Founded in Brooklyn, New York in 1961, Starborn Industries, Inc. originally owned and operated a wood products factory. In the early 1980s fasteners became the primary focus of the company, as drywall screws emerged as a construction fastener. Since the late 1980s the company has expanded its product lines while creating, designing and bringing to market its own fastener and fastener-related products specially created for the deck construction market.
Starborn is a national distributor and one of the largest importers in the USA for drywall screws. Starborn is also one of the first companies to recognize that decks have evolved into individualized statements of modern residential living and that the quality of a deck fastener plays an essential role in the stability, the finish and the longevity of a deck.
Since 1961 the company has grown from a strong local and regional player to an established national provider. In recent years Starborn has also recognized a demand for its products internationally and is now distributing in Europe, Asia, Africa, South America, the Caribbean and Australia.
Starborn Industries, Inc. is located in Edison, New Jersey, in a state-of-the-art warehouse and distribution facility. In addition to the warehouse and fulfillment staff, Starborn has a full service sales and marketing department.
Starborn Industries, Inc. is an independent, second generation family-owned and operated business.
SimpliClad™ Planning Tool
Our SimpliClad™ job planning tool is a web based application that will allow you to plan and estimate your entire rainscreen cladding job. Our planning tool will present customized installation components and guidelines based on the board you choose, environmental factors and design considerations for open-joint rainscreens. Start planning now.
Use the App
The SimpliClad SKU LOOKUP makes it easy to locate the proper hardware for any project, complementing the efficiency of the SimpliClad App. Whether sourcing materials based on the app's recommendations or manually selecting components, the SKU LOOKUP ensures quic and accurate access to the needed products, streamlining the construction process from start to finish.
Decking, Cladding and Trim Screws
APPLICATION
Color matched screws for attaching composite / PVC decking and cladding to steel or aluminum framing.
10 x 1-1/2″: ¾" to 1″ decking material attached to 16-20 gauge joists or furring.
10 x 1-5/8″: ¾" to 1″ decking material attached to 12-18 gauge joists or two 14 gauge joists doubled up.
12 x 2-3/8″: 1″ to 1-1/2″ decking material attached to up 1/4″ thick joists.
FEATURES
Epoxy coated Grade 410 stainless steel
Sharp drill point for quick installation into metal framing
Extra deep star drive recess to prevent cam-out
Undercut head to cut cleanly through the hard outer layer of capstock decking
Available in a variety of colors
INSTALLATION
Install flush with decking surface. Do not overdrive.
Install two screws per joist with a minimum three threads beyond metal framing.
Recommended: For a clean and professional finish use the SMART-BIT® Depth Setter Tool in combination with screws
APPLICATION
Color matched deck screw available in a variety of colors to match all of the leading composite/PVC deck boards and cladding on the market.
FEATURES
Extra deep star drive recess to prevent cam-out
Undercut head to cut cleanly through the hard outer layer of capstock decking
Reverse threads to prevent mushrooming and surface defects
Tri-lobular shanks and thread to reduce driving torque
Type 17 auger tip for faster, easier insertion and to help prevent splitting
Available in a variety of colors
INSTALLATION
Install flush with decking surface. Do not overdrive.
Install two screws per joist.
Predrilling is recommended when fastening within 1 from the end of a deck board.
Recommended: For a clean and professional finish use the SMART-BIT® Depth Setter Tool in combination with screws.
APPLICATION
Clip&Rip® Universal Hidden Deck Clip provides faster installation over traditional hidden clips. The 16 pre-assembled collated strips with stainless steel screws allow for one-pass fastening in one go saving time and money on the job site.
FEATURES
One-Pass Fastening: fastener can be installed in one go. The clip will remain level for sliding the next board in place
Compression Tabs: “bite" down into the joists, keeps clip level after screw is completely installed
Ease-of-Use: no additional tools needed. Installation is as easy as Insert, Drive, Snap!
Universal Compatibility: suitable for grooved composite, PVC, and hardwood decking
Time & Costs Savings: 16-clips per strip allow for installation of a full 20ft board
Consistent & Clean Look: clip creates 3/16″ spacing between boards
Corrosion Resistance: 305 and 316 stainless steel options available. 316 stainless allows for us in marine environments. Suitable for ACQ and pressure-treated lumber.
