Vinyl Deck Installation

Patterns

• A few options exist in laying the floor of the decking on a vinyl deck. Depending on size, you can run planking in one full length across the floor or stagger the seam, in which case the floor needs to be double-joisted. Another option is to run a diagonal pattern across the floor, which again must be double-joisted. In all situations, a 16-inch center is recommended in the framework; however, it is possible to work with a 12-inch center on the diagonal pattern.

Tools and Materials

• Standard requirements include the permits and plans, a level, string line, square and a measuring tape. Other tools include a chalk line, utility knife and 1/8-inch spacers for the planks. Power tools that will be used include a circular saw with a fine-tooth carbide blade and a jigsaw along with a drill and drill bits. If you have an electric screwdriver or a Phillips head bit for the drill, this is will come in handy, as well.

Fastening Planks

• Align the first plank to the substructure with an overhang of approximately 1 1/2 inches on each end. Make a mark to indicate the 1 5/8 post support and drill a hole in the plank to accommodate the post. Square the plank up and fasten with #8-by-2-inch deck screws, in the channels, to the substructure every 16 inches, but do not tighten. Do not use glue or nails of any type. Line up the next plank using the spacer in between to keep everything uniform. Fasten this down in the same manner as the first plank and continue along until the flooring is finished, drilling holes for the posts as necessary. A 4-inch plank overhang from the edge of the substructure is the maximum allowed.

Fill Pieces and End Covers

• After all the flooring planks have been installed, insert the fill pieces in the channels to hide the screws. Press the leading edge into the channel and use a block of wood to slide it into place. The fill piece is designed to fit in the entire channel and is spliced into the channel. Attach end covers to any open plank ends.