Installation Guide

Page 3
Installation Preparation
Follow these guidelines for best deck installation:
• AZEK Deck Boards are one-sided products. Deck Boards are to be installed with the grain side up for
the walking surface. Rim Joist Covers are to be installed grain side out.
• AZEK Rim Joists are one-sided with exception to the XLM Collection.
• Prior to installation, check to make sure all joists are level, structurally sound, and there are no nails or
screws protruding.
• Ensure that all joists are crowned correctly and that all joists are level across the top as AZEK Deck will
conform to the surface contour of the substructure.
• Proper joist spacing is required for proper installation. Joist spacing should never exceed 16” on center.
For a more rigid feel, 12” may be preferred.
• For best results, installing solid wood blocking between each joist, placed every 4’ - 6’ within the
structure, can help reduce movement or twisting of the joists. Limiting joist movement can help reduce
excessive gapping and also ensure more uniform nished surface of the AZEK Deck.
16”BASIC INSTALLATION
SUBSTRUCTURE
16” on center maximum joists.
(12” on center for commercial
applications)
PICTURE FRAME INSTALLATION
SUBSTRUCTURE
16” on center maximum joists plus
additional support for picture
frame structure (12” on center for
commercial applications)
DIAGONAL INSTALLATION
SUBSTRUCTURE
12” on center maximum joists.
More severe angles may require
closer joist spacing.
Extreme Heat Warning
Be aware of excessive heat on the surface of
AZEK products from external sources, such as but
not limited to, re or reection of sunlight from
energy-efcient window products. Low-emissivity
(Low-E) glass can potentially harm AZEK
products. Low-E glass is designed to prevent
passive heat gain within a structure and can cause
unusual heat build-up on exterior surfaces. This
extreme elevation of surface temperatures, which
exceeds that of normal exposure, can possibly
cause AZEK products to melt, sag, warp, discolor,
increase expansion/contraction, and accelerate
weathering.
Current or potential AZEK customers that have
concerns about possible damage by Low-E glass
should contact the manufacturer of the product
which contains Low-E glass for a solution to reduce
or eliminate the effects of reected sunlight.
Excessive Construction Debris
It is important during construction, the deck’s
surface stay clear from excessive build-up
of dirt, sand, and dust from tile, concrete,
landscape blocks, or any other masonry
products. If these materials are not removed
immediately, the deck surface will become
difcult to clean and can potentially damage
the deck’s surface nish.
Do not use AZEK Deck as a work surface.
If a build-up does occur please refer to
the Care and Cleaning section in AZEK’s
installation guide or website, AZEK.com.
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16”
16”
12”
Working with AZEK Deck Boards