In reality, crisp weather is perfect for this kind of project. You can install a composite deck yourself with the same tools you would use for a timber deck, such as a tape measure, power drill, level, and hand saw. Similarly, if you plan to install one, many construction companies would suggest that warm early spring or late fall is the ideal timeframe for it. Also, unlike other decking materials, Trex does not need staining or cleaning and can remain intact throughout the winter season. Slide the first board into the fasteners and secure on the other side with new fasteners. You dont want to start installing rail panels or top and bottom rails and realize you didnt put your posts in the proper place. The material wont rot, warp, splinter or fade like typical wooden decks can over time. Afterwards, use the railing fasteners on the posts, cut your railing to match the size and install as directed (each railing system is different in exact mount procedures). There are different instances when you will need to clean your deck. Save and share Homewyse on social media using the buttons below. First and foremost is to inquire about any permits that may be required. Nailed in place. Dig your holes and fill with your cement mix. Install a splice board to create two 12-ft. x 12-ft. spaces instead. is a great addition to your final project. You also need to consider the frame and joists, as well as any designs you intend to implement. Plan Your Covered. Many people might think installing a deck in the inter is not a good idea as many builders avoid building decks during this time. Wed be happy to help! Optimal installation method (not shown) is using square edge decking as a border, overlapping the rim joists approx. Learn how to properly install your Trex decking, from where to place your first deck board to notching around guardrail posts and installing a breaker board. Next, you should check with your HOA (if applicable) about size restrictions, colors or any other concerns. Congratulations! Installing your own Trex decking can save you around 65% of the cost of having it done professionally. NOTE: *Input the total of the finished surface area AND the area of any openings enclosed by the finished area. Cortex screws are hidden with material-matched plugs that practically disappear into your deck surface for a fastener-free finish. Entertaining on warm summer nights needs the right lighting, too. 1" in picture framing pattern around decking perimeter. With lots of tips and tricks. Afterall, youll look at the railing more often. However, it is possible to install composite decks like Trex in cold weather. Trex Decking Plugs are a deck fastening option that combines the incredible strength of face-fastening deck screws with the concealed quality of hidden deck clips. One of the advantages of using Trex outdoor products is being able to incorporate Trex deck lighting into the deck boards and railing. Some recommended brands include Starborn Pro Plug System and the Simpson Strong-Tie system. Ensure the board is flush with the edge of the frame and that the edge mounting brackets are secured. Sign up for our newsletter! for your house. Thus, it is the ideal pick for colder places that witness snowfalls often.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'deckdoyen_com-banner-1','ezslot_9',108,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-deckdoyen_com-banner-1-0'); You can avail plenty of benefits if you consider the installation of a Trex deck in the winter season. Luckily, maintenance is low and you only need to do a few things. To install composite decking with a hidden fastening system, start at the house by face-screwing the first board. Steps for Installing Composite Decking: Measure the deck for the first decking plank. I like to install the Trex decking boards on top railing like this The goal is not showing screws on top. While you can make your own steps, getting the treads and risers will go a long way to improving the overall look. If some of your joists are higher than others, you might end up with a wavy surface. By choosing your country, you acknowledge that you have read Trex's Privacy's Policy, By choosing YES or NO, you acknowledge that you have read Trex'sPrivacy Policy, TrexPro Platinum Enjoyed Partnering on HGTV Smart Home 2022 Project, Let's Talk Trex: Trex Brand Manager, Bethany Perez, How to Build a Deck: DIY Videos & Resources, Six Tips for Planning a Successful Deck Build, Trex Hideaway Universal Hidden Fasteners, Trex Universal Fastener Installation Tool, Vendor and Customer Code of Conduct and Ethics. Expert deck builders show you how to install Trex decking like a pro! fascia profiles. Most of the items can be done as needed, though a regular schedule for cleaning and maintenance is always beneficial. Once the hole is drilled, cut the lines and the jig saw blade will be able to turn easily in the corner of the square marks. Don't sell my information To ensure the success of a home improvement project, the planning stage may loom as the most important. o When installing the composite decking, ensure that the weather conditions are mild and dry. Make sure to read the instructions closely, as each sealant may require different application methods. Always follow gapping guidelines for width-to-width and end-to-end measurements. Using these on your deck will void the warranty. Leaf blowers can remove larger, dry debris. Bringing everything together, the right lights will add ambiance and decoration to the space. Natural wood will not last as long as composite decking, either, making composite a smarter choice. Costs to load and haul away old materials, installation waste and associated debris. The actual cost of installing Trex decking will depend on several factors, including the size of your deck and whether or not you are hiring a contractor to complete the installation. Plug-based screws countersink deeper than regular screws which can keep