Substructure Preparation
Before installing your Dex Decking, it is essential to inspect and prepare the substructure to ensure a long-lasting, stable foundation.
Examine the Substructure:
Ensure there are no fasteners or objects protruding above the deck frame’s top surface.
Verify that joists are level. Composite decking will conform to the shape beneath it, so uneven joists can cause dips or bumps.
Joist Spacing:
Blocking for Stability:
Ventilation and Drainage:
Minimum clearance: Ensure 2” of space between the bottom edge of joists and the grade for proper ventilation.
Adequate drainage is crucial to avoid water pooling underneath the deck, which could cause damage over time.
Special Considerations:
Install solid bridging (cross-bracing) at locations where heavy point loads (BBQs, fire pits, etc.) will be placed.
Bridging must be perpendicular to joists and installed every 12” on center where these loads are anticipated.
Decking Installation
Color and Pattern Variations:
Venture decking is designed to simulate natural wood, with color variations. Lay out the boards before installation to shuffle them for the best aesthetic result.
Always inspect the boards under different lighting conditions to ensure satisfaction with the final appearance. Installation of the boards is considered acceptance of their appearance.
Laying the Boards:
Cutting the Boards:
For Composite Decking: Use a fine-tooth carbide trim blade.
For finish cuts, a sharp utility knife or jigsaw can be used.
If necessary, use a large file or medium-grit sandpaper to smooth rough edges.
Fasteners
Recommended and Compatible Fasteners:
Surface Fastening:
Recommended Fasteners: 2-3/4” corrosion-resistant composite wood deck screws.
These screws minimize the "mushroom effect" that can occur with standard fasteners.
Pre-drill and countersink the holes before driving the screws to ensure the screws are flush with the surface.
Hidden Fastening:
Use 2-3/4” Cap-Tor® xd Epoxy Coated composite wood deck screws with Pro Plugs for a clean, hidden fastening system.
Pre-drill pilot holes and use the Pro Plug® Hidden Fastener tool to ensure the screws are driven to the preset level beneath the surface.
Screw Placement Guidelines
Locator Tool:
For accurate screw placement, use the locator tool to find the thickest parts of the board (lobed areas).
This ensures screws are placed in the strongest sections of the board, increasing stability.
Standard Surface Fastening:
Picture Frame Surface Fastening:
Board End Fastening:
When two boards meet end-to-end over a joist, install additional blocking for full support.
Screws should be placed 0.50” from both edges of the board and at least 1-1/2” from the cut ends.
Be careful not to over-tighten screws near board ends to prevent damage.
Grooved Board Installation
Using Stowaway Hidden Fasteners:
Place a Stowaway fastener into the groove on the side of the board, centering it on the joist.
Install the preset screw at a 90° angle through the fastener, driving it flush with the surface.
Avoid over-tightening to ensure the wings of the fastener remain level with the joist.
Step-by-Step Installation:
Step 1: Fasten the outside edge of the first board to the rim joist using 2-1/2” corrosion-resistant screws every 16”.
Step 2: Use two fasteners per deck board at each joist. Ensure screws are 1-1/2” from the cut ends.
Step 3: Install one Stowaway fastener at each joist. Slide the next board into place, ensuring a 1/4” gap between boards.
Step 4: Pin boards at the center with a #8, 2” stainless steel screw. This secures the deck and allows for expansion.
Fascia Installation:
By following these detailed steps for installation, you ensure that your Dex Decking is both structurally sound and visually appealing, with proper support, ventilation, and secure fastening.
