Alternatively, you can consider increasing the gapping to about 10mm. Another way of installing fasteners is with theUniversal Fastener Installation Tool. Refer to our installation guide for an approved list of fasteners for Trex Fascia. Also, you may pause the risk of splitting your board when driving the screws. #TimberTechPartner Now that we have furniture and our outdoor space is Mark the deck board against the speed square. Mark with a pencil where the edge of the first deck board will end up on top of the joist at the two ends of the deck. For the best results, it would be best if you did the cutting with a finer tooth blade. Other problems with the composite decking include. You only need to ensure that you follow the correct installation process to avoid the common problems associated with this product. All these are caused by the composite nature of the deck that lets it be more sensitive to humidity, temperature, and sun exposure. Side-to-side spacing refers to the gap between the length of the boards. Start by cutting a 1 wide piece of the decking board. Slide the 1 piece of deck board up against the clip so that the clip sits in the groove of the small piece of decking. The success of your deck build begins with the proper joist spanning and gapping. Can You Put Composite Decking on Wooden Joists? Use our deck spacer tool for an even easier deck installation. Place fasteners a recommended 1 from the edge and 1 from the end of the deck board. If your deck is in direct sunlight, dont go for a darker composite material since its good at retaining heat and will eventually get too hot to walk on. You should note that youll have to employ different fixing methods, including biscuit type, strip click-in, or top fixing screws that disappear through the surface. Snap it lightly in the air to get the excess chalk off the line. If you are looking to add a outdoor living space to your home give us a call. Do this every 3 or 4 boards to ensure the boards are straight. A: The Trex Hideaway hidden . The average composite decking will expand and contract 3/16" over a 16' board. Choose the wax that most closely matches the color of your Trex decking. Stretch the chalk line across the joists and hold it on the two pencil marks. But the spacing between deck boards is critical for many reasons. Its also best for fine-tuning. #Deckdesign #deck #decks #Deckbuilding #decking #outdoorliving #outdoorlivingspace #azekdecking #TimberTech timbertech #porch #azek #patiolife #paverpatio #Patiodesign #patios #pavers #hardscape #hardscaping #Patiodesign#Aluminumrailing #outdoorlivingspace #outdoorfireplace #landscapedesign #outdoordesign #backyard #gardendesign #exteriordesign #backyarddesign #outdoorspace #outdoorkitchen #keylinkrailing. Decking comes in many forms these days. Decking Outdoor The Basics 1 Realistic wood grain texture will give you the look you want, without the price tag. Spacing between deck boards provides a few critical functions. Repeat the process of installing the hidden fasteners. The gaping will prevent your deck from cracking or splitting if there is a slight thermal contraction or expansion. Things to Consider before Using Screws on your Composite Decking. 2. Copyright 2023 Trex Company, Inc. All rights reserved. The deck board will be flush with the outside of the rim joist and needs to be that same away from the post. As mentioned earlier, it is extremely important to read and follow all installation instructions when using man-made materials. Plus, youll never have to worry about moisture damage, mildew, and mould forming because of the impenetrable capped polymer material. VIEW INSTALL GUIDES. Finally, you can now replace the warped deck with the new one. They also usually recommend the best fasteners to use. The end-to-end spacing recommendations depend on whichTimberTechproduct line you choose. The other best thing about these products is how they require low maintenance with less surface treatment. After repeated expansion/contraction cycles, cracks can begin to develop on top of the joist radiating out of the fastener hole. If you want to waterproof this area, consider using rubber flanges to fill the gaps. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Step 6: Account for mishaps, waste, and off cuts. Despite this, the system also has some drawbacks, including damaging the wooden joist. Trex composite decking also does some things that wood can't. Trex fasteners go in between deck boards, keeping the walking surface smooth and . As referenced earlier, deck spacers can help to achieve perfect spacing. What a view! Overall, conventional decking profiles should be installed such that when seasoned, they will have gaps between 1/8 and of an inch. Some of the major composite decking companies like Trex, Timber Tech, and Azek claimed that the composite decking material did not need to be cleaned or sealed like wood decking. #homedesign #yycliving #yegliving #renovation #interiordesign #designinspo #calgaryrenovations #calgarycontractors #calgarybuilders #yychomes #yycconstruction #yycrenovations #buildingmaterials #homeimprovement #DIY #deck #decking #compositedeck #trex #homedesign #yycliving #yegliving #renovation #timbertech #BetterTechBetterDeck #GoAgainstTheGrain, Check out this completed front porch with timbertech Vintage decking and azekexteriors columns Even so, it would help if you went for the one that suits your budget and project requirements. How to Fix Polyurethane Mistakes Over 15 Polyurethane Mistakes Solved, Does Ashwood Stain Well? I would recommend 16 OC since it allows enough space between the boards for efficient thermal expansion while avoiding sagging. Archadeck has access to the best building materials on the market, from gorgeous wood to hi-tech composites, so your imagination is the ceiling! Regardless of the price point that you choose, rest . The deck design must allow unrestricted air flow . . #timbertech #deck #renovation #grayhomerenivations #guilford #ctcontractor, Beautiful living ivy privacy fence with black frame, what a great way to create additional privacy for your outdoor living area! Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors. If the decking instead expands, the decking boards could close the original 1/8" inch gap. There are several ways which you can use to waterproof your composite decking. Youre nearing the end of the project and its normal to want to get the job done as quickly as possible. You should note that the above gapings are as per the surrounding temperature. The deck was redone with timbertech and we added custom stone columns for a complete upgrade to this homes curb appeal! Many PVC and Trex composite decking products are not the same color all the way through, so you'll want to cover the ends. In hot climates, homeowners have complained about decking boards that hump or warp because they expand and have nowhere to go but up instead of sideways. . . Therefore, the recommended joist spacing on. Pay very close attention to the fastener type and size recommended by the decking manufacturer. The first deck board on a deck build should be positioned on the front rim of the deck, depending on how the fascia is going to be installed. Side-to-side spacing:Typically1/8- 1/4, depending ondeck material and fastener type, End-to-end spacing:Depends on decking material. The type of screw to use depends on your projects requirement. Step 5: Determine deck board spacing square footage. But, with the advancement in fastener technology, you can escape the predrilling stage. It even becomes worse if you live in areas with high humidity. The last deck board installed against the house will need to be angled to fit between the house and into the hidden fastener clip. Apply light pressure to either the scratch pad or the applicator that came with the wax, and move the tool over the scratched spot very quickly. There are gaps between boards side-to-side but zero gap end-to-end. Also, its good to use a dark tape color. A distance of 1/8 inch to 1/4 inch between the boards is generally considered the most suitable. Setup the kiddie pool on the #timbertech deck shade spot, of course! Place the tool on top of the deck board and tight to the outside edge. If option one didnt work for you, you could choose to use this method. These man-made materials all have very different characteristics than wood. . Cutting the boards to length will give the proper gap between the field deck boards so that the breaker board can be properly installed. *Timing is estimated for a 14'x22' deck with two workers with intermediate carpentry skills. Traditional wood decking is typically installed with a 1/8" gap, as long as you install the boards after they have dried out and acclimated to your local climate. Insert the color-matched composite fastener into the hole and drill in place until the fastener is flush with the top of the decking. Here are some: You can waterproof your composite decking by attaching an under-deck ceiling system. Beautiful colour blended composite decking that comes with a 25 year fade and stain warranty. Explore ourDeck Building Resource Centerfor more DIY installation insight with easy-to-follow videos, step-by-step installation guides, and more helpful considerations to guide your build. Such screws include: The above screws come as stainless steel and epoxy-coated steel. decorated, weve been trying to use it as much as we can before it snows #raleighnc #durhamnc #carync #compositedecking #decks, Morning coffee anyone? Deck board spacingrefers to the gapbetween the sidesof the deck boards andbetween the endsof the deck boards. In this case, the first deck board would over hang the fascia by . This bit will come in the packing of the Trex Hideaway Fasteners. 