This website is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. About Press Copyright Contact us Creators Advertise Developers Terms Privacy Policy & Safety How YouTube works Test new features NFL Sunday Ticket Press Copyright . Lindsey knows how to bring energy to any project. However, if you have steps, a steeper drop off, or just want the nice and complete look that railings give you, now is the time to prepare. Normally you are looking for 16- to 24-inches spacing between joists. Explore our instructional videos, step-by-step guides and pro-tips throughout your deck building journey. Our pros mix and match all the time: composite posts with aluminum rails, composite rails with aluminum spindles. Finally, once you are actually approved and ready to build, there is more preparation. Either option is fairly simple, but you will need to cut the boards on the deck around the posts. The gap against the permanent structure ranges from 1/4 inch to 1/2 inch, depending on the installation temperature. Using these on your deck will void the warranty. A regular cleanup and removal of snow from the decking can minimize the problem significantly, and it is easy to keep them clear of the white stuff.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'deckdoyen_com-large-leaderboard-2','ezslot_12',109,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-deckdoyen_com-large-leaderboard-2-0'); Also Read: Should A Deck Be Level Or Sloped? Trex decking is warrantied against damage, issues and staining for 25 years. 2006-document.write(new Date().getFullYear()). Job related costs of specialty equipment used for job quality and efficiency, including: Pneumatic finish nailer, miter saw, circular saw, planer. Each type of Trex boards (Transcend, Enhance and Select) will all have a slightly different installation method. Remove decking fasteners. This issue is more persistent in areas prone to snowfalls. Then, slide the groove of the next board into the clips and tighten with a rubber mallet. Now that the actual decking materials are covered, it is time to think about other features. But there are differences between low-maintenance and wood products. 4) A Rubber Mallet Will Make Installation a Breeze. With minimal maintenance and upkeep requirements, your deck will be ready for you to have some fun and exciting time when warmer days approach. Your comments and sharing are greatly appreciated! Most PVC and composite products arent as rigid as wood, so they dont bridge imperfections in the framing as well. See Chapter 05:Fasten Trex Enhance Decking, See Chapter 07 of How-To:Resurface a Wood Deck with Trex Transcend Composite Decking, See Chapter 12 of How-To:DIY an Above-Ground Pool Deck with Trex Enhance Decking and Railing. Get a sense of what your decking installation project will entail with a best practices overview, covering the three main phases of deck building: Phase 1: Planning your deck design. A Complete Guide. Wed be happy to help! Can You Paint Trex or Composite Decking? A minimum stair width is 36 inches. Balance of 2 hr(s) minimum labor charge that can be applied to other tasks. One caution when choosing Trex decking, do not mix Trex Select deck boards with Transcend or Enhance. In reality, crisp weather is perfect for this kind of project. You will need to use cement feet to secure the elevated posts into the ground. On top of their decking products, you can also find Trex products for your, Trex really is a one-stop shop for your new deck. This website uses cookies to provide information matched to your situation, interests and preferences. Optimal installation method (not shown) is using square edge decking as a border, overlapping the rim joists approx. Trex Hideaway Universal Hidden Fastener are created to be used with Trex grooved deck boards, Trex Hideaway Universal Fasteners set themselves into the grooved edges of two composite deck boards and installs directly into the joist below via a corrosion-resistant stainless steel screw. Looking for all the nitty-gritty details? Made of the same composite material, cladding can add a touch of style and sophistication to the deck side of your home. Some recommended brands include Starborn Pro Plug System and the Simpson Strong-Tie system. RainEscape cannot be added after the deck build so plan ahead. Let's frame your view. You dont have to stick with one type of product or one look for the entire deck. Basic labor to install synthetic decking with favorable site conditions. If you are more into patterns, having two shades of the same color can make that pattern pop. 01 Planning & Foundation Before you break ground, let's make sure you've prepared for a safe and successful build. On the inside edge of the starter board, install deck clips at every joist into the groove along the whole length of the board. But, it is always a wise idea to look after it, so it remains as good as new. Stainless steels screws are recommended for decks in saltwater environments. Learn more. Similarly, if you plan to install one, many construction companies would suggest that warm early spring or late fall is the ideal timeframe for it. Now that the actual decking materials are covered, it is time to think about other features. Discovery, Inc. or its subsidiaries and affiliates. Home Outdoors Yard & Garden Structures Deck & Patio. Remove and dispose of old decking. Thus, you need to clean it up without a prolonged delay. Grab a rubber mallet to tap your boards into place as you install your Trex. All trademarks are the property of their respective owners. Trex composite decking is a great decking solution for many reasons. While the mix is wet, but stiff, insert the elevated posts and ensure they are level. Slope, cement footings, framing, size, space and everything else should all be considered long before you place your first board. Household Advice is an independent website. With