Installation Process for Trailer Floorboard Screws

Floorboard Planning

Laying out a wooden flatbed for a trailer deck requires precision and planning to ensure a durable and functional surface.

1. Measure Your Trailer: Before purchasing or cutting any wood, measure the length and width of your trailer's bed.
2. Select Your Wood: Choose a wood type suitable for outdoor use and capable of withstanding the weight and type of cargo you plan to transport. Common choices include treated lumber or hardwoods like oak or apitong. Ensure the wood is straight and free of large defects.
3. Cut the Wood: Based on your measurements, cut the wood to the required length. If the trailer is wider than the width of one board, you'll need to lay boards side by side. Leave a small gap (about 1/8 inch) between each board to allow for wood expansion due to temperature changes and to prevent water from pooling on the deck.
4. Dry Fit the Deck Boards: Before securing the boards, lay them out on the trailer bed to ensure they fit properly. This is your chance to make any final adjustments or cuts. Ensure the boards are aligned and flush with the edges of the trailer. The ends of the boards should be supported by the crossmembers underneath.
5. Mark the Position of Crossmembers (if not visible): If the trailer's crossmembers are not visible from above, mark their positions on the side of the trailer or directly on the boards after aligning them. This will guide you where to drill pilot holes and drive the deck screws.

Mark Out Pilot Hole Locations

Once the decking is in place, confirm the positions of the crossmembers and indicate with a marker where holes need to be drilled. Wherever the wood of the trailer deck intersects with a crossmember, designate two drilling points approximately 1" from each side of the plank.

1. Align with Structural Members: Align the holes with the underlying support members (studs, joists, or crossmembers) for maximum strength achieved.
2. Spacing for Multiple Trailer Floor Screws: Ensure the pilot holes are evenly spaced. This not only improves the appearance but also ensures the load is evenly distributed.
3. Marking the Locations: Use a pencil, marker, or a small punch to mark the location of each hole. This helps in drilling accurately and prevents the drill bit from wandering. For precision, use a ruler, tape measure, or a template to ensure the marks are correctly positioned.

Drill Pilot Holes Thru the Wood and Metal

Use a 7/32" drill bit to create a pilot hole (a pilot hole is a small-diameter hole that guides the trailer decking screws)

1. Secure the Material: Make sure the material you're drilling into is stable and secure. You might need to clamp it down or have someone hold it firmly to prevent it from moving.
2. Position the Drill: Place the tip of the drill bit on the mark you made. Hold the drill so that the bit is perpendicular to the material's surface.
3. Drill the Hole: Start the drill at a slow speed to establish the hole. Once the bit has begun to bite into the material, you can increase the speed. Apply steady pressure.
4. Go through wood and metal: The trailer deck screws will self tap in the pilot hole (remember, these are wood to metal self tapping screws)

Secure Installation and Flush Mount with Flathead Self Drilling Screws

• With a T30 star bit, drive the trailer floorboard screws through the wood and into the metal crossmembers, positioning them slightly beneath the wood's surface to prevent any protrusions.
• When installed correctly, these self drilling screws deliver the essential hold for the boards, ensuring that your floor stays firmly secured while in transit.