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Wood Deck Installation
Typical methods of installation for your new wood deck.
IPE Clip Fasteners (Hidden Deck Fastening System)
An edge mount system that attaches to the edge of wood deck boards, leaving
the surface free from any unsightly nail / screw holes. Slots are cut
in the edge of the wood deck boards above each joist by the installer
using a biscuit jointer, or router. Pregrooved wood decking can also be
purchased so the installer does not have to cut the slots. A stainless
steel screw is supplied with each fastener, which is driven on an angle
through the IPE Clip fastener, through the edge of the deck, and into
the joist The IPE Clip fasteners sets the spacing between the wood deck
boards at the proper 3/32". The fiber reinforced polypropylene used
for the IPE Clip faster is up to 3 times stronger than other hidden fastening
methods.
Face screw / plug
Countersink 3/8" holes into the face of the wood deck boards. Then
predrill 1/8" pilot hole completely through the wood deck boards.
Drill bits are available that will both pilot and countersink in one bit.
3/8" plugs are then glued into the holes with waterproof glue (i.e.
epoxy, etc.). The plugs are then knocked off with a chisel and then sanded
to a smooth surface.
Finish screws
Stainless steel 2 ¼" #7 trim head screws are face screwed
into the face of the wood deck board. We recommend that you use two per
joist. The trim head screw is very small and only slightly noticeable.
Waterproof your Deck | Fastening Alternatives
Wood Deck Installation Instructions
Application: Our wood deck is shipped as partially air dried lumber and is intended for outdoor use for decks. Air dried lumber is best suited for outdoor projects and kiln dried lumber is best suited for indoors.
Handling: Your wood deck should be allowed to acclimate to the climate in your area for a few days prior to installation. The wood deck design should allow for ground side ventilation. This will insure the stability of the wood deck boards because of proper air circulation.
Cutting: Premium carbide tipped saw blades are recommended for cutting boards. Brad tipped drill bits or fastener bits will often provide cleaner holes than standard HSS twist bits.
End Sealing: Our decks are shipped with the ends sealed with a clear wax to prevent any end checking. Fresh cuts should be sealed within 24 hours using an end sealant.
Gap Spacing: It is recommended to leave approximately 3/32" gap between your wood deck boards to allow fro water drainage and wood expansion and contraction. This also allows for air circulation. The average shrinkage is approximately 1/16" on 4" wide boards and 3/32" on 6" wide boards, less than all other wood species.
Finishing: Because of natural density and alkaline characteristics, many oil and water base finishes will not dry properly. It is recommended to test any product on several sample boards to determine compatibility. Messmers UV Plus finish is recommended, however, other finishes include Sitkens' deck finish, CWF Flood finish and Penafin. Applying a finish approximately every two years (depending upon your decks exposure to the elements) will keep the beautiful walnut color. If you decide to let your deck weather it will turn a silvery gray such as teak. It is recommend to apply a coat of finish initially after deck installation regardless of the final color desired in order to ensure that your wood deck retains its oils and stability.
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