Deck construction

[Alum03]

So I am almost done building my deck and a question has come up. Should I space the deck boards out or butt them right up against one another? I had intended to have them touching but several people have suggested spacing them out by the width of a small nail or something. If it matters I am using the Trex composite boards.

People have said water will pool if I dont space them, but I hardly think two boards touching will be water tight. I havent heard any reason to space them out yet that convinces me, but whenever so many people tell me the same thing it certainly gives me pause.

So, whats the deal?

 

[Blain]

Spacing them give the boards room to expand due to weather and temperature.

 

[01 grad]

Yes, even a composite will expand contract some. I would space w/ a small finish nail since composite.

 

[TexasEd]

If you were using natural cedar wood I would butt them because they will shrink more than expand.

With Trex I would space it.

 

[Referee13]

Alum03,,
I am considering using the Trex on a deck and have only looked @ Home Depot. Where did you get the best deal on the Trex?

 

[_e.]

You really should read the installation instructions on a product like this, especially for warranty issues, if applicable.

Here they are. Use a gap.

 

[pulque]

I have heard lots of bad stuff about using Trex in the hot Texas sun...

 

[UTEE]

I have a friend who has had Trex installed at his Lake Travis lake house for about ten years, so far it's weathering better than real wood normally does under similar circumstances.

To the original poster, I think it has been answered, but you should leave a a small space per Trex instructions and it's also just a good idea. If you were using raw, freshly milled or freshly pressure-treated wood, it comes out pretty wet and takes time to dry, so butting them together is okay, as they will dry out and contract, forming the gaps.

 

[NCAAFBALLROX]

Gaps also allow for leaves & other 'naturally occurring debris' to filter through.

Did you get HaydenHorn to help you build your deck?

We need to see photos of your beer can pile.

 

[Alum03]

I got the best deal on it at Lowes, ~37 for a 16 footer.

One of my coworkers who came over today to help actually installed decks as a summer job for two years. He insisted on a gap, so we used a nail. I am glad I did.

Its a hot son a ***** out there today so I am not going outside even to take a picture. Just a few Modelos Especial and GTA IV for me today.

Thanks for all the input guys - I will get some pictures put up soon.