Installation Guide
Page 2
AZEK
®
 Deck/Rim Joist Covers should be installed using the same good building principals used to install wood or composite 
decking and in accordance with the local building codes and the installation guidelines included below. AZEK Building Products 
Inc. accepts no liability or responsibility for the improper installation of this product. AZEK Deck/Rim Joist Covers may not be 
suitable for every application and it is the sole responsibility of the installer to be sure that AZEK Deck/Rim Joist Covers is fit for 
the intended use. Since all installations are unique, it is also the installer’s responsibility to determine specific requirements for 
each Deck application. AZEK Building Products recommends that all applications be reviewed by a licensed architect, engineer 
or local building official before installation. If you have any questions or need further assistance, please call AZEK Customer 
Service at 1-877-ASK-AZEK, (877) 275-2935 or visit our website at www.azek.com.
Tools Required
AZEK Deck/Rim Joist Covers can be installed with a minimum number of readily available tools. Many other tools are 
available that can be used for installation. All tools should be used per applicable manufacturers’ instructions. Some of the 
basic tool requirements: 
• Cordless Driver  • Carpenter Square 
• Chalk Line    • Spacing Tools
• Tape Measure  • Miter Saw 
• Jig Saw    • Safety Glasses
Use the jigsaw to cut around obstructions such as posts. For best results a miter saw with a fine-toothed, carbide-tipped 
finish trim blade (12”-60 tooth minimum) works well for cutting. For a power miter or compound power miter saw a fine 
finish alternate top bevel blade is also recommended. When working with AZEK products be sure to wear proper clothing and 
safety equipment. Safety glasses should be used during the entire installation process. Do not use any cordless saws.
STOP! Read this section before you start!
AZEK Deck
AZEK does not recommend the use of rubber or vinyl 
products (welcome mats, planters, etc.) on deck boards. A 
reaction can occur that causes discoloration of the decking 
under the rubber/vinyl product. This is a common caution 
for polymer decking products.
Do NOT nail AZEK Deck boards. 
Cutting or drilling metal should not be done on AZEK Deck 
boards as metal shavings may be come hot and embed 
themselves into the deck boards. 
Always be sure to check and cut the factory cut ends of 
boards to ensure they are square.
Walking Surface
AZEK deck boards need to be installed embossed side up. 
Static Electricity 
The buildup or generation of static electricity is a naturally 
occurring phenomenon in many plastic based products such 
as carpeting, upholstery, and clothing, and can occur on 
alternative decking under certain environmental conditions. 
Static electricity is not a defect and can occur naturally. 
Cantilevering 
For best results, don’t cantilever over 1/2”.
Routing 
AZEK Deck/Rim Joist Covers should not be routed with the 
exception of the start/stop boards (see page 6 step 8).
Color and Grain Patterns
AZEK Deck is designed to mimic the look of real wood, and 
like real wood, there will be a slight difference in color and 
grain pattern from board to board. This is intentional and 
part of the manufacturing process, giving AZEK Deck the 
most realistic and wood-like appearance possible. This 
variation is purely aesthetic and does not or will not affect the 
performance of the product. 
Color and Temperature
Although AZEK Deck products are cooler to the touch than 
many other deck board products in similar colors, all decking 
products will get hot in the sun. Additionally, the darker the 
decking color, the hotter it will feel.
Roof Tops
In areas with obstructed airflow such as roofs and on-grade 
applications, a minimum of 1-1/2” sleeper system supported 
by and connected to the substructure over which the deck is 
built is required.
Always make sure to visit www.azek.com to ensure you are viewing the most current  
installation instructions, care and cleaning, technical information and more.
Visit http://azek.com/technical-center/installations/deck.aspx to view AZEK installation videos.
Installation Guidelines










