Building Instructions        

 
How to Build a Deck                    Click Here for Care & Maintenance Instructions       
(Simplified Version)                       

1. Build the Deck Frame
   (or base) as you would a traditional wood deck using either 2' x 8', 2' x 10', or 2' x 12' wood planks, except build with joists 24" on center instead of 16" on center.  Or, use an existing frame and remove the floorboards.
2. As you are building the frame, install the wood posts or the metal inserts if you are going to have a railing.  
3. Cut each length of the Deck Lok Planks a total of 3" longer than the total width of wood frame to allow for a 1 1/2" over-hang all around the edge of the frame so that the edges can be capped off with the C-Channel Trim (or build deck frame 3" less than the length of the boards.)  
4. Running your planks parallel to the house, on the first board only, cut off the "tongue" with a circular saw.  
5. Place this Plank up against the wall of the house (with the "groove" away from the house) and secure it with a 2" screw from underneath, through the frame and into the bottom layer of the Deck Lok Plank, making sure not to go through the top layer.  There should be no exposed fasteners on the surface of your deck.  
6. At a 45 degree angle, drive our #8 Stainless Steel 2" PH Square Drive Screw into the Plank's "groove" at each joist.  
7. Take the next Deck Lok Plank and position it so that it's "tongue" is against the first Plank's "groove".
8. Tap the second Plank's "tongue" into the first Plank's "groove" with a hammer using a 2'x4' as a "cushion", so you're not hammering directly onto the Deck Lok Plank.
9. Repeat Steps 6-8 until floor is complete.  
10. Slip on C-Channel along the edges of Deck Lok floor and secure it underneath with small, short screws every 24".  
11. Using our special water-proof double-sided tape, attach Vinyl Fascia to frame's fascia board.

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Plank Dimensions 5.875" wide x 1.5" tall 24' Planks are Special Order Only.     Length Width Height 12' 5.875" 1.5" 16' 5.875" 1.5" 20' 5.875" 1.5" 24' 5.875" 1.5"	Each Plank has two Colors:   Light Tan and Dark Tan or Light Gray and Dark Gray
Boards should be laid in the shortest direction. This will eliminate joints and minimize the expansion and contraction of the vinyl. Diagonal installation is a good resolution to an existing substructure. The interlocking nature of the decking will allow it to shed water, but it will not be completely watertight. The deck should be sloped 1% and flashing is necessary if attached to a dwelling. The substructure must be free of “low spots” or visual puddles will appear (shimming, planning or replacing may be required of the substructure). Due to the variable wood grain color, care should be taken when pulling stock from different bundles to ensure color compatibility. With normal weathering, variations should be minimal and are considered desirable for a true wood effect. Inspect each board as it is installed; boards may be removed and reinstalled if necessary. The fasteners specified are required due to the corrosive preservatives used in some treated lumber substructures. Electroplated zinc fasteners are not recommended. As planks are fastened, the width should be checked occasionally. This will allow you to space planks to eliminate bowing and to adjust so the full width comes out as planned.	Additional support is required where boards are cut, and additional bridging is required around posts. Fillers are needed if a board is rip cut in a traffic area. Edge trim is required to maintain UV protection. Screws must fully seat the decking to the floor joists to prevent squeaking. The clutch should be set to prevent the screw head from pulling through the vinyl. Flexible plastics, inflatable toys, mats or outdoor carpets may stain or discolor the decking. Dark-colored mats will cause excessive heat buildup. Vinyl is a nonporous material that resists most chemical stains. However, some items that may stain the vinyl include insect repellent, tanning lotion and sprays, and nail polish remover. Distortion or warping due to unusual heat sources (including outdoor grills and reflection from windows or foil sheathing) should be avoided.

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