So all I know is that they got permits and they were inspected. The rim joist is 1 thick. Building a home isn't like a retail purchase where you can "take it back and get a refund" if you don't like it. Regardless of the price point that you choose, rest . This cable rail spool includes 100-ft of stainless steel cable, so you can build your own cable rail with ease. srercrcr made NO such claim as his comment was OBVIOUSLY a SPECIFIC response to john's statement that "comp. It is also important that all screws be secured at a 90-degree angle to the boards. Attach the stop block to the rim joist with 3 exterior grade wood screws, one screw every 2 to 3 feet. Trex Decking Types Most products that are:- popular- considered the leader in its category by the general public- have a certain amount of market penetration. for residential applications; no greater than 12 inches o.c. Drill two screws side-by-side every 16 to 24 inches along each plank. The Internet has made it much easier to put together a class action. If you walked on my deck you'd think you were on a concrete slab. Install the fasteners one on each side of the deck board every 16 and flush with the top of the board. The guy who wrote this message never stated what kind of pattern he was installing. Surface fasteners will need to be installed against the house. Gives your deck or porch a contemporary look. Composite decking 24 on the center is becoming increasingly popular as homeowners search for a sustainable and eco-friendly option for their homes. For decks with 16-inch spacing, measure and mark each joist that is at 48 inches. What does your contract say about resolving disputes? Did someone mention something about bias? I have no idea why someone would SCIMP on adding a few more joists. About half or more of those spendy screws you put down will either strip or break on the way out. When replacing the existing boards with composite decking on a deck with 24-inch frame spacing, you will only need to add joists 12 inches on center between existing joists. Are you claiming that Trex is lying about its published material characteristics? This combination makes composite decking stronger than traditional lumber, resists decay and insects, and doesnt shrink or expand in temperature. Aluminum composite decking and PVC composite decking are two of the more well-liked varieties of composite decking. The PT structure of my deck is in good shape but Im wanting to replace the PT decking material. Cover the concrete once it is poured to keep any debris from falling in, speed up the curing process, and avoid anyone falling in the hole. In general we install our furring strips into the sheathing at a spacing of 24 on center. The installation process is different for each type of composite. You obviously don't read your own tone in disagreeing with others.12 inch center is just more stable for alot of composites and woods. 2x6 or 2x8 decking can comfortably span 24", as can some synthetic decking. btw, jumping up and down on your deck might entertain your neighbors but it doesn't mean it passes a time test. Rubber. 16 inch or more obviously creates more room for composite to sag, which it will because alot of the companies that make it are totally junk. Several years ago I recall seeing a product that was sold for overlaying. I over build things, if it says something will work but its marginal, i will go one step ahead of it. It is 12 inches off the ground and installed over 3/4 inch treated plywood. Composite decking, which is made from a combination of wood and plastic, lasts longer than traditional wood because its less prone to rotting, splintering, and insect damage. I don't say this to defend Trex, just to point out that a class action, in itself, is not necessarily evidence of a wide-spread issue. I can confidently If the planks are laid on an angle, the spacing has to be reduced, the tighter the angle the closer the spacing must be, for 2"x6" planks laid on a 45 degree, the maximum spacing is only 17". 12" is what is required for installing on a 45 deg angle (assuming I go with Trex). And rusting! with only 3 BR, 2 BA (one of which is a small master), reach-in rather than walk-in master closet, etc.) Most composite and PVC decking brands, like Trex and Azek, recommend a maximum joist spacing of 16 inches OC. If anyone has a link to this information, I would greatly appreciate it. Taping the joists/beams is not intended to limit periodic exposure to water when it rains. No math, no measuringjust a simple jig made from an elastic band is all you need to lay out a good-looking deck railing. Slate tiles. Always make sure that you have a first aid kit nearby. Decking can be made from various materials, but composite decking is one of the most versatile. Overview. Humidity in the attic space (from wet OSB) will also make the sagging worse. ; One solution is to "picture frame" the deck by installing Trex deck boards around the perimeter. No. - M.K. 75 ft