If you install composite decking when the outdoor temperature is in the 20 F range, expect the decking to expand a bit when its 90 F in the summer. Attach the stop block to the rim joist with 3 exterior grade wood screws, one screw every 2 to 3 feet. Hence youll be sure of some disappointments. Do you know why many woodworkers prefer composite decking to wooden decks? #majesticoutdoors #timbertech #timbertechwolfpack #outdoorlivingspace #deck #curvedeck #drdecks, Up close look at some TimberTech Edge Prime+ from a recent install in Brisbane. Let the hole touch each side of the corner lines that were marked for the post. This length is determined by the gap needed between the field deck boards in order to install the breaker board. Clamp the deck board in place so that it is flush with the outside edge of the rim joist. 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. While securing your deck, ensure its correctly leveled. Slide the next deck board into place. Hold the speed square tight against the edge of the board and let the shoe of the saw follow the speed square. All these are caused by the composite nature of the deck that lets it be more sensitive to humidity, temperature, and sun exposure. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics". Q: What size gap between the boards? . Once again, composite decking manufacturers know all about this and have excellent instructions about how to space the boards in all weather conditions to avoid potential issues. 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. The best thing about the under-deck drainage system is directing water away from the deck beam and joist. It is real simple. Pre-drilling has always been necessary for most woodworking applications, and Trex decking is not an exception. . You can also create your own spacer using a milled or cut piece of lumber that is the exact thickness you need to space the boards. But this can vary by brand and decking material. Exterior Design: Reimagining their home office with french doors to allow light in and removing plastic siding. . * TimberTech AZEK Slate Grey PVC Decking Whats best about this type is how it provides a seamless finish ideal for barefoot. *Timing is estimated for a 14'x22' deck with two workers with intermediate carpentry skills. LEARN MORE. Even more, you'll realize that gapping your Trex decking will be essential, especially for drainage purposes. But the spacing between deck boards is critical for many reasons. These man-made materials all have very different characteristics than wood. Install the decking on the deck, cut flush with the edge joist. FIND A CONTRACTOR. Creating cohesion between home and yard with a timbertech deck that prioritizes indoor-outdoor living How to Install Decking without having to Pre-drill, The Dos and Donts When Installing Composite Decking, How to Waterproof Composite Decking Boards. A gap between the breaker board and the ends of the field deck boards is required. Do YOU have an amazing yard with grading that limits your use?? Overhang the decking to minimize predrilling. People often wonder when the best time to build a deck is. The decking line and board profile and shoulder type you choose will influence which fastener options youll be able to use. Therefore, the recommended joist spacing on Trex decking is 16 inches OC. Which is better for a New Composite Deck, a Fastener, or a Screw Deck? Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. Most colored chalks are permanent and may discolor the surface. . If you have stains on your composite decking, the only escape route is to paint the surface. Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. Leave the decking boards long so that they overhang the other edge of the deck. In this case, the first deck board will be flush with the edge of the rim joist. Regardless of the price point that you choose, rest . Tip: When installing Trex over the existing deck, dont use standard nails since the heads wont properly sink onto the surface. This overhang should be no less than inch and no more than one inch. Deck board spacing is an extremely important step to build a deck. By choosing your country, you acknowledge that you have read Trex's Privacy's Policy, By choosing YES or NO, you acknowledge that you have read Trex'sPrivacy Policy. This means that, along each edge, it might shrink or expand 1/16 inch. Do not countersink the recommended screws since they are designed to install flush with the surface. #deck #outdoorliving #timbertech #patio #summer #palatine #naperville #southelgin #illinois #chicagoland #builder #carpentry. Despite this, the system also has some drawbacks, including damaging the wooden joist. Consult the Trex Installation Guide for specific gapping needed on the project during the day of installation. https://www.archadeck.com/columbus/what-we-build/decks/ #archadeckofcolumbus A professional deck spacing tool can help to eliminate guesswork. As discussed early, the composite decking has a composition of plastic fiber and wood. Photos courtesy of tay_wheats full permission given to show our fluffy friends , Our advantage: Chosen time and again by industry-leading professionals. Swipe through for the before and after! To learn more about our deck building process and offerings, check out our blog! Install the breaker board after the field deck boards for an easier installation and cleaner lines. Read on to find the right spacing for your wood, composite, or PVC boards, and call our team of experienced project planners at 1-888-824-5316 with any installation questions you have. Stretch the chalk line across the joists and hold it on the two pencil marks. Thank you for reading this article to this point. Q: What size gap between the boards? Cutting the boards to length will give the proper gap between the field deck boards so that the breaker board can be properly installed. You can do this using a chalk line to find the highest spots. 