Installation Guide

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Getting Started
Careful planning of the finished deck layout will result in better
looking finished projects.
1. Joist location plays an important role in the safety of the deck
itself but may also affect the ease, method and price of your
railing system.
2. Before starting, read the instructions of both the decking and
railing systems planned for the project.
3. Remember that prefabricated rail systems often assemble
faster than wood railing but they are less flexible and do not
assemble in the same way as wood rail systems. To enjoy the
maximum benefit of prefabricated rail systems, it is important
to construct the deck framing with the specific rail system in
mind.
4. Thoroughly reading all instructions first will make for more
profitable projects. Failure to do so may result in more difficult
installation and may void warranty.
Joists
Joists used in deck frame construction should be 2"x 8" or larger.
When installing deck boards perpendicular to the joists in
residential applications, spacing is 16" on-center (Figure a).
When the decking is to be laid diagonally, reduce the on-center
joist spacing by 4" (Figure b). For stair treads, follow local
approved building codes. Stair stringers should not exceed 9" on
center. Allow 1/8" space between stair treads and risers. Leave
3/16" space between stair treads. For special situations, or when
in doubt, consult your local building inspection department.
When installing heavy loads atop your decking project, a hot tub,
for example, it is important to also understand the requirements
of the manufacturer as they may have specific framing and
support requirements for their warranty coverage.
When installing blocking for more intricate decking patterns,
remember that solid blocking (blocking laid on the flat) will inhibit
water flow and result in buildup of organic materials over time,
which will make cleaning more difficult. For best results when
blocking is required, it should be installed ladder style (Figure c).
Board Spacing
All decking materials, whether wood, composite or metal,
undergo some degree of linear expansion with the changes
of weather and the season. To compensate for the effects of
contraction and expansion, the following installation standards
must be maintained:
• 3/16" side to side spacing between the boards (Figure d)
• 1/4" gap between the deck board and any solid structure such
as a wall or post (Figure d)
• Between board ends: 3/16" below 45˚ F, 1/8" 45˚- 85˚ F, lightly
butt (1/16") over 85˚ F (Figure e)
Adhering to these spacing parameters will:
• Promote proper drainage and ventilation
• Aid in the removal of organic debris
• Meet board spacing requirements for ArmorGuard warranty
coverage
Deck
Board #1
Deck
Board #2
1“
1“
Deck
Board #1
Deck
Board #2
3/16” Gap
1/4” Gap
Stringers or Joists
Blocking
16” o.c.
Joists Deck Boards
12” o.c.
Deck Boards
Joists
Installation Instructions
1/16” - 3/16” Gap
VER-0023-LIT 2/11