The FastenMaster Cortex Fastening System is the fastest, easiest way to conceal the heads of your deck screws on market leading deck board types.
Cortex offers a strong connection between the deck board and the joist and can conceal fasteners across the entire deck: first and last board, perimeter, and stairs. Set the screw. Set the plug. You're all set!

Key Features
• Fast and Easy: The deck boards are fastened in the same way as a traditional deck
• Strong Connection: A through-fastened deck offers the highest level of board-to-joist connection and deck racking strength
• Cost Effective: Less expensive than virtually any other hidden fastening system
• Fully Tested: All Cortex components have been fully tested and are guaranteed
• Made in the USA

Product Specifications
Drive Type	Square
Head Type	Trim
Screw Length	2-3/4"
Screw Size	#8
Colors	Trex Finishes: Saddle, Winchester Grey, Madeira, Woodland Brown, Acorn and Pewter
Material Type	Steel with 3 layer epoxy coating
Pack Size	350 and 1,050 packs
Coverage Estimate	350 Piece Box: 100 sqft 1050 Piece Box: 300 sqft
Included Accessories	350 Piece Box: (350) #8 x 2-3/4" screws, (400) plugs and (2) Cortex setting tool 1050 Piece Box: (1050) #8 x 2-3/4" screws, (1200) plugs and (6) Cortex setting tool
Warranty	FastenMaster Guarantee of Performance
Other	Made in the USA!

INSTALLATION PROCEDURES
1. Using the setting tool, drive the fastener to the preset level below the deck surface. It must be driven perpendicular
to the deck, with two screws per joist.
2. Place the plug into the cored-out hole and gently tap until it is flush with the deck surface.
Cortex Tip: Use scrap wood as a striking surface to eliminate potential marring the hammer may cause.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION
- The Cortex setting tool must be used to set the Cortex screw at the correct depth.
- The Cortex fastener must be driven perpendicular to the deck surface for proper fit and ideal finished look.
- The cored hole must be free of debris or moisture. Use a smooth hammer head to set the Cortex plug.
- Predrilling is required at butt joints and at the ends of boards. Common building practices dictate that you sister a joist at butt joint connections.
- Use of non-Cortex screw or non-Cortex plug will nullify the FastenMaster Warranty.

Removing the Cortex Plug and Screw
- Remove existing plug by tapping into the plug with a trim screw.
- Using a standard #1 driver bit (not the Cortex setting tool), engage driver bit deep into screw recess prior to backing out, then reverse fastener out slowly.
Cortex Tip: An 18V impact drill can offer best results when removing a fastener.

Restricted Cortex Uses
The Cortex System is designed for traditional elevated deck structures. The following applications require a different fastening method or further instructions:
- Sleeper systems: Framing rests directly on the ground or roof deck.
- Over solid wood surfaces (i.e. fascia boards, handrails, benches).
- Docks or decks with framing members in constant contact with water.
- Restricted airspace when there is less than 12" of clearance on 3 sides under deck.
- Tear-offs that utilize old framing as support for new decking.
- Decking materials other than 1" standard thickness (usually labeled as 5/4").