Packaging Options: available in 192ct packs covering 100 sq ft and 800ct packs for 425 sq ft
INSTRUCTIONS
Insert the strips of clips with the arrow pointing forward into the leading board groove. Center over joist.
Drive the screws down in a straight and steady fashion until the head of the screw is flush with the clip.
Lift up on strip to break off installed clip.
Install clips at every joist along length of board.
Place next board into position. Holding the deck board at a slight angle, push deck board into previously installed clips.
Check between boards to ensure consistency.
APPLICATION
Stainless steel screws with color coated heads for hardwood, cedar, redwood, pressure treated decking, PVC fascia and trim boards.
Flat Head—For hardwood, cedar, redwood, composite/PVC and pressure treated decking.
Trim Head—For hardwood, cedar, redwood, composite/PVC, pressure treated decking (finish applications) and PVC trim.
FEATURES
Grade 305 and Marine Grade 316 stainless steel for superior corrosion resistance
Lengths from 1-5/8″ to 3″
Reinforced flat or trim head with nibs for better countersinking
Extra deep star drive recesses to prevent cam-out
Type 17 auger tips for faster, easier insertion and to help prevent splitting
Approved for use in ACQ and other pressure treated lumber
INSTALLATION
Predrilling required for hardwoods and in all cases when fastening within 1-1/2″ from the end of a deck board.
Slightly countersink screw head. Do not overdrive.
Recommended: For a clean and professional finish use SMART-BIT®
Predrilling and Countersinking Tools in combination with screws.
APPLICATION
Stainless steel screws for hardwood, cedar, redwood and pressure treated decking.
Flat Head—For hardwood, cedar, redwood and pressure treated decking.
Trim Head—For hardwood, cedar and redwood; pressure treated trim and finish applications.
FEATURES
Grade 305 and Marine Grade 316 stainless steel for superior corrosion resistance
Lengths from 1-1/4″ to 3-1/2″
Reinforced flat or trim head with nibs for better countersinking
Extra deep star drive recesses to prevent cam-out
Type 17 auger tips for faster, easier insertion and to help prevent splitting
INSTALLATION
Predrilling required for hardwoods and in all cases when fastening within 1-1/2″ from the end of a deck board.
Slightly countersink screw head. Do not overdrive.
Recommended: For a clean and professional finish use SMART-BIT®
Predrilling and Countersinking Tools in combination with screws.
APPLICATION
Hidden fastening system that provides a secure face-fastened connection with precision cut, face grain plugs made from a variety of hardwood decking and flooring. Installation is a four step process utilizing a predrilling tool, glue (sold separately), screw and plug.
FEATURES
Provides the strength of top-down fastening with the high end finish of face grain wood plugs
Drill, screw, glue and plug all types of hardwoods in a fraction of the time compared to traditional plug methods
Patented Wood Tool creates a screw hole, countersink and counterbore to match other system components
Free spinning stop collar on Wood Tool prevents damage to the board surface
Patented glue nozzle applies glue to the sidewall of the counterbored hole
Kit packaging includes screws, plugs and glue nozzle (Wood Tool sold separately)
INSTALLATION
Follow all decking and flooring manufacturer instructions, including specifications for screw spacing, edge/end distances, and gapping.
Predrill with the countersinking Wood Tool using a corded drill on high speed until the collar stops spinning. Remove debris from hole.
Drive screw so that it is fully seated in the countersink. (Do not overtighten.)
Fit glue nozzle on glue bottle. Apply glue to hole by pushing down and gently squeezing the bottle while rotating it one quarter turn, then remove. Glue should coat the side walls of the hole.
Insert plug into hole, align grain of plug to match grain of board, and tap with a smooth-faced hammer until the plug is flush with board.
APPLICATION
Hidden fastening system that provides a secure face-fastened connection with precision cut plugs made from actual decking and cladding materials. Installation is a two-step process utilizing a setting tool, screws and plugs. All components must be used together as instructed to ensure proper function.
