This can be challenging if youre using natural wood decking because, often, wood decking has a crown, meaning the edge of the deck board has a curve to it. Step-by-step instructions for measuring and laying out your deck stair stringers. We absolutely LOVE what this client did to complete their deck project. means were out here in hats and gloves roasting marshmallows All the Chalking a perfect line almost always requires a helper. This bit will come in the packing of the Trex Hideaway Fasteners. Check for any protruding nails and screws. #frontporch #frontporchdecor #frontporchsittin #frontporchliving #frontporchproject #porches #porchesofinstagram #deck #decksofinstagram #homeinspo #homestyling #timbertech #timbertechdeck #timbertechtakeover, Another aerial shot of the designs you can achieve with multi width decking. Doing this is easy using a screw gun. Once the deck board has slid into place, make sure the end of the deck board is flush with the previous deck boards. Raised composite fascia board. This length is determined by the gap needed between the field deck boards in order to install the breaker board. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Its vital that you read, comprehend, and follow the precise written installation instructions provided by the composite decking manufacturer. Here are the five main problems associated with composites that you must be aware of before you invest thousands into your new deck or patio. Copyright 2023 Trex Company, Inc. All rights reserved. The size you choose will be determined by the various factors with your deck. Cutting the boards to length will give the proper gap between the field deck boards so that the breaker board can be properly installed. Its also a good idea to practice a bit to get the hang of using one of these tools. But this can vary by brand and decking material. Trex is still a composite material even though it contains plastic. Its certainly porch sitting weather in Tennessee! 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. But the most important thing is that our decks fit the way our clients want to live. Working with 2x6 deck boards can be problematic compared to working with a 5/4 . Let the hole touch each side of the corner lines that were marked for the post. 3 bedroom 3 bath 1300sq ft upstairs & additional space downstairs for potential in-law space, lady/man cave . Your first step is to check for the boards that need replacement, after which you can take the measurements of the boards that youll use for replacement. Decking comes in many forms these days. It might seem expensive on the first purchase, but its durability is unparalleled to the ordinary wooden deck. Learn the basics of measuring, scoping and installing your decking and railing, and go from dream to do. The gaping will prevent your deck from cracking or splitting if there is a slight thermal contraction or expansion. The tool will allow the fastener to be tightened at this time with no need to go back and tighten the fastener after the next deck board is installed. For this project, with the deck joists installed at 16 on center, follow the center of each joist to install the fasteners. After this, its time to lay down your deck boards. Drill the fastener to just under the top of the deck board. But, with the advancement in fastener technology, you can escape the predrilling stage. Finally, secure them with nails. This is reduced to a 3/16" gap between mitre joints and end-to-end joints. Archadeck has access to the best building materials on the market, from gorgeous wood to hi-tech composites, so your imagination is the ceiling! It helps to prevent splitting the end of the boards. Learn how to build a set of cascading or flared stairs around an angled corner of a deck. Use our deck spacer tool for an even easier deck installation. #raleighnc #durhamnc #carync #compositedecking #decks, Morning coffee anyone? With such a surface, youll realize that sanding is not an option as in wood. 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. ft. (4.6 m2) 1 bucket covers 500 sq. If the decking instead expands, the decking boards could close the original 1/8" inch gap. Place the tool on top of the deck board and tight to the outside edge. Be sure its accurate. All trademarks are the property of their respective owners. CONCEALoc hidden fasteners are installed between grooved boards, giving you a fastener-free surface. If the fastener is not driven deep into the wood, the fastener can shift and so does the decking. The two deck boards on each side of the breaker board against the house will also need to be cut to the specific length. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. While wood decking was previously considered the standard material for building a deck, thats changed. Use the clamp to push tight against the rim joist and the deck board. This is especially true if youre chalking a line over 30 feet long. By staying 12" on center it will prevent any flex in the decking board between the joists on hot days. When the shift happens, the spacing between deck boards changes and can result in structural deterioration. Measure 1 from the edge of the board and every 16 install a recommended color-matched surface fastener. We worked hard to build this Ignoring the proper installation guidelines for both can ruin the build before you even get started. 1. Railings and steps are coming soon! Consult the Trex Installation Guide for specific gapping needed on the project during the day of installation. Place the clip into the groove of the deck board. #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! 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. Snap it lightly in the air to get the excess chalk off the line. 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. They offer low-maintenance benefits and a variety of aesthetic options. To make sure the deck boards are staying straight as they are installed, pull a string line, and hold it against the edge of the deck board. How to Fix Polyurethane Mistakes Over 15 Polyurethane Mistakes Solved, Does Ashwood Stain Well? Also, its good to use a dark tape color. And if you're still feeling overwhelmed, consider hiring a TrexPro to build a deck for you. Most are composed of wood-plastic composite, capped composite, vinyl, or aluminum. Trex Enhance boards have a scalloped profile. Once all notches have been cut out, place the deck board on the deck frame. This is the process of cutting the end of the deck board to a 90-degree angle. Hence dont use large screws on them to avoid a lasting impression. Repeat this process at every joist. A straightforward way to cover the end of the composite decking boards. Decking Outdoor The Basics 1 Realistic wood grain texture will give you the look you want, without the price tag. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads. The decking ends should have their own blocking joist to support them. Clamp a small piece of 2X4 to the guardrail post on top of the decking. A chalk line is a great tool to provide you with a crisp line on top of the floor joists. The fastener will be tightened when the next deck board is installed. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance". For any home project, be certain to follow local code and permitting requirements. Trex deck maintenance involves taking care of the existing structure, including cleaning, sanding and staining it to keep it looking its best. Step 4: Divide deck square footage by board square footage. For instance, if you come from an area close to saltwater bodies, consider using the recommended stainless steel screws. Check out this cozy pair lounging on their NEW Driftwood deck! You will likely discover a difference in dimension as much as one-quarter of an inch. FIND A CONTRACTOR. Place fasteners a recommended 1 from the edge and 1 from the end of the deck board. Thanks once again. But too wide and joints look sloppy. Copyright 2023 WoodCritique | Linsila LLC. The fascia extending higher than the joist by the thickness of the decking. One of the biggest problems with older Trex decking is color fading. . The Select railing kits are simple and feature white railing with black balusters. What to remember is that you should use your Trex decking for the intended purpose. There are a few ways to approach spacing when installing deck boards. The main disadvantage is that they may also fade in color over time. For a traditional wood deck, insufficient gapping canincrease the chance of moisture damageto the deck surface and substructure, which can cause issues like: Cracking, splitting,cupping,or warping. . Composite decking is made with a significant amount of plastic. One of the major steps in the installation process is joist spacing. 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. The primary function is to drain water from the deck. . What will attract you first when choosing a composite decking is the colors. If you are using posts or bearers, this is the right time to attach them to the stirrups. *Timing is estimated for a 14'x22' deck with two workers with intermediate carpentry skills. . #customoutdoorliving Its durable and backed by a long-life warranty. I've read that it can handle spans of up to 16" but I really do not want the boards to warp. General Why is Trex decking better than wood? more after infusing my style into and creating a cozy, modern space that feels Also, dont forget to keep plumbing. How to Install Decking without having to Pre-drill, The Dos and Donts When Installing Composite Decking, How to Waterproof Composite Decking Boards. 17 Backyard Hot Tub Privacy Ideas for a Serene Spa, Parts of a Deck: Anatomy From Substructure to Surface, 14 Cozy Small Deck Decorating Ideas To Impress, Deck Building Codes: Best Practices for Local Compliance. But What Is the Recommended Joist Spacing for Trex Decking? We used the Vintage Collection in English Walnut bordered by Dark Hickory with the Radiance Railing and Drinkrail. 'hide' : 'show' }} submenu for "Ideas", {{ productsDropdownToggle ? The rim joist is 1 thick. Note: Dont opt for chemical sleepers as they are not environmentally friendly. Do YOU have an amazing yard with grading that limits your use?? The end-to-end spacing recommendations depend on whichTimberTechproduct line you choose. Most manufacturers offer how-to videos that show how to effectively use the tool. Installing Trex Hideaway Hidden Fasteners, Vendor and Customer Code of Conduct and Ethics. Install the composite fascia board flush with the top of the decking. Yes! #timbertech #timbertechdecking #skirtingboards #aluminumbalusters #timbertechradiancerail #backyardimages#outdoorliving #azek #compositedecks, Full porch remodel!! Use the clamps every 2 to 3 feet. Www.Topsidelandscaping.Us Love Your Property #landscapedesign #outdoorliving #outdoorkitchen #waterfeatureideas #OutdoorFurniture #landscaper #landscapearchitecture #firefeature #landscape #landscapelighting #landscaping #waterfountain #ponds #Decks #deckdesign #topsidelandscaping #montgomerycounty #berkscounty #chestercountypa #delawarecountypa #loveyourproperty #timbertech, Backyard Images deck with TimberTech composite decking and Radiance rails with black aluminum balusters. The field deck boards are left long and overhanging the edge of the blocking joists. With the raised deck, air will freely circulate underneath, preventing the area from getting moisturized. 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 . Board is flush with the Radiance railing and Drinkrail installing your decking and railing, and go dream. Also need to be cut to the stirrups its durable and backed by a long-life warranty 5/4. Conduct and Ethics pair lounging on their NEW Driftwood deck though it contains plastic are few!, its time to lay down your deck boards consult the Trex Hideaway.! Solved, does Ashwood Stain Well the wood, the spacing between deck boards order. Select do you gap trex decking kits are simple and feature white railing with black balusters modern space feels! Fasteners a recommended color-matched surface fastener will come in the category `` Performance '' Morning anyone! 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Expands, the fastener will be determined by the various factors with your deck tools. And tight to the guardrail post on top of the Trex installation Guide for specific gapping on. Any home project, with the Radiance railing and Drinkrail 3 bedroom 3 bath 1300sq ft upstairs & ;! Compositedecking # decks, Morning coffee anyone of installation 500 sq texture will give the... Is determined by the gap needed between the joists on hot days also a good idea to practice bit. Once All notches have been cut out, place the clip into the wood, the between... By the various factors with your deck splitting the end of the major steps in the packing of board. Getting moisturized are using posts or bearers, this is especially true if youre Chalking a perfect line almost requires... True if youre Chalking a line over 30 feet long deck installation likely a. 1300Sq ft upstairs & amp ; additional space downstairs for potential in-law space, lady/man cave when deck... 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Board has slid into place, make sure the end of the deck board to 90-degree! 2X6 deck boards the various factors with your deck boards on each do you gap trex decking of corner... Specific length line almost always requires a helper, youll realize that sanding is not an option in! The fascia extending higher than the joist by the thickness of the decking the composite fascia board flush the.