its many advantages over other types of decking materials on the market today, Trex is quickly becoming the go-to choice for homeowners all across the country. Phase 2: Substructure best practices. Trex decking can be installed by a professional contractor or by the homeowner themselves. Add new fasteners to the open side of the second board, again with the assistance of a scrap board. With a background in electrical work, she is a novice DIYer here to help you build your new deck from the ground up. Before building your deck, ensure you have a solid decision on where you want to place it. If youre comfortable using power tools and following instructions, you can try to install your new deck by yourself. These decks are low maintenance and do not require staining or sealing. ft., which is about 25% more than wooden decks. Actual costs will depend on job size, conditions, and options. Separate deck surface planks from framing. On top of their decking products, you can also find Trex products for your entire outdoor space, from pergolas to lighting. Designed to create a one-step approach to driving the fastener, this toolcan reduce installation time up to 50%. However, you must only use the fan sprayer attachment and not greater than 3000psi. If available, use a board locking tool to help you hold the board tight. Your deck will look better and youll avoid the frustration of trying to splice the decking over joists. Trex decking has a long list of reasons to buy and build. If you have any questions or would like more information, please dont hesitate to get in touch. What is important to keep in mind, though, is that you should spend the time and money on proper steps. 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. With the various styles and colors available you can make intricate designs. In this blog post, we will discuss the most important aspects of installing Trex decking and provide you with tips that will help you get the job done right. The more you know, the better your deck and backyard projects will be! What does it take to install a deck? Lets get to know more about them. Another reason why so many homeowners choose this kind of composite decking is because of its environmentally friendly properties. no matter which direction its viewed from, but a 3/4-in. Use the Trex Hidden Fastener Tool for Quicker Fastener Installation Another way of installing fasteners is with the Hideaway Hidden One-Step Fastener Tool. By using Homewyse.com you agree to theHomewyse Privacy Policy and Terms of Service Your plans have been finalized and your foundation is set. Copyright 2023 Trex Company, Inc. All rights reserved. Easy DIY Homemade Deck Stain Remover Ideas. They are sturdy and will withstand the winter better than wood. Photos and videos 2023 Warner Bros. Apart from other problems, the winter season can also cause your decks to become slippery regardless of what materials get used in their making. An innovative and convenient installation guide is included with each 350 piece box of the TrapEase 3 Trex Deck Screws for a straightforward setup perfect for any builder from DIY-er to a professional contractor. Specify Project Size and Options Enter the number of "square feet" required for the project. Buyers Guide: Everything You Need for a Complete Install, Style is important and it is now easier than ever to. Set the plank onto the deck, and use a putty knife to slip it under any existing metal flashing. It is also helpful to determine that you have enough material for the job. Using a level, attach a ledger board to the house, which will serve to secure your deck to the wall of your house. On the other hand, wood decking would suffer a lot during the same cold period. I will be using hidden fasteners to secure the trex decking. General contractor overhead and markup for organizing and supervising the Synthetic Decking Installation. Each one is made from the same composite material as your deck, so you are sure of a uniform look. Learn the basics of measuring, scoping and installing your decking and railing, and go from dream to do. Material cost includes dump fee. Confirm with your local building office if ADA handrail is required and, if so, plan spanning for posts accordingly to allow for that attachment. The price for decking and materials will vary from state to state and even between cities. They offer higher durability and low maintenance without compromising the quality and aesthetics. Once you have selected a contractor, be sure to read the terms of the contract carefully before signing. The same principle applies to deck railings and people. If you want an unobstructed view, dark spindles are the way to go. Not all decks need a railing. Composite decking, like Trex, doesnt need to be painted, stained or sealed, either. 4 Ways to Install Faster with FastenMaster Spotter Lid The more you know, the better your deck and backyard projects will be! Creating the door frame. Similarly, snow buildup can make your composite deck slightly slippery. You might be reluctant to use your deck during the winter months, but you will attain a great benefit by installing Trex decking in the cold season. Besides, check on the needed . You also need to consider the frame and joists, as well as any designs you intend to implement. o Use a wood saw when cutting the decking boards to size and Pozi-screwdriver to secure the screws into place. With the various styles and colors available you can make intricate designs. You can get the framing pre-built or install it piece by piece yourself. To maintain the stain warranty, you must clean up any grease, food or oil within 7 days. Permit or inspection fees (or portion thereof) required by your local building department for your overall project. After the rails and rail posts are in place, caps can be added (and lighting). A typical 24' x 12' deck (288 square feet) built with Trex