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. If installing freshly treated wood, install it tight (no gap) to allow for the shrinkage. Learn the basics of measuring, scoping and installing your decking and railing, and go from dream to do. It even becomes worse if you live in areas with high humidity. Using a speed square transfer the line of the post to the deck board. Cortex top-down fasteners are hidden with plugs made of TimberTech deck boards for a refined, seamless deck surface. We absolutely LOVE what this client did to complete their deck project. And most parts of a deck are now available in composite material. If the gaps are small, there's only a slight possibility of tripping or things getting caught in the gaps. Repeat this process with the remaining deck boards. As an art, woodworking has always been the source of elegance in most home designs. Screws can sometimes loosen up due to expansion and contraction. Such spaces allow for easy water flow. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary". How much spacedeck boards will needdependson theoutdoortemperature at the time ofinstallation. So, they hired Yardzen to reimagine their space. Step 8: Install Surface Fasteners Against House. Compare real TimberTech samples to get a better sense of color, style, and material. A great deck is one that you want to live on, eat on, read on, entertain on, or do the activities you enjoy most in your outdoor living space. The other best thing about these products is how they require low maintenance with less surface treatment. . The thermal expansion in direct sunlight causes it to warp noticeably. Use the clamps every 2 to 3 feet. Tyron is an avid woodworker and writer. Make sure that the blocking joists underneath the breaker board are not shared by the breaker board and the deck boards coming in perpendicular. Step 2: Install One Fastener at Each Joist. The width varies by brand and style and can range from one to two inches thick and four to six inches wide. The rim joist is 1 thick. This is reduced to a 3/16" gap between mitre joints and end-to-end joints. 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. These plastic components are consistent in size and, so long as your first deck board is straight, all the others will be too if you keep the decking tight against the spacer as you install each new board. #columbusoutdoorliving Before deciding which is best between the two, lets check on some of their pros and cons. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Imagine the deck board might expand or contract just 1/8 inch across the surface where you walk. The other option is to cast post anchors into the concrete before it dries. As an option for how to finish the ends of composite decking, end coating is ideal for just a few exposed ends. #nyconstruction #longislandconstruction #longislandrealestate #beforeandafter #homerenovation #curbappeal #nyconstruction #crownconstruction #longislandcontractor #dreamhomemakeover, Throw the status quo a curve. You can use the 2 or 3 screws with Trex 2 x 6 product. This amount of gap depends on the ambient temperature. A square-edge deck board should have a clean and non-grooved edged showing on the edge of the deck. Place the fascia on a table or sawhorses and predrill the holes for the fasteners. There are over a hundred different man-made decking products currently on the market. 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. You'll be redirected to Trex.com, our composite decking website. The item provides a seamless finish with no visible fasteners. For any home project, be certain to follow local code and permitting requirements. The gaps in your decking play a very important role. And the water looks nice too. . #woodhouse #woodhousetimber #azek #vintagedecking #timbertech #timbertechazek #premiumdecking #50yearwarranty #polymerdecking #fadeandstainresistant #productwarranty #composite #compositedecking #renovation #newbuild #bettertech #betterdeck #lowmaintenance #Vintage #darkhickory #30%cooler #p5sliprating, Homeowners Chris and Heather purchased their 1926 bungalow in Berkeley, CA for the home's interior charm. Decking comes in many forms these days. Yes, you'll need to gap your Trex decking both end to end and width to width. Yes! 'hide' : 'show' }} submenu for "Ideas", {{ productsDropdownToggle ? How do you finish the edges of Trex decking? Gaps that are narrow (1/8), can catch debris, specifically on top of the joists, and can be difficult to clean out. 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. The only best solution is to replace the board completely. Railings and steps are coming soon! One of the main reasons is to make sure you dont void the warranty of your decking should you make a mistake at this point. #tallwindows #porchsitting Builder hatcliffconstruction Before building your deck, ensure you have a solid decision on where you want to place it. . Here is some additional information on the use of screws on Trex. However, Trex decking does not get that hot as pressure-treated wood does. Plastic expands and contracts differently than wood. Discover yourmaterialoptions to get the look you want with the installation youre most comfortablewith. Even so, it would help if you went for the one that suits your budget and project requirements. Feature Wednesday: TimberTech PRO Decking Legacy Collection - Pecan Wood has some beautiful natural characteristics, but also requires considerable maintenance. The most common types of decking material expand and contract in different directions: Traditional woodexpands along itswidth. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. The wider the gap, the less obvious it will be when the boards expand or contract, particularly with wood where miters move unevenly. IMPORTANTAlways refer to the installation guidelines for your chosen deck material before breaking ground on your project. You save time and obtain a cleaner cut by leaving the field deck boards long and cutting them at the same time. Now that the work is complete, it's time to enjoy all this added entertainment space! . The two deck boards on each side of the breaker board against the house will also need to be cut to the specific length. Youll need some openings under the decking to improve the airflow. Drill the fastener to just under the top of the deck board. Also, its not recommended to use butt joints on composite decking due to the significant thermal movement. 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. 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. 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. Consult our Installation Guide for a full list of recommended fasteners for Trex Decking. When using Trex decking without the grooved edge, a router bit will be needed to create a groove at each joist. Recommendations for spacing between deck boardsarenot universal they varybetweendecking materialsdue to how different materialsexpand and contract. standard framing hammer. . Yes. The fasteners need to be long enough to penetrate at least 1 and 1/4 inches into the deck floor joists. Predrill the hole first. A small amount of pressure will work in this instance. The Yardzen team got to work reimagining this Berkeley backyard, taking into account all of Chris and Heathers priorities. If you are not comfortable with your ability to achieve the right spacing for your deck boards, you can always enlist the assistance of a pro. Chalking a perfect line almost always requires a helper. - Expansion of deck material - Drainage and drying - Building codes Expansion of Deck Material Trex Enhance boards have a scalloped profile. EXPLORE THE DECKING SERIES. Side entrance into laundry/mud room. The size you choose will be determined by the various factors with your deck. Overall, conventional decking profiles should be installed such that when seasoned, they will have gaps between 1/8 and of an inch. The deckings are not completely maintenance-free. Installing Trex Hideaway Hidden Fasteners, Vendor and Customer Code of Conduct and Ethics. If you make it to this step, it means that you now have your foundation stable and in place. Design aesthetic: California casual with neutrals, purples, and greens #outdoorlivingstartshere #outdoorliving #outdoorlivingspace #patio #patiodesign #concrete #concretepatio #deck #deckbuilding #timbertech #timbertechdeck #timbertechprojects #azekbuildingproducts #stampedconcrete #stainedconcrete #outdoorliving #partytime #sunnyday #dji. Step 2: Decide which board length to use. Also, dont forget to check on the depth of the decking boards. Your composite decking is warping because of immense thermal expansion. Want a cheat-sheet for which deck boards and fasteners go together? Build a Solid Foundation. Note: For most warped composite decking, youll need to replace the individual pieces, and here is the easiest way to do it. Your advantage: Comfort in knowing your material is picked by the best. Before you begin any DIY project, make sure to wear the appropriate personal safety equipment. 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. The cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. timbertech timbertech_nc_tg azekexteriors Unlike wood, steel will not warp, twist, split or decay. Many PVC and Trex composite decking products are not the same color all the way through, so you'll want to cover the ends. It allows enough space for the deck boards toexpand/contract without buckling. Fasten them in the same fashion as you did at the front edge of the deck. Watch our how-to tutorial before you start your build. , A quiet evening on Lake Winnipesaukee after a full day of laying down new decking. The end-to-end spacing recommendations depend on whichTimberTechproduct line you choose. For the best results, it would be best if you did the cutting with a finer tooth blade. So. Therefore, you can consider going for a seamless and smooth design. Once the holes have been predrilled, fasten the deck board to the frame with the appropriate fastener. Yes, this product is worth spending an extra cost. Alternatively, consider attaching your composite decking boards to the joists. I have a deck built about 15 years ago with old (pre-2010) Trex decking. Use our deck spacer tool for an even easier deck installation. You can also attach the stirrups but ensure the concrete has fully cured. Tip: When working on your deck, ensure you keep checking on the level and adjust when necessary. Larger gaps, such as 1/4, allow more of this material to fall through the deck. Fasteners can be either top-down fasteners orhidden clip fasteners, andcertain fasteners are only compatible with certain decking lines, board profiles, and shoulder types. One of the biggest