Decking Installation Tips
Decking Installation Tips
In order to have a well built deck, hiring professional help is the best option. However, if you want to try it yourself, there are some deck installation tips we can offer you.
Be Aware of All the Local Building Codes
Local building codes have their own purpose and it is recommended that you follow them all throughout the process of planning, building, and installing a deck. These codes have the purpose of ensuring the deck’s safe usage. By not following them, you run the risk of failing in completing your structure.
Make the Required Screwdriver Adjustments
Pay attention to the spped and torque of your screwdriver in order to avoid causing damage to the materials. In most cases, the best combination is high speed with low torque.
Joists
Make sure that the joists are installed correctly. You can check if they are properly secured by using screws or a sealant to prevent sagging and warping. A proper alignment of the joists is important as there has to be enough space between boards for maximum support. The board strength and width dictate the proper alignment. The joists must have the same density and durability as the boards used to build the deck.
Take into Account Extra Materials
Another thing you have to take into consideration is that you make the most of the material you have. You can do this by planing out all the spacing in advance. In the case of a deck with hidden joints, an 5 to 10% material is required. For an installation with a 45 degree angle cut, up to an addtitional 20% is required.
Humidity and Wooden Deck Boards
Before installing the boards you must test their moisture content by using a calibrated moisture probe meter. You have to do this in order to leave enough space between the boards so that they have room to expand and contract depending on the humidity level. It’s also necessary to prevent cupping and to keep the boards dimensionally stable. You can do this by leaving at least 10 centimeters between the ground and the joists, thus allowing for ventilation.
Fastening the Boards
For an efficient fastening of the boards to the joints, you have to track down every location where the board touches the supports, and where there is a bearing point and use a fastener. Regardless of the board width, the fastener can either be either in the middle of the board or at the end.