Questions About Ceder

mattp

I have built several composite and PT decks in the past. I'm getting ready to start my first cedar deck and would like to know about tips or heads up on things to look out for on cedar. Some questions I have are what is the proper spacing between boards and how does everyone prefer to fasten them?

PressurePros

LOL.. thats what you get for posting so late.

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Ken Fenner
Pressure Washing PA
Roof Cleaning Services PA

RobertCDF

I wondered about that too...

I use 8d nails for spacing on cedar... I like the 5/4 boards and I use screws through the top 2 in each joist. But I am not a huge wood guy I prefer the fake crap.

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Robert Shaw
Colorado Springs Custom Decks
Colorado Custom Decks
Custom Composite Decks

mickeyco

I'm a little confused, you said " I have built several cedar and PT decks in the past" are you talking about using cedar for the structural lumber as well? If you are, it's going to be a lot more expensive and you'll have to use larger dimension cedar than you would PT. As far as joist spacing it will depend on the thickness and grade of cedar you are using. For cedar, most any hardware other than stainless will discolor.

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Some people climb mountains. I take out the trash. But we both do it for the same reason.

BuiltByMAC

If the boards are wet or have a high moisture content, butt them right up to each other. As they dry, they'll create a gap.

I prefer to fasten mine with FastenMaster GuardDog 3" screws. You can also use a hidden fastener system like Grabber or FastenMaster IQ clips.

Cedar's very soft so if you're going to set up a work station on it to build your handrails, cover the decking with some canvas, then plywood. That way, as your cut ends drop and you set your tools down, it won't dent the wood. Plus, you won't have to work as hard at cleaning up the decking when you're done. Pull the plywood and canvas, hose it off and it's clean and ready for staining (after it dries!)

Mac

Francois

Splits easier than PT, too; especially near the cut ends.