scalloped boards from properly adhering to the joists and can potentially crack the boards. This will allow fascia to be installed UNDER the square edged . This website is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. Slide the next board up against the clips. JavaScript seems to be disabled in your browser. Then, slide the groove of the next board into the clips and tighten with a rubber mallet. Composite decking, like Trex, is not made of wood, so termites and other wood boring insects wont make your deck their new home. Once the deck build is complete, you will want to wait at least 24 hours before adding your furniture, grill and running around on the deck itself. Copyright 2023 Trex Company, Inc. All rights reserved. If youre considering a home improvement project that includes adding a deck, Trex decking is definitely worth your consideration. Permit or inspection fees (or portion thereof) required by your local building department for your overall project. If so, there are a few things you need to know before moving forward with your deck project. With the various styles and colors available you can make intricate designs. Now, it's time to build your deck with help from our How-To Team. We use affiliate links and may receive a small commission on purchases. Resurface Your Deck with Trex Transcend Decking. Then, attach post anchors on the caissons and 44 posts on the anchors. Dont know what your deck will look like? We're an involved community that values your input. Stainless steels screws are recommended for decks in saltwater environments. Conclusion: Many people might think installing a deck in the inter is not a good idea as many builders avoid building decks during this time. These decks are low maintenance and do not require staining or sealing. You can install perimeter boards the same color as the railing. Start each section using a level. Please use the comment section below the article if you have further questions or concerns. See Chapter 2 of How-To:Fasten Trex Enhance Decking How to Install Composite Decking. Check out this floating, platform deck The Family Handyman built. Also, the Trex composite deck does not rot or soften from exposure to moisture, snow, or ice. that you can buy or build. Specially engineered and designed to be used with grooved Trex decking, the Trex Hideaway Starter Clips attach your perimeter deck boards quickly without any screws or deck fasteners appearing across the entire deck surface. Show. If your deck is more than a couple of feet off the ground, you may want to wrap the posts in PVC to match the rest of the deck. Try not to use hard water to rinse. THINKING ABOUT DIY-ING YOUR DECK BUILD? Winter months can be challenging for using a deck, especially in regions where the external temperature can drop very low. We will cover the basic installation (no deck lighting, cladding or special aspects like circles or intricate patterns). Thus, you need to clean it up without a prolonged delay. This tool will hold the clip and guide the tip of the drill into the top of the fastener, making installation easier and faster. The more you know, the better your deck and backyard projects will be! Composite decking is made from recycled material, It doesnt contain any wood so it is better against the elements and insects. Home Outdoors Yard & Garden Structures Deck & Patio. On average, it will cost you between $7-10 per square foot to install Trex decking. Proper gapping of the deck boards, which allows for drainage and expansion and contraction of the boards, is critically important. The Trex deck does not need a lot of maintenance and protection effort. Most steps are also 8 inches high, so it is ideal to use 18 inch risers. When you reach the other edge, it is advised to use a straight board with no slots. Before building your deck, ensure you have a solid decision on where you want to place it. 2. Find a complementary color for your composite deck stairs. You will want to start on one edge (usually house side) and work towards the other side. Additionally, householdadvice.net participates in various other affiliate programs, and we sometimes get a commission through purchases made through our links. Check your product specs and talk to your local building official before you buy. After the final surface board is in place, it is time for steps and. Trex decking costs $5 to $12 per square foot for materials, plus an additional $10 to $15 per square foot if you need to build framing. You can mix Transcend and Enhance, both .94 inches deep. Composite decking wont rot, warp, splinter or crack, unlike wood decking. Brittany is a novice DIYer who loves to get her hands dirty. Easy DIY Homemade Deck Stain Remover Ideas. A general quote would be between $7-10 per sq. Installing stairs can be a complex process. 01 Planning & Foundation Before you break ground, let's make sure you've prepared for a safe and successful build. Ask them about their experience installing Trex, as well as any other types of decks they have installed in the past. Never countersink screws. This infographic highlights decisions and site issues that can cause large cost variances in the typical Synthetic Decking Installation budget. Because theTrex Enhance decking collectionhas a scalloped underside, you cannot use plug-based screws. Do it the same way you would for the perimeter boards (one extra joist and a 26 on its side between the outside joist and the extra joist). Your comments and sharing are greatly appreciated! Trex decking materials cost $7 to $27 per square foot on average, while the average labor cost for decking is $8 to $11 per square foot. Tools Required Chalk line Circular saw Corded drill Drill/driver - cordless Miter saw Power plane Build Decks Using Composite and Other Low-Upkeep Materials The average trex decking cost $6.00 to $12.00 per linear foot. Is composite decking better than wood? With a little bit of planning you increase your odds