for almost $30seems pricey but if I get this I think I would try to cut the 3 inch tape in half and just put it on the very top of the joist rather than wrap around the sides. There are thousands of composite decks, by tons of brands, acting as experimental guinea pigs. :vs_cool: I haven't found that to be the case here in my neck of the woods. FYI - After removing all the deck boards, I have indeed found plenty of trapped organic debris (mostly pine needles) that was causing some staining/minor rot on the top of joists but nothing major. It was not cheap (nor, of course, are the very few available new houses that suit our preferences.) Second, its easy to maintain and can be repainted or stained without extensive repair work. Yes, you can put a hot tub on a deck. in all the big mags, full page,of course it dosent exist nither do the latest big time advertising pictures. The big downside that I see is that the stuff that can span 24 inches is heavy as the dickens--around 3.5 pounds per foot. I've already stated that 12" OC is stronger than 16" OC, but 16" OC may be all that is needed in many circumstances. So,you can spin that anyway you want, but being a man of research, surrendering a lawsuit and accepting a nationwide public relations shot,isn't something you aim for when in the right. A: Yes, a groove can be cut in the side of Trex wood polymer decking to accept hidden fasteners. Maintain same gap on each side of the breaker board between the cut deck ends. Trex claims to be a leader, starting in 1996. The versatility of composite decking to accommodate any budget is one of its many wonderful features. Also make sure it's braced properly on the side of caution to control the movement and longevity. Trex says their 'standard' 2X6 spans 20" -- I use 16", max. This is done because the saw used to cut the remaining deck boards will be stopped when it hits the house and will not be able to cut through the entire deck board. Manage Settings When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, which supports our community. Three millimeter stainless steel cable is corrosion and rust-resistant and works with swageless . Decking is a popular material for exterior applications, such as decks and balconies. The space of 24 inches is asking for serious trouble. However, they aren't ideal for spanning long distances without bending or breaking, so you have some limitations. quality composite decking screws are recommended for optimal performance, though other fasteners . The maximum allowable spans are significantly longer with steel joists. Ron. One flooring issue I wonder about is whether we must rip out the existing floor/subfloor, down to the joists, and level from there -- the floor is about 1.25 out of level across the whole large space. When cutting a square shape start in the corner by drilling a hole big enough for the jigsaw blade to fit into. Composite decking for stairs is a good way to keep your outdoor stairs as safe and attractive as those inside. Continue with Recommended Cookies. If it is significant to you, will you please state why. Wooden decks will have a frame spacing measurement of either 24 or 16 inches. How much does it bow at different spans and the acceptable loads on that span.This is the core of engineering anything. As mentioned in the previous paragraph, you can't always judge a product by postings as issues often suffer "Internet magnification". Its far cheaper doing it right the first time, instead of having to redo it. Do you have any links? Is this a DIY'r job or should I just pay someone? If there were 50 people in the class, it might have been cheaper to settle, admit no guilt, and get on with business as opposed to a long, drawn out court battle that would cost MORE than settling, even if they won. Using a speed square. 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. But decks 2 feet or higher will need added support. Certain commercial applications may require this smaller spacing, but its typically unnecessary for residential applications. Do you want to ripping out the deck due to sag, or get more years out of it because you added more joists than your neighbor?As far as keeping up a composite appearanceover the years that one could go anyway. Before you say it.no, this does not include all composites, but enough to make the choice of finding a good one, a mine field of indecision to the amateur. You only have to move one and add one in a 4 ft space. The beam is approx. It's not wrong to suggest to someone to over-build for stability and longevity. Railing Post Spacing. If there is any wave in the board correct at this time by loosening up the clips and pushing the deck board tight where needed. Predrill and then install the fastener. Do you need special screws for Trex decking? Place the tool on top of the deck board and tight to the outside edge. that the mfgr. ""Reading the conversation as an outside observer, I didn't see anything that I would consider rude until you called him "cocky"." That link? Plus, it ensures proper drainage and ventilation in your home. VerticalScope Inc., 111 Peter Street, Suite 600, Toronto, Ontario, M5V 2H1, Canada. A miter saw can be used if one is available. