Installation Guide
28
DECKING
NOTE: Construction methods are always improving. Please refer to www.trex.com for the most up-to-date installation requirements.
TREX
®
 FASCIA INSTALLATION RECOMMENDATIONS 
Trex Fascia utilized around the perimeter of a deck must 
be gapped with the same requirements as Trex decking 
to allow for air fl ow and expansion/contraction of the 
fascia. 
The gapping requirements are as follows:
WIDTH-TO-WIDTH GAP
Below 40°F (4.5°C) 3/8" (10 mm)
Above 40°F (4.5°C) 1/4" (6 mm)
END-TO-END/END-TO-WIDTH & ABUTTING GAP
End-to-End/ 
End-to-Width
Abutting
Below 40°F (4.5°C) 3/16" (5 mm) 1/2" (13 mm)
Above 40°F (4.5°C) 1/8" (3 mm) 1/4" (6 mm)
When Using Approved Fascia Fasteners: 
NOTE: The fasteners listed below can only be used with 
1x8 or 1x12 fascia product, and cannot be used with 
decking product that is being used as fascia trim or stair 
risers. 
Trex recommends the use of Starborn
®
 DeckFast
®
Fascia System, for all composite Trex fascia profi les. 
For near water applications, you can also use Fascia 
System HeadCote
®
 stainless steel screws. Refer to 
manufacturer recommendations for specifi cs if this is 
required.
If using 2 x 8 framing, use two fascia screws every 18
" 
(457 mm)
. If using 2 x 10 or greater framing, use three 
fascia screws every 18
" (457 mm). Follow manufacturer 
instructions for further install instructions and ALWAYS 
remember to gap fascia properly. A secondary glue is 
not required when using these fasteners. 
NOTE: The above fasteners can ONLY be used with 
fascia profi les. If using deck boards as fascia, refer to the 
recommendations in next column on this page. 
If Using other Fasteners and/or Using Decking 
product in Fascia/Stair Riser Applications: 
While Trex prefers the previous methods of attachment, 
as these are the very best options, there are also other 
recommendations that can be followed for fascia or 
deck boards being used for fascia. Use three Trex 
recommended composite decking screws every 12
" 
(305 mm).
 ALWAYS refer to manufacturer instructions to 
ensure that recommended screws can be used for fascia 
applications. The top screw should be placed 1
" (25 mm) 
from the top of the rim joist, the second screw in the 
center of the rim joist, and the third screw 1” (25 mm) 
from the bottom of the rim joist.
IN ADDITION, also use a weather-resistant, 
construction-grade adhesive (adhesives that work with 
wood will work with Trex products) as a SECONDARY 
fastener when attaching fascia. Remember to wipe 
away any excess before drying or allowing to drip on 
other Trex surfaces. 
ADDITIONAL TIPS:
» 10
" (254 mm) rim joists allow for an easier and more 
aesthetically pleasing installation. 
»   Miter cuts at butt joints and corners allow for a more 
aesthetically pleasing installation. 
FRAMING AND FASTENING TIPS 
FASTENING TIPS FOR TREX ESCAPES* 
You can fasten Trex Escapes with the 
recommended fasteners at least 1/2" (13 mm) 
and not more than 4" (102 mm) from the board 
edge without splitting. You do not have to pre-
drill with Trex Escapes. 
* Use Trex Universal Hideaway Hidden Fasteners 
for Escapes grooved product. This includes 
additional screws for installation.
FASTENING TIP FOR TREX ESCAPES, 
TREX TRANSCEND, TREX ENHANCE, AND 
TREX SELECT 
NOTE: When using pneumatic or battery-
operated equipment, adjust the pressure so 
that you only shoot the head of the screw to be 
fl ush with the board’s cap. DO NOT shoot the 
fastener head completely through the cap.










