I am from Toronto, Canada. ( For context of availability/weather condition)

I am wondering how do you choose what fastener to use ? There are so many articles and suggestions online that I am confused.

Thinking of building a 10X10 ground level deck and a pergola (on concrete piers). Something looking like this.

I am lost trying to create my shopping list for fasteners. My joists are 2X8 and post is 4X4So far, I know that I will need :

– carriage bolts (to connect joists to post); what type, size ? (thickness, length?) what material ?

– structural screws/nails (I prefer screws). What size (thickness, length) should I get?

– connectors ? Joist hanger ? what else ?

– deck screws (I'd like to use hidden fasteners)? Any specific tool like Marksman Edge needed ?

– Lag screws, do I need them anywhere, instead of structural screws ?

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Any suggestion and advice would be greatly appreciated.