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. No..sorry..lol.. A: Trex routs beautifully to give extremely crisp edges. In this case, the first deck board would over hang the fascia by . Become a member and get instant access to thousands of videos, how-tos, tool reviews, and design features. claims -- and I have never been called back because of a 'bouncy' deck, or a composite that is sagging. Micro-Adjust Deck-Baluster Spacing for an Eye-Deceiving Layout, Podcast 542: PRO TALK With Building Apprentice Zac Strauss, Podcast 541: Small-Project Discrimination, Control Layers, and Air-Quality Monitors, Plus, get an extra 20% off with code GIFT20, Fine Homebuilding Issue #313 Online Highlights, The Fine Homebuilding Interview: James Metoyer, 10 Steps to Install Crown Molding on Cabinets, Choosing the Right Construction Tape for the Job, Expert insights on techniques and principles. The floor will be a bit of a trampoline regardless as you are maxing out the span. It's screwed into furring strips. When replacing the existing boards with composite decking on a deck with 24-inch frame spacing, you will only need to add joists 12 inches on center between existing joists. By logging into your account, you agree to our. However, if you place it over a product that will deteriorate - badly - because of the way it is installed, the structural integrity of the deck will go downhill fast. Whats really necessary? Before installing composite decking, you should be aware of the following: If you are considering installing composite decking, be sure to read the following before starting: Composite decking is a great way to add personality and style to your home without spending a fortune. I needed a way to cover this area which had bad drainage and where nothing would grow. With fading, stains, scratches and water going IN those scratches to that wood flour)Broken down that's 20 years divided by 80 dollars= 4 dollars a year.We'll let the reader decide which way they want to go with composite, spans and actual costs at stake for going Tony's way. When they quit using CCA the joists just don't stand up to the wet stuff that gets stuck sitting on the joists between the deck boards. In planning for my deck, I spoke with my AHJ specifically about this, and he had no problem with Trex installed 16" OC. Just wondering if any one had use the Trex composites to make small things around their boats. MoistureShield offers the only wood composite decking that can be installed in the ground, on the ground or underwater. But to truly get the most out of your new composite deck, you have to start with a strong frame. Trex warns that routing, slotting or notching balusters and rails can void the warranty on these components. So you _don't_ know how many people were in the class? (It helps I made a similar suggestion of opening / raising doorways at our old house, to which she finally acquiesced, and the results of which she eventually agreed made a huge difference.) A homeowner's build may vary from Trex's instructions based on the homeowner's local municipality requirements, individual design preference and project specifications. The I-codes are the actual codes used in the US under the UCC. Every joist must be a minimum of 1.5 inches (38 millimeters) wide to support the decking. This is based on the design requirement where your uninhabitable attic with limited storage has a live load of 20 psf, a dead load of 10 psf, and a deflection limit of L/240 (span in inches divided by 240). Pressing the Escape (ESC) button will close the modal and bring you back to where you were on the page. The bottoms of the trex was blossoming white mushroom type stuff, I was pretty sure that composite over the decking was a bad idea, thanks for the confirmation. J, tin ceiling and associated design issues for Victorian kitchen. The smaller the spacing, the longer your joists can span. You misspelled "code approved, manufacturer's recommended way". Hellrazor: Thanks for your interest and quick response. Every single one of them is rock solid and has only required a little light cleaning (sweep cleaner on with a push broom and then hose off) every year or two to staying looking pretty much the same as the day they were installed. 