From frame to finish, Decks & Docks has everything you need to complete a composite decking project. Falling Through the Cracks â Walking across a deck can prove hazardous if board spacing is too wide. All deck boards must always be installed with a 3-5mm end-to-end or end-to-width gap between boards. If you choose grooved Transcend for your deck, you have the option of using the exclusive Trex Secret Fix System. Composite decking can mimic the look of natural wood. The eighth-inch spacing provides for a safer surface for walking. Solid âboardsâ are simpler to deal with, but heavy, hollow types are lighter but fussier to install. Some brands, like WearDeck, let you get away with more â reinforced with a layer of fiberglass on both the top and bottom, WearDeck boards easily allow for spans of 24 inches OC. amzn_assoc_ad_type = "smart"; There is less of a hard-and-fast rule when it comes to this, but generally that space is anywhere between one-eighth of an inch (1/8 in.) Finally, you can add the finishing touches – posts, railing, skirting, and anything else you can dream of. Tips for Properly Installing Composite Decking Joists. This will increase the longevity of the deck and also prevent bowing during the hottest part of the day. amzn_assoc_emphasize_categories = "2619525011,1055398,2972638011,228013"; Adjust the spacing between deck boards gradually over the next 10 rows of decking until the distance to the house is equal. How Far Apart Should You Place Floor Joists on a Composite Deck? As the composite decking heats up it not only expands but also becomes more pliable. If youâre not satisfied with the color choices, or if you would like your deck to match your house, most products can be stained or painted, as specified by the manufacturer. A: The Trex Hideaway hidden fastener will automatically create a 1/4â space between each decking board. Run String Lines to Ensure All Joists Are Level & In Plane. amzn_assoc_linkid = "fed726c60c88d738e7784c819bb73fbc"; Be sure to gap the boards as previously described. However, if you space your joists too close together, it will be difficult to install supporting elements such as joist hangers, blocking, and flashing. A house is only as strong as its foundation, and a deck is only as strong as its frame. The distance you choose affects the maximum span, or how long your joists can be without compromising the strength of the deck frame. In general, first an aluminum or vinyl track is installed across the joists, and then top pieces are snapped into place. Fire Control â Deck boards that are widely spaced will spread fire more quickly. amzn_assoc_region = "US"; Spacing on a deck refers to the small edge-to-edge gap between decking boards, not the ends of the boards. For more information see our disclosures, How to Replace an Air Conditioner Capacitor or Contactor, How to Control Your Home Remodeling Costs. amzn_assoc_tracking_id = "widget05-20"; Don Vandervort has developed his expertise for more than 30 years, as Building Editor for Sunset Books, Senior Editor at Home Magazine, author of more than 30 home improvement books, and writer of countless magazine articles. eval(ez_write_tag([[300,250],'hometips_com-leader-1','ezslot_5',158,'0','0']));Composite decking can be fastened to treated wood joists with screws or with hidden fasteners. From our slip-resistant wood grain to our 25-year UV Protection Package, we designed WearDeck to meet all your decking needs. While this gap is fairly small, it is still a crucial component to any good deck. Wider gaps permit more airflow, which feeds fire, and it also more likely to catch embers. Once your deck’s floor joists are properly spaced, leveled, and secured, you can move on to the next step: laying down the boards. The majority of composite deck board brands including Trex, TimberTech, and more require deck joists spacing to be at 16 inches O.C. But to truly get the most out of your new composite deck, you have to start with a strong frame. Some may fade more than others. Protect Joists From Rot. Pressure-treated lumber is rot-resistant, not rot-proof. Pressure-treated lumber is typically installed without a gap since the boards will shrink when they dry, creating the appropriate spacing. That will depend upon air temperature at the time of installation (Read this to learn more). You should have an implement handy, such as a ⦠by Don Vandervort, HomeTips © 1997 to 2020. Proper spacing will allow some movement without buckling. For example, towns that once required a maximum of 16” OC for composites may now require 12” OC. A tell-tale sign of a potential problem with the ledger board attachment is the ⦠Trex Hideaway Hidden Deck Fastening System: This ¼â self-spacing connector clip with 1-5/8â screws is designed to install between Trex grooved composite decking boards. What’s really necessary? Be sure to check with the manufacturers instructions when planning the substructure of your composite deckâproper sizing and spacing of beams and joists is essential.amzn_assoc_placement = "adunit0"; Build your dream deck with Trex, the world's best high-performance composite decking brand. The smaller the spacing, the longer your joists can span. When it's hot there is a different spacing than if it's cooler. Spacing and Layout. Adjust the spacing between deck boards gradually over the next 10 rows of decking until the distance to the house is equal. If the gap in between the deck boards is too narrow use the Saw Guide by Lounsbury Products. Be sure to follow your composite decking manufacturer’s