Installation Guide
Getting Started
Careful planning will result in a better finished project. These
instructions will direct you through the process of installing the
decking.
Since each installation is unique in its performance requirements,
it is recommended all designs be reviewed by a licensed architect,
engineer or local building official before installation. Make sure the
plans meet local building codes before you begin.
STOP -- READ THIS SECTION BEFORE YOU START!
Directional Notch
A notch has been added to one side of the planks. When installing
the planks, this marked edge must be laid to the same side for the
entire installation for a consistent appearance.
The fascia boards have one long edge beveled on the front and
back. To ensure a consistent appearance from board to board when
installing the fascia boards, the beveled edge must be laid to the
same side. If you rip a piece of fascia, be sure to note the location
of the bevel on the ripped piece to ensure consistency when
replacing it.
Ventilation
In areas with obstructed airflow such as roofs and on-grade
applications, a minimum of 1-1/2 in- sleeper system supported by,
and connected to, the substructure over which the deck is built is
recommended. For proper water run-off, the deck should slope 1/2
in. for every 8 ft. away from the house.
Static Electricity
Static buildup is a natural occurring phenomenon that can occur
with many plastic products.
Cantilevering
The planks can be cantilevered a maximum of 1 in.
Color and Grain Patterns
The composite deck boards are designed to mimic the look of real
wood, and, like real wood, there will be a slight difference in color
and grain pattern from board to board. This is intentional and
part of the manufacturing process, giving the most realistic and
wood-like appearance possible. This variation is purely aesthetic
Installation Guide
and does not or will not affect the performance of the product. The
boards are designed to naturally weather over time, with most of the
weathering complete within the first year of the deck’s life.
CAUTION:
This decking is NOT intended for use as columns, support posts,
beams, joist stringers or other primary load-bearing members. The
decking must be supported by a code-compliant substructure. While
the decking products are great for deck re-planking (removing old
deck surface planks and installing new decking on code-compliant
substructure), the deck planks CANNOT be installed on top of
existing deck planks.
Tools Required
• Cordless driver
• Carpenter’s square
• Chalk line
• Spacing tools
• Tape measure
• Circular saw
• Jig saw
• Safety glasses
• Power miter or compound miter saw with fine finish top bevel blade
Working With The Planks
Joists/Joist Spacing
Standard Joist Spacing
Expansion and Contraction
All decking materials expand and contract with the changes of
weather and the season. As such, the deck planks will experience
expansion and contraction with changes in temperature. Fastening
the deck planks according to the gapping requirements noted in the
following table accommodates for this movement. Changes in length
are most significant during the installation process, and should be
accounted for if working in extreme temperatures.
Style Selections 90° 45° 30°
100psf 16 in 14 in 12 in