Ready to Get Started?
Our building materials specialists can help you find the right Starborn products for your project.
Browse › Building Materials › Starborn
Starborn CAP-TOR xd Deck Screws
The Anti-Mushrooming Solution for Composite Decking
Building Materials StarbornStarborn CAP-TOR xd screws solve the mushrooming problem that plagues composite decking installations. Reverse threads prevent ‘mushrooming’ by pulling composite material back down. Undercut head design for a clean, professional finish in capstock decking. These aren’t just another deck screw with fancy marketing — they’re engineered specifically for the challenges of modern composite and PVC decking materials.
The Technology That Sets CAP-TOR xd Apart
The engineering behind CAP-TOR xd addresses real jobsite problems. It features a Type 17 auger tip for easy installation, tri-lobular shanks to reduce torque, reverse threads to prevent surface defects, and an undercut head for clean cuts through hard decking surfaces. That reverse thread design is the key innovation. Standard screws push composite material upward, creating unsightly mushrooms around each fastener. CAP-TOR xd’s threads pull the material back down for a flush finish.
Epoxy coating offers high corrosion resistance and ACQ approval. This matters in Montana where pressure-treated lumber dominates deck framing. The ACQ chemistry in modern treated lumber eats through inferior coatings. Star drive prevents cam-out and stripping during installation. Anyone who’s stripped out a Phillips head knows the value of a proper star drive.
Installation Requirements
For coastal/salt-water environments, the 316 Stainless version is recommended over the epoxy version. Pilot holes recommended near board ends (within 1 inch); otherwise not typically required. The Type 17 auger tip eliminates pre-drilling for most applications — a significant time saver on large deck projects.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Gauge | #10 |
| Length | 2-3/4 inches (70mm) |
| Drive Type | T-20 Star Drive |
| Tip Type | Type 17 auger tip |
| Thread Design | Reverse threads (prevents mushrooming), tri-lobular shank |
| Pack Size | 350 screws |
| Coverage | Approximately 100 sq ft per pack |
Color Matching and Brand Compatibility
Color #34 Saddle is matched to industry-leading brown deck boards. The #34 Saddle works with multiple decking brands:
Trex Compatibility:
- Saddle
- Jasper
- Tree House
- Ocracoke
- Havana Gold
Other Brands:
- Fiberon (various brown tones)
- Wolf (Saddle)
Beyond the #34 Saddle, CAP-TOR xd offers additional color-matched options for seamless, professional finishes. Other available colors include:
- #37 Pebble Grey (for Fiberon gray tones)
- #53 Dark Gray
- #54 Warm Gray
Cap-Tor xd is approved for use with all major PVC and Composite deck brands. This universal compatibility makes inventory management simpler for contractors working with multiple decking brands.
Professional Reception
Contractors appreciate CAP-TOR xd’s ability to provide a clean finish without pre-drilling on many composite brands. Zero negative reports have surfaced in professional circles. Users consistently note that these screws are simple to install and provide a finished look, especially on deck stairs and similar applications.
The lack of negative feedback speaks volumes. Deck screws that cause problems generate contractor complaints fast. CAP-TOR xd’s clean track record suggests the engineering delivers on its promises.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do CAP-TOR xd screws work with all composite decking brands?
Cap-Tor xd is approved for use with all major PVC and Composite deck brands. While approved for all major brands, color matching varies by model number. The #34 Saddle specifically matches Trex Saddle, Jasper, Tree House, and similar brown tones from other manufacturers.
Q: When should I use stainless steel CAP-TOR xd instead of epoxy-coated?
For coastal/salt-water environments, the 316 Stainless version is recommended over the epoxy version. The epoxy coating handles standard ACQ-treated lumber fine, but salt spray demands the upgrade to 316 stainless steel.
Q: Do I need to pre-drill holes for CAP-TOR xd screws?
Pilot holes recommended near board ends (within 1 inch); otherwise not typically required. The Type 17 auger tip eliminates pre-drilling for most of the deck surface, saving significant installation time.
Q: What makes CAP-TOR xd different from standard deck screws?
Standard screws often cause mushrooming in composite boards; CAP-TOR xd prevents this. The reverse thread design and undercut head work together to pull material down rather than pushing it up, eliminating the mushroom effect that ruins the appearance of composite decking.
Q: How many screws come in a pack?
Each pack contains 350 screws, which covers approximately 100 square feet of decking. The package includes 350 screws and two free T-20 star drive bits.