fastener length adjustment for 3- to 6-1/4-inch screws.
“We’re really focused on the R&D side,” Park said. “We want to make it so that peoples’ backs don’t hurt at the end of the day, and the job is done in a safer manner.”
"Lastly, we focus on innovation, on moving the industry forward. It may be a fastener, it may be application testing with the existing fastener, whatever it is we are looking for innovative ways to bring new solutions to the market that provide solutions. Those are the core areas that set us apart."
We want to understand our customers’ needs. A big part of us is to provide higher quality. Any company can have short-term success, but without high-quality product over the long term you won’t last in this industry.
Scott Park Director, Fastening Systems Simpson Strong-Tie
RETURN TO THE HOME PAGE
SPAX Multi-Material Construction Screws and PowerLags were introduced to the US market in 1997. They are sold nationwide through leading home improvement centers, hardware and fastener distribution chains, and in a growing number of lumber and building material dealers. Since 2006, SPAX fasteners marketed in North America are manufactured in the ALTENLOH, BRINCK & CO. US, INC. complex in Bryan, Ohio, which is ISO 9001:2015 Certified.
SPAX Speaks to Emerging Trends
HBSDealer solicited expertise from a variety of SPAX product experts for the following Q&A:
Q: What are the emerging building trends that are influencing fastener development? A: Aesthetics of outdoor experiences has driven fastener manufacturers to provide fasteners with different and more matching color schemes of project materials. For example many pergola builds now are utilizing black bracketry and hardware. Also, deck boards both wood and composites require color matching for the best possible aesthetics on the project.
Q: What do you identify as the main challenges the fastener industry will be facing in the coming year that LBM dealers should be aware of? A: Too many unreliable commodity fastener brands. In a very detail oriented world where jobsite specifications and critical connections exist, builders must have reliable fasteners that are code tested and approved but also can be traced back through the manufacturing process. With the risk of call backs, structural fasteners must perform safely and so LBM dealers must look to leading fastener manufacturers than can provide the necessary code reports and material specifications for every box of product.
SPAX® T-STAR Trim Head fasteners with HCR® coating are intended for connections in exterior composite deck board finishing applications when attaching to treated lumber joists. These fasteners are designed with an undercut head for preventing mushrooming and also provide a clean finish into composite deck boards.
A: When it comes to structural connections found on most residential jobsites, code officials and inspectors look to leading engineered fastener manufacturers to provide application technical evaluation reports (TER’s) which ensure products will perform as expected. There are trends in using high performance structural lags in many of these applications to replace existing technologies. Here are a few examples; Multi-ply beam & truss assembly where structural lags now can be used to replace nails and conventional lags to ensure a safe and secure connections and also save time and money on the jobsite. Deck ledger attachment requires a safe connection and structural fasteners like SPAX Powerlags can be used to replace very time consuming conventional lag bolts and they can be spaced further than other manufactures products found on the market. Also truss attachment now can be handled with structural fasteners in place of the traditional hurricane clips to save time and money on the jobsite.
Q: Considering those challenges, what would you recommend LBM dealers focus on when it comes to meeting customer needs for fasteners? A: Take the time to review the structural fastener manufactures offering and make sure the products have accessible data reports and application TER’s plus wire certifications used during the manufacturing process. SPAX® Engineered Fasteners takes pride in a quality program and tracks each lot through the entire process all the way to the wire heat and can provide steel wire composition data. We are ISO certified and our factory in Bryan, Ohio is audited by numerous agencies for all our brands. Audits for ICC-ES, DrJ, FM, Miami-Dade, and ISO.
Q: How have you expanded or changed your product lineup recently? A: Recent additions to the SPAX® product portfolio include: deck tape and board spacers along with composite deck screws in 7 colors to match all the popular exterior board manufacturers products. SPAX® also has a continuous testing program for exterior coatings and is always working toward new innovations for structural fasteners in order to ensure safe and secure connections.
–SPAX Project Manager Robert Yates
— SPAX Product Management Leader Brett Katsma
—SPAX National Sales Manager-LBM Josh Martin
—Senior Marketing Manager Robert Knecht
