DIY - build it yourself
Build Your Own ShadowDeck™
New Zealand's nail-free hidden fastener decking system — designed for DIY from the ground up.
Shop Trade PacksView Installation Guide
The Fast, Easy & Long-Lasting Decking System
We'll ship your ShadowDeck™ components directly to your door — ready to install.
How It Works
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Measure Up
Use our online calculator at www.ShadowDeck.co.nz to work out exactly how many lineal metres of decking and how many fasteners you need. No guesswork, no over-ordering. -
Order Your Pack
Choose the right ShadowDeck™ Trade Pack for your deck size — 3sqm, 6sqm, or 12sqm — and add your decking boards. Everything arrives ready to go. -
Install with Confidence
Follow our step-by-step Installation Guide. The ShadowDeck™ hidden fastener system is engineered for straightforward DIY installation — no specialist tools, no nails through the face, just a clean professional result.
Perfect for DIY Installers
- ✓ No nails through the face — hidden fastener system for a clean, professional finish
- ✓ DIY friendly — full installation guide and plans included
- ✓ Pre-packed trade kits — everything you need in one order
- ✓ Premium Kwila timber — naturally durable hardwood built for NZ conditions
- ✓ Consistent 3mm board spacing — built-in spacing control for drainage and airflow
- ✓ Delivered to your door — order online and get started
Get Started — Shop Trade Packs
Why ShadowDeck™?
Timber decking is a significant investment. ShadowDeck™ is engineered to protect that investment — with a hidden fastener system that eliminates split boards, unsightly fixings, and the frustration of a deck that looks tired before its time.
| Feature | ShadowDeck™ | Traditional Nail Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Visible fixings on surface | ✗ None | ✓ Yes |
| Risk of split board ends | ✗ None | ✓ High |
| Consistent board spacing | ✓ Built-in 3mm | ✗ Manual |
| DIY friendly | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| Premium finish | ✓ Professional | ✗ Visible nails |
Build It Yourself — Step by Step
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Read the Plan
Download and review the ShadowDeck™ Installation Guide to understand the layout, joist spacing, and board calculations before you start. -
Prepare Your Frame
Set out your joists at 400mm centres. Allow a 12mm gap between the house and your first board using the ShadowDeck™ House-2-Deck Spacers. -
Install the First Board
Slide the first board into the House-2-Deck Spacer, tighten with the ShadowDeck™ Deck Wrench, and fix your first fastener at a 35–40° angle. -
Lay Your Decking
Slot fasteners into the groove of each board, use the Deck Wrench to pull boards in tight, and screw off at each joist. Repeat to the end. -
Fix the Perimeter
Install your fascia boards and picture frame profile for a clean, finished edge. Use the T-Shaped Fastener and Butt-Joint Biscuits at joins. -
Enjoy Your Deck
Apply a coat of UV Extreme Kwila Oil and enjoy your new ShadowDeck™ — built by you, built to last.
Shop by Deck Size
Not sure where to start? Choose your Trade Pack based on your deck area and we'll include everything you need.
- 3sqm Trade Pack — ideal for small decks and feature sections
- 6sqm Trade Pack — perfect for mid-sized residential decks
- 12sqm Trade Pack — for larger deck projects