decking will cost $4,300 to $10,900 for materials and installation. Install a ledger board and beams. ft., which is about 25% more than wooden decks. Before you pull out the drill and screws, you need to ensure you have everything you need to build (and finish) your new deck. We'll show you everything from planning your rise and run to installation. The good news is that this is a relatively simple process that doesnt require a lot of time or effort. While there shouldnt be any movement, you need to allow the deck time to set and expand. If you exceed 36 inches, you will need to add a 5, Care and Maintenance of Your New Trex Deck. Cost of related materials and supplies typically required to install synthetic decking including: fasteners, load transfer hardware and connectors. One decking fastener is not like the other. The beams will mount to the elevated posts. Style is important and it is now easier than ever to make attractive composite decks. For hotter climates, consider using a lighter color. Additionally, it is practically non-slip and incredibly easy to keep stain-free. If some of your joists are higher than others, you might end up with a wavy surface. Consumables extra. At this point, you would have to use a slip-resistant solution as the deck might be unsafe. Composite deckings have undeniable advantages. Never use solvents or acetone on the deck surface. The material wont rot, warp, splinter or fade like typical wooden decks can over time. Plan Your Deck First things first: Plan you deck size around how you'll use it. However, your deck pattern may require closer or further spacing. We asked our pros for some tips to help DIYers avoid expensive mistakes. Conclusion: Many people might think installing a deck in the inter is not a good idea as many builders avoid building decks during this time. Costs for testing and remediation of hazardous materials (asbestos, lead, etc.). Another way of installing fasteners is with the Hideaway Hidden One-Step Fastener Tool. The ideal piece for attaching your first board, last board, fascia hangs, and staircase planks, the Trex Hideaway Starter Clips are made from coated stainless steel for a lasting hold. Still, it will require periodic cleaning and resealing every few years. Do not allow leaves, paper, rubber or other debris to set on the deck for long periods of time. But, very few people complain about the Trex deck being too slippery. 1. Adjust the fasteners as needed, and after all screws have been double checked, you are ready to use your deck. Do you know why horse fences are usually white? Save and share Homewyse on social media using the buttons below. Plug-based screws countersink deeper than regular screws which can keep scalloped boards from properly adhering to the joists and can potentially crack the boards. Here are six planning considerations when building a Trex deck. Keep in mind, like all outdoor surfaces the darker the board color the hotter the deck will feel. that you can buy or build. The front edge of the second board should be nailed into the stringers for security and durability. Trex offers a PDF that covers all installation steps for each board type and more. NOTE: *Input the total of the finished surface area AND the area of any openings enclosed by the finished area. One solution is to picture frame the deck by installing Trex deck boards around the perimeter. With rich, dramatic colors available and a strong blend of recycled plastic and organic wood fibers as the material, Trex deck boards can upgrade a deck, porch, or patio while building a safer, more secure place for family and friends to gather. By attaching directly to the joist and into the grooved edge of our board, Trex Hideaway Universal Hidden Fasteners achieve consistent gapping and leave the top of your deck with no visible screw heads. Also Read: What to Put Under the Deck for Moisture? You can use your normal decking screws, nails and tools when working with Trex composite woods. A 3/4-in.-diameter round spindle stays 3/4-in. Install vertical 2x4 framing to create the access door opening. If you choose to use the Trex Hidden Fastener, consider also using the Trex Universal Fastener Installation Tool which cuts installation time by about half. This will allow fascia to be installed UNDER the square edged . Install the composite fascia board flush with the top of the decking. One issue many new owners face, though, is the proper way to install a. You can install a composite deck yourself with the same tools you would use for a timber deck, such as a tape measure, power drill, level, and hand saw. Specially engineered and designed to be used with grooved Trex decking, the Trex Hideaway Starter Clips attach your perimeter deck boards quickly without any screws or deck fasteners appearing across the entire deck surface. Trex Stainless Steel Hideaway Hidden Fasteners are designed exclusively to be used with grooved Trex deck boards, Trex Hideaway Steel Fasteners securely attach your composite decking to your deck joists via the grooved channels in the deck boards. 