How thick is a 5/4 deck board?
To begin, it’s important to note the difference between standard deck board thickness and the heftier alternative. NOTE: Standard boards are often called a 5/4 board when referring to traditional lumber, which means the actual thickness is typically somewhere between 1” and 1 ¼”.
What is the difference between 2×6 and 5/4 decking?
2×6 Decking is Thicker Than 5/4 The most noticeable difference is thickness. 5/4″ decking is thinner than 2×6 boards. Both with a deceptively different material thickness. 2×6 Deck Boards actual Dimensions 1.5″ x5.5.”
What are the different types of decking boards?
Types of Decking Boards 1 Wood. Untreated pine, spruce, or fir can be used as decking. ... 2 Pressure Treated. Wood, commonly pine, protected from fungus and insect damage with chemicals that have been forced into the wood with pressure. 3 Red Cedar. ... 4 Composite Decking. ... 5 PVC Plastic Boards. ... 6 Aluminum Boards. ...
Can 5/4 deck boards span joists?
Some composite 5/4 deck boards carry recommendations for joists at 12” OC, while others are reinforced with fiberglass and can span joists at 24” OC. However, it is best to check with the local building inspector for allowances in your area.
What Is the Standard Deck Board Size?
What is the average deck board width?
What is decking on the ground?
How much OC can a 5x6 deck board span?
How thick should deck joists be?
How far apart should 5/4 deck boards be?
What is the difference between 5/4 and 2x6 deck boards?
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What is the actual size of a 5 4 deck board?
x 6 in. x 16 ft. Standard Pressure-Treated Decking Board.
What are standard deck board sizes?
Deck boards are typically 12 or 16 feet long, about an inch thick, and roughly 5-½ inches wide - though wider or narrower boards are a growing trend in deck design. New looks are forming around multi-width deck boards: extra-wide boards and extra-narrow boards that you can combine for eye-catching deck board patterns.
Why are decks called 5 4?
It simply refers to how many 1/4-inches thick the rough stock is. For example, 4/4 (read out loud as four-quarters) is 1-in. thick in the rough. 5/4 is 1-1/4-in.
How wide is a 5 4 x6 deck board?
Deck Board Sizes and Actual DimensionsCommon Deck Board SizesNominal DimensionsActual Dimensions5/4 x 61 x 5½”2 x 41½” x 3½”2 x 61½” x 5½”1 more row
How far can a 5 4 deck board overhang?
Never overhang the edge of your decking more than a third of the material. That means standard 5.5” decking may have up to 1 ¾” of overhang.
What gap do you leave between decking boards?
When installing new air-dried decking the proper gap ranges from 1/8 inch (3.5 mm) – 1/4 inch (6.5mm) depending on the environment. If you are installing air-dried decking during a rainy or humid season you may want to place the boards with a 1/8 inch (3.5mm) gap.
What is the actual thickness of a 5 4 board?
1.25″ thick5/4 (five-quarter) lumber is 1.25″ thick when rough sawn. When 5/4 lumber is planed, typically it is finished at 1.063″ thick. 6/4 (six-quarter) lumber is 1.5″ thick when rough sawn.
Should deck boards be screwed or nailed?
Decking screws are better than nails when building a deck. Decking screws hold down your decking more securely than nails and will stop your decking from warping. Also, you can easily remove screws for deck maintenance without causing damage.
What is the best thickness for deck boards?
16” on center = Standard for residential decking applications. 12” on center is recommended for a sturdier underfoot feel, when using standard deck board thickness of 1”. 24” on center = Sometimes used for commercial applications such as docks and boardwalks; wider joist spacing requires greater deck board thickness.
How do you measure a deck board?
To determine your deck's measurements, you'll want to measure its length and width from the longest point – even if there are shorter angles and niches within its structure. From there, multiply the length and width together to arrive at the total square footage of your deck.
Can I use 1x6 for deck boards?
Width of material: We recommend only 1x4, 5/4x4 or narrower boards. Never use 1x6 or 5/4x6 material in close to ground applications. Spacing between boards: You must allow space for your deck boards to expand when they take on moisture, as they will inevitably do when exposed to wet weather, rain or high humidity.
Should I use 2x4 or 2x6 for deck?
Most builders stick to using a minimum of 2x6s for deck floor joists. If you want to add guardrails and stairs, you need at least 2x10s. 2×4 and 2×6 joists are ideal for ground-level decks without guards.