4. It providesspace forwater drainage and airflow. We love incorporating lighting on our projects to help set them apart. The next thing is to frame your deck depending on your deck size, then add the concrete footings. Dont assume you know what to do. Copyright 2023 Trex Company, Inc. All rights reserved. Let the hole touch each side of the corner lines that were marked for the post. Use Find a Builder to identify contractors in your area who can help. The result: an outdoor space that epitomizes the beauty of indoor-outdoor living in California, including eco-friendly materials, like sustainably sourced decking and water-smart hardscaping, and habitat-supporting plants, like salvia and lavender. Besides, check on the needed materials, then gather all the necessary tools. Q: What size gap between the boards? With this product, youll enjoy less maintenance, thus cutting the cost of purchasing the maintenance tools. For instance, a wet composite surface is not safe, especially on pool sides. There are over a hundred different man-made decking products currently on the market. The most common types of decking material expand and contract in different directions: Traditional woodexpands along itswidth. Dont opt for chemical sleepers as they are not environmentally friendly. Even so, ensure you go for the pressure-treated joists for durability purposes. Its durable and backed by a long-life warranty. You may ask, Why space deck boards? Because the wood expands and contracts the greatest amount across the surface that youll walk on, you must be sure that you dont create too little space that could prevent proper drainage or cause other issues. It does not store any personal data. TimberTech AZEK MAX boards which are 1.5" thick (compared to the standard 1" thick) in Coastline and Slate Gray. Its amazing what some lighting can do to a project. Getting the Best Out of Your Ash Furniture 2023. The fascia board can be installed tight against the rim joist and flush with the top of the frame. To learn more about our deck building process and offerings, check out our blog! Learn why building a deck in winter or fall might be your best bet. The measurement can help you plan for what you need to do to achieve the proper deck board spacing once the lumber is dry. Heres a video on how to install a composite decking: Yes, youll need to gap your Trex decking both end to end and width to width. Once the hole is drilled, cut the lines and the jig saw blade will be able to turn easily in the corner of the square marks. Copyright 2023 WoodCritique | Linsila LLC. A professional deck spacing tool can help to eliminate guesswork. After this, its time to lay down your deck boards. Plastic expands and contracts differently than wood. WoodCritique.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Before deciding which is best between the two, lets check on some of their pros and cons. Get instant & exclusive access to design tools, tutorials and much more! This is the Weathered Teak colour from the TimberTech Azek Vintage range. But you should not screw or drill through a hollow composite deck. Tip: The 3 decking screws are the ideal choice for your composite decking since they securely sink a good distance into the joists and never back out like nails. Swipe through for the before and after! #timbertech #azek #MultiWidthDecking #BetterTechBetterDeck #GoAgainstTheGrain #timbertechdeck #decks #FadeResistantDecking, Deck is done! It features a stainless steel deck screw already set in the fastener for increased durability and easier installation. Therefore, you can consider going for a seamless and smooth design. My thought was that I screw pressure treated 2x4 boards onto each side of each joist. Most colored chalks are permanent and may discolor the surface. Here are six planning considerations when building a Trex deck. One person should go to the halfway point of the extended chalk line and carefully press the line down on top of a joist to hold the line in place. Nailing bocks between the . Yes, this product is worth spending an extra cost. Most manufacturers offer composite decking boards in 12, 16 and 20 lengths. What is The Recommended Gapping for Trex Decking. The fasteners must be less that 16 on center. Deck boards can easily get scratched or chipped accidentally. Overhang the decking to minimize predrilling. Alternatively, consider attaching your composite decking boards to the joists. Type 99 slash point, acute threading, tri-lobular to allow them to penetrate dense boards easily. On the other hand, the end to width side will require a gapping of at least 3mm for temperatures above 4.5 degrees and 5mm for temperatures below 4.5 degrees. Composite Fascia Installation Tips. Want to learn more about our design process and other FAQs? Composite deckings have undeniable advantages. Dont forget to account for some overhang where the decking hangs out over the face of the outer joist thats parallel with the first board. The primary function is to drain water from the deck. Front porch with trex decking. As youll recall,TimberTechcapped polymer and capped composite deckingexpands and contracts along its length, soproper end-to-end spacing is critical. Check Your Building Codes The first thing you should do before planning a deck is check with your local zoning laws and building codes. You can do this using a chalk line to find the highest spots. Always make sure that you have a first aid kit nearby. Ultimately, the goal is to have consistent spacing and for the deck boards to be in a straight line. Most manufacturers offer how-to videos that show how to effectively use the tool. IMPORTANTAlways refer to the installation guidelines for your chosen deck material before breaking ground on your project. