![]() ![]() ![]() On a two-row pattern, the deck board joints should not line up side by side, but alternate from one end or the other. The unused portion of the cut piece is then used to start the next row, or is too short and becomes waste. Each row uses a full-length plank (or more), and the remainder of the row is cut from a whole piece. Check the distance between joists – 16” or 12” centers. Alternatively, 12’+8’ or 16’+4’ planks would reduce cuts and give a two-row repeat pattern.ĭivide the length of the deck by the length of the lumber being used. The three-row pattern repeats and spreads the joints across more joists. Alternatively, use 12-foot planks and have no seams.įor a 20-foot deck, with joists spaced at 12” or 16” – a row of 8’+8’+4’, followed by a row of 4’+8’+8’, and then 8’+4’+8’. The two-row pattern repeats, and there is zero waste. On a 12-foot deck, the following pattern would work for joist spacing of 12” or 16” – a row with an 8-foot and a 4-foot, and then a row with a 4-foot and an 8-foot. For more complex patterns like a diamond, it may be easier to put it on paper first. If the pattern is random or very simple, lay the first two or four rows out on the deck before fastening. The joint pattern is more visible the deeper the deck – front to back or joist length – so it may be possible to create a diamond, step, or random pattern with the joints. The more joists the joist splitting – two ends sharing a joist – can be shared between, the better, which is where the staggered pattern comes in. To keep the screws or nails at least 1/4″ from the end of the board means they need to go in on an angle.īutt joints should have 1/8” between boards for swelling and will have four or six fasteners going into the joist. Depending on the joist spacing, an 8-foot length can be cut into four 24-inch, three 32-inch, or 2-foot and 6-foot lengths.įastening planks to joists is a straight down connection, except where two ends share or split a joist for support. The length not covered by a full board (or two) helps determine the pattern and the amount of waste. If the deck run is longer than the plank length, then more than one board will be needed per row. Spanning only one gap (12” or 16”) adds stress to the board and fasteners when weight is applied in the middle, which can also be dangerous.ĭeck boards are commonly laid perpendicular to the joists. It is better to have a plank span two full joist gaps (24” or 32”). A deck that has joists at 12” centers makes it even easier.Īlthough deck boards are available in 16-foot lengths, 8-foot planks are more commonly used for ease of transportation and handling, and quality selection. Decks that are an even number of feet long often generate less waste lumber and make joint distribution easier. The standard 12” or 16” on center joist spacing determines the placement and length of boards to ensure the plank ends are supported. The length of the deck and boards being used are prime considerations, as is the spacing of the joists. Staggering not only looks better but also strengthens the deck. Staggering deck board joints means they don’t all occur on the same joist and make it look like you have two decks side by side. Staggering the joints spreads the stresses and makes for a stronger deck. Additionally, the two sections would flex and move at the seam as people and pets move around, weakening the deck as the two halves try to separate. If all the seams on a 16-foot deck are in the middle at 8-feet, it will make it look like two decks side by side. However, many people prefer working with 8-foot lengths as they are easier to transport and may have fewer imperfections than the longer planks. Plus, it is more aesthetically appealing to create a staggered or repeating pattern.ĭeck boards are available in 8, 12, 14, and 16-foot lengths, which means it’s not necessary to have seams unless the deck run is longer than 16-feet. Staggering the joints strengthens the deck by spreading the seams across more joists instead of placing the stress on only one. Staggering the deck boards decreases the number of screws or nails going into one joist, which can weaken or rot the joist more quickly. Staggering the seams or butt joints where the boards meet is an important part of how to lay out the deck boards. ![]() They are the dressing for the framework that supports and are the visible aspect of the deck. They are what everyone sees, what they walk and play and sit upon. ![]() Deck boards provide the finishing touch for a deck. ![]()
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