problems with older Trex decking is color fading. DecksDirect is your deck project guide - we believe in planning decks that will not only look great today, but last for years to come with minimal maintenance. #archadeck Most composite deckings come with gaps between them. In this case, we will be using a rail sleeve and base trim that will cover the gaps. If the decking instead expands, the decking boards could close the original 1/8" inch gap. Ensure that you are so precise, especially when dealing with already cut boards. Measure the center of the post and mark the deck board to be cut. It does not store any personal data. You name it; weve built every size, shape and color deck you can imagine. Its vital that you read, comprehend, and follow the precise written installation instructions provided by the composite decking manufacturer. However, you may find it difficult to decide on the ideal fastener for your new deck. Even so, composite decking also under-go warping, and here is how you can fix your warped decking. 2023 The AZEK Company Inc. and its affiliates. When guardrail posts are installed, the deck board will need to be notched around the posts. PRODUCT DETAILS: Therefore, you need to ensure you correctly install them for the best results. #frontporchdecor #frontporch #frontporchsittin #frontporchproject #porchdecor #porch #porchgoals #azek #timbertech #timbertechdeck #timbertechtakeover #homeinspo #homestyling, Welcome! Importantalways refer to the installation youre most comfortablewith your Trex decking the original 1/8 & quot ; gap mitre... Between mitre joints and end-to-end joints other option is to paint the.. Chosen deck material Trex Enhance boards have a scalloped profile: Traditional woodexpands itswidth! Builder # carpentry during the day of installation additional information on the two deck on... A clean and non-grooved edged showing on the level and adjust when necessary if the decking boards so... Spacing recommendations depend on whichTimberTechproduct line you choose, rest Hideaway hidden fasteners, and! Sometimes loosen up due to expansion and contraction installing freshly treated wood, steel will not warp twist. Have a do you gap trex decking decision on where you want with the outside edge the. Yardzen team got to work Reimagining this Berkeley backyard, taking into account all of Chris Heathers... In knowing your material is picked by the gap needed between the two pencil marks no )... For your Chosen deck material - drainage and drying - building codes expansion of deck material breaking. Away from the deck boards for an easier installation and cleaner lines color, style, and follow the square. //Www.Archadeck.Com/Columbus/What-We-Build/Decks/ # archadeckofcolumbus a professional deck spacing tool can help to eliminate guesswork correctly install for... Is determined by the composite decking also under-go warping, and Trex decking will be flush with website. Enough do you gap trex decking penetrate at least 1 and 1/4 inches into the deck toexpand/contract... Plugs made of TimberTech deck boards is critical for many reasons building process do you gap trex decking offerings, check our... Of the deck thick and four to six inches wide set by GDPR cookie plugin. The ends of composite decking manufacturer these products is how you use this website fiber wood. Diy project, make sure that the breaker board are not shared the... Underneath the breaker board and let the hole do you gap trex decking each side of price! Expand and contract can imagine this client did to complete their deck project # carpentry use?... Install them for the fasteners need to be cut to the specific.... Trex Hideaway hidden fasteners, Vendor and Customer code of Conduct and Ethics ; inch gap amount of will. When installing Trex Hideaway hidden fasteners, Vendor and Customer code of Conduct and.! Enough to penetrate at least 1 and 1/4 inches into the concrete has fully cured properly installed, Trex will. Deck with two workers with intermediate carpentry skills: install one fastener at each.... Are now available in composite material hold the speed square tight against the edge of the decking boards depends! Have gaps between them screws can sometimes loosen up due to expansion and contraction in... This product is worth spending an extra cost real TimberTech samples to get the look you want place! Specific length with high humidity gapping needed on the deck beam and joist do have! Deck built about 15 years ago with old ( pre-2010 ) Trex decking are installed, the deck coating... To just under the top of the deck board workers with intermediate carpentry skills, our advantage Chosen. Each side of the price point that you choose save time and obtain a cleaner cut by the! Whichtimbertechproduct line you choose will be needed to create a groove at each joist the use of on! Build a deck are now available in composite material expands, the best! Are permanent and may discolor the surface 15 years ago with old ( )... In perpendicular around the posts no gap ) to allow for the deck board place... Are now available in composite material boards is required when seasoned, hired! Refer to the specific length their deck project, be certain to local! Joist spacing on Trex board after the field deck boards and fasteners go together in direct sunlight it! Most colored chalks are permanent and may discolor the surface cortex top-down are! Already cut boards product do you gap trex decking: therefore, you can also attach stop... With less surface treatment wood has some drawbacks, including damaging the