Is 3/16 gap between deck boards okay?
The Sweet Spot – Most people agree that 3/16” is a good gap between boards. Going more than a ¼” may get a little too wide. The width of a nail head is just about right. Treated Lumber – Usually treated lumber will have some shrinkage so you can butt the boards almost right against each other during installation.
What can I use for deck board spacers?
Sixteen-penny nails work great as spacers when you’re installing deck boards, but they often fall through the cracks. Keep the nails in place by pounding them through plastic jar covers. They’re easier to move and will stay up on the deck instead of falling on the ground.
Do decks need spacers?
Leaving a gap between boards is critical for a well-built deck that will have space to drain, dry, expand and contract without causing the wood any damage. But, you also want to be sure you leave the right size gap: Go too small, and there won’t be enough space; go too big, and the gap can become a safety hazard.
What are deck spacers?
Gap Deck Board Spacer for Hidden Deck Fasteners (6-Count) gap sizes between wood decking boards when it comes to drainage and drying. The uniquely engineered blade design helps prevent denting or marring of wood, thermal woods and composite deck boards.
Should I pre drill holes for deck screws?
While it is not considered necessary to pre-drill wood screws, it is highly recommended by professionals that you do so. When you do not drill pilot holes in advance, you are essentially putting extra pressure on the wood surrounding the screw (weakening it) and increasing the chances of the wood splitting or cracking.
What is the minimum gap between decking boards?
5-6mm
SPACING BETWEEN DECK BOARDS Ensure there is a minimum gap of 5-6mm between each deck board.
Should you nail or screw deck boards?
For the decking boards, many agree that screws perform better than nails. They have better tensile strength and will less likely to pop out, which is a common problem in decking. Many also agree that nails are better used for the frame of the deck.
How far apart are the joists on a deck?
Deck joist spacing should never exceed 16″ on center (with the exception of MAX deck boards, which allow for maximum 24″ on center). For a more rigid feel, 12″ or less may be preferred.
How far apart should deck boards be?
Overall, conventional decking profiles should be installed such that when seasoned, will have gaps between 1/8 and 1/4 of an inch. Look at the ends of the boards and install the decking “barkside” up to prevent cupping. Install decking with 3″ pressure-treated compatible deck screws instead of nails.
How many screws should I put in decking?
Most decking boards will require two screws each to fix them securely onto the floor joists. As for decking boards to rim joists, many recommend using at least three screws.
What are the best deck screws for treated lumber?
With treated lumber, use G-185 galvanized or polymer-coated steel. For marine or wet environments, ground-contact, or exposure to salts or other corrosive chemicals, stainless steel is your best choice. Galvanized fasteners for use with treated lumber should meet ASTM A153 (or the newer ASTM F2329).
How long do deck screws need to be?
Most decking screws are 8-gauge and, while 2 1/2 inches is the minimum length needed to hold decking boards to the joists, 3-inch screws are commonly used to provide extra holding power against the upward pressure of shrinking or warping boards.
What do you need to know about a deck spacer?
The Deck Spacer is a 1-piece tool for proper deck spacing dimensions for the most common deck board types. Different deck board materials require different spacing dimensions for a professional finished deck.
What should the spacing be on a new deck?
Getting the board spacing right the first time can save you the hassle of having to pull the boards up later, or live with gaps that are too narrow or large in the long run. The tips above will make spacing a snap on your new deck.
How big of a gap do you need for a TimberTech deck?
The Deck Spacer helps easily create consistent gaps of 1/8″ or 3/16″ while installing TimberTech Decking. Works with all TimberTech decking and fastening options.
What happens if your deck is spaced too closely?
Rot – Deck boards that are spaced too tightly together are more likely to trap dirt, debris and moisture, which is the perfect mixture for making rot. Water Drainage – Adequate gaps are needed for water drainage. Without it rot is more likely, mold can build up easily and slick boards can become hazardous.