FEATURES
Plugs are for 1″ nominal (or greater) material and available in all leading deck and cladding brands
Available in Kits (screws, plugs and tool) and Inventory Management (system components sold separately)
Patented PVC/Composite Tool with Auto-Stop™ sets screw to the correct depth without stripping screw recess
Free spinning stop collar on setting tool prevents damage to the board surface
Screws feature a Type 17 auger tip for faster, easier insertion and to help prevent splitting
INSTALLATION
Follow all decking and cladding manufacturer instructions, including specifications for screw spacing, edge/end distances, and gapping. Predrilling is recommended for all composite deck boards. Predrill a 3/16″ pilot hole through the decking material only; not the joist. For DuraLife® decking, use a 7/32″ pilot hole.
Fit setting tool with application specific driver bit, marked “DECK".
Drive the screw with the PVC/Composite Tool using a standard drill on high speed.
Do not use impact driver with setting tool.
The setting tool's Auto-Stop™ mechanism will make a “pop" sound when the screw is set to the correct depth. (Do not hesitate or slow down while driving.)
Insert plug into hole and tap with a smooth-faced hammer until the plug is flush with board.
Drive screw with PVC/Composite Tool.
APPLICATION
Hidden fastening system that provides a secure face-fastened connection with precision cut plugs made from actual PVC trim boards. Installation is a two-step process utilizing a setting tool, screws and plugs. All components must be used together as instructed to ensure proper function.
FEATURES
Plugs are for 5/8″ to 1-1/4″ thick PVC trim and available in all leading brands
Available in Kits (screws, plugs and tool) and Inventory Management (system components sold separately)
Patented PVC/Composite Tool with Auto-Stop™ sets screw to the correct depth without stripping screw recess
Free spinning stop collar on setting tool prevents damage to the board surface
Screws feature a Type 17 auger tips for faster, easier insertion and to help prevent splitting
INSTALLATION
Follow all PVC trim manufacturer instructions, including specifications for screw spacing, edge/end distances, and gapping.
Retrieving data. Wait a few seconds and try to cut or copy again.
Drive the screw with the PVC/Composite Tool using a standard drill on high speed.
Do not use impact driver with setting tool.
The setting tool's Auto-Stop™ mechanism will make a “pop" sound when the screw is set to the correct depth. (Do not hesitate or slow down while driving.)
Insert plug into hole and tap with a smooth-faced hammer until the plug is flush with board.
APPLICATION
Color Matched Screws for Pressure Treated Lumber and PVC Trim.
Flat Head—For use in pressure treated decking.
Trim Head—For use in pressure treated trim and finish applications.
FEATURES
For excellent corrosion resistance and color matching with various types of treated lumber and PVC trim (Gray, Green, Red, Tan, White)
Lengths from 1-1/4″ to 6″
Reinforced flat or trim head with nibs for better countersinking
Extra deep star drive recesses to prevent cam-out
Type 17 auger tip for faster, easier insertion and to help prevent splitting
INSTALLATION
Install flush with decking surface. Do not overdrive.
Install two screws per joist.
Predrilling is recommended when fastening within 1-1/2″ from the end of a deck board.
Structural Connections
APPLICATION
Starborn® Structural H19 screws are designed for wood-to-wood connections in a variety of applications including decking, fencing, pergolas, landscape timbers, timber framing, and more. They are fully tested and code compliant alternatives to traditional lag screws and through-bolts, with no pre-drilling required. Structural H19 screws feature a hex washer head for maximum drivability, a unique Tri-Forge® point for reduced driving torque, and a high-adhesion exterior grade coating. The 6″ screw is ideal for truss or rafter to top plate connections and is a code compliant alternative to toe-nail connections, metal hurricane ties, and seismic clips.