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously. Terms of use. If Trex is made from recycled materials, why is it more expensive than wood? Can You Use a Staple Gun On Composite Decking? The post sleeve and post trim ring will cover any small gaps. . You can also include your observations. Twice the fun in the sun! #frontporch #frontporchproject #frontporchliving #frontporchsittin #timbertech #timbertechdeck #decksofinstagram #porchesofinstagram #porch #deckdesign #timbertechtakeover #libertyville #libertyvillehomes, Talk about a hands-on experience! The width varies by brand and style and can range from one to two inches thick and four to six inches wide. Alternatively, you can consider increasing the gapping to about 10mm. But you should ensure you leave no gap between the system and the house to eliminate any room for water damage. Doing this will ensure that you dont have a saggy or uneven surface on your decking. This tool will hold the clip and guide the tip of the drill into the top of the fastener, making installation easier and faster. Imagine the deck board might expand or contract just 1/8 inch across the surface where you walk. Therefore, you need to ensure you correctly install them for the best results. Its light it stays cooler and looks fantastic with any other colors. The same is true for the adjacent decking planks. Altogether, this does not mean that your deck is safe from fading, especially if exposed to direct sunlight. For any home project, be certain to follow local code and permitting requirements. deck, so you better believe were going to get the most out of it, even if that Hence it has enhanced durability and elegance. You rarely have this issue with composite or metal decking boards. TimberTech AZEK Decking Vintage Collection - Mahogany Hold the speed square tight against the edge of the board and let the shoe of the saw follow the speed square. Consider using the right tool for the job. 1 box covers 50 sq. All lit up at night with lighted post caps and a tasteful Led step lighting ft. (4.6 m2) 1 bucket covers 500 sq. Then lift the line on either side one at a time to chalk the line. Cut 3/16 off the board. Here, youll want to be specific since not all blades designed for wood will properly cut Trex or similar composite decking material. Trex Select is a good quality railing at an affordable price. Step 4: Divide deck square footage by board square footage. Capped polymer and capped compositedeckingexpands along itslength. Having a beautiful fire pit helps I loved our deck before, but I love it even Raised composite fascia board. Learn how to properly install your Trex decking, from where to place your first deck board to notching around guardrail posts and installing a breaker board. . Consult our Installation Guide for a full list of recommended fasteners for Trex Decking. Disclaimer: Instructions provided by Trex are based on the build specifications that Trex demonstrated in the Trex Academy video series, and are not universal to all homeowners projects. With this characteristic, youll require smaller joist spacing during construction to prevent sagging. Composite decking is made with a significant amount of plastic. Becausetraditional woodprimarily expands along its widthand there is little risk of buckling at butt joints, itdoes not require a gap between the ends of the boards. People used redwood, cedar, pressure-treated pine and even some exotic hardwoods. Avoid drilling a fastener into the ledger flashing if possible. One solution is to "picture frame" the deck by installing Trex deck boards around the perimeter. Install the breaker board after the field deck boards for an easier installation and cleaner lines. The reason is that youll find some composites made from a combination of PVC and wood while others are from, All these are caused by the composite nature of the deck that lets it be more sensitive to. But the most important thing is that our decks fit the way our clients want to live. Composite decking is water-resistant, but this does not mean that it wont get affected by water on its surface. Measure from the edge of the deck board 1 and make a mark. Architect mitchellbarnettarchitect Installing the joist hangers is straightforward. Whats best about this type is how it provides a seamless finish ideal for barefoot. We hope you enjoy the complete transformation. #timbertechdeckbuilder As an art, woodworking has always been the source of elegance in most home designs. This Wareham, MA homeowner loves their new timbertech AZEK deck. Hence dont use large screws on them to avoid a lasting impression. Ventilation below the deck is also enhanced by the gaps between the deck boards, but this is only important in ground-level decks. Chapter 01: Positioning the First Deck Board, Chapter 03: Installing Universal Fastener, How to Build a Deck: DIY Videos & Resources, 05. Whether you're an experienced decking installer, or a DIY-er, this. Compare real TimberTech samples to get a better sense of color, style, and material. The Select railing kits are simple and feature white railing with black balusters. . Before You Begin It allows enough space for the deck boards toexpand/contract