Composite decking framing? Evergrain?
gmartin1215
| Posted in Construction Techniques on
How would you guys normally build your joists for composite 1×6 decking if you plan to run the composite decking perpindicular to the joists? 16 OC? If you do normally do it at 16 OC do you ever have much issues of the decking feeling too flexible?
I am planning to use the Evergrain decking by Epoch. Any of you guys used this? Likes/dislikes?
Thanks!
Replies
I've done a couple of decks with Evergrain (architect and advanced DIY'er) and much prefer a 12" o.c. spacing for the 1x6 composite decking. I think that with a significant point load in between joists (like my foot), one would definitely feel some flex.
thanks! Say, if the deck is already built at 16 OC, how would you handle the framing to get that firmer feeling for the composite decking? Attach 2x4's to each side of the joists to decrease the space between the joists??
I really would like to know if 16 OC would be ok with this Evergrain stuff instead of trying to build the frame at 12 OC. How much flex feeling are really talking about here? It would be nice to save some money on framing timber if I can build at 16 instead of 12, and I hate to be wasting money if I really don't need to do it at 12. The deck will mostly be shaded, so I don't think heat from the sun is going to be a big issue.
For you guys that build with Evergrain all the time, what has been your experience with building at 16 OC?
Welcome to Breaktime.
Not Evergrain, but Trex. For what it's worth, I looked at the printed specs from Trex, then emailed Pro-Dek, then asked the product guy at the lumberyard.
Brochure and DVD from Trex said 16"OC, everyone else said 12"OC. I ordered framing for 12"OC.
Now, I'm a little concerned when you are saying that you want to save money on framing timber. I think almost everyone here will tell you, it's the wrong place to save money!
Build it right the first time. Save the money on your next car or don't buy lattes.
Quality repairs for your home.
AaronR ConstructionVancouver, Canada
If you are planning on using the epoch (evergrain), I would recommend using the hidden fastener kit. The brackets go on the underside of the deck and extend about an inch to inch&quarter on the side of the joist. This does reduce the span in between joists if you are stuck with 16'' o.c. But, I would highly recommend that you use 12'' o.c. if you are starting from scratch. Hot summer days and direct sunlight really soften the decking material. Also a word of advice, be very careful with the crowning of the joists because variations in joist height show through the deck surface much more than with a dimensional deck board. I would definately advise the home owner before starting so they won't be surprised, (or dis-satisfied).
one more thing,.. Be forewarned that the handrail and spindles, as well as the skirting is priced extremely un-reasonabley. Materials alone cost in excess on $8.00 per linear foot depending on the style. Home owners around here tend to opt for aluminum railing because it is cheaper than the epoch materials. Goodluck with the evergrain.
Carl.
CarlLF,
Which hidden fastner kit are you speaking about? Deckmaster?
I have Evergrain on my front porch (joists 16" oc) and notice very little deflection. It doesn't get extremely hot where I am (80 degrees is HOT) and I weigh a little over 200#.
Thanks guys! Sounds like 12" is the way to go. Obviously by my questions, this is the first time I am using composites.
I have two decks to do in the Evergrain; one is new, the other is a replacement top for the framing built at 16 OC. For the deck that is alreadyat 16oc, couldn't I just attach 2x4's, or 2x2's to each side of the joist to get the spacing 12"? Or is that just a ridiculous way to solve the problem?
The hidden fastner system sounds like that will help to but would only bring the space in by a couple of inches. What about using 2x6s over the 16OC? Would I have the same kind of problems?
I think that, certainly if you went with a 2x decking material, then the 16"o.c. spacing on your existing deck wouldn't be a problem at all - but with the 1x decking (actually more like 5/4), I just prefer the more solid feel with the 12" spacing. I know that Epoch has Evergrain decking in both 5/4 and 2x dimension, so that may solve your problem easily.
2x composite decking over 16oc will feel firm. If 5/4 I would add in the sisters, giving you 13" of span, should be close enough to 12" to work. What's the price difference of buying the thicker decking versus T&M for back-framing for 5/4. I'd figure on nailing at least every running foot of sister with two 12d, and maybe spinning in a screw every 32" or so. I find the screw keeps things tight while the nails carry any load shear stress. A problem that may pop up when using the 2x decking is under any doors, are the joists dropped down for an actual "step" or was the previous decking snugged up under the door transition plates? Will a thicker decking monkey with any stair rise/runs? It shouldn't but check first. What about railings? Will a thicker deck cause problems there? Again it shouldn't but Murphy could say otherwise.
Thanks! but could you explain what 'sisters' are?
A framing member nailed alongside an existing one, for extra support or nailing surface.