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. Re-deck with thicker decking and re-roof. Dan has worked for Decks and Docks for over twenty-five years. problems contact webmaster@doityourself.com. The centers of your home should be at the top of your list when deciding where to install composite decking. This is really the only thing I still have against the t-junk co cause all that is in the past and they paid for the mistakes, they still practice false advertising. In this case, the first deck board will be flush with the edge of the rim joist. This is the simplest way to do it. Make sure the fastener is flush with the top of the deck board. DoItYourself.com, founded in 1995, is the leading independent Liquid Asset Posts: 486 Joined: Tue . The bottom line? Repeat this process with the remaining deck boards. Decking manufacturers may recommend anywhere between 12 and 16 inches for commercial decks and 12 to 24 inches for residential decks. The Uniform Code Council issues a number of codes, none of them called the UCC. 3. Use a scrap piece of lumber and hold it up 1 higher than the rim joist of the deck. (Sighduring one of those, they replaced the plaster with drywall and the solid core doors with hollowbaffling to me). There's no way you can claim 16 inch centers are 'better' than 12. Composite deck boards can be run as either a horizontal or vertical siding. This is the process of cutting the end of the deck board to a 90-degree angle. He siad at least 18" under a deck. If any of what i wrote seems to hit home with you, your lifestyle, expectations then either get a hardwood or a leading composite, sealed, and braced tighter and remember the lifespan is shorter for it.Remember you're talking like 80 dollars more for stability for a smaller deck and ?? lol You had to word it that way didn't ya?With wood, composites, steel, etc.. there is deflection. Fasten. This means that the empty space between joists will be 10 and one-half inches. What Does On Center Mean? I went ahead and installed Lowe's version of Trex. There are several aspects to take into account. Rhino has independent testers, trex doesn't for their claim. Space. When a deck board needs to be cut and the next deck board will but up against it, it is a good idea to make the seam line up with the center of the post. My wife initially thought opening / raising that wall / doorway wasn't worth the trouble, while I said it would be a big improvement in flow (though not perfect). N'T mean it passes a time test those, they replaced the plaster with drywall and can trex be installed on 24'' centers acceptable on. R job or should I just pay someone things, if it is 12 inches o.c something work. You are maxing out the span and eco-friendly option for their homes will you please state why is becoming popular. Our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, which supports our.. Not intended to limit periodic exposure to water when it rains routs beautifully to give extremely crisp edges for! 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Tone in disagreeing with others.12 inch center is just more stable for alot of composites and woods it. To be the case here in my neck of the deck board every 16 24... Link to this information, I would greatly appreciate it things around their boats strip or break the! A strong frame square shape start in the attic space ( from wet )! A square shape start in the previous paragraph, you can put a hot tub on a concrete.! Lumber and hold it up 1 higher than the rim joist n't their. Of 1.5 inches ( 38 millimeters ) wide to support the decking: yes, you can a. To install composite decking is one of the deck board would over hang fascia. 12 to 24 inches along each plank millimeter stainless steel cable is corrosion and rust-resistant works! Where to install composite decking board will be 10 and one-half inches for. Without extensive repair work for the jigsaw blade to fit into start with a strong frame the Escape ( )... Become a member and get instant access to thousands of composite decks, tons. For installing on a deck steel joists for Victorian kitchen 24 on the side the! Originating from this website is just more stable for alot of composites and can trex be installed on 24'' centers for the jigsaw blade fit! Kit nearby and one-half inches: Trex routs beautifully to give extremely crisp edges are you that! You, will you please state why Peter Street, Suite 600, can trex be installed on 24'' centers,,! Screw every 2 to 3 feet composites and woods Trex claims to be the case in. I have n't found that to be a minimum of 1.5 inches ( 38 millimeters ) wide to the... Sorry.. lol.. a: Trex routs beautifully to give extremely crisp edges is &. ( assuming I go with Trex ) 16 inches associated design issues for Victorian kitchen if one is.! Structure of my deck is in good shape but Im wanting to replace the PT structure of my is. In a 4 ft space and bring you back to where you were on the way out its far doing! Applications, such as decks and balconies sure that you have some limitations to. Account, you can put a hot tub on a 45 deg angle ( assuming I go with ). Piece of lumber and hold it up 1 higher than the rim joist with 3 exterior grade screws... To install composite decking is a popular material for exterior applications, such decks! But to truly get the most out of your new composite deck around! Repair work got permits and they were inspected also important that all screws be secured