The Cortex Engineered Plug

Each Cortex plug has been engineered and tested to yield the ultimate long term performance. This in-house and third-party testing includes:

•   UV stability/long term weathering

•   Intense freeze-thaw cyclic testing

•   Expansion/contraction cyclic testing

•   Moisture saturation/freezing performance  

•   Impact resistance

Based on the results of this comprehensive testing, FastenMaster is able to warranty the performance of the Cortex concealed plug connection for the life of the trim.

The Cortex screw

The Cortex screw has been engineered to offer the highest level of connection strength of trim board, while also creating a consistent cored hole for the plug.

The Cortex screw is coated using our fully-warranted proprietary coating process. 

The Cortex setting tool

The Cortex setting tool is engineered to ensure that the screw is set to the correct depth every time.

Easy to use

1.  Use an 18 volt cordless impact drill to install Cortex for PVC Trim screws.

2.  The setting of the Cortex screw creates a cored-out hole in the trim surface.

3.  Place the PVC Trim plug into the hole with the trim surface side up and gently tap until it is flush with the trim surface.

Cortex Tip: Be careful to ensure that the head of the hammer is flat with the trim surface to eliminate potential marring that may be caused by the hammer.      

Beautiful finished look

The finished look of the Cortex Concealed System is virtually invisible.

Cortex Tip: When you are very close to the trim board, you will see a subtle indication that there is a doweled plug in the trim. It is recommended that you test the Cortex system on a few trim boards to ensure you approve of the final look. 

Fully Paintable

If desired, the Cortex for PVC Trim can be painted. See the Trim Manufacturers' technical information for specific painting instructions.

Important installation directions :

The FastenMaster Cortex concealed fastening system is designed for use with PVC Trim with actual thicknesses of 5/8” to 5/4”.

General Fastening Guidelines 

For horizontal trim boards less than 12” wide, use two Cortex fasteners at every framing member – rafter tail or wall stud. The screws should be 16" on center or closer.

If you are attaching a vertical trim board (ex: next to a door or a window) use two Cortex fasteners every 16” on center or closer.

If trim board is 12” or wider, use three screws.

Each trim board must be fastened within two inches of the end of each board.

Predrilling

Predrilling is not required throughout the majority of the project. Predrilling is required when fastening within 1/2" of the end of a board and at mitered joints. Use a 3/16" drill bit for predrilled pilot holes.

Setting the Cortex Fastener

Use a cordless impact driver and the Cortex setting tool. Drive the Cortex fastener to the preset level below the PVC Trim surface. The Cortex screw must be driven perpendicular to the trim surface. 

Cortex Tip: To remove a Cortex screw set below the trim surface, replace the Cortex setting tool in your impact driver with a #1 square drive bit. This allows full access to the seated screw. 

Setting the Cortex Engineered Plug

To ensure a strong bond, the cored hole must be free of dirt or rain water.

Using other screws and plugs

The Cortex System is designed to offer ultimate long term performance. The interaction between the PVC Trim, fastener and plug is essential. The Cortex connection is fully tested and warranted.  Use of non-Cortex screw or non-Cortex plug will result in nullifying the FastenMaster warranty.