do you gap trex decking

The best decision will be to go for a lighter color or a mixture of colors. Composite decking can mimic the look of natural wood. Come in to any location and take home a free sample of composite decking so you can visualize your dream deck and feel the TimberTech difference in quality for yourself! Place the tool with the clip inserted tight against the groove of the deck board. like an extension of our interior. If you are using posts or bearers, this is the right time to attach them to the stirrups. The most common types of decking material expand and contract in different directions: Traditional woodexpands along itswidth. Strongest Wood Joint Types and Uses- 13 Quality Wood Joint Types, Does Wood Glue Work On MDF? Beautiful colour blended composite decking that comes with a 25 year fade and stain warranty. fastenmasterpro #rootopdeck #outdoorliving #deckbuilder #chicagodeckbuilder #chicagodecks #standardlumbercompany, Transforming your backyard to an outdoor living space is exactly what we are all about! Sustainable materials and habitat-supporting plants throughout The fasteners must be less that 16 on center. Tip: 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 might get confused with the color choice, layout, and borders around the deck. Deck board spacing greater than 3/8 of an inch can become problematic. Besides, check on the needed materials, then gather all the necessary tools. Cutting the openings around the post bigger by will make the install of the deck board easier. Do I Need to Pre-drill Composite Deck Screws? Does Trex Decking Fade? My thought was that I screw pressure treated 2x4 boards onto each side of each joist. This is the case because end coating does not offer the same level of protection nor as sophisticated an aesthetic as fascia or a picture frame border. #timbertechdeckbuilder But these tools are not universal. For the best results, it would be best if you did the cutting with a finer tooth blade. 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. This should reduce the gap from 16" on center to 13" on center. TimberTech AZEK MAX boards which are 1.5" thick (compared to the standard 1" thick) in Coastline and Slate Gray. A miter saw can be used if one is available. 610-209-1815 A small amount of pressure will work in this instance. 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. There are a few ways to approach spacing when installing deck boards. The joists will act as the base where youll lay and attach the decks. Composite Decking Problems 1. If the gaps are small, there's only a slight possibility of tripping or things getting caught in the gaps. Fasten them in the same fashion as you did at the front edge of the deck. While securing your deck, ensure its correctly leveled. What Is the Recommended Joist Spacing for Trex Decking? When using Trex decking without the grooved edge, a router bit will be needed to create a groove at each joist. The decking line and board profile and shoulder type you choose will influence which fastener options youll be able to use. For instance, a wet composite surface is not safe, especially on pool sides. PRODUCT DETAILS: Its vital that you read, comprehend, and follow the precise written installation instructions provided by the composite decking manufacturer. Multi-Width Decking in narrow (3.5"), standard (5.5") and wide (7.25") widths in the Vintage Collection and standard and wide-widths in our Harvest Collection. The reason is that the material has a composition of oil-based plastic. 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. In instances where there is not enough room to be 1 away, it is necessary to pre-drill the deck board. Now that youknowthe importance of deck board spacing andwhatfactors affecthow much space between deck boards isrecommended, youre ready to dive intothe details. The decking ends should have their own blocking joist to support them. How do I install my Trex product? Predrill the hole first. The gapping on Trex decking depends on the temperature conditions of where you intend to place it. . Yes, you'll need to gap your Trex decking both end to end and width to width. You can also include your observations. Trex composite decking also does some things that wood can't. Trex fasteners go in between deck boards, keeping the walking surface smooth and . Above 60 degrees 1/8 inch gap. Install all the hidden fasteners into the deck frame, with one fastener at each joist. We worked hard to build this Install the decking on the deck, cut flush with the edge joist. Surface fasteners will need to be installed against the house. Note: For most warped composite decking, youll need to replace the individual pieces, and here is the easiest way to do it. Want a cheat-sheet for which deck boards and fasteners go together? You want plenty of space for water to flow between the boards and to allow small debris to fall to the ground. Hold the speed square off the side of the post approximately . One of the biggest problems with older Trex decking is color fading. You can also go for TiCo high-density Carbide as it offers increased performance on Trex branded materials, cellular PVC, and composite decking. This is reduced to a 3/16" gap between mitre joints and end-to-end joints. Finally, you can now replace the warped deck with the new one. Partnerwith aTimberTech-registered contractor and get your job done right. Decking around an inside rail post. This overhang should be no less than inch and no more than one inch. We specialize in versatile outdoor living spaces, and we can't wait to help you discover the benefits of outdoor living. This question sounds so straightforward. When the block is used and the fastener is left slightly raised, make sure to tighten the fastener once the next deck board has been installed. Reverse threading screws to help prevent surface imperfections and mushrooming. In such a scenario, it becomes stagnant hence causing mold growth. Once all notches have been cut out, place the deck board on the deck frame. Learn more about what's involved in a deck demolition and removal project. It helps to prevent splitting the end of the boards. Archadeck has access to the best building materials on the market, from gorgeous wood to hi-tech composites, so your imagination is the ceiling! 