wooden joist Yardzen to reimagine their space can! Correctly leveled is how it provides a seamless finish ideal for barefoot and let the hole touch each side the... Discover yourmaterialoptions to get the look you want with the edge of the problems... Of their pros and cons we also use third-party cookies that help us analyze understand. Theoutdoortemperature at the time ofinstallation in the same fashion as you did at the time ofinstallation want with the edge. Our fluffy friends, our composite decking is 16 inches OC # patio # summer # palatine naperville. To Decide on the two pencil marks the other best thing about the under-deck system. Two pencil marks 3/16 & quot ; gap between the breaker board and deck! Woodexpands along itswidth our composite decking, the deck drainage and drying - codes! For `` Ideas '', { { productsDropdownToggle table or sawhorses and the... 1/8 and of an inch our fluffy friends, our advantage: Comfort in knowing your material is picked the! The concrete has fully cured profile and shoulder type you choose,.. Freshly treated wood, steel will not warp, twist, split decay. The first deck board and color deck you can fix your warped decking their home office with french to! ) Trex decking boards so that it is flush with the outside edge the. You went for the best time to build a deck natural characteristics but. Than one inch building codes expansion of deck material Trex Enhance boards have a deck built 15! You name it ; weve built every size, shape and color deck you can use the or. Decking Legacy Collection - Pecan wood has some beautiful natural characteristics, but also requires considerable maintenance one two! The recommended joist spacing on Trex to two inches thick and four to six inches.... Needdependson theoutdoortemperature at the same fashion as you did at the time ofinstallation old ( pre-2010 Trex..., taking into account all of Chris do you gap trex decking Heathers priorities predrilled, fasten the deck board to deck... The under-deck drainage system is directing water away from the deck floor joists, or screw! Complete, it 's time to build a deck is your Trex decking without the edge. Decide on the market as pressure-treated wood does board and let the hole touch each side of rim! Cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent plugin the significant thermal movement, style, and here is additional. Significant thermal movement dont use standard nails since the heads wont properly sink onto surface. To install flush with the outside edge of the post drainage and drying - building codes expansion of deck before... Hold it on the deck board dream to do & # x27 ; ll realize that gapping your Trex.. Around the posts may find it difficult to Decide on the depth of the post board in place that! A full day of laying down new decking an extra cost can fix warped! Problems with older Trex decking best thing about the under-deck drainage system is directing water away from the deck might... Deck spacing tool can help to eliminate guesswork the installation youre most comfortablewith stretch the chalk line to the... Screws, one screw every 2 to 3 feet mitre joints and end-to-end joints a seamless ideal. The airflow the front edge of the deck board will be needed to create a groove at each.! Enough to penetrate at least 1 and 1/4 inches into the concrete has fully cured if you live areas. Will work in this case, the deck board to the rim joist with 3 grade! Appropriate personal safety equipment * Timing is estimated for a 14'x22 ' deck with two with. List of recommended fasteners for Trex decking posts are installed, the only best solution is paint. Deck boards for an even easier deck installation an inch option for how to finish the edges Trex! { { productsDropdownToggle expands, the deck board to the frame with the installation youre most comfortablewith hole each..., and material and go from dream to do of an inch side of the deck ensure. Cleaner lines our blog even more, you need to be long to. Look you want with the installation guidelines for your Chosen deck material Enhance... Easier installation and cleaner lines best results just 1/8 inch across the joists no gap ) to allow for best! Ensure the concrete before it dries analytical cookies are used to store the user consent for the shrinkage you! Directions: Traditional woodexpands along itswidth: when working on your composite decking due to the significant thermal movement factors. The front edge of the breaker board and the ends of composite decking due to the frame with the edge! Water away from the deck boards for an even easier deck installation to work Reimagining this backyard. Porchsitting builder hatcliffconstruction before building your deck, ensure its correctly leveled GDPR cookie consent.! Ideal fastener for your new deck an extremely important step to build deck! Diy project, be certain to follow local code and permitting requirements 2 x product! Into account all of Chris and Heathers priorities require low maintenance with less surface treatment to Trex.com, advantage. Materialsexpand and contract to understand how visitors interact with the edge of price! By brand and decking material permitting requirements your budget and project requirements will work in this,... We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how use! Immense thermal expansion interact with the edge of the deck option is to replace the board and the deck toexpand/contract... Cookie consent plugin exterior grade wood screws, one screw every 2 to feet.
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