Is a 12x16 deck big enough?
A 12x16 deck gives you room enough to break your space into zones for everyone in the family. Let the teens hang with their squad while you and your BFFs huddle in our deep seats. Boost the ambiance even more with a grill or an umbrella.
How much does a 12x20 deck cost?
Cost to Build a Deck by SizeSizePressure-treated wood Average cost per sq ftComposite decking Average cost per sq ft12x12$936$2,01612x20$1,560$3,36014x20$1,820$3,92016x16$1,664$3,5843 more rows
What size wood is used for decks?
For the deck surface, you can use 2x4s, 2x6s, or 5/4x6s. The 5/4 decking (pronounced "five-quarter"), available in cedar and pressure-treated fir, is 1 inch thick and 5-1/2 inches wide with rounded edges that make for a splinter-free surface.
Should I use 2x4 or 2x6 for deck?
Most builders stick to using a minimum of 2x6s for deck floor joists. If you want to add guardrails and stairs, you need at least 2x10s. 2×4 and 2×6 joists are ideal for ground-level decks without guards.
How much does a 5/4 deck weigh?
5/4 decking being lighter may not seem like much, but it adds up. A 12′ (3.6m) 2×6 is roughly 28 lbs. The same length of 5/4 decking is only 19 lbs. I can carry two 2×6 to the back but three 5/4.
Why is 5/4 decking rounded?
The rounded over 5/4 decking also reduces water being trapped on the decking. Not concerning cupping, that’s a fastener and installation issue. But with the edges rounded off, the rain runs off easier. Like a bowl, if the rim is shorter, it holds less water. The same with decking, rounded edges minimize the rim of the bowl, holding less water.
What does rounded edges mean on deck boards?
Like a bowl, if the rim is shorter, it holds less water. The same with decking, rounded edges minimize the rim of the bowl, holding less water. Rounded edges between deck boards also make cleaning between deck boards easier. With a slightly larger gap near the board’s top for the broom to scoop out dirt and leaves.
What is the best decking for a square profile?
For those looking for a more robust, bulkier looking decking, 2×6 decking is a good pick with a square profile.
How many mm can 2x6 decking span?
The extra material of 2×6 boards increases the distance it can span between joists. Where 5/4 decking requires a joist every 16″ (400mm), 2×6 can span 24″ (600mm).
How long does decking last?
Both are treated to prevent fungi growth and limit rot. Extending the lumber life to as much as 40 years but more commonly 15-20 years. Regular sealing to avoid water damage and annual maintenance extends their life and use. With the option of a wide variety of stains available to change your decking and deck’s look.
What is a 2x6 deck board?
Both 2×6 and 5/4 deck boards are made from Spruce, Pine Fir (SPF), more commonly Pine, especially in the United States Northwest. Both are treated to prevent fungi growth and limit rot. Extending the lumber life to as much as 40 years but more commonly 15-20 years.
How much does a deck board weigh?
The most common deck board size is 16ft with a 1 inch thickness and weighing about 1.59 pounds. This type of deck board is commonly referred to as 5/4 decking.
How thick should a deck board be?
The thickness of the deck board, on average, should be about 5/4″ and 2″. Homeowners can use thicker deck boards if preferred. Still, increased weight affects the structure, and ultimately more materials will be needed to support the wider deck boards.
What Size Deck Screws?
A significant requirement for screws to be used on decking is that they should sink at least an inch or more to ensure that the decking boards are tightly screwed and last a long time.
How long is a Trex deck board?
Trex specialized in deck supplies and building. They have an array of deck boards spanning up to 20 ft long because they are produced with a hybrid material of recycled plastic and wood. They have a variety of lines with different needs in mind, and they come in three sizes.
How far can steel beams support a deck?
Steel beams are a great option as they support a distance of up to 20ft long deck; a downside is that steel beams are pretty expensive.
How to determine the durability of a deck?
Thickness is important in determining the durability of your deck. The decking boards should support the weight of the people enjoying the deck and keep people from falling through the joists. The deck boards’ thickness should also be wide enough to have a solid feel as you walk; creaking is inevitable if the deck board is too thin.
What are some examples of deck boards that are easily affected by environmental factors?
Wood, pressure-treated wood, and red cedar are examples of board deck materials that are easily affected by environmental factors if no intervention is done, such as humidity that could cause molds or UV rays that could bleach the wood. These types of deck boards are cheaper.