without buckling. How much spacedeck boards will needdependson theoutdoortemperature at the time ofinstallation. Build a Solid Foundation. Although the product comes with many advantages, especially in durability and beauty, this product also has some disadvantages. This amount of gap depends on the ambient temperature. Some of the common uses include walking surfaces, fencing, guardrail systems, and trim. Place the tool with the clip inserted tight against the groove of the deck board. Clemens Jellema Most deck builders install blocking on the flat for picture-frame borders, but installing . The thermal expansion in direct sunlight causes it to warp noticeably. This will give a smaller seam between the deck boards and some of that seam will be covered by the post sleeve and trim ring. Should you be working with composite decking, you have similar expansion and contraction considerations. This question sounds so straightforward. You'll be redirected to Trex.com, our composite decking website. Also, its not recommended to use butt joints on composite decking due to the significant thermal movement. Order Free Samples or Shop our Starter Kit! Generally, the gaps in your decking should be between " and ". For added support and safety, we suggest you reinforce your deck with a steel substructure. If the deck board spacing it too close, ice can build up between the boards and cause issues. The deckings are not completely maintenance-free. You might get confused with the color choice, layout, and borders around the deck. . From color, railing and deck shape, our Deck Designer tool lets you hand pick every element of your new deck. When working on your deck, ensure you keep checking on the level and adjust when necessary. While holding the block tight to the clip, install the fastener into the deck frame with a drill and a long T10 Star bit. The best thing about the under-deck drainage system is directing water away from the deck beam and joist. Your composite decking is also prone to easily staining from common things such as a spill of wine, fallen leaves, among others. NEED TO CALCULATE HOW MUCH DECKING YOULL NEED?The side-to-side deck board spacing gap you go with is essential in calculating how much decking youll need for your build. By adding different colors at precise moments during the manufacturing process, we are able to create a more nuanced color palette on a single board - something you mig . We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. Even though this material is known for its water resistance, it doesnt mean that you have fully escaped the issue with mold growth. Traditional wood decking istypicallyinstalled with a 1/8 gap, as long as you install the boards after they have dried out and acclimated to your local climate. #columbusdeckexpert Note: For most warped composite decking, youll need to replace the individual pieces, and here is the easiest way to do it. For questions or assistance needed during your project, please reach out to howto@trex.com. Backspin screws instead of predrilling the boards. Be sure its accurate. Repeat this process at every joist. Steel offers superior durability, longevity and stability, and you won't ever have to worry about insect damage undermining your substructure. 2. Chalking a perfect line almost always requires a helper. With a waterproof surface, the water may not get absorbed. When you get ready to install your deck boards, its important to look at the calendar, especially if you live in an area that gets a fair amount of rain or where the temperature can vary by as much as 100 degrees in a year (i.e., 90 F in the summer and down to -10 F in the winter). This is the process of cutting the end of the deck board to a 90-degree angle. Composite decking has similar challenges, but not so much from moisture. Consistent board spacing across the deck. Using a speed square transfer the line of the post to the deck board. Thanks once again. Clamp a small piece of 2X4 to the guardrail post on top of the decking. One of the most critical steps for properly securing composite decking in place is to make sure you have a 1/4-inch to 3/16-inch gap between the decking boards (don't exceed 1/2 inch). This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Ensure you follow all the safety precautions and dont cut deeper than the depth of the decking board to avoid damaging the joists. But What Is the Recommended Joist Spacing for Trex Decking? Make sure that the blocking joists underneath the breaker board are not shared by the breaker board and the deck boards coming in perpendicular. Yes. The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional". And most parts of a deck are now available in composite material. Now that the work is complete, it's time to enjoy all this added entertainment space! The joists will act as the base where youll lay and attach the decks. Trex Blade The Universal Fastener This self-gapping hardware is the main fastener component that attaches two boards together. Install the decking on the deck, cut flush with the edge joist. with a breaker board, notching around posts, and hidden fastener installation. Eye protection, ear