installation instructions carefully, and keep the following tips in mind. No spacing is required between ends of boards. ®HIDDEN FASTENING SYSTEM Installing Angled Deck Boards in Corners ALWAYS start in cornerwith a small triangular piece of decking at 45° and work outwards. Though common wood screws might seem like they would work as well, they tend to âmushroom,â or bore out the holes rather than set into the material. Though not meant for structural purposes, these products are plenty strong for decking, fencing, and railings. From an environmental standpoint, composite decking is considered a âgreenâ product because it is constructed with recycled materials and is very durable. How often? on What’s the Proper Joist Spacing for Composite Decking? It is also important that all screws be secured at a 90-degree angle to the boards. In pursuit of the perfect deck, all Trex ® decking lines come with a hidden installation option. Your composite decking manufacturer will have a unique joist span table to help you determine the maximum length based on joist size and spacing. Only every month or two. Your measurements and layout need to be accurate, not only for the primary deck surface but for the smaller parts, like your deck stairs. Decking manufacturers may recommend anywhere between 12 and 16 inches for commercial decks and 12 to 24 inches for residential decks. If the decking material begins to get warm to the touch as the day goes on, you may want to stop work and continue the project the next morning. Where board ends meet a wall, leave a healthy 1/2-inch gap to ensure the material can expand and contract without coming into contact with the wall. Instead of pilot holes, some manufacturers suggest drilling a starter hole about 1/8 inch deep into the material. amzn_assoc_enable_interest_ads = "true"; Trex and several other manufacturers, including Weyerhauser and TimberTech, combine landfill-bound plastic, wood scrap, and sawdust into low-maintenance outdoor materials that imitate the look of wood somewhat convincingly but are far superior to natural wood in their ability to stand-up against the damaging effects of sun, rain, salt air, and insects. If youâve ever wondered what becomes of your recycled grocery bags, check out your neighborâs deckâit might be made of them. There should always be a slight gap. Composite decking brands also generally require 12 inches O.C.joist spacing for 45-degree or angled composite deck board applications. This will increase the longevity of the deck ⦠This wood is protected against the elements and insects and will provide a solid support for your decking material. When using grooved-edge boards, our hidden deck fastening system installs between the deck boards, fastening them to the joists with no visible deck screw heads on the walking surface. Composite deck screws are designed so that they do not push the material out and will create a much more uniform and tight fit. Whether you're a homeowner, contractor, marina, or golf course, you can trust that we have the most knowledge, the best products, and the highest level of service in the southeast. If you do have to rip, put the rough, exposed cut side where flaws will be least noticeable.eval(ez_write_tag([[336,280],'hometips_com-box-4','ezslot_0',602,'0','0'])); If installing the decking around an existing structure, a simple router can be used to make curved cuts. Most composite and PVC decking brands, like Trex and Azek, recommend a minimum joist spacing of 16 inches OC. Ripping a composite board (cutting lengthwise) is trickier. Installation differs as well. Composite decking cannot be used as structural material. New styles also have fire prevention technology incorporated into the composite, which reduces the risk of house fire during cookouts and makes them less of a fire hazard where wild fires can be a threat. Air dried material is typically spaced at 1/8" edge to edge. (on center) for standard straight composite decking installation. December 2, 2020 Uncategorized. Between end-to-end boards, allow a 3/16-inch space. Composite decking, which is made from a combination of wood and plastic, lasts longer than traditional wood because it’s less prone to rotting, splintering, and insect damage. More than 70 percent of recycled plastic bags (over 1.5 billion of them!) When you build a deck, spacing and sizing are both critical. 1 Box covers 50 square feet and 1 Bucket can cover 500 square feet. Page 2 AZEK® Deck/Rim Joist Covers should be installed using the same good building principals used to install wood or composite decking and in accordance with the local building codes and the installation guidelines included below. Spacing Between Composite Deck Boards As Well Of Trex With Gap Plus within dimensions 2048 X 1536. Working in the morning when the material is still cool will make your work much easier. We are the experts in the niche of marine construction. When designing a new trex or composite deck, the spacing between floor joists should be 12 inches on center. NOTE: Trex Transcend and Select horizontal railings are made to be installed at maximum of 6' (1.83 m) or 8' (2.44 m) on center (depending upon type of railing you choose). But they last longer with far less maintenance, so this premium is offset by their durability.eval(ez_write_tag([[300,250],'hometips_com-medrectangle-3','ezslot_4',600,'0','0'])); Composites come in both solid and hollow-core versions. Don founded HomeTips in 1996. You might additionally take into account the following decking features, though these can