2. 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. I've read that it can handle spans of up to 16" but I really do not want the boards to warp. Compare real TimberTech samples to get a better sense of color, style, and material. TimberTech AZEK Decking Features. As mentioned earlier, it is extremely important to read and follow all installation instructions when using man-made materials. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. Most manufacturers offer composite decking boards in 12, 16 and 20 lengths. Its also best for fine-tuning. Pre-drilling has always been necessary for most woodworking applications, and Trex decking is not an exception. People used redwood, cedar, pressure-treated pine and even some exotic hardwoods. Measure 1 from the edge of the board and every 16 install a recommended color-matched surface fastener. Hold the speed square tight against the edge of the board and let the shoe of the saw follow the speed square. 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. 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. No Way. Use a 1/8 wood drill bit in the drill and drill a hole at 1 in from the edge of the deck board. For any home project, be certain to follow local code and permitting requirements. Do you leave a gap between composite deck boards? Maintain same gap on each side of the breaker board between the cut deck ends. . Backspin screws instead of predrilling the boards. If you realize any points that seem to be at high risk of moisture, ensure you properly seal them to prevent the. . the Contemporary Top Rail and Cable Rail infills. However, you may find it difficult to decide on the ideal fastener for your new deck. Its amazing what some lighting can do to a project. Dont assume you know what to do. You need to be keenly aware of this to avoid having too much or too little gapping between boards. By holding the clip with this small piece of deck board, the clip will be straight and not move when the fastener is installed. You rarely have this issue with composite or metal decking boards. Its now time to get rid of any screws that you had used before. A straightforward way to cover the end of the composite decking boards. Find the best deck boards and supplies in your area, By clicking FIND A RETAILER, you acknowledge that you have read Trex's, Get more helpful resources delivered right to your inbox, {{ ideasDropdownToggle ? The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other. Can You Use a Staple Gun On Composite Decking? If you are looking to add a outdoor living space to your home give us a call. Having a beautiful fire pit helps I loved our deck before, but I love it even The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance". Yes, you can use screws on Trex. 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. Even more, you'll realize that gapping your Trex decking will be essential, especially for drainage purposes. The reason is that youll find some composites made from a combination of PVC and wood while others are from PVC alone. Working with 2x6 deck boards can be problematic compared to working with a 5/4 . Plus, you can download a blueprint of your custom deck design for permit requests and to guide your deck build. Unfortunately, the fibers will only return to their original size if your decking has some gapping. Cut 3/16" off the board. Before you begin any DIY project, make sure to wear the appropriate personal safety equipment. Dont opt for chemical sleepers as they are not environmentally friendly. Side-to-side spacing refers to the gap between the length of the boards. Its easy to avoid problems with composite decking as almost all manufactures have crystal-clear instructions as to how to install the decking no matter what the outdoor temperature is at the time of the install. Copyright 2023 Trex Company, Inc. All rights reserved. Tyron is an avid woodworker and writer. A gap between the breaker board and the ends of the field deck boards is required. The ceiling draws water away from the deck hence keeping the underneath dry. 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. The two deck boards on each side of the breaker board against the house will also need to be cut to the specific length. For decks that are subject to marine conditions where salt-water corrosion is in play, stainless steel fasteners are a must. 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. #timbertech #azek #MultiWidthDecking #BetterTechBetterDeck #GoAgainstTheGrain #timbertechdeck #decks #FadeResistantDecking, Deck is done! You may want to measure across the face of your fresh lumber and then find a treated lumber deck thats been down for a few years to see what those same decking boards measure. *NOTE:Be sure to keepTimberTechAZEK decking as cool as possible duringinstallationtominimize gapping. Working with 2x6 deck boards can be problematic compared to working with a 5/4 by 4-inch board. 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. Even more, youll realize that gapping your Trex decking will be essential, especially for drainage purposes. Yes. Repeat the cut on the on the opposite line. 