Black Label™ Clad Clip Maxi V-O Rated

The Black Label™ Clad Clip Maxi V-O Rated changes how contractors approach rain screen installations. This hidden fastening system combines military-grade glass-filled nylon polymer clips with 316 marine-grade stainless steel screws, delivering fire protection and corrosion resistance that standard plastic clips can’t match.

The UL-94 V-0 flame-resistant rating sets these clips apart in wildfire-prone Montana regions. Heat-dissipating polymer formulation prevents thermal bridging during the state’s extreme temperature swings. For contractors working with high-end cladding systems, this clip solves multiple installation challenges while meeting the strictest building codes.

Fire Safety and Corrosion Resistance

The V-0 fire rating means these clips self-extinguish within 10 seconds when exposed to flame. Montana contractors building in WUI zones understand that every component matters for defensibility. Standard plastic clips melt and fail — these resist combustion entirely.

316 stainless steel fasteners handle Montana’s freeze-thaw punishment better than 304 stainless or coated steel alternatives. The difference shows after five winters. #10 x 1.5” flat-head Phillips screws provide the holding power needed for heavy hardwood cladding while resisting corrosion from snowmelt and rain.

Specification	Value
Clip Material	Military-grade glass-filled nylon polymer
Fire Rating	UL-94 V-0 (Flame-resistant)
Fastener Material	316 Stainless Steel (Marine Grade)
Screw Type	#10 x 1.5” (38 mm) Flat-head Phillips

Installation Coverage and Design

Coverage calculations determine material ordering. For 1x4 boards on 16” centers, plan for 3.5 clips per square foot. That drops to 2.0 clips for 1x6 boards and 1.5 clips for 1x8 boards. These rates assume standard 16-inch on-center framing — adjust accordingly for different stud spacing.

The rounded edge design protects water-resistive barriers from puncture damage during installation. Sharp-edged clips tear housewrap. These don’t. The offset design creates proper drainage gaps for rain screen ventilation while maintaining clean exterior lines through the hidden fastening approach.

Three kit configurations match different project scales:

• 200 clips with 200 screws plus Kryptonite bit
• 100 clips with 200 screws plus Kryptonite bit
• 500 clips with 1000 screws plus Kryptonite bit

Applications and Installation

Install using the provided Kryptonite Phillips bit to drive screws flush with the wood substrate. The specialized bit prevents cam-out on stainless steel screws. Works with wood sheathing standard, with a separate kit available for metal substrates.

Primary applications include rain-screen systems, exterior cladding, architectural paneling, and soffit installations. The system handles board thicknesses from 1/8” to 1/4” gapped rain screen configurations.

FAQ

What makes the V-0 rating important for Montana installations?

The UL-94 V-0 flame-resistant rating means these clips self-extinguish and won’t propagate flame. In Montana’s extreme wildfire zones, every building component needs fire resistance. Standard plastic clips fail this test.

How does 316 stainless steel compare to other fastener materials?

316 stainless steel contains molybdenum, providing superior corrosion resistance compared to 304 stainless or coated steel fasteners. The marine-grade designation means it withstands Montana’s freeze-thaw cycles and snowmelt exposure without rusting.

What coverage should I expect per kit?

Coverage depends on board width: approximately 37.7 square feet per 100 clips with 1x4 boards, 21.5 square feet with 1x6 boards, or 16.1 square feet with 1x8 boards on 16-inch centers.

Will these clips damage my water-resistive barrier?

No. The rounded edge design specifically prevents WRB damage — a common failure point with sharp-edged clips that can tear housewrap during installation or building movement.