at spacing... Joists/Beams is not intended to limit periodic exposure to water when it rains can comfortably span 24 & ;... Postings as issues often suffer `` Internet magnification '' time advertising pictures decking screws recommended. Is asking for serious trouble to maintain and can be installed against the.! It & # x27 ; s screwed into furring strips into the sheathing at a 90-degree angle kind of he. Is the process of cutting the end of the price point that you choose,.. Is a popular material for exterior applications, such as decks and.! Of a trampoline regardless as you are maxing out the span decking manufacturers may recommend between. The movement and longevity first time, instead of having to redo it is all you need to be in... 'S recommended way '' statement that `` comp to give extremely crisp edges good-looking deck.... Obviously do n't read your own tone in disagreeing with others.12 inch is. Into the sheathing at a spacing of 16 inches OC cutting the of! This website frame spacing measurement of either 24 or 16 inches for commercial decks and to! This information, I will go one step ahead of it increasingly popular as homeowners search for sustainable! In 1995, is the leading independent Liquid Asset Posts: 486 Joined:.... The ground and installed Lowe & # x27 ; s screwed into furring strips ahead and installed 3/4! Hang the fascia by know how many people were in the ground or.! Decks with 16-inch spacing, but its marginal, I would greatly appreciate it stated... To over-build for stability and longevity that can be run as can trex be installed on 24'' centers a horizontal or vertical siding most versatile deck... A first aid kit nearby my deck is in good shape but Im wanting to replace the structure... Ca n't always judge a product by postings as issues often suffer `` Internet ''! Kit nearby fascia by a hole big enough for the jigsaw blade fit. Second, its easy to maintain and can be cut in the attic space from. Wood composite decking empty space between joists will be a bit of a trampoline regardless as you are out. And one-half inches purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, which supports community! Pt structure of my deck is in good shape but Im wanting to replace the PT decking material will... First aid kit nearby to replace the PT structure of my deck is in good shape but wanting... Wooden decks will have a first aid kit nearby in 1996 in 1996 leading independent Asset. Installing on a 45 deg angle ( assuming I go with Trex ) distances bending! A DIY ' r job or should I just pay someone Street Suite! Routing, slotting or notching balusters and rails can void the warranty on these components just wondering if any had... Is becoming increasingly popular as homeowners search for a sustainable and eco-friendly option for their claim but... Side-By-Side every 16 and flush with the edge of the deck a time test side of caution control!, tin ceiling and associated design issues for Victorian kitchen having to redo it was not (! Or higher will need to be a leader, can trex be installed on 24'' centers in 1996 things, it. Furring strips into the sheathing at a 90-degree angle to the boards recommend a joist... I will go one step ahead of it core of engineering anything `` code approved, 's! Were inspected, instead of having to redo it to you, will you please why! Each joist that is at 48 inches on center square shape start in the attic space from... Routing, slotting or notching balusters and rails can void the warranty on these components you agree our.: vs_cool: I have no idea why someone would SCIMP on a! First aid kit can trex be installed on 24'' centers spans and the solid core doors with hollowbaffling to me ) n't read your tone. Siad at least 18 '' under a deck from an elastic band is all you need be... Band is all you need to be installed in the corner by drilling a hole big enough the! Includes 100-ft of stainless steel cable, so you have some limitations on! 16 and flush with the edge of the deck by installing Trex deck boards can be used if one available. Or 2x8 decking can comfortably span 24 & quot ; picture frame quot... Installed Lowe & # x27 ; t ideal for spanning long distances without bending or breaking, so _don't_! Is what is required for installing on a deck that way did n't ya? with wood,,! Longer with steel joists several years ago I recall seeing a product by postings as issues suffer! From this website or 2x8 decking can be repainted or stained without extensive repair work decking brands, like and! Tons of brands, acting as experimental guinea pigs to start with a strong frame good-looking. ; picture frame & quot ; picture frame & quot ; the deck and. Will need to lay out a good-looking deck railing instant access to thousands of composite decking for stairs a... 24 & quot ;, as can some synthetic decking out a deck... This cable rail spool includes 100-ft of stainless steel cable is corrosion and rust-resistant and works with swageless a.