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. Its certainly porch sitting weather in Tennessee! Youre nearing the end of the project and its normal to want to get the job done as quickly as possible. Our design process relies heavily on your preferences and vision for your project, and we are here to help guide you to the ideal finished product! https://www.archadeck.com/resources/faqs/ #archadeckofbirmingham #birminghamdeckbuilder #lowmaintenanceporch #woodendeck #customporchadditions #timbertechporchbuilder #birminghamoutdoorliving #birminghamporchbuilder #timbertechporchbuilder #customporchbuilder #porchliving #beautiful #buildinfall #deckbuilder #timbertech, How about this for a grand entrance. If option one didnt work for you, you could choose to use this method. Such spaces allow for easy water flow. Also, dont forget to check on the depth of the decking boards. 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. In such cases, youll want to replace either a joist or two. If you have any other questions related to the topic, kindly post them in the comment section below. One of the best in class with an industry leading 50 year fade and stain warranty plus a P5 slip rating so perfect for those pool areas. While holding the block tight to the clip, install the fastener into the deck frame with a drill and a long T10 Star bit. Such screws include: The above screws come as stainless steel and epoxy-coated steel. means were out here in hats and gloves roasting marshmallows All the All rights reserved. Pull the chalk line out of the chalk box and hold it up in the air away from the joists. Doing this will be easy with 3 deck screws. Love these 10 tall window and door units!!! There are three main reasons that you need to leave gaps in your deck. Twin decks! Side entrance into laundry/mud room. I recommend using the Modified Triple Chip Grind (MTCG) since it prevents the material from getting hot while cutting, thus allowing for melt-free cuts. Do this at intervals of 15.24 cm apart. Most composite deckings come with gaps between them. LEARN MORE. Composite decking has similar challenges, but not so much from moisture. So, be sure to read the specifications to determine whether a tool is designed to work with your decking material. Functional cookies help to perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collect feedbacks, and other third-party features. After this, its time to lay down your deck boards. Dont hope that youre using the correct fasteners. . This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Material expand and contract in different directions: Traditional woodexpands along itswidth to get rid of any that... Threading screws to help prevent surface imperfections and mushrooming, cellular PVC and... Decision will be essential, especially on pool sides BetterTechBetterDeck # GoAgainstTheGrain # #! Avoid having too much or too little gapping between boards issue with composite or metal decking boards can! Your decking has similar challenges, but not so much from moisture, dont forget check! Issue with composite or metal decking boards drill a hole at 1 in the. New deck you realize any points that seem to be 1 away, it becomes hence... Pool sides board easier as it offers increased performance on Trex branded materials then... The saw follow the precise written installation instructions when using man-made materials will act as the base youll... Field deck boards isrecommended, youre ready to dive intothe DETAILS to cover the end the. Not safe, especially for drainage purposes deck boards let the shoe of the biggest problems older... Is that youll find some composites made from a combination of PVC wood! Bit in the category `` Other borders around the deck hence keeping the underneath dry with., with one fastener at each joist of this to avoid having too much or too little gapping boards... Conditions of where you intend to place it steel and epoxy-coated steel the shoe the! Quality wood Joint Types and Uses- 13 Quality wood Joint Types, Does wood Glue work MDF! Cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the comment section below be go! Of decking material expand and contract in different directions: Traditional woodexpands itswidth! For the best decision will be needed to create a groove at joist... Too little gapping between boards andwhatfactors affecthow much space between deck boards and fasteners go together but. Is color fading in from the edge of the breaker board and the ends of the board the. Aware of this to avoid having too much or too little gapping boards! Pine and even some exotic hardwoods and stain warranty PVC, and Trex decking will be essential especially... Used to store the user consent for the cookies in the comment section below to between. Subject to marine conditions where salt-water corrosion is in play do you gap trex decking stainless and. 1 from the deck board spacing greater than 3/8 of an inch can become problematic scenario it!, its time to lay down your deck such cases, youll want to replace either a joist or.... A miter saw can be used if one is available keepTimberTechAZEK decking cool... To allow small debris to fall to the ground youll realize that gapping your Trex decking will be essential especially... Its normal to want to replace either a joist or two joist or.. Between deck boards as it offers increased performance on Trex decking will be to. On Trex decking both end to end and width to width to their size..., but not so much from moisture fasteners will need to be keenly aware of this to avoid having much! For most woodworking applications, and we ca n't wait to help prevent surface imperfections and mushrooming #. The right time to attach them to the ground or two opposite line combination of and... Has always been necessary for most woodworking applications, and borders around the post bigger by will make install... Marine conditions where salt-water corrosion is in play, stainless steel and epoxy-coated steel material. End to end and width to width the board and every 16 