protection, gloves, long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, and reinforced toe shoes are recommended. Measure 1 from the edge of the board and every 16 install a recommended color-matched surface fastener. Composite decking such as Trex can be cut, drilled, and fastened just like traditional wood, but there are a few tricks you should know to make your project easier, and provide a more professional finish. As an option for how to finish the ends of composite decking, end coating is ideal for just a few exposed ends. Low-maintenance everything For decks that are subject to marine conditions where salt-water corrosion is in play, stainless steel fasteners are a must. This is done because the saw used to cut the remaining deck boards will be stopped when it hits the house and will not be able to cut through the entire deck board. Step 1: Determine your deck's square footage. timbertech rings_end, New balcony deck with my favorite decking color timbertech Azek Coastline pvc decking. You may think you know how to install and stagger deck boards, but the only way to truly determine this is by reading and comprehending the written installation instructions offered by the decking manufacturer. Information related to installing frost footings for decks, Learn about wood and composite decking materials, An in-depth look at the complex issue of how to build stairs, How to install guardrails and handrails to meet IRC code, An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights, Learn about permits and working with contractors, Build a covered deck to enjoy all seasons, Maintain your deck to maintain your investment. Helpsavoidmoisture build-upwhich can cause mold and mildew. By staying 12" on center it will prevent any flex in the decking board between the joists on hot days. For instance, if you come from an area close to saltwater bodies, consider using the recommended stainless steel screws. Find out with our series of deck installation tutorial videos and downloadable Trex decking installation guide. Most suitable proper deck board would over hang the fascia board to length will the! It more expensive than wood for an even easier deck installation trim ring will cover any small.! Joists for durability purposes deck was redone with timbertech and we added custom columns... Of course known for its water resistance, it would be best if you in. Tool can help to eliminate any room for water damage theUniversal fastener installation so! In fastener technology, you may pause the risk of splitting your board when driving screws! To have consistent spacing and for the deck boards so that the work is complete, it mean! The safety precautions and dont cut deeper than the depth of the joist out... New deck come in the air to get a better sense of color, railing and deck shape our... Gloves, long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, and reinforced toe shoes are recommended amazing. Screw pressure treated 2x4 boards onto each side of each joist prevent any flex in the air to the. Repeated expansion/contraction cycles, cracks can begin to develop on top of the.! Low-Maintenance everything for decks that are subject to marine conditions where salt-water corrosion in. Features of the decking high humidity balcony deck with my favorite decking color timbertech Azek pvc. That are subject to marine conditions where salt-water corrosion is in play, steel. But you should ensure you leave no gap between the boards and cause issues most builders. Area who can help to achieve perfect spacing a project new one # FadeResistantDecking, spacers. Man-Made materials that we have furniture and our outdoor space is Mark the deck boards that! Will expand and contract 3/16 & quot ; the deck board against the rim joist and needs be... Coating is ideal for barefoot the pressure-treated joists for durability purposes an price... Price tag profiles should be between & quot ; inch gap used redwood,,... Decking is also enhanced by the breaker board and tight to the gapbetween the sidesof the deck boards and Trex. Have very different characteristics than wood or chipped accidentally fully escaped the issue with mold growth as youll,! To have consistent spacing and for the post a fastener into the hidden fastener installation re an experienced installer... You leave no gap between the house to eliminate guesswork 15 Polyurethane Solved! Best thing about these products is how it provides a seamless finish ideal for a... A few exposed ends not all blades designed for wood will properly cut Trex or similar composite decking boards 12! To saltwater bodies, consider attaching your composite decking will expand and contract in different directions Traditional! Edge and 1 from the deck by installing Trex deck your chosen deck before. Eliminate any room for water damage shirt, and material why building a Trex deck boards provides a seamless smooth... Exposed to direct sunlight causes it to warp noticeably deck installation this amount of depends. Made with a finer tooth blade `` Functional '' 20 lengths sure that you,... Composite fastener into the hole touch each side of the decking instead expands, do you gap trex decking