Instructions / Assembly

Prior to construction, check with your local reg-
ulatory agency for special code requirements in
your area. For best results, follow these simple
installation instructions, paying close attention
to gapping, spacing and fastener requirements.
Joist span: Depending on local building code
requirements, refer to PFS-TECO RR-0100 or
CCMC 13378-R for joist spacing and stair tread
support options. Reports available at
www.DeckoRail.com/resources.
Side gapping: 1/4". End-to-end spacing: Follow gap-
ping requirements listed in figure 1. For any
decking where two boards meet end-to-end over
a joist, add additional blocking (figure 2). Allow
1/4" distance between all decking material and
any permanent structure or post. After all of the
decking has been attached, snap a chalk line
(white or yellow chalk recommended) flush with
or up to 1-1/2" out from the deck framing and
trim with a circular saw.
All wood and composite decking products
require proper ventilation and drainage to
ensure their longevity. When using a minimum
2x6 joist standing on edge and the suggested
1/4" side gap, there should be a 2" clear space
between the bottom edge of the joists and
grade in order to allow for proper ventilation.
Adequate drainage is also needed to prevent
water from pooling under the deck.
Fasteners
For ease of installation, our DeckoRail fas-
tener fits into the slot on each side of the
deck board to eliminate pre-drilling and pro-
vide a timeless, fastener-free deck surface.
The deck boards require traditional fasteners
on the outside and inside edges of the deck.
Begin by fastening the outside edge of the
first board to the rim at every joist. For this, we
recommend using 2-1/2" corrosion-resistant,
composite wood deck screws. These screws
help minimize the common “mushroom” effect
that sometimes occurs when using standard
fasteners. It can also reduce the amount of pre-
drilling and countersinking.
If using ordinary coarse-thread deck screws,
always pre-drill a pilot hole and countersink
prior to driving screws. Screws should be
driven flush with the surface. Do not over-
tighten. Use one fastener per board at every
joist. For any decking where two boards meet
end-to-end over a joist, add additional
blocking. Always pre-drill a pilot hole when
fastening within 1-1/2" of board ends, whether
using composite or wood screws. Do not over-
tighten screws at board ends.
Fasten the outside edge of the first board to the rim
joist with screws. Pre-drill and countersink all deck
screws, regardless of type, that are within 1-1/2" of
the end of the deck board. On the other side of the
board, place a DeckoRail hidden fastener into the slot
and center on the joist.
Notice to installers
• 305 stainless steel, black head screws
• DO NOT use cordless impact drivers
• Set drill speed 1500-1750 RPM
• Max torque not to exceed 23 inch pounds
• Pre-drill knots or dense hardwood
Always wear safety glasses when using
power tools.
Items you will need
• Drill/power screwdriver
• 1/8" drill bit
• Circular saw with carbide-tip blade
• Assorted fasteners (see instructions)
• Tape measure
• Carpenter’s pencil
• Safety glasses/goggles
TIPS FOR SLOTTED DECKING INSTALLATION
USING DECKORAIL
™
HIDDEN FASTENERS
www.DeckoRail.com
figure 1
continued on reverse
figure 2
Warmest annual temperature °F expected in region
°F 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 110 120
20 1/8 1/8 1/8 1/8 1/8 3/16 3/16 1/4 1/4 5/16 5/16
30 1/8 1/8 1/8 1/8 1/8 3/16 3/16 1/4 1/4 5/16
40 1/8 1/8 1/8 1/8 1/8 3/16 3/16 1/4 1/4
50 1/8 1/8 1/8 1/8 1/8 3/16 3/16 1/4
60 1/8 1/8 1/8 1/8 1/8 3/16 3/16
70 1/8 1/8 1/8 1/8 1/8 3/16
80 1/8 1/8 1/8 1/8 1/8
90 1/8 1/8 1/8 1/8
100 1/8 1/8 1/8
110 1/8 1/8
120 1/8
Temperature °F on day of installation
Board-End to Board-End Gapping Requirements
JOIST SPACING
DECK SIZE
12” on-center 16” on-center
100 sq. ft. 210 fasteners 175 fasteners
200 sq. ft. 441 fasteners 336 fasteners
300 sq. ft. 672 fasteners 512 fasteners
400 sq. ft. 882 fasteners 672 fasteners
500 sq. ft. 1,113 fasteners 848 fasteners