Table of Contents
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 have 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.
What is the proper spacing for composite deck boards?
One of the most critical steps for properly securing composite decking in place is to make sure you have a 1/4-inch to 3/16-inch gap between the decking boards (don’t exceed 1/2 inch). This space is important for two reasons.
What is spacing for Trex decking?
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 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.
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.
Should there be a gap between composite decking 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.
Can you but composite decking together?
Yes, additional framing is required for staggering decking. Composite decking needs the full 1 ½” (38mm) of framing to support the ends. If you stagger the joints, an additional block will need to be added to the joist to support the decking.
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.
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.
Should I stagger my deck boards?
Staggering the deck boards decreases the number of screws or nails going into one joist, which can weaken or rot the joist more quickly. Staggering the joints strengthens the deck by spreading the seams across more joists instead of placing the stress on only one.
Are you supposed to stagger deck boards?
If your deck dimensions are longer than your decking boards, staggering the joints is important when laying decking boards. The staggered boards improve stability and the appearance of the deck.
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.
Can you screw down Trex decking?
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.
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.
Can Trex be installed on 24 centers?
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.
How far can a 5 4 deck Board Span?
Decking boards span from joist to joist. If you use 5/4 decking, joists must be no farther apart than 16 inches. Decking made of 2x4s or 2x6s can span up to 24 inches. If you will run decking at an angle, you might need to put the joists closer together.
How do you layout a stringer?
Step-by-step Clamp a guide to the square. Find the crown. Lay out the first tread and the second riser. Lay out the second tread and the third riser. Mark the back of the top tread. Mark the plumb cut at the top of the stringer. Lay out the bottom riser. Adjust the first riser height.