Installation Instructions
Important Facts:
Designer Deck is made from the finest kiln dried Malaysian hardwood. Mahogany will not appreciably shrink in length after installation. It will however expand slightly in width, from side to side once it is exposed to the elements. It is recommended to keep a ¼” space between decking boards from side to side. Note: 4” wide decking boards should be spaced 3/16”apart side to side. Butt boards tight, end to end.
Important Facts:
If using Designer Deck unfinished (No sealers) the product will turn to a silvery gray color with time. We do recommend that you seal your decking to protect it against the weather. Designer Deck is available pre-coated with Olympic Maximum Semi-Transparent penetrating oil formulated at Russin Lumber’s factory finishing facility. This coating is a specially formulated Light Mahogany color that protects the wood from harmful ultraviolet rays. Pre-Stained decking will be sealed on all sides and ends. All cut ends should be re-sealed on the job site.
Important Facts:
Mahogany decking should be kept dry and clean at the job site! Stack the decking flat, put a piece of plastic down first, keep it a minimum of 8”off the ground and covered until ready for use. Do not leave the decking exposed to the weather. If storing in agarage (Cement Floor) put a piece of plastic down first and still keep the product 8”off the floor.
Decks should be raised a minimum of 18”off the ground. Air beneath the deck should flow freely. The decking could possibly “cup”if the top or bottom does not dry uniformly. Decking should not be in contact with the ground or allowed to sit in standing water.
Fastening, Cutting & Joist Spacing
Stainless Steel screws or nails are recommended for Designer Deck . We do not recommend the use of any “deck clips”for this product! Direct screw or nail application is recommended. It is recommended to drill a pilot hole for screw application. A 2 ¼”Stainless Steel Ring Shank nail works best. Do not screw or nail any closer than ¾”to the edge or the end of each board. If using an air driven nail gun and you experience splitting, adjust your air pressure. Note: Use 3 fasteners across the face of 6” boards and 2 fasteners across the face of 4” boards.Joist Spacing:
- 24” On Center for 5/4x6 or 5/4x4.
- 16” On Center for 1x4.
- If applying diagonally use 16” for 5/4” material and 12” for 1” material. Note: Closer spacing will increase the strength of your deck but is not necessary.
Tips
- Mahogany decking can stain from rust! Galvanized fasteners or coated fasteners can eventually lose their coating and rust! Use stainless steel fasteners! Seal all cut ends!
- If you are not purchasing your Designer Deck pre-coated, we recommend you discuss coating options with your lumber dealer or local paint store.
- Once you coatyour decking it is always best to fasten the deck as soon as possible.