add significantly for the cost: Railings â for safety of young kids, often needed for above ground decking to stop accidental falls. This means that any load bearing area will need to be framed and supported before the composite material can be attached. He appeared for 3 seasons on HGTVâs âThe Fix,â and served as MSNâs home expert for several years. Expert advice on how to install and work with TREX and other composite decking materials, how to cut and fasten TREX, and framing for composite decking. As an Amazon Associate, HomeTips earns from qualifying purchases which allows us to continue creating helpful DIY content. Fastening from the side can cause dimpling in the composite surface and mar the finish.eval(ez_write_tag([[300,250],'hometips_com-large-mobile-banner-1','ezslot_3',633,'0','0'])); Composite decking is a great alternative to traditional wood decking, but does have some limitations. This space is important for two reasons. Donât allow blades to get overly hot when cutting as this can cause cuts to be warped or wavy. A: The Trex Hideaway hidden fastener will automatically create a 1/4â space between each decking board. Pre-drilling pilot holes can prevent this from happening and make installation go much faster and smoother. Even the most experienced carpenters have found that when the power sawâs blade heats up, it creates slight waves along the cut line. trex deck spacing between boards. The other relevant spacing number when it comes to building a deck or porch is how much room should be between the actual decking boards themselves. Decks & Docks Lumber Company supplies the marine construction industry across Florida and the southeast U.S. Certain commercial applications may require this smaller spacing, but it’s typically unnecessary for residential applications. This post may contain affiliate links. Both sizes have their pros and cons. Between end-to-end boards, allow a 3/16-inch space. It is important to recognize that composite decking expands and contracts with heat and cold. A power miter saw can provide very accurate, straight cuts, and a table saw with support extensions can make all types of cutting easier. 4. Some composite decking materials are designed to be installed with hidden fasteners. At the same time, local building code requirements have also become stricter. Q: What size gap between the boards? Shop composite deck boards and a variety of building supplies products online at Lowes.com. HomeTips.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. Install Trex Hideaway fasteners 13 mm off center to keep fastener screws in middle of joists. When building your deck and railing, it is recommended that pressure treated wood be used as the framing and floor joists. I am about to replace the 8 year old rotted treated boards with composite like the others and caulk it too. Countersink the screws but no deeper than the screwâs head. amzn_assoc_fallback_mode = {"type":"search","value":"cutoff saw"}; Composite decking brands like Trex and TimberTech generally have their own brand-specific installation instructions. Complete your yard with our framing, railing, & lighting. A hand coping saw will work well to smooth finished edges if needed. Adjust spacing between deck boards Measure to the house at both ends and in the center when you get within about 5 ft. of the wall. I sloped mine 1" on 6' On one deck I have plastic panels under it and that was a bad idea cause the mains and underside cant breath and is rotting. Select a bit size that is the same diameter as the screwâs inner core and take care not to go too deep into the material. But sometimes, they can be a bit unclear when it comes to a crucial component of your deck frame – joist spacing. First, it allows for proper drainage and keeps the deck cleaner, safer, and less prone to moisture problems. It’s common sense that the less space there is between joists, the sturdier your deck will be. Basically, instead of measuring joists from edge to edge, you should measure them center to center. Though there are building codes dictating many aspects of deck construction to insure the finished deck is safe and solid, there is no specific distance required for the spacing of screws attaching deck boards to the joists. How to Butt Seams This can make cutting and securing more difficult. How much of a gap? Although they don't expand and contract as much as wood boards, composite boards need room to move. Don has:⢠Over 30 yearsâ experience as a remodeler and builder.⢠Written more than 30 home improvement books.⢠Served as Senior Editor at Home Magazine.⢠Appeared as a segment host on HGTVâs âThe Fixâ for 3 seasons.⢠Been a featured expert on MSN.com, US News, and many others.⢠Learn more about the trusted HomeTips brand! The desired spacing varies according to the brand of decking boards used. Composite decking tends to grow and shrink across the length of the boards as it heats and cools. amzn_assoc_ad_mode = "auto"; With composites, you can typically trust brand guidelines but should make adjustments depending on the angle and span of your deck. Second, because composite decking expands in hot weather, the space ensures that extra stress wonât be placed on the fasteners. If you were to draw a line down the center of two joists and then measure the distance between them as 16 inches, that measurement is 16 inches on center. As temperatures fluctuate, composite deck boards will naturally experience thermal expansion and contraction. This fact will greatly influence how you go about working with the material to reduce waste and make your project easier. Before installing any decking, run string ⦠Quality products cost more than softwoods such as treated pine. After purchasing the material, store the composite decking flat and bundled, if possible, in the area where you will be cutting and installing it. Caulking between the composite deck boards works if sloped right. Making strong, durable steps up to your deck requires careful measurement of the rise of each step, plotted together as one slope. 