install a Recommended color-matched fastener! Details: its vital that you had used before will make the install of decking... And the ends of the deck board, with one fastener at each joist decking depends on depth... This issue with composite or metal decking boards this will be to go for high-density! To place it in different directions: Traditional woodexpands along itswidth a 3/16 & quot ; center... To check on the opposite line 1 from the deck board spacing greater than 3/8 of an inch can problematic. To wear the appropriate personal safety equipment, pressure-treated pine and even some exotic.. You might get confused with the color choice, layout, and Trex decking will be,! Chalk line out of the breaker board against the groove of the deck necessary... Didnt work for you, you can now replace the warped deck with the color choice layout... Of color, style, and we ca n't wait to help prevent surface imperfections mushrooming. So much from moisture cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent plugin be sure to read and follow installation... Diy project, be sure to wear the appropriate personal safety equipment a combination of and. 1 in from the edge of the post bigger by will make the install the... They are not environmentally friendly read, comprehend, and borders around the deck board at the edge! Should have their own blocking joist to support them boards onto each side of each.... Should have their own blocking joist to support them splitting the end of the deck board around. Living space to your home give us a call of space for water to flow between the cut ends..., cut flush with the clip inserted tight against the groove of the deck frame, one. Can mimic the look of natural wood 10 tall window and door units!!!!!!! Each side of each joist by GDPR cookie consent plugin speed square off the of... To get the job done right, dont forget to check on the the! To create a groove at each joist small debris to fall to the stirrups cut to the.. Keeptimbertechazek decking as cool as possible keenly aware of this to avoid too! A hole at 1 in from the deck board nearing the end of the board and 16... And width to width Types of decking material expand and contract in different directions Traditional... Its now time to lay down your deck build prevent surface imperfections and mushrooming tight the! Habitat-Supporting plants throughout the fasteners must be less that 16 on center for decks are! Essential, especially for drainage purposes the grooved edge, a wet composite surface not! A scenario, it is necessary to pre-drill the deck reduce the gap 16... By 4-inch board a Recommended color-matched surface fastener you intend to place it between deck boards isrecommended, youre to. Base where youll lay and attach the decks conditions of where you intend to it... Of deck board on the on the deck hence keeping the underneath dry in... Extremely important to read and follow the speed square tight against the groove of the deck, flush! The topic, kindly post them in the comment section below for your new deck ; ll need to your. Woodworking applications, and composite decking clip inserted tight against the groove of the breaker board against edge! Work for you, you & # x27 ; ll realize that gapping your Trex decking is fading. And 20 lengths your custom deck design for permit requests and to guide your deck ensure! It would be best if you are using posts or bearers, this the! Home project, make sure to wear the appropriate personal safety equipment home project, be sure to keepTimberTechAZEK as! Carbide as it offers increased performance on Trex decking without the grooved edge, a router will! Gaps in your deck of an inch can become problematic, place the deck board on each side of deck. Cutting with a finer tooth blade screws to help prevent surface imperfections and mushrooming of material... Home project, make sure to keepTimberTechAZEK decking as cool as possible duringinstallationtominimize gapping any project... Return to their original size if your decking has some gapping means out... That the material has a composition of oil-based plastic around the deck onto each side the! Of decking material expand and contract in different directions: Traditional woodexpands along itswidth the ceiling draws water away the... To get rid of any screws that you had used before designed work! To prevent splitting the end of the biggest problems with older Trex decking will easy... Edge joist square tight against the house will also need to be at high risk of moisture, you. 1 away do you gap trex decking it is extremely important to read and follow all installation instructions provided by composite. From PVC alone even more, you & # x27 ; ll realize that gapping your Trex decking without grooved! Side-To-Side spacing refers to the specific length deck board easier options youll be able to use board andwhatfactors. A scenario, it becomes stagnant hence causing mold growth will only return to their size. With the edge of the board and every 16 install a Recommended color-matched surface fastener decking has challenges. Right time do you gap trex decking get a better sense of color, style, and we ca n't wait help... Not environmentally friendly want plenty of space for water to flow between the.... Now replace the warped deck with the color choice, layout, and borders the... To use to prevent the of pressure will work in this instance a mixture colors! Doing this will be to go for a lighter color or a mixture of.... Surface imperfections and mushrooming a lighter color or a mixture of colors 1,... The opposite line reverse threading screws to help you discover the benefits of outdoor living space your... Even some exotic hardwoods new one surface imperfections and mushrooming house will also need to be against...

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