FEATURES
IRC/IBC code compliant
No pre-drilling
Comparable to 3/8″ lag screws
0.19″ shank diameter
5/16″ hex head for maximum drivability
Tri-Forge® Point provides a fast star, minimal splitting, and reduced driving torque
Speed-Knurl™ reduces friction on the unthreaded shank for faster installation
Black exterior grade coating has high-adhesion and is an ACQ approved alternative to hot-dip galvanized coatings
CODE COMPLIANCE REPORTS
Fastener Properties and Design Values (DrJ TER 1703-05)
Truss or Rafter to Top Plate and Bottom Plate to Rim Board (DrJ TER 1703-02)
APPLICATION
Starborn® Structural H23 screws are specifically designed to attach deck ledgers to rim joists. They are fully tested and code compliant alternatives to traditional lag screws and through-bolts, with no pre-drilling required. Structural H23 screws feature a hex washer head for maximum drivability, a unique Tri-Forge® point for reduced driving torque, and a high-adhesion exterior grade coating. Complete fastening instructions are available in the Deck Ledger to Rim Joist Technical Guide. Structural H23 screws can also be used in a variety of other code compliant wood-to-wood connections.
FEATURES
IRC/IBC code compliant
No pre-drilling
Comparable to 1/2″ lag screws
0.23″ shank diameter
3/8″ hex head for maximum drivability
Tri-Forge® Point provides a fast start, minimal splitting, and reduced driving torque
Speed-Knurl™ reduces friction on
the unthreaded shank for faster installation
Black exterior grade coating has high-adhesion and is an ACQ approved alternative to hot-dip galvanized coatings
CODE COMPLIANCE REPORTS
Fastener Properties and Design Values (DrJ TER 1703-05)
Deck Ledger and Ledger to Stud Applications (DrJ TER 1703-01)
APPLICATION
Starborn® Structural F19 screws are designed for heavy duty framing applications that include decking, pergolas, fencing, timber frame, SIP panels, log home construction and other general applications. Available in lengths from 2-7/8″ to 16″, these multipurpose screws feature a unique Tri-Forge® point for faster installation than traditional lag screws and a low-profile flat head designed to countersink easily. Fully tested and code compliant, they require no pre-drilling and are finished with a high-adhesion exterior grade coating.
FEATURES
IRC/IBC code compliant
No pre-drilling
Comparable to 3/8″ lag screws
0.19″ shank diameter
T30 star drive head eliminates cam-out
Tri-Forge® Point provides a fast star, minimal splitting, and reduced driving torque
Speed-Knurl™ reduces friction on the unthreaded shank for faster installation
Black exterior grade coating has high-adhesion and is an ACQ approved alternative to hot-dip galvanized coatings
CODE COMPLIANCE REPORTS
Fastener Properties and Design Values (DrJ TER 1703-05)
Cladding Attachment Through Foam Sheathing (DrJ TER 1703-04)
Multi-Ply Applications (DrJ TER 1703-03)
APPLICATION
Starborn® Structural F23 screws are designed for heavy duty framing applications including decking, fencing, pergolas, landscape timbers, timber framing, and more. They are fully tested and code compliant alternatives to traditional lag screws and through-bolts, with no pre-drilling required. These versatile screws feature a low-profile flat head design that minimizes interference with connectors and finish materials, a unique Tri-Forge® point for reduced driving torque, and a high-adhesion exterior grade coating. The 4″ and 5″ lengths are specifically designed for code compliant deck ledger attachments.
FEATURES
IRC/IBC code compliant
No pre-drilling
Comparable to 1/2″ lag screws
0.23″ shank diameter
T40 star drive head eliminates cam-out
Tri-Forge® Point provides a fast start, minimal splitting, and reduced driving torque
Speed-Knurl™ reduces friction on the unthreaded shank for faster installation
Black exterior grade coating has high-adhesion and is an ACQ approved alternative to hot-dip galvanized coatings
CODE COMPLIANCE REPORTS
Fastener Properties and Design Values (DrJ TER 1703-05
Deck Ledger and Ledger to Stud Applications (DrJ TER 1703-01)
Cladding Attachment Through Foam Sheathing (DrJ TER 1703-04)
Multi-Ply Applications (DrJ TER 1703-03)
APPLICATION
Starborn® Structural F23 Stainless screws are designed for wood-to-wood connections in coastal or severe corrosion environments, ideal for decks, docks, boardwalks, pergolas, fencing, piers, and more. These screws are thoroughly tested and code-compliant alternatives to traditional lag screws and through bolts, requiring no pre-drilling. The 4″ and 5″ lengths are specifically designed for code compliant deck ledger attachments.
