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Make sure to add additional length to this measurement if you plan to have a
skirt board over the rim joists. In addition, you may want to add an additional
1/2 inch to the overall length so that you can create a ¼ inch reveal. The
reveal allows the decking boards to overhang the skirt board by ¼ of an inch.
Cut the first two decking boards to the required length and fasten them down to
the deck framing starting near the house wall and making sure they are installed
perfectly straight. Use 12d galvanized decking nails or stainless steel
nails/screws for installing decking boards to the deck frame. To prevent
splitting you may need to first drill pilot holes in the decking boards.
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Also, make sure to leave a ¼ to ½
inch gap between the house wall and the first decking board to allow water
runoff between the deck edge and house wall. In addition, space the decking
boards 1/16 to 1/8 inch apart. If using pressure treated decking boards that are
still green and wet space the boards 1/16 inch apart. If the boards are light
and dry space the boards 1/8 inch apart. Instead of measuring for the gap when
installing each decking board use a 12d or 16d penny nail as a spacer.
For the remaining boards continue to
fasten them down to the deck without cutting them to the measured length. After
installing all the decking boards you will snap a chalk line and trim the
remaining wild ends with a skill saw.
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While installing decking boards make sure to continuously check that they remain
parallel to the house wall and first board. If you find the decking boards are
walking off on one side adjust the problem over multiple rows versus a single
row. Also, if you have a curved deck board, use a flat-bar to bow it straight
before nailing it to the deck frame. Simply hammer the end of the flat-bar into
the nearest deck joist, and use it as a lever to straighten and hold the bowed
deck board in place while you nail it down.
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When installing a decking board around a deck post use a jig saw to cut out
the necessary jog in the deck board. Also you may want to add blocking to
the deck frame near the deck post to provide a nailing surface for the
decking board near the jog.
When installing the last decking board make sure it overhangs the end rim
joist or skirt board by approximately 1 inch to provide a nice reveal. |
Photo by Mark Donovan
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After installing all the decking boards snap a chalk line on each end of the
wild deck board ends. Use your two cut boards as a reference for establishing
your chalk line. Finally use a skill saw to trim the ends of the decking boards.
For help on building a new Deck, see HomeAdditionPlus.com's
Deck Installation Bid Sheet.
The
Deck Installation Bid Sheet
will teach your how to hire the right deck contractor, and help to
ensure that your deck project is completed on time and budget.
How to Finance your Deck Project
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can help provide funds for your new home improvement project if
financing is required.
Additional Deck Information
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