Decking Installation Guide
Decking House Bundaberg (DHB) produces durable, well-manufactured hardwood decking that meets Australian Standards. It's important to assess the installation area before determining the best practices for installation.
Here are the factors to consider when installing decking:
- To ensure optimal performance, it is best to install timber in covered, dry, and moisture-consistent areas, as timber naturally absorbs and releases moisture based on its environment.
- Adequate ventilation is crucial when installing a deck. We recommend installing at least 400mm above ground for our decking boards and providing sufficient ventilation both above and below the decks.
- Harsh weather conditions such as excessive rain, heat, and areas around pools can impact timber decks, causing expansion, contraction, cupping, or warping. 86mm decking is recommended for better performance in excessively wet areas and close-to-ground applications.
- When measuring the required decking, consider a 10% waste factor. - Upon delivery, store the decking product in a cool, dry area, away from the elements or well-covered (tarped), and at least 100mm off the ground by timber gluts. Storage outside, exposed to weather, is not recommended as it may affect the product's integrity before installation.
Installation methods to ensure deck performance: Please keep in mind the following points:
- Inspect boards for damage before installation, including warping and fungi growth.
- Ensure adequate ventilation beneath the deck to prevent issues like cupping, mold, and mildew.
- Residential joist span should be at least 450mm centres.
- Maintain a minimum gap of 3-5mm between decking boards; for boards wider than 86mm, the minimum gap should be 5mm.
- Avoid cutting and grinding metal objects on the timber deck to prevent black spotting, which could necessitate an expensive cleaning process.
Finishing Instructions:
1. After the timber installation is complete, use a timber cleaner to thoroughly scrub the surface.
2. Once the surface is dry, carefully apply 2 coats of the selected waterbased timber finish. Avoid using a mineral oil-based finish.
3. It is important to conduct annual maintenance inspections to ensure that your timber is effectively repelling water and that the finish is in good condition.
4. If maintenance is needed, make sure to thoroughly scrub the surface with timber cleaner and reapply the selected finish. Regular care is crucial for a deck's long-term performance and durability, especially when it's exposed to harsh weather.
We recommend maintaining a deck every 6-12 months, but this can vary based on the type and quality of the product used as well as the deck's exposure to weather. It may be necessary to maintain highly exposed decks more often than every 6 months. Before recoating, thoroughly clean the deck and the gaps between the boards, particularly over the joist areas where debris may accumulate. Follow the coating manufacturer's recommendations when recoating. Avoid placing potted plants and landscape structures directly on the deck. Instead, put them in drip dry trays in well-ventilated areas. If possible, clean the deck with a broom or blower instead of hosing it down.
