How much gap do you need between 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.
Do you need to Gap 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.
How much space do you need between decking joists?
16″
Deck joist spacing should never exceed 16″ on center (with the exception of MAX deck boards, which allow for maximum 24″ on center). For a more rigid feel, 12″ or less may be preferred. If adding additional framing, be sure to keep all boards level and in plane across the tops.
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.
What happens if deck boards are too close together?
When the deck boards are too close together, water won’t drain properly and air does not circulate. Your deck boards stay wet causing rot and that can lead to structural failure/ wood rot. To widen the gap between the deck boards run the saw forward lightly touching one side, then check for clearance.
Should there be a gap between deck boards?
Proper wood deck board spacing should have at least a 1/8 inch gap after the decking has dried out. If you install your wood or treated deck boards while they are still wet boards, then they should be attached without a gap between them.
How far apart do you space Trex decking?
Most composite and PVC decking brands, like Trex and Azek, recommend a maximum joist spacing of 16 inches OC.
How wide should the gap be between decking boards?
1/4 to 1/8 inch
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 deck can breathe, have sufficient drainage, and make it easier to clean. For the gaps, you can use different tools to help you.
Is it OK to stagger 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.
What does spacing mean on a deck board?
What Does Deck Board Spacing Mean? Spacing on a deck refers to the small edge-to-edge gap between decking boards, not the ends of the boards. While this gap is fairly small, it is still a crucial component to any good deck. Without the right deck spacing, the boards may expand, cup, and buckle out of place.
What should the joist spacing be on a composite deck?
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. Composite decking brands also generally require 12 inches O.C.joist spacing for 45-degree or angled composite deck board applications.
What happens if you put a deck board too close together?
When you don’t take this into account and place boards too close together, they can expand which can cause them to buckle upwards off the deck, cracking boards and pushing the fasteners out of place.
Why is it important to have gaps between wood deck boards?
Rain can prove especially detrimental to wood decking if it doesn’t have a place to drain off the deck. When there are no gaps between the boards, this moisture remains trapped which can lead to issues like rot and mold.