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Is it hard to install Trex decking?
Trex® engineered composite decking to be as simple to install as it is to care for. And to make it even easier, we’ve compiled all the resources you need to build a DIY deck.
What is the proper spacing for Trex decking?
Most composite and PVC decking brands, like Trex and Azek, recommend a maximum 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.
Do you need to Gap Trex decking?
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.
Is Trex decking worth the money?
Yes, composite materials on decking and trim are worth the money. The labor to install composite is the same as the labor to install wood, which will rot and require a lot of maintenance. Sun beaming on the wood deck and foot traffic also is very damaging to wood.
What fasteners to use with Trex?
Trex recommends the use of two screws per joist. Use recommended stainless steel screws in any areas near bodies of saltwater. 2-3/4″ or 3″ screws can be used with Trex 2×6 product. Muro T-Screw M-TX0300SEP listed above is approved for 2×6 decking (can also be used with standard 1″ (decking as listed above).
Do you need to slope a Trex deck?
“When installing Trex Porch Floorboards in a non-covered environment, the porch structure should be slightly sloped to help allow for proper drainage. Joists should be sloped 1/8″ per foot away from the house to facilitate drainage.”.
Can I use deck screws on Trex?
The answer is yes for a solid composite decking (must be pre-drill and must check with manufacture). You can not drill or screw through a hollow composite deck as the screw will become loose and rise in time . Like the usual wooden decking boards, you can also screw down a solid composite decking.
Do you leave a gap 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.
How many stringers Trex steps?
Composite deck stairs are typically made from 2 x 12 pressure-treated stringers spaced about 8 to 16 inches apart. They rest on a solid foundation and are attached to the deck with hangers. They have risers (also called toe kicks), treads and railings. Stairs should be at least 36 inches wide.
How do you stagger Trex deck boards?
“Stagger your boards so their ends are in different spots.” Slide the next board in so it’s parallel to the first. The sliding motion is important, as you want the spacer to fit in the groove of this board, too. Basically, you’ll have two boards with the spacer between them.
Can you install Trex with no gaps?
When installing in temperatures below 4.5°C, Trex recommends 10 mm gapping. For docks and heavily wooded areas, Trex recommends a 10 mm gap as well. No gapping should ever exceed 13 mm.
Are Trex hidden fasteners worth it?
Hidden deck fasteners are a nice way to keep the surface of your deck looking clear and unencumbered. But they are not the right fastener for all decks. In fact, using hidden deck fasteners inappropriately is a formula for failure. Some deck projects require the stronger fastening power of face screws.
How far can Trex overhang?
» ALWAYS follow Trex-recommended gapping guidelines. » Maximum allowable perpendicular overhang for Trex is 102 mm. » All decks require air circulation to keep them dry and looking good. To improve air flow, leave openings under the decking or increase gapping to 10 mm.
How do you hide the edges of a composite deck?
Two widely practiced methods to hide those unfinished composite deck ends are 1) picture framing, and 2) trim boards.
What are the three levels of Trex decking?
Trex deck design comes in three types: Select, Enhance, and Transcend.
What are the problems with Trex decking?
Many Trex deck owners have complained of flaking, deterioration and even in extreme cases virtual disintegration of their Trex decks. It seems that under some conditions the coating seal placed on Trex composite decking can fail, exposing it to the elements.
Are Trex decks hot?
Like many other outdoor surfaces, such as concrete, asphalt, beach sand, wood decking, other brands of composite decking, etc., Trex decking can get hot due to weather and sun exposure.
How many Trex clips do I need?
You will need 0.75 clips for every lineal foot of decking. For example, 40 feet of decking would require 30 start clips. NOTE: When using hidden fasteners (both start and connector clips), one must be used on every joist. ° # of joists x # of decking boards = # of connector clips needed.
Do you pre-drill Trex?
Do I Need to Pre-Drill My Composite or Capstock Decking? In the past, no matter what type of deck board you were installing, the answer to this question would indefinitely be yes. However, with advancements in fastener technology, pre-drilling in most composite and capstock deck boards is no longer necessary.