FEATURES
IRC/IBC code compliant
No pre-drilling required
Comparable to 1/2″ lag screws
0.23″ shank diameter
T40 star drive head eliminates cam-out
Low Profile Flat Head minimizes interference
Speed-Knurl™ reduces driving torque
Type 17 cut-point for fast start and reduced splitting
ACQ-approved, suitable for coastal environments
CODE COMPLIANCE REPORTS
Fastener Properties, Design Value (DrJ TER 1703-05): 2-7/8″, 4″, 5″, 6″
Ledger and Ledger to Stud Applications (DrJ TER 1703-01): 4″ & 5″
Cladding and Attachment Through Foam Sheathing (DrJ TER 1703-04): 2-7/8″, 4″, 5″, 6″
APPLICATION
Starborn® Structural F23-E and F23-W screws are specifically designed for interior multi-ply beam connections. They are a fully tested alternative to nails and through-bolts, and can be installed from one side of the beam without pre-drilling. Structural F23-E and F23-W screws feature a unique Tri – Forge® point for reduced driving torque and a low-profile flat head that minimizes interference with connectors and finish materials. They are available in specific lengths for 2-, 3-, and 4-ply beams. F23-E screws are designed to fasten LVL, LSL, and PSL multi-ply beams. F23-W screws are designed to fasten 2x sawn lumber multi-ply beams.
FEATURES
No pre-drilling
Alternative to nails and through-bolts
0.23″ shank diameter
T40 star drive head eliminates cam-out
Tri-Forge® Point provides a fast start, minimal splitting, and reduced driving torque
Speed-Knurl™ reduces friction on the unthreaded shank for faster installation
Thread design prevents board jacking
Gray e-coat finish with lubricated top-coat for interior use only
CODE COMPLIANCE REPORTS
Fastener Properties and Design Values (DrJ TER 1703-05)
Deck Ledger and Ledger to Stud Applications (DrJ TER 1703-01)
Smart-Bit® Tools
APPLICATION
Designed to drive screws to the perfect depth—flush or below the work surface— every time. Adjustable and easy to use on decks, drywall and in general construction. The tool works with Phillips® and Torx® bits and is designed for use with Starborn® fasteners and other screw products.
FEATURES
Perfectly set screws every time
Locking rings allow for screw depth adjustment and secures desired setting for consistent screw installation
Auto-Stop™ mechanism sets screw to the correct depth without stripping screw recess
Free spinning stop collar prevents damage to the board surface
CORRECT USE
Use a standard drill. Do not use an impact driver.
Drill in a straight and stable fashion.
The screw is set when the Auto-Stop™ mechanism engages fully (making a “pop" sound in most materials).
Twice as fast as standard wood bits
APPLICATION
Designed for decking and general woodworking when materials require predrilling. Tools are engineered to match precisely with HEADCOTE® and DECKFAST® stainless steel screws to provide a clean and professional finish.
FEATURES
Perfect for use with hardwoods like ipe, mahogany, meranti and merbau
Pre-set countersink matches head shape of HEADCOTE® and DECKFAST® stainless steel screws
Free spinning stop collar protects board surface
Durable ball bearing assembly
Replaceable Powerbolic® fluted drill bits that cut through decking more than twice as fast as standard wood bits
CORRECT USE
Choose the tool size gauge that matches the diameter and head style of screw.
(The 1-1/8″ overall hole depth is sufficient for installing decking material up to 5/4 nominal (30mm thick)
Drill in a straight and stable fashion.
The hole is complete when the collar stops spinning.
REPLACING BITS
Disconnect power and remove the SMART-BIT® Tool from the drill.
Loosen the set screw with the included hex wrench.
Remove old bit and insert a new bit fully into the countersink portion with the flat side facing the set screw.
Tighten the set screw.
Use only SMART-BIT® Powerbolic® replacement bits.
FASCIA SYSTEM Screws
APPLICATION
Color matched fastening system for composite/PVC deck fascia and cladding.
