Table of Contents
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.
Can you install Trex decking yourself?
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.
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.
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 do you hide the ends of Trex decking?
There are several ways to go about it. Some of your options include picture framing, installing fascia boards, coating the ends with paint, using end caps and plugs, or edging your ground-level deck with stone.
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).
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.
What tools do I need to build a Trex deck?
7 Must-Have Tools to Build A Deck Circular Saw. This will probably be the tool you use the most when building a deck. Hand Saw. Chalk Line. Tape Measure. Carpenter’s Level. Power Drill.
Do you need to pre-drill Trex?
Pre-drilling It is necessary to pre-drill end of board screw holes to prevent immediate or eventual end splitting (Figure 6). Pre-drilling all holes will result in better looking finished projects. DO NOT over-tighten fasteners.
Do you have to pre-drill Trex?
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.
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.
How do you stagger Trex decking?
“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.
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.
Do you need a special saw blade to cut composite decking?
Table saw blades with a 7 to 9 inch diameter and few teeth are best for cutting composite decking. Blades made specifically for cutting composite decking usually have a tooth design that makes them unique from the other ones. The material that is going to be cut should be kept in mind when selecting a jigsaw blade.
What is the correct way to lay decking boards?
What is the correct way to lay decking? Any decking board manufacturer or professional will tell you: “The proper way to install a decking board is ridge side down.” The ridges are designed to allow for airflow, to stop moisture sitting in the ridge, and allow for a stronger structure.
What spacing is required for composite decking?
Most composite decking materials, like Trex, AZEK, TimberTech and Fiberon 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.
Do you have to seal cut ends on composite decking?
Kim Katwijk The cut ends of composite decking will absorb moisture and can swell, as shown here. Sealing the end cuts with lumber wax will help prevent swelling. Because the uncapped ends of the boards are free to pick up water, the core can absorb moisture, which can lead to all sorts of problems.
How tall should Trex posts be?
Trex Post Mounts or Joist Mount Posts cannot be used with Enhance Cocktail railing. See instructions on page 2. 2. Mark and cut post and post sleeve measuring from deck surface: » 36-1/8″ (918 mm) for 36″ (914 mm) height. » 42-1/8″ (1070 mm) for 42″ (1067 mm) height.