What should be considered when selecting a deck board?
Dimensions and thickness aren’t the only factors that should be considered when selecting the proper deck board for your project. You should also factor in material, cost, appearance, and more. Consider the following when you’re choosing your deck boards: Material.
How thick is a wood plank?
When a tree is used to construct wood planks, they are generally milled to equal 1 or 2-inches thick and have varying width dimensions. After it’s cut, the wood is either kiln or air-dried, decreasing its moisture content. As the planks dry, the wood will shrink, effectively reducing the width.
How far can 2x6 planks span?
When you compare the two, 2×6 planks can span a larger distance. They can also be used diagonally up to 16” OC and in a perpendicular pattern up to 24” OC. On the other hand, 5/4 deck boards are able to extent 16” OC perpendicularly, and only 12” OC or less when oriented diagonally across the joists.
How far apart should deck joists be?
Most deck joists are either spaced 12-inch, 16-inch, or 24” on-center (OC). Overall, the more extensive the distance between joists, the more support that must be provided by the boards due to the enhanced potential for flexing. Deck board thickness is determined by the distance it can span between joists and is established in most building codes.
What is OC in decking?
Joint spacing is often referred to as “On-Center,” or “OC,” and is used to describe the distance between each joist in inches from the center-of-joist to center-of-joist.
What is nominal lumber?
The nominal dimensions of lumber are typically based off the rough-cut size before it has been planed smooth. When the rough-cut lumber is planed smooth, the result is dimensional lumber. Examine the table below for the actual dimensions that correspond to some of the most common nominal lumber dimensions:
Why is it important to build a deck?
Constructing a deck is an excellent way to establish your outdoor living space and extend the enjoyment and overall use of your backyard. Selecting the right board size for the job isn’t just a matter of pricing; there are a number of other factors to keep in mind.
What is a 5/4 board?
NOTE: Standard boards are often called a 5/4 board when referring to traditional lumber, which means the actual thickness is typically somewhere between 1” and 1 ¼”. Thicker boards are often called a 2 x 6 when referring to traditional lumber, which means the actual thickness is somewhere between 1.2” and 1.5”.
What is the standard thickness of deck board?
16” on center = Standard for residential decking applications. 12” on center is recommended for a sturdier underfoot feel, when using standard deck board thickness of 1”.
What is Azek Max decking?
TimberTech AZEK MAX boards are an appealing non-wood decking option. They can span the widest joist spacing (more on this below) and are often used for boardwalks or docks.
What is the best decking for non wood decking?
But if you prefer to go with more durable non-wood decking, your best option is TimberTech AZEK MAX capped polymer deck boards.
Why are deck joists wider?
With wider deck joist spacing thanks to thicker deck boards, you can potentially save both upfront costs and labor on your deck build.
How far apart should deck joists be?
Deck joist spacing plays a big role in determining what size boards for deck floor projects you need. If you’re installing TimberTech AZEK decking and your project features spacing that’s greater than the conventional 16” between the center of your deck joists, you’ll need to opt for thicker deck boards.
Why are deck boards thicker?
Thicker deck boards allow for more space between your deck joists — which means you’ll likely need fewer joists for your build. Fewer joists can mean less labor and lower upfront material costs.
How thick is a 5/4 board?
Instead of reading it as a fraction, it should be read as a number of quarters: 5/4 is five quarters, 4/4 is four quarters, etc. Just as the 5/4 board is 1¼-inches thick because it is five quarters, a 4/4 board is 1 inch thick because it is four quarters. A 12/4 board would be three inches thick…and so on and so on.
Why do people use 5/4 boards?
In North America, a vast majority of decks are built with 5/4 boards. This is because it is generally an economical choice that is easy to work with. Plus, many people like that it can be an eco-friendly choice. For instance, if two similar-sized decks are made, one with 5/4 boards and one with 2×6 boards, the 5/4 board deck will require fewer trees to be cut down to get the same amount of wood.
How do you Say 5/4 Lumber? What do you call 5/4 Lumber?
But how do you say it? 5/4 lumber is called a few different terms. The term can vary regionally, or by profession, as some trades will use different terminology depending on what works for them. However, here’s two that you can’t go wrong with:
What is the best wood for a deck?