The system securely fastens fascia material while also allowing boards to expand and contract freely. Installation is a two-step process utilizing a pre-drilling tool and screws.FEATURES
Designed for use with ½" to ¾" composite fascia profiles
Fascia Tool creates an over-sized hole so that the board can expand and contract freely and provides a pre-set countersink that matches the head diameter and depth of the Fascia Screw
Free spinning collar on Fascia Tool prevents damage to the fascia board surface
Type 17 auger tips for faster, easier insertion and to help prevent splitting
Available in a variety of colors
INSTALLATION
Follow all fascia manufacturer instructions, including specifications for screw spacing, edge/ end distances, and gapping.
Pre-drill with the Fascia Tool until the collar stops spinning.
Drive the Fascia Screw until snug, do not overtighten. The material should hang from the screw to allow for expansion and contraction.
APPLICATION
Hidden fastening system that securely fastens deck fascia while also allowing boards to expand and contract freely. Precision cut plugs are made from actual fascia material. Installation is a three-step process utilizing a predrilling tool and a setting tool (sold as a tool set) and screws and plugs. All components must be used together as instructed to ensure proper function.
FEATURES
Fascia Plug Tool predrills an over-sized hole so that the board can expand and contract freely and provides a pre-set countersink that matches the diameter and depth of screw and plug
Free spinning stop collar on Fascia Plug Tool prevents damage to the board surface
PVC/Composite Tool with Fascia Bit sets screw to proper depth and eliminates overdriving screw
Screws feature Type 17 auger tip for faster, easier insertion and to help prevent splitting
Kit packaging includes screws and plugs (Fascia Plug Tool Set sold separately)
INSTALLATION
Follow all fascia manufacturer instructions, including specifications for screw spacing, edge/ end distances, and gapping.
Fit setting tool with application specific driver bit, marked “FSCA".
Predrill with the Fascia Plug Tool until the collar stops spinning.
Drive the screw with the PVC/Composite Tool using a standard drill on high speed.
Do not use impact driver with setting tool.
The setting tool's Auto-Stop™ mechanism will make a “pop" sound when the screw is set to the correct depth. (Do not hesitate or slow down while driving.)
Insert plug into hole and tap with a smooth-faced hammer until the plug is flush with board.
Construction Fasteners
In addition to manufacturing premium deck fastener lines such as Headcote®, Deckfast®, Smart-Bit® and Pro Plug®, Starborn also offers a wide variety of construction fasteners. These premium grade fasteners include drywall screws, specialty fasteners, bolts, nuts, washers and many more items. (For a complete product listing, download the latest Starborn catalog below). Over the past few years, Starborn has expanded its distribution of construction fasteners nationwide. Drawing on decades of experience and close ties with a select few mills makes it possible to deliver a superior product at a competitive price to all of the lower 48 states.
PRIVATE LABELING AND RETAIL DISPLAYS
Starborn offers an array of marketing tools to customers at no cost, including an extensive private labeling program. Screw packages are available with customer logos and telephone numbers, making it easy for builders and contractors to re-supply and enhancing the branding of distributors and individual lumber yards. Additionally, retail displays with branded signs allow distributors and lumber yards to easily create and maintain comprehensive construction fastener programs.
Fasteners for Cement Boards
APPLICATION
Screws designed for attaching tile backer boards to floors, walls, ceilings and countertops to wood or light-gauge steel framing. For use with HardieBacker®, Durock®, WonderBoard® and other tile back boards.
FEATURES
Patented drive eliminates cam-outs and wobble during installation
Serrated ribs under head provide flush finish
Cross-Cut knurl grinds cement board and reduces cracking and
mushrooming defects
High-low thread grips material
Conforms to ANSI A108.11 standards for cement board installation
INSTALLATION
CMNTFAST screws should be installed using an impact driver or variable RPM power driver
Predrilling is not required
For plywood – Screw must penetrate past plywood
For metal – Screw must penetrate at least 3/8″ past metal.
HardieBacker®, Durock® & WonderBoard® are all registered trademarks of their respective companies.
Deck Matcher
Color matches for CAP-TOR xd, HEADCOTE and DECKFAST screws. Find the right screw color to match all the most popular decking, trim and cladding boards on the market.
The DECK MATCHER also provides other related fastener options available for the chosen material.