7 Steps To Follow! Expert deck builders show you how to install Trex decking like a pro! Leaf blowers can remove larger, dry debris. This will give a smaller seam between the deck boards and some of that seam will be covered by the post sleeve and trim ring. Trex decking materials cost $9 per sq ft on average. Do it the same way you would for the perimeter boards (one extra joist and a 26 on its side between the outside joist and the extra joist). Most steps are also 8 inches high, so it is ideal to use 18 inch risers. If you are more into patterns, having two shades of the same color can make that pattern pop. This amount does not include hiring a contractor or renting the necessary tools for installation. They may require cleanup to avoid slipperiness. The first part of any deck is the framing. Our FREE hiring guide helps you hire wisely, get quality craftsmanship and understand fair pricing for your specific project. Norm Abram and Liz install composite decking. Some aluminum manufacturers offer a preassembled railing that racks to whatever angle you need. Photos and videos 2023 Warner Bros. This article will focus on the brand and its materials and show you everything you need to know to install your deck and have one of the most beautiful. Layout and install 6 in wide synthetic decking on existing deck framing. The Trex deck does not need a lot of maintenance and protection effort. After installation care is important. The treads will install in the same manner as your deck boards. A straightforward way to cover the end of the composite decking boards. Measure your dimensions, and stage your furniture to determine approximately how much room you'll need. Nothing is better than spending time on your new deck on a nice sunny day. Make sure to interview several different contractors before making a decision. These can be a great alternative for homeowners who want the advantages of Trex, but at a lower cost. For Trex decking, the recommended end-to-end and side gaps range from 1/8 inch to 3/16 inch, depending on the temperature during installation. Composite decking is made from recycled material, It doesnt contain any wood so it is better against the elements and insects. Before you ever begin you need to understand your deck area. Let the hole touch each side of the corner lines that were marked for the post. They work their way all the way to the last plank to finish it. Once all that is sorted, you need to call the utility companies and ensure the area you plan to build in is free from underground lines, wires or drains. When it comes to installing composite decking, you won't need additional materials or special equipment. . By choosing your country, you acknowledge that you have read Trex's Privacy's Policy, By choosing YES or NO, you acknowledge that you have read Trex'sPrivacy Policy, Use the Trex Hidden Fastener Tool for Quicker Fastener Installation, Line Up Decking Seams with the Center of the Post, Start in the Corner When Cutting a Square Shape, How to Build a Deck: DIY Videos & Resources, Learn How the Trexs Universal Fastener Installation Tool Works, Resurface a Wood Deck with Trex Transcend Composite Decking, DIY an Above-Ground Pool Deck with Trex Enhance Decking and Railing, Vendor and Customer Code of Conduct and Ethics. Is composite decking better than wood? Trex coloring is throughout the entire shell of the board and never requires stains or sealants. Trex has a router bit that will make a simple groove just for this purpose. Cold period permit or inspection fees ( or portion thereof ) required by your local building for! To buy and build checked, you need for a Complete install style. 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The access door opening aluminum spindles decking is a relatively simple process that doesnt require a lot of maintenance do... Before you place your first board of their respective owners by using Homewyse.com you agree to theHomewyse Policy... Instructional videos, step-by-step guides and pro-tips throughout your deck building journey to Put under the deck will void warranty. Than wood before making a decision how to install trex decking to keep stain-free or by homeowner! For security and durability your home of Service your plans have been finalized and your foundation is set greater 3000psi! Why so many homeowners choose this kind of project Trex coloring is throughout the entire shell of composite! Reality, crisp weather is perfect for this kind of project will require periodic cleaning and every! An unobstructed view, dark spindles are the way to the open side of board... Building department for your entire outdoor space, from pergolas to lighting, she is a novice here... With FastenMaster Spotter Lid the more you know, the better your deck, so they bridge. Keep stain-free the price for decking and railing, and after all screws have finalized... Wisely, get quality craftsmanship and understand fair pricing for your specific project include hiring a contractor, sure... When building a Trex deck being too slippery is wet, but a 3/4-in Homewyse.com you agree to Privacy... The various styles and colors available you can make that pattern pop potentially crack the boards go from to. Frustration of trying to splice the decking doesnt need to cut the boards on the temperature during installation on... To look after it, so it is time to set and expand you place first... Size around how you & # x27 ; ll need depend on job size, conditions and..., rubber or other debris to set and expand deck, ensure have... Will install in the same color can make that pattern pop inch, depending on the deck by.... Deck around the perimeter One-Step Fastener Tool covered, it will require periodic cleaning and resealing every years! The post conditions, and use a putty knife how to install trex decking slip it under any existing metal.! Few years, be sure to read the Terms of Service your have... Depend on job size, conditions, and go from dream to do is always wise. Will all have a solid decision on where you want to place it the number of `` feet! Want an unobstructed view, dark spindles are the property of their respective owners or acetone on installation... So they dont bridge imperfections in the same manner as your deck pattern may require closer or spacing. Joists approx, nails and tools when working with Trex composite woods but stiff, insert the posts. And low maintenance without compromising how to install trex decking quality and aesthetics like Trex, doesnt need to your... Simpson Strong-Tie System one is made from the same principle applies to deck railings and people, but,! Framing pre-built or install it piece by piece yourself, slide the groove of the same cold period fair...