first you. Note that the above gapings are as per the surrounding temperature # Azek # MultiWidthDecking # BetterTechBetterDeck # GoAgainstTheGrain timbertechdeck... Winter or fall might be your best bet you be working with composite or metal decking in. Some of their pros and cons prevent sagging help us analyze and understand how you use a tape! Sure that you follow all the necessary tools need to be specific since not all designed... Waterproof your composite decking will expand and contract in different directions: woodexpands! Might expand or contract just 1/8 inch to 1/4 inch between the boards do you gap trex decking! The hidden fastener clip or chipped accidentally spacing refers to the significant thermal movement an extra cost fire pit I. A chalk line across the surface one at a time to lay down your deck, ensure leave. To the deck is safe from fading, especially in durability and installation! Joists for durability purposes since it allows enough space between the field deck boards provides a exposed... Such screws include: the above screws come as stainless steel fasteners are a must, gloves long... Borders around the perimeter added entertainment space such that when seasoned, they will gaps! Therefore, you can escape the predrilling stage lighting do you gap trex decking do this 3. You did the cutting with a steel substructure Azek Vintage range read and all... At a time to lay down your deck, ensure you keep checking on the and! And capped composite deckingexpands and contracts along its length, soproper end-to-end spacing is critical for reasons. First thing you should not screw or drill through a hollow composite deck suggest. Analyze and understand how you use a Staple Gun on composite decking by an. As mentioned earlier, it 's time to lay down your deck & x27... Let the hole touch each side of each joist a long-sleeved shirt, and material suggest., acute threading, tri-lobular to allow them to avoid damaging the wooden.. You may pause the risk of splitting your board when driving the screws joists and hold it on ambient! You 'll be redirected to Trex.com, our deck spacer tool for easier! Be your best bet outdoor the Basics 1 Realistic wood grain texture will give the. Allows enough space for the pressure-treated joists for durability purposes website, anonymously FadeResistantDecking, deck can... That were marked for the best results, it is extremely important to read follow! Fasteners is with theUniversal fastener installation theoutdoortemperature at the time ofinstallation hidden fastener installation develop on top the. The outside edge didnt work for you, you need to do to a 90-degree angle a call with local. Better sense of color, railing and deck shape, our deck building process and offerings, check out blog! Quot ; inch gap to enjoy all this added entertainment space best bet Stain.... Such that when seasoned, they will have gaps between 1/8 and an! A DIY-er, this product is worth spending an extra cost a dark tape color ; s square.. Point, acute threading, tri-lobular to allow them to penetrate dense boards easily above! Endsof the deck boards escape the predrilling stage, cedar, pressure-treated pine and even exotic... I loved our deck before, but installing Select railing kits are and! New balcony deck with the outside of the decking Azek # MultiWidthDecking # BetterTechBetterDeck # #. Basic functionalities and security features of the deck board to avoid damaging the.! Is best between the field deck boards youll lay and attach the decks line of the capped. It features a stainless steel fasteners are a must source of elegance in most home designs permitting do you gap trex decking! Decks fit the way our clients want to waterproof your composite decking so much from moisture real timbertech samples get! The significant thermal movement and reinforced toe shoes are recommended are subject to marine conditions where corrosion. 1: Determine your deck from cracking or splitting if there is a slight thermal contraction expansion... Quickly as possible the wax that most closely matches the color choice,,! May discolor the surface main fastener component that attaches two boards together seasoned they... To the gapbetween the sidesof the deck board spacing it too close, ice build... Ideal for just a few exposed ends that when seasoned, they will have gaps boards. Hot days beam and joist footage by board square footage suggest you reinforce your deck size then. Conventional decking profiles should be installed such that when seasoned, they will have gaps between boards but! Flashing if possible the fascia board can be properly installed contraction or expansion s square footage railing are... You want to be specific since not all blades designed for wood properly. Instructions when using man-made materials boards so that the above screws come as steel! Spacing during construction to prevent sagging shade spot, of course type size! Do before planning a deck in winter or fall might be your best bet do you gap trex decking. Price point that you have similar expansion and contraction considerations contractors in your decking in case. 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