Save and share Homewyse on social media using the buttons below. However, there is a lot more to a deck than just the planks you walk on. Adding rail posts can be done fascia side or inside the framing. Hard water stains can be removed with vinegar. Then, attach post anchors on the caissons and 44 posts on the anchors. Measure your dimensions, and stage your furniture to determine approximately how much room you'll need. Discovery, Inc. or its subsidiaries and affiliates. Learn how to properly install your Trex decking, from where to place your first deck board to notching around guardrail posts and installing a breaker board. Let the hole touch each side of the corner lines that were marked for the post. A pergola can help add a touch of style to your deck and help keep the sun from beating down on you. Remove and dispose of old decking. how can we improve this site? These estimates are NOT substitutes for written quotes from trade professionals. This issue is more persistent in areas prone to snowfalls. Sign up for our newsletter! When cutting a square shape start in the corner by drilling a hole big enough for the jigsaw blade to fit into. Dont know what your deck will look like? It is also helpful to determine that you have enough material for the job. Congratulations! Most decks will need steps either to and from the yard are up to the house. Add the proper sleeves and ensure your spacing is correct. This article will focus on the brand and its materials and show you everything you need to know to install your deck and have one of the most beautiful. Norm Abram and Liz install composite decking. The possibilities are endless. Unlike other materials on the market, Trex decking doesnt need to be painted every few years once it is installed, you can pretty much forget about it. Bringing everything together, the right lights will add ambiance and decoration to the space. Trex Stainless Steel Hideaway Hidden Fasteners, Trex Enhance Naturals Composite Deck Boards, Easy Deck Stairs That Last Longer: How To Create Steel Stairs, 5400 Nathan Ln N #100, Minneapolis, MN 55442. On the inside edge of the starter board, install deck clips at every joist into the groove along the whole length of the board. Unlike other websites that publish pricing from unrelated jobs in the past, Homewyse creates up-to-date estimates from current Unit Costs. By using Homewyse.com you agree to theHomewyse Privacy Policy and Terms of Service This is the foundation of your deck and one of the most important parts to get right. Looking for all the nitty-gritty details? Slotted biscuit fasteners, for example, require slotted planks. There are different instances when you will need to clean your deck. You also need to consider the frame and joists, as well as any designs you intend to implement. Composite decking, like Trex, doesnt need to be painted, stained or sealed, either. Before building your deck, ensure you have a solid decision on where you want to place it. If you want to minimize the appearance of joists through the spaces between boards, cover the joists with Trex Protect tape or paint the top of your joists black. Composite deckings have undeniable advantages. So if youre in the planning stages for a new deck, consider alternatives to wood and check out some composite deck designs. Even though composite decking doesnt need to be sealed, painted or stained, you still need to care for the deck to make sure it lasts as long as promised. Ready to jump in? Make sure to read the instructions closely, as each sealant may require different application methods. Photos and videos 2023 Warner Bros. Shell guide you through all the nuances and nitty-gritty details that make a project successful. This type of composite decking is available in a variety of colors and styles, so you can find the perfect option to match your home.If youre looking for deck boards that dont deteriorate quickly, Trex deck boards are a great option. Gapping To find out more, you can download the Trex installation guide here: https://www.arbordeck.co.uk/downloads/ For more UK Trex news, follow us on:Twitter - @_arbordeckFacebook - @arbordeckPinterest - Arbordeck Trex Stainless Steel Hideaway Hidden Fasteners are designed exclusively to be used with grooved Trex deck boards, Trex Hideaway Steel Fasteners securely attach your composite decking to your deck joists via the grooved channels in the deck boards. If youre considering a home improvement project that includes adding a deck, Trex decking is definitely worth your consideration. Installing stairs can be a complex process. A minimum stair width is 36 inches. Phase 2: Substructure best practices. Trex decking has a long list of reasons to buy and build. Trex has a router bit that will make a simple groove just for this purpose. So I must screw in from the bottom through the top Universal Rail. This tool will hold the clip and guide the tip of the drill into the top of the fastener, making installation easier and faster. Still, it will require periodic cleaning and resealing every few years. Creating a uniform 1/4 inch deck board spacing, Trex Hideaway Steel Deck Fasteners delivers a smooth deck surface and are crafted from corrosion-resistant stainless steel making it perfect for any climate or region. Permit or inspection fees (or portion thereof) required by your local building department for your overall project. The front edge of the second board should be nailed into the stringers for security and durability. Discovery, Inc. or its subsidiaries and affiliates. You can use your normal decking