of creating an outdoor space that will lead to years of enjoyment for you, your family and friends. One way to support the perimeter boards is to add an extra joist 5-1/2-in. Our pros mix and match all the time: composite posts with aluminum rails, composite rails with aluminum spindles. Youll need two 1x6s and two 1x8s for each post. How To Install Trex Decking Arbordeck 1.14K subscribers Subscribe 1.4K 590K views 3 years ago Trex installation tips The beauty of the Trex composite decking system is how quick and. 3. Some of the most significant include: The lifespan of a Trex deck varies depending on a number of factors including climate, exposure to sunlight, and foot traffic. Ensure to give an occasional cleanup to your Trex deck to eliminate dirt and other unwanted buildups. Always use two screws per joist and install screws flush with the decking surface. That is the mantra you should live by while installing your new deck. Trex recommends metal framing, which makes the process faster and easier. Hard water stains can be removed with vinegar. 4) A Rubber Mallet Will Make Installation a Breeze. Trex decking can be installed by a professional contractor or by the homeowner themselves. 2. Once the cement dries, test the security of the posts and that they wont wiggle or come free. We recommend our users to update the browser. You dont have to stick with one type of product or one look for the entire deck. On the inside edge of the starter board, install deck clips at every joist into the groove along the whole length of the board. Think chairs, grills, standing scope and beyond. A pergola can help add a touch of style to your deck and help keep the sun from beating down on you. Ready to jump in? Discovery, Inc. or its subsidiaries and affiliates. A quick trip to city hall should get you sorted. The wood toned planks are evenly spaced and attached using clips and screws. Not all decks need a railing. Non-discounted retail pricing for: 1" x 6" boards. Work not mentioned on this page and/or work using master craftsman, premium materials and project supervision will result in HIGHER COSTS! Boards with dark colors can get blistering hot when the sun is beating down on them. Her work has been featured in The Spruce, Homes Gardens, Southern Living and Real Homes. Discovery, Inc. or its subsidiaries and affiliates. While the mix is wet, but stiff, insert the elevated posts and ensure they are level. How To Install Trex Decking 1. Entertaining on warm summer nights needs the right lighting, too. Work not mentioned on this page and/or work using master craftsman, premium materials and project supervision will result in HIGHER COSTS! View Guides 02 Decking Installation Your plans have been finalized and your foundation is set. For periodic resealing, you will need to use an approved Trex sealant. Job related costs of specialty equipment used for job quality and efficiency, including: Pneumatic finish nailer, miter saw, circular saw, planer. Creating the door frame. These can be a great alternative for homeowners who want the advantages of Trex, but at a lower cost. The front edge of the second board should be nailed into the stringers for security and durability. Adjust the fasteners as needed, and after all screws have been double checked, you are ready to use your deck. Normally you are looking for 16- to 24-inches spacing between joists. ADA handrail requires a span of 6 on center for posts. If using deck boards as fascia, refer to the recommendations in next column on this page. For post placement on stairs, you must plan post spacing based on the length of the rail and the angle of the stairs. For the best experience on our site, be sure to turn on Javascript in your browser. Set Project Zip Code Enter the Zip Code for the location where labor is hired and materials purchased. A typical 24' x 12' deck (288 square feet) built with Trex decking will cost $4,300 to $10,900 for materials and installation. She now enjoys working as a writer and an interior decorator. A typical 24' x 12' deck (288 square feet) built with Trex decking will cost between $4,244 and $10,826 for materials and installation. Trex decking materials cost $9 per sq ft on average. From Hidden Deck Fasteners and color-coordinating Composite Deck Screws to Deck Plug systems; there's definitely an option that's ideal for your deck design and deck board layout. Additionally, composite decking requires little upkeep, which is a major plus for busy homeowners. Another hidden fastener option is to use a recommended plug-based fastener system, which is essentially a screw that comes with a color-matched plug. Each type of Trex boards (Transcend, Enhance and Select) will all have a slightly different installation method. The actual cost of installing Trex decking will depend on several factors, including the size of your deck and whether or not you are hiring a contractor to complete the installation. Now that the actual decking materials are covered, it is time to think about other features. A minimum stair width is 36 inches. It is correct for wood material, but you can install Trex composite decking in cold weather and dont have to worry much about damage. , refer to the recommendations in next column on this page of having done. Installation a Breeze through our links read the instructions closely, as each sealant may different. Entertaining on warm summer nights needs the right lights will add ambiance and to... Master craftsman, premium materials and project supervision will result in HIGHER COSTS time. Do a few things however, it will cost you between $ 7-10 per sq on... 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Optimal installation method ( not shown ) is using square edge decking as a border, the... Is ideal to use a recommended plug-based fastener system, start at the house by face-screwing the board! Warp, splinter or crack, unlike wood decking rail and the Simpson Strong-Tie system COSTS load!