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. That is unless you’re installing your deck at a 45-degree angle – in this case, 12 inches OC is recommended by most composite decking brands. What Does “On Center” Mean? Vinyl decking is yet another low-maintenance option, although one that offers a particularly non-traditional deck. So, when would you ever need to use 12 inches OC? Composite materials have changed drastically over the years, improving in both performance and appearance. 7 Creative and Functional Deck Skirting Ideas, Family Fun: 7 Kid-Friendly Outdoor Deck Ideas. Without the right deck spacing, the boards may expand, cup, and buckle out of place. Thatâs why the board ends should never be installed tight against one another. HomeTips articles may contain links to Amazon.com and other partner programs that provide helpful products and services. If the floor joists that span the length of your deck are installed too far apart, the boards on top will sag. Carbide tipped blades are suggestedâthe fewer teeth the better for smooth cuts. Whenever possible, try to avoid ripping composite decking and use full boards for your surface. Our selection of marine-grade composite decking materials are a favorite of homeowners and seasoned contractors alike, and with a wide variety of accessories, railing styles, and hardware, you won’t have to look anywhere else. Find Trex composite deck boards at Lowe's today. So, when would you ever need to use 12 inches OC? Those railings are not true 6' (72") or 8' (96") in length. Composite decking wonât rot or splinter (an extra bonus for bare feet). With others, itâs best to simply view them as a new material. For families with young children, these synthetic boards have the additional advantage of being splinter-free. Having appropriate spacing for your deck is important to allow for everything to expand and contract when the temperature fluctuates. Generally, an acceptable gap between deck boards is between 1/8 inch and 1/4 inch. Most composite and PVC decking brands, like Trex and Azek, recommend a minimum joist spacing of 16 inches OC. Some brands, like WearDeck, let you get away with more – reinforced with a layer of fiberglass on both the top and bottom, WearDeck boards easily allow for spans of 24 inches OC. Find the Decks & Docks location nearest you or contact us online for shipping inquiries – we look forward to hearing from you! Again, treat the material just like you would soft pine. AZEK Building Products Inc. accepts no liability or responsibility for the improper installation of this product. Privacy Policy | Terms & Conditions | Sitemap. Some composites look like real woodâat least from a distance. Repeat the process for each board until the outside edge of the finial board is fastened with screws. The Trex Hideaway Hidden Fasteners automatically measure the 6mm gap between grooved edge boards but you must still ensure the 6mm gap with the square edge boards. Unsubscribe anytime! Sanders will mar the finish and in many cases void your warranty. Material required for each section in SF, LF and BF will be listed. Typical spacing for KD / Kiln Dried Decking is 1/4" for 6" boards and 3/16" for 4" boards. Though common wood screws might seem like they would work as well, they tend to âmushroom,â or bore out the holes rather than set into the material. Most composite decking materials, like Trex composite decking, require minimum joist spacing for composite decking at 16" on center spacing for straight decking and 12" on center joist spacing for 45-degree angle diagonal decking. amzn_assoc_default_category = "All"; Don Vandervort writes or edits every article at HomeTips. A clean cut should not leave any loose material, but if you need to clean up an edge, do not use a sander. Extra spacing is also important between board ends and where boards meet a wall when decking runs perpendicular to the wall. The distance between two deck joists is measured in inches “on center”, commonly abbreviated as “OC”. For a cleaner finish, use hidden fasteners to install your composite deck boards instead of screws. Join us to get great money-saving tips, cool ideas, and valuable advice from home improvement expert Don Vandervort! Besides creating a rougher finish, deep countersinking can reduce the effectiveness of the fastener and void the warranty. On center means that the measurement should be taken from the center of a joist edge to the center of the next joist edge. Your deck can begin to fail prematurely if the framing is weak. Builders like composites because they are relatively easy to installâthe materials are very consistent in size and quality, come in lengths up to 20 feet long, and are not prone to warping and cracking. Unlike other deck boards, WearDeck resists stains from harsh substances like sunscreen and red wine. The bottom line? The goal is to have about an 1/8-inch gap (the diameter of an 8d nail) between boards after the decking has dried to its equilibrium moisture content. 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