• Make safety of the workspace the prime consideration.
• In order to determine the most desirable layout, view all deck boards prior to cutting or fastening.
• Discuss any desired material changes with the supplier prior to cutting or fastening the decking to the structure.
• Like wood, variation of EverGrain deck boards will occur. The weathering process for EverGrain decking products will vary due to region, climate, rain, sunlight exposure, etc. Some variation in decking shade will appear due to weathering that will occur at the supplier's yard prior to shipment and due to different product lots.
• EverGrain color of boards will usually weather to a lighter shade within the first 12 weeks of exposure to the elements. Color selection may vary across profiles.
• Composite decking has a more flexible feel than wood primarily during the heat of summer. This is a natural condition that will not affect the ability of the decking to perform as warranted. For a more rigid feel, reduce joist span spacing 4".
• EverGrain decking must be installed in accordance with the application instructions. Deviations from these instructions may result in unsatisfactory performance and may invalidate the limited warranty.
• EverGrain decking boards must never be applied directly to any solid surface (concrete, membranes, etc.) or in conjunction with systems where inadequate drainage or improper ventilation are found. There must be proper ventilation and adequate air circulation underneath the deck to promote the evaporation of any water or moisture.

Handling of EverGrain® Decking

EverGrain® decking is heavier and more flexible than traditional wood products. Use care and do not attempt to lift or carry more decking than you can safely handle at one time. Proper clothing and safety glasses must be worn at all times when working with decking.

Store material on a rigid, smooth, flat surface. The unused material should be kept covered and supported every 24". If boards become bent, most can be bent back to their original shape during application.

Determination of the effectiveness, suitability, and safety of any application or use of EverGrain decking is solely the responsibility of the Owner and/or Contractor. Building code regulations vary, and the Owner and/or Contractor must consult local building and safety codes for specific requirements prior to the application of EverGrain decking.

Cutting EverGrain® Decking

When working with EverGrain® decking, saw blades and router bits with carbide tips are recommended. For best results, use blades with two teeth per inch. To avoid clogging when drilling holes, frequently remove shavings by raising the drill bit out of the hole.

Spacing EverGrain® Decking

EverGrain® decking and skirting will expand and contract with changes in temperature. The amount of expansion and contraction will vary depending upon board size and temperature. Smaller boards will expand less and larger board sizes will expand more. When installing decking, side-to-side spacing must be a minimum of 1/8" between adjacent boards.

*End-to-end spacing between boards must be approximately 1/16" for every 20-degree increment of temperature difference between the temperature during installation and the maximum expected summertime temperature in your area. Butt joints of boards must be staggered. *EXAMPLE: 80oF at time of installation and a maximum expected summertime temperature of 100°F equals an end-to-end spacing of 1/16".

Fastening EverGrain® Decking

EverGrain® decking can be fastened by screws, nails, pneumatic fasteners or one of many concealed fastening systems available. Consult your building professional to ensure selection of fasteners is compatible with your joist and substructure material. The fastening decision is solely the responsibility of the contractor, installer or homeowner. Epoch does not recommend or endorse any specific fastening system. Like wood, pre-drilling the end/edges of the boards is necessary to avoid splitting or cracking of the material. Fasteners must be spaced at a minimum of ¾" from the end of the board and 1" from the edge of the board. Skirting must be fastened with 3 fasteners every 8" on a solid surface for best results.

For enhanced appearance hidden fastening systems can be used.

A greater force is required to drive nails into decking especially when installing in cold temperatures.

When installing fasteners into decking always wear safety gloves and glasses.

Decking must be fastened at every joist. Make sure joists are level.

• NAILS Hold nails by hand until they are driven ½ the length of the fastener into the decking.
• PNEUMATIC NAILER Constant air pressure must be used to drive the nail head flush with the top of the deck board. When using pneumatic nail guns follow the nail gun manufacturer's installation and safety instructions.
• WOOD/COMPOSITE SCREWS Boards that are 1" thick must use a #8 - 2 ½" screw and 2" thick boards must use a #8 - 3" screw for fastening. In colder temperatures pre-drilling fastener holes no larger than ¾ the diameter of the shaft of the wood screw, lag bolt or nail being used is recommended.
• STRING LINE The use of a string line to align fasteners/boards is recommended to enhance the appearance of your finished deck (Do not use a chalk line).
• FINISHING TOUCH Deck material will swell over fastener heads. Gently hammer the material down to cover the fastener head. To minimize this from occurring, pre-drill fastener holes.