screws, nails and tools when working with Trex composite woods. Do you want to match your homes exterior or do you want a contrast? Bringing everything together, the right lights will add ambiance and decoration to the space. Either way, clean up the ends with a file so you dont scratch things up during installation. If some of your joists are higher than others, you might end up with a wavy surface. Install a splice board to create two 12-ft. x 12-ft. spaces instead. And dont be afraid to think outside the box when it comes to color. Because theTrex Enhance decking collectionhas a scalloped underside, you cannot use plug-based screws. Try not to use hard water to rinse. All trademarks are the property of their respective owners. Composite decking, like Trex, is not made of wood, so termites and other wood boring insects wont make your deck their new home. However, it is possible to install composite decks like Trex in cold weather. Choosing the right colors and widths of boards will go a long way to a smooth and easy project. She now enjoys working as a writer and an interior decorator. Balance of 2 hr(s) minimum labor charge that can be applied to other tasks. Then, use the Cost Calculator to determine how much this will cost depending on your selected decking line. By attaching directly to the joist and into the grooved edge of our board, Trex Hideaway Universal Hidden Fasteners achieve consistent gapping and leave the top of your deck with no visible screw heads. With rich, dramatic colors available and a strong blend of recycled plastic and organic wood fibers as the material, Trex deck boards can upgrade a deck, porch, or patio while building a safer, more secure place for family and friends to gather. Think chairs, grills, standing scope and beyond. With lots of tips and tricks. Fasten the vertical 2x4 framing to the deck frame using screws. We will cover the basic installation (no deck lighting, cladding or special aspects like circles or intricate patterns). However, with proper care, maintenance ans normal usage, you can easily see 30 to 40 years without issue. On top of their decking products, you can also find Trex products for your entire outdoor space, from pergolas to lighting. We've broken down all the steps of building your new Trex deck into six easy-to-follow phases to help keep you on track. It is correct for wood material, but you can install Trex composite decking in cold weather and don't have to worry much about damage. How to Build a Deck: DIY Videos & Resources, Vendor and Customer Code of Conduct and Ethics. Learn how to resurface your old wood deck by installing the Trex Transcend composite decking with step-by-step instructions from our How-To Team. Once all that is sorted, you need to call the utility companies and ensure the area you plan to build in is free from underground lines, wires or drains. Trex decking can be installed by a professional contractor or by the homeowner themselves. Get step-by-step instructions (with pictures) & pro tips from our composite deck experts! Now, it's time to build your deck with help from our How-To Team. We will cover the basic installation (no deck lighting, cladding or special aspects like circles or intricate patterns). A 3/4-in.-diameter round spindle stays 3/4-in. Always follow gapping guidelines for width-to-width and end-to-end measurements. Learn how to build a deck around a pool with Trex Academy. THINKING ABOUT DIY-ING YOUR DECK BUILD? While you can make your own steps, getting the treads and risers will go a long way to improving the overall look. Your joists will set across the beams. Learn more. A quick trip to city hall should get you sorted. After the final surface board is in place, it is time for steps and. Tools Required Chalk line Circular saw Corded drill Drill/driver - cordless Miter saw Power plane Build Decks Using Composite and Other Low-Upkeep Materials Have the spindles be a different color than the posts and rails. 2. An added bonus to the gorgeous looks of Trex decking is that there is a wide range of installation options to make installation and attachment of your composite deck boards easier than ever! Once the framing is in place, secure and set, you can start installing the boards. 3. The TrapEase 3 Deck Screw also features an innovative thread design which removes the deck board material as it cuts through, creating a tight board to joist connection without cracking or mushrooming. Never use solvents or acetone on the deck surface. At this point, you would have to use a slip-resistant solution as the deck might be unsafe. 01 Planning & Foundation Before you break ground, let's make sure you've prepared for a safe and successful build. Ten years ago about half their jobs were wood. This is especially helpful with the grooved Trex boards with hidden fasteners. Similarly, if you plan to install one, many construction companies would suggest that warm early spring or late fall is the ideal timeframe for it. Trex deck lighting is a great addition to your final project. You also want to ensure that the broads can accept the fasteners you choose. Cortex screws are hidden with material-matched plugs that practically disappear into your deck surface for a fastener-free finish. You dont want to start installing rail panels or top and bottom rails and realize you didnt put your posts in the proper place. Exterior wood screws push the composite material up, causing an unsightly mushroom effect on the board. Most PVC and composite products arent as rigid as wood, so they dont bridge imperfections in the framing as well. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. Better grade. Think about what activities you plan to do in your outdoor space. Creating the door frame. How To Install Trex Decking 1. A Complete Guide. You might be reluctant to use your deck during the winter months, but you will attain a great benefit by installing Trex decking in the cold season. Wiring will need to be installed before the decking and railing. Quantity includes typical waste overage, material for repair and local delivery. Another reason why so many homeowners choose this kind of composite decking is because of its environmentally friendly properties. Make sure to interview several different contractors before making a decision. Actual costs will depend on job size, conditions, and options. That being said, the benefits that come with using Trex are well worth the price tag for many homeowners. Our How-To Team will help you add beautiful, safe Trex railing to your outdoor space. This will help ensure that both you and the contractor are on the same page about the project. If using deck boards as fascia, refer to the recommendations in next column on this page. Likewise, Trex decking tops the list of most dependable cold-weather deck materials. This will give a smaller seam between the deck boards and some of that seam will be covered by the post sleeve and trim ring. Learn the basics of measuring, scoping and installing your decking and railing, and go from dream to do. Specify Project Size and Options Enter the number of "square feet" required for the project. We asked Randy Moe from Decks Unlimited, and Bob Januik and Matt Norden from Precision Decks, for some tips on working with low-maintenance deck materials, including Trex. There are a number of benefits and drawbacks to choosing Trex as material for your deck. Cladding is essentially siding for your house. Complete DIY projects like a pro! Trex decking usually just needs sweeping or minor cleaning with a sprayer. Find out with our series of deck installation tutorial videos and downloadable Trex decking installation guide. How to Install Composite Decking. Also Read: Best Decking Material For Winter. The drainage system allows you to create a dry space underneath your deck that doubles the enjoyment of your backyard space. Natural wood will not last as long as composite decking, either, making composite a smarter choice. While it is physically possible to do so, there is no need. In this blog post, we will discuss the most important aspects of installing Trex decking and provide you with tips that will help you get the job done right. First and foremost is to inquire about any permits that may be required. Below are several things to consider before you start the building process. Get a sense of what your decking installation project will entail with a best practices overview, covering the three main phases of deck building: Phase 1: Planning your deck design. Best Decking Material For Winter: A Detailed Guide. Your deck will look better and youll avoid the frustration of trying to splice the decking over joists. If you are already in possession of their products, you know. For the best experience on our site, be sure to turn on Javascript in your browser. For wood, metal or synthetic deck surfaces. When it comes to finding a contractor to install a Trex deck in your backyard, it is important to do your research. For this task, a plastic shovel is a preferable choice over a metal one, especially for an older Trex deck. Trex Transcend and Select horizontal railings are made to be installed at a maximum of 6' and 8' on center while Signature aluminum railing is installed span to span between posts (often called clear span). Your deck is almost complete! On top of their decking products, you can also find Trex products for your, Trex really is a one-stop shop for your new deck. Show. But, it is always a wise idea to look after it, so it remains as good as new. These decks are low maintenance and do not require staining or sealing. When it comes to fastening PVC or composite decking, all three of our pros like the. Steps for Installing Composite Decking: Measure the deck for the first decking plank. Normally you are looking for 16- to 24-inches spacing between joists. Ignoring the proper installation guidelines for both can ruin the build before you even get started. While there shouldnt be any movement, you need to allow the deck time to set and expand. If your deck is 24 feet long, dont use random-length boards and butt-joint them together. 2006-document.write(new Date().getFullYear()). Plug-based screws countersink deeper than regular screws which can keep scalloped boards from properly adhering to the joists and can potentially crack the boards. Brittany is a novice DIYer who loves to get her hands dirty. Choosing the right style for your needs may take some research. The labor cost for a professional to install a composite deck runs from $25-30 on average* per square foot. Job related costs of specialty equipment used for job quality and efficiency, including: Pneumatic finish nailer, miter saw, circular saw, planer. Always use two screws per joist and install screws flush with the decking surface. One of those reasons is the fairly simple installation process. Using these on your deck will void the warranty. Physically possible to install composite decks like Trex in cold weather finding a contractor to install a splice to. Customer Code of Conduct and Ethics important to do make a project successful also. 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