Spacing pressure treated deck boards. We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. Learn proper spacing for pressure treated deck boards to ensure durability and long lifespan with expert installation tips! See full list on decksdirect. Apr 2, 2021 · Ideally, the finish gap between deck boards will be between 1/8″ (3mm) and 5/16″ (8mm) but should not be installed at this spacing as 5/4 boards will shrink, increasing the gap. Kiln-dried wood needs 3/16″ for 4″ boards and 1/4″ for 6″. Use 1/8″ to 1/4″ spacing for deck boards, depending on material and moisture. Air-dried wood requires tighter gaps of 3/32″ and 1/8″. Follow manufacturer guidance for composite boards. com. Which side of the deck boards should be facing up during installation? Always use the best-looking side of a deck board for the deck surface. Over the past few years, I've noticed when building decks that the pressure treated wood moisture content has gotten higher and higher. You can use a framing nail or a 16D nail to make sure that each board is a uniform distance from each other. Sep 26, 2024 · Leave a gap of 1/8 inch to 1/4 inch between pressure-treated deck boards. Pressure-treated boards should be installed tight. Generally, the guidelines are as follows: Pressure-Treated Wood For pressure-treated wood, a common spacing is 1/8 to 1/4 inch. Apr 21, 2025 · By understanding how your decking material behaves—whether it’s pressure-treated wood that shrinks over time or pre-dried hardwoods that need immediate spacing—you can make the right choice during installation. Fasten thinner boards to thicker boards. A well-planned deck not only looks great but also stands the test of time, rain or shine. Jan 12, 2024 · The amount of space to leave between deck boards primarily depends on the type of wood or material you’re using for the decking. This spacing allows for proper drainage and wood expansion. 5/4 cedar should be installed with a small gap and pressure-treated tight. Dec 16, 2024 · Watch this video for tips on when to and not to leave a gap between pressure treated wood deck boards when building a new deck or replacing old decking. Learn how to space and stagger deck boards at Decks. While I don't recommend this tight of spacing, I can assure you it will open up pretty noticeably Mar 6, 2025 · Spacing between deck boards provides several critical functions, such as drainage & drying. Wood tends to expand and contract with moisture changes. Jun 14, 2018 · How much room should you leave between treated lumber boards? If you’re building with kiln-dried lumber, make sure to leave boards ⅛’’ apart for the best results. Proper spacing between pressure-treated deck boards is crucial for durability and aesthetics. com Proper deck board spacing should have a 1/8-inch gap after the decking has dried out. . What should I use to apply to the cut ends of my lumber? For field-cut ends and drilled holes in treated lumber, use a brush-on wood preservative. If you install your decking using wet boards, pressure-treated decking that has not yet dried out, then you should install them with no gap as a gap will be created as they dry and shrink. edkuefqlwlytxxrynpbyxajqtjdvapoovhkzwhfqqqmaxevsmai