How to Replace a Composite Deck Board

Replacing a Trex deck board installed with hidden fasteners takes a bit more finesse than removing one that is held down with screws, but it’s still a straightforward process, especially if you have easy access to one end of the deck board. If the border board or fascia/skirt board is easily removable, start by taking that off to get access to the end of the board.

Then: Loosen the screws holding the clips in place; slide the clips out; remove and replace the board; slide the clips back into position; and fasten them down. However, more often than not, border and fascia/skirt boards are pinned in place by railing components and aren’t easily removed. The following steps will walk you through how to handle this common scenario.

Step 1: Loosen the Clips Holding the Old Board In Place

Loosen all the TREX Hideaway® Clips along both sides of the board that needs to be replaced. Loosen the screws far enough so that the clips can slide freely back and forth within the groove, but not so far that they separate from the clips. 

Step 2: Loosen the Screws on Adjacent Boards

Loosen all the clip screws on the far side of the boards on either side of the damaged deck boards. On one end, the first three clips on each adjacent boards need to slide freely (more on this below), but all the others just need to be loosened a little bit. Loosening these clips will allow each adjacent boards to tilt up slightly as you pull the old board out.

Step 3: Remove the Old Board

You can now pry out the damage board and remove it. Measure the damaged board or use it as a template to mark the size of the new one. Read this article for more information about cutting composite decking. 

Step 4: Seal the Screw Holes

Apply a weatherproof sealant or Trex Protect Joist Tape over any exposed screw holes. This helps protect the framing by preventing water from pooling in the old screw hole. Even if the screw lands exactly in the original hole when reinstalled, sealing the area will reduce the chance of water running along the sides of the screw and seeping into the joist, potentially adding years to the life of the joist. 

Step 5: Install the New Board

Remove all the clips from one of the adjacent boards. On the other adjacent board, make sure all the clips are in place over every stud. Now, slide the new board into those clips.

Step 6: Slide in the Missing Clips

In order to slide in the missing hidden fastener clips, you’ll have to lift the new board as well as the adjacent board (the one with no clips) up higher than the boarder/skirt board. In order to accomplish this, you’ll need to take the first three or so clips on the far side of each adjacent board and slide them back away from the boarder/skirt board. Next, use a narrow pry bar or putty knife to lift up the new board along with the adjacent board so you can slide in the hidden fastener clips. You may need to use a spacer or tool of some kind to keep the new board in place and separated far enough so the clips slide in freely. 

Step 7: Position and Fasten the Clips

All that’s left is to position all the hidden fastener clips and secure them to the joists. Be sure each clip is tight and seated properly for a secure and even finish.