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All deck boards must always be installed with a 6mm side-to-side gap. 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.
Do you leave a space between composite deck boards?
As temperatures fluctuate, composite deck boards will naturally experience thermal expansion and contraction. That’s why the board ends should never be installed tight against one another. There should always be a slight gap.
Do you need space between Trex decking?
You must gap Trex® decking, both end-to-end and width-to-width. Gapping is necessary for drainage and the slight thermal expansion and contraction of Trex decking boards. Gapping also allows for the shrinkage of the wood joist system.
How wide is the gap in composite decking?
Installing Composite Decking Generally, composite deck brands all have a proprietary hidden fastener system they recommend be used and commonly they create a standard 1/8 inch deck board gap.
How far should deck boards be spaced?
Proper deck board spacing should have a 1/8-inch gap after the decking has dried out. If you install your decking using wet boards, pressure-treated decking that has not yet dried out, then you should install them with no gap as a gap will be created as they dry and shrink. Deck spacing isn’t anything to take lightly.
How far apart should T rex be?
The majority of composite deck board brands including Trex, TimberTech, and more require deck joists spacing to be at 16 inches O.C. (on center) for standard straight composite decking installation.
How do you fill space between deck boards?
While you might be tempted to fill in gaps in your decking with wood filler or caulk, the natural movement of the boards can eventually cause the materials to break loose and make the gaps even worse. However, you can use rope to easily fill the gaps.
Does Trex decking expand?
Yes, composite decking materials do expand and contract in all directions, but not as much as real wood. Composites are resistant to moisture. Instead, they change in size due to temperature.
How much space do you need between decking joists?
For residential decking, the joist space should not exceed 16 inches as measured on the centre. But if you want a more rigid feel for your decking, you can space the joist by 12 inches on the centre. Additionally, for commercial deckings, the standard joist spacing is 12 inches on the centre.
Can deck joists be 24 inches on center?
Softwoods should be at least 1 1/4 inches thick for a 16″ on center span. 2 inches thick will allow for a 24″ on center span.
What is the best gap between decking boards?
Proper Gap between Decking Boards When installing decking boards, make sure to leave 1/4 to 1/8 inch gaps in between them. This gap will make sure that the decking can breathe, have sufficient drainage, and make it easier to clean.
How do you fix a gap in a composite deck?
Fill small holes, using a putty knife, with a mixture of fine composite board shavings and silicone caulk. The consistency of the mixture should be thick enough that it will not seep out of the bottom of the hole. Match the color of the caulk to the deck boards.
How do you seal a 2nd floor deck?
How to Waterproof a Second Floor Balcony – 6 Easy Steps! Examine the Condition of the Balcony. Prepare the Surface for Waterproofing. Fill Cracks and Joints With Polyurethane Sealant. Apply a Layer of Primer. Apply a Layer of Waterproofing Membrane. Apply the Finishing Layer.
How much do Trex boards expand?
For Trex decking, the recommended end-to-end and side gaps range from 1/8 inch to 3/16 inch, depending on the temperature during installation. The gap against the permanent structure ranges from 1/4 inch to 1/2 inch, depending on the installation temperature.
How much overhang should a Trex deck have?
Trex is a popular composite material with a maximum overhang of 102mm or around 4 inches. Between one and two inches of deck board overhang is ideal when you attach an outer fascia board, or at least 1 ¾” to 2 ¾” of overhang before installing the fascia.
Does composite decking shrink and expand?
For most composite decking there is neglible expansion and contraction in the width of the board, however the expansion and contraction occurs in the length of the board. Quality composite decking should very very minimal shrinkage if manufactured correctly.
How far apart are joists spaced?
Most often, floor joist spacing is 16 inches apart on center, but this can vary depending on building codes and the requirements of the structure in the blueprint. Floor joists help distribute the load of a structure.
How far can you span a 2 by 6?
A 2×6 joist can span anywhere between 8′ for Cedar and Redwood to 9′ for Pine and Fir at 16″ OC. 12″ OC yields longer spans, while 24″ OC allows shorter spans. For other types of framing, such as composites, you will find the information on manuals and guidelines that the manufacturers will give you.
Are 2×6 strong enough for deck joists?
For upper-level decks, 2×10 is recommended as the minimum size to use for strong guard post connections. 2×6 joists should only be used on ground-level decks that do not require, and will not provide for, any guards. Most decking is not strong enough to support longer spans than 16″.
How many joists do I need for a 12×12 deck?
For example, a 12-foot x 12-foot deck of 5/4 x 6 pressure treated wood decking on 16 inches on center spacing of joists will require: A 12-foot long deck with joists 16 inches on center will require 10 joists.
