Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Although most composite systems have their own fixing options, there are still plenty of profiles that require traditional top fixing. So long as the boards are within Decktec’s size range, Decktec is an essential addition for getting the boards down straight and fast.

Absolutely. In fact, Decktec will guarantee the fixed spacer which has been tested to 174 PSI will not fail even with a bent 5 ½” x 1″ board.

Yes, although the majority of joists used are timber, Deckstrips will fit a 1 31/32in or 50mm steel joist section. As it is recommended by manufactures to install a membrane between timber and steel, Decktec Deckstrips may be positioned with double-sided tape or screwed down with a button head screw, Decktec recommends BUILDEX Smooth Top Teks®.

The patented removable spacer compresses to accommodate oversized boards, as well as the 3/64in or 1mm sacrificial ridges on the fixed spacers. Any undersized boards will need to be nudged to even out the gaps.

The base of all Decktec’s products is 5/64in or 2mm thick.

The border may be set out in the same traditional manner. Decktec suggests using a 5/64in or 2mm packer under your boarder boards to ensure the surfaces finish flush.

With the reliability and consistent nature of the product, Decktec will not lend itself to creeping boards as it will always maintain straight boards and even spaces. To work around this, start laying Decktec from the outermost position, then the final board may be scribed into the dwelling. Alternatively, set Decktec out from the dwelling, once all the Deckstrips are laid, the position will be defined to create a square / parallel border to accommodate full boards. Some packing or trimming may be required on the outermost joists, but you will achieve a perfectly parallel and straight deck.

Yes, laying boards in pairs either side of the removable spacer ensures progressively maintaining a straight deck every time with the fixed spacers doing their job in correcting bowed boards.

Determine the position of the leading board, set and fix Decktec’s Deckstrip on the two outermost joists. Run a stringline or laser between the two and fix off Deckstrip on the remaining joists keeping straight to the line.

Position the adhesive joining pads (supplied in the accessory pack) sticky side up at the centre of the join. Continue with butting the next Deckstrip into position. Continue this process until the full length of the joist is covered.

The spacers provide 15/64in or 6mm for the 5½” Deckstrips. Decktec does not recommend smaller gaps than this as they are more likely to trap debris and dirt, and timber also needs room to swell with seasonal changes, with some species more than others. Insufficient spaces can lead to binding resulting in cupping or even popping off the joist.

5½” Deckstrips will cover up to 2in wide joists.

5½” Deckstrips are 46in or 1168mm.

100% recycled polypropylene. They are UV stabilised. Made in Australia to handle the harshest conditions.

Generally, Decktec would recommend three nails evenly spaced. In temperature variations throughout the day the Deckstrips may rise between fixings and contract as it cools down again, this will not affect the function of the Deckstrips. However more nails will reduce this if you have concerns.

Approximately 96 feet².

Approximately 24 feet².

With every Carton or 6-Pack, you receive adhesive joining pads, fixing clouts and instructions.

With temperature variations throughout the day the Deckstrips may rise between fixings as it gets warmer and settle again as it cools. This will not affect the function of the Deckstrips as boards are laid. Testing has shown Decktec’s Deckstrips will move 1mm over a lineal metre with every 10 degrees of change in temperature.

Yes! One of the many advantages of Decktec is the ability to position all the decking boards before fixing them off! In the case of an extremely twisted board, a fixing here or there may be required to hold the board. Once all positioned, flick a chalk line through the unique stand-up spaces, then simply fix off with perfect screw lines!

Although not necessary, Decktec does recommend fixing the joins to keep them tight.