Installation Guide

Follow the gapping requirements listed in fig. 1. For
any decking where two boards meet end-to-end
over a joist, add additional blocking fig. 2. Allow
1/4" distance between all decking material and any
permanent structure or post. After all of the decking
has been attached,
snap a chalk line (white or yellow chalk
recommended) flush with or up to 1-1/2" out from
the deck framing and trim with a circular saw.
All wood and composite decking products
require proper ventilation and drainage to ensure
their longevity. When using a minimum 2x6 joist
standing on edge and the suggested 1/4" side
gap, there should be a 2" clear space between
the bottom edge of the joists and grade in order to
allow for proper ventilation. Adequate drainage is
also needed to prevent water from pooling under
the deck.
GROOVED DECKING INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
USING HIDDEN FASTENERS
Each board has a unique appearance and
should be arranged according to the end user’s
preference. Prior to construction, check with
your local regulatory agency for special code
requirements in your area. For best results, fol-
low these simple installation instructions, paying
close attention to gapping, spacing and fastener
requirements.
Joist Span
End-to-End Spacing
16" on-center for residential perpendicular appli-
cations. Residential parquet patterns and diago-
nal or herringbone designs require joist spacing
of 12" on-center. Contact Deckorators product
support at 800-332-5724 for commercial appli-
cations. Use 1/4" for side gapping.
Tools and Items Needed
• Drill/power screwdriver
• 1/8" drill bit
• Circular saw with
carbide-tip blade
• Assorted fasteners
(see instructions)
• Tape measure
• Carpenter’s pencil
• Safety glasses/goggles
Notice to installers:
Use 305 stainless steel,
black head screws
DO NOT use cordless
impact drivers
Set drill speed at
1500-1750 RPM
Max torque not to
exceed 23 inch pounds
Pre-drill knots
or dense hardwood
Page 1
(A) End Tag
5/4X6-16' GR. DKR.
fig. 1
Warmest annual temperature °F expected in region
°F 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 110 120
20 1/8 1/8 1/8 1/8 1/8 3/16 3/16 1/4 1/4 5/16 5/16
30 1/8 1/8 1/8 1/8 1/8 3/16 3/16 1/4 1/4 5/16
40 1/8 1/8 1/8 1/8 1/8 3/16 3/16 1/4 1/4
50 1/8 1/8 1/8 1/8 1/8 3/16 3/16 1/4
60 1/8 1/8 1/8 1/8 1/8 3/16 3/16
70 1/8 1/8 1/8 1/8 1/8 3/16
80 1/8 1/8 1/8 1/8 1/8
90 1/8 1/8 1/8 1/8
100 1/8 1/8 1/8
110 1/8 1/8
120 1/8
Temperature °F on day of installation
Board-End to Board-End Gapping Requirements
Note: Cutting all ends of boards prior to installation recommended. Always
follow best workmanship practices. Including, and not limited to, square
cutting both board ends prior to installation.
Fasten the outside edge of the first board to the rim joist with screws. Pre-drill and countersink all deck
screws, regardless of type, that are within 1-1/2" of the end of the deck board. On the other side of
the board, place a hidden fastener into the slot and center on the joist.
fig. 2

Summary of content (4 pages)