Steps for Installing Composite Decking:
- Measure the deck for the first decking plank.
- Cut the plank to length with a circular saw or power miter saw.
- If necessary, use a jigsaw to cut a hole in the plank for the downspout.
- Set the plank onto the deck, and use a putty knife to slip it under any existing metal flashing.
- Measure to ensure the first deck board is parallel with the outer edge of the deck.
- Fasten the deck board with composite decking screws along the edge closest to house; drive one screw into each joist.
- Install a hidden fastener into the edge of the deck plank, placing one at each joist.
- Use plastic tapping block and hammer to drive the sharpened spikes of the fasteners into the edge of the plank.
- Use drill/driver to drive one screw through each hidden fastener and into the joists.
- Cut the second decking plank to length and set it against the hidden fasteners in the first plank.
- Use the 2×4 tapping block and sledgehammer to drive the second plank into the sharpened spikes protruding from the hidden fasteners in the first plank.
- Continue laying planks in this manner across the deck.
- At outer end of deck, notch the decking, as necessary, to fit around the railing posts.
- To install last plank, used end nippers to remove the spikes from one side of hidden fasteners.
- Install last plank with composite decking screws.
- Snap chalk line across deck boards.
- Screw a straight-edged board to deck to act as a saw guide.
- Guide a circular saw along the straight-edge board to trim deck boards to length.
Tools:
Tools & Materials
- Drill/driver
- Tape measure
- Hammer
- Circular saw
- Jigsaw
- Putty knife
- Sledge hammer
- Framing square
- End nippers
- Chalk line