Deck clips slow installation of the decking. A potential complication with deck clips is with butt joints, where the clips would have to be installed right near the end of the boards. The problem can be overcome by using a double joist or a wider joist to keep the clip away from the end. The Deck Board Tie is light-weight and has very small prongs. The Dec-Klip holds the boards off the joists and is plated after manufacturing, which ensures rust protection.
Some builders use a carpenter s pencil to space deck boards.
This is more than adequate for water to drain through. It is also aesthetically appealing. Gapping deck boards is far from an exact science. When plastic lumber is bundled and subject to temperature change, some of the boards are going to be crooked. They may have some cupping or a curve or bow from one end to the other.