Cortex for Azek Trim by FastenMaster
What Cortex for AZEK Trim Is
- FastenMaster Collated Cortex Hidden Fastening System for AZEK Trim – a common Cortex kit that includes screws, plugs, and sometimes a setting tool.
- FastenMaster Cortex 75‑Piece Fastener Set for AZEK Trim – smaller pack for shorter runs.
- FastenMaster Cortex Frontier Trimboard and Azek Frontier 2" Collated Cortex Hidden Plug Fasteners – larger packs for longer trim runs.
- Other options (e.g., FastenMaster Cortex for Azek Trim, Azek Traditional 2" Cortex Hidden Plug Fasteners) vary by screw length, plug style, and linear feet coverage.
These products use special screws and matching plugs made from the same PVC trim material so they blend in seamlessly with your trim boards once installed.
How the System Works
-
Drive the Cortex Screw
A specially designed fastener (often TORX ttap® drive) is driven through the trim into the substrate (stud or blocking) so the screw head sits below the surface. -
Install the Plug
Each screw hole gets a plug (usually matching your AZEK trim material/color). The plug is tapped into the hole flush with the board surface, making the fastener nearly invisible. -
Finish
The trim looks clean and continuous because the plug matches the trim — no unsightly grit holes, reducing or eliminating the need for caulk/paint on screw holes.
Key Benefits
- Hidden fasteners: A clean, finished look with screw heads concealed beneath material-matched plugs.
- Faster install: Collated strips and plug systems make installation quicker than hand-driving individual screws and filling holes manually.
- Material-matched plugs: Plugs are cut from or made to match AZEK material so they age and expand/contract with the board.
- Stronger than nails: Cortex screws provide a stronger mechanical connection compared with traditional nails used for trim.
Cortex now comes with the following product enhancements:
- Collated Cortex Plugs: FastenMaster Cortex plugs are now available on a collated strip. This minimizes handling and saves valuable time on the job site.
- Shorter & Faster Trim Screw: A new 2” fastener option delivers high levels of holding power but now offers versatility for applications such as deck fascia and exterior baseboards. The dual-lead thread design spins the fastener 50% faster for quicker installs.
- TORX® ttap® Drive System: This system is almost impossible to strip-out and the fastener is easily removed. The stability button keeps the fastener straight through installation.
- Stronger Setting Tool: Optimized for extreme pro contractor use. Stronger bit material and industrial grade felt will enable you to install 350 fasteners on one Cortex Setting Tool.
Install Azek trim without the trace of nail holes. By using the Cortex system you drill, screw, then tap in the azek plug. No need to fill nail head holes with caulk!
DETAILS:
- 2" fastener length allows for more versatility in 5/8" and 5/4" trim applications
- No special tools required
- Stability button keeps fasteners straight
- Virtually eliminates cam - out
- Easy screw removal
- Available in Azek White only
- 250 ~ Lineal ft. or 750 ~ Lineal ft.
- Available in single plug or collated
The FastenMaster Cortex Concealed Fastening System is the fastest, easiest way to conceal the fastener heads when installing Azek PVC Trim boards.
No more caulking, sanding or painting needed. Plugs made from 100% Azek.
