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 Covers are one-sided.
• 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 finished 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, fire or reflection of sunlight from energy-efficient
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
reflected 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 difficult to clean and can potentially damage
the deck’s surface finish.
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.
1 2 3
16”
16”
12”
Working with AZEK Deck Boards