Installation Guidelines Important Information Before You Start These installation guidelines will direct you through the process of installing an Azek Deck. Most contractors will find this process very similar, if not identical to the installation of a regular wood deck. There are, however, certain areas that you will want to pay closer attention to. The following pages depict installation methods that have proven successful and are therefore recommended by the manufacturer. Please keep in mind that they may not cover every installation scenario you may encounter. Since each installation is unique in its performance requirements, the ultimate installation method used is the sole responsibility of the installer. Azek Deck disclaims any liability or responsibility for the improper installation of this product. The purchaser is solely responsible for compliance with applicable local codes as to the deck’s intended use. Azek Deck recommends that all designs be reviewed by a licensed architect, engineer or local building official before installation. Azek Deck will provide, at the purchaser’s request, independent laboratory results to assist in your planning process. Expansion and Contraction Azek Deck is a PVC-based product. For this reason, a certain amount of expansion and contraction is natural with significant temperature changes (see chart below). These changes are most significant during the installation process, and should be accounted for if working in extreme temperatures. A good example would be cutting your planks during a hot afternoon, letting them sit outside overnight in the cool air and then installing them the next morning. Chances are, you will notice a certain amount of contraction. The best way to avoid this problem is to fasten your planks as soon after cutting them as possible. A plank that is fastened securely using two screws per joist will have minimal expansion or contraction. This means that it is possible to attach planks end-to-end if done in the manner described above. A good rule of thumb is to fit planks tightly at the end or splices on warm days above 90° F and to leave little gaps (1/16" to 1/8") on cooler days below 40° F. When splicing, it is recommended that you provide additional structural support under the spliced ends. (CHART A) UNATTACHED EXPANSION AND CONTRACTION CHART LENGTH TEMPERATURE EXPANSION/CONTRACTION 12' Plank Below 40° F or Above 90° F 3/16" or .190 inches 16' Plank Below 40° F or Above 90° F 1/4" or .253 inches 20' Plank Below 40° F or Above 90° F 5/16" or .317 inches Care and Maintenance Cleaning It is recommended that you wash your Azek Deck periodically to remove grease, dirt and debris. Use a liquid soap such as dish or car wash detergent in combination with a garden hose and towel. Stubborn stains may be removed with a 4:1 solution of water to chlorine bleach. To remove rust stains use a household cleaner with phosphoric acid as the active ingredient. Also, in addition to the above cleaners mentioned, there are specially formulated deck cleaners readily available in stores. AVOID USING CLEANERS CONTAINING ABRASIVES, WHICH WILL DULL THE SURFACE OF THE DECK. ALSO, AVOID THE USE OF RUBBER-BACKED MATS. Basic Installation General Information