One of the most common hardwood deck building materials is 5/4 boards of mahogany. This hardwood is very durable and is naturally resistant to warping and damage caused by insects. While it may be a more expensive choice initially, the deck is likely to last for several decades.
How thick is 5/4ths lumber?
5/4ths is a common pre-cut of lumber, but the actual thickness of the board is 1.25 inches.
Is wood sold by measurements?
Wood is sold by nominal measurements, not actual measurements. Plus, hardwoods and softwoods have different standards. All of this can make it a little bit confusing when you are trying to make a purchase!
How thick is a deck board?
There is a nominal thickness and then an actual thickness. The most popular thickness for decking boards in North America is a 5/4 thickness which is an actual 1” thick. Use the table below to understand the most common board thicknesses:
How wide should a boat deck board be?
The more narrow the decking board, the less it will move and the less it will cup. This is why in boat decking construction and flooring you will typically see a nominal 3 (actual 2.5”) or nominal 4 (actual 3.5”) wide deck board being used. In applications along the coast, over water, boardwalks over rivers, the narrower board will provide the needed dimensional stability. Where there is limited air flow under the deck or drainage issues, the narrower deck board can again prevent unwanted cupping and movement.
What is joist spacing?
Joists are typically spaced out evenly for stability, ease of board installation and a clean look. Joist spacing is the distance between each joist, and are measured in inches from center-of-joist to center-of-joist. Joist spacing is typically referred to as “On-Center” or “OC”, e.g, 16” OC. The bigger the space between the joists, ...
Why are deck joists set upright?
They are set upright for strength, usually fastened to the house at one end, and sitting on top of a central support beam near the other end. Joists support the decking boards, which are fastened onto the joists from above. Joists are typically spaced out evenly for stability, ease of board installation and a clean look.
What is the MOR for decking?
Sometimes referred to as bending strength, MOR is a measure of a product’s strength before it ruptures (break s).
What is composite decking made of?
One of the most popular options for homeowners in the past 20 years has been composite decking, made of modified plastics and other materials. They made a splash in the market for their variety of colors and affordability, but over time the downsides have become more well-known.
Can you put bare feet on composite decking?
Today, many people are aware of the environmental hazards of using chemicals and plastics, as well as the heat absorption problem with composite decking — No bare feet allowed! But one of the lesser-known drawbacks is that they are very weak, and require joists to be placed very close together.
What Is the Standard Deck Board Size?
Common deck board widths are 4”, 6” and 8”. The widths are readily available in most lumber or building supply stores, and the number of pieces easily calculated into deck dimensions. Other widths may be used for aesthetics and effect.
What is the average deck board width?
The most common or standard deck board width is 6-inch wide planks based on square-foot coverage, labor, and material cost.
What is decking on the ground?
A deck is commonly a platform raised off the ground by posts or blocks that support beams that carry joists that the deck boards fasten to. Beams are often under the joists but can be part of the joist frame on smaller decks. The load a deck can support is based on the dimensions and spans of the materials from which the frame is constructed. As with deck boards, the greater the span and the thinner a joist, the more it will flex and bounce.
How much OC can a 5x6 deck board span?
Deck board thickness determines the distance it can span between joists in many building codes. A 5/4”x6” deck board is rated for 12” OC and 16” OC, and a 2”x6” plank can span that plus 24” OC. A 2”x6” plank will flex more when supported at 24” OC than the other two distances, and a 5/”x6” will flex more at 16” OC than at 12” OC. The two most common deck board thicknesses are 5/4” and 2”. Greater thicknesses could be used, but increased weight affects the substructure, and greatly increases costs.
How thick should deck joists be?
If the board is too thin for the span, it will feel spongy or bouncy. Deck joists are commonly 12-inch, 16-inch, or 24” on-center (OC).
How far apart should 5/4 deck boards be?
Most building codes limit 5/4 deck boards to maximum joist spacing of 16” OC if laid perpendicular (at right angles) to the joists. Deck boards that are laid at an angle to the joist are limited to 12” OC (or less) joist spacing. Some composite 5/4 deck boards carry recommendations for joists at 12” OC, while others are reinforced with fiberglass and can span joists at 24” OC. However, it is best to check with the local building inspector for allowances in your area.
What is the difference between 5/4 and 2x6 deck boards?
Since 5/4×6 have a specific purpose, they are milled smoother and have a more rounded edge to prevent splintering and scuffing.
