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Decking Planks.
| Nominal Size | Actual Size |
|---|---|
| 5/4 × 6 | 1" × 5-1/2" |
| 6/4 × 6 | 1-5/16" × 5-1/2" |
What is the true thickness of 5/4 decking?
1 inch thickA: 1 inch thick 5.5 inches wide Being a natural product, some shrinking and swelling will make it a bit smaller or larger, however.
What are the dimensions of decking boards?
Deck boards are typically 12 or 16 feet long, about an inch thick, and roughly 5-½ inches wide - though wider or narrower boards are a growing trend in deck design. New looks are forming around multi-width deck boards: extra-wide boards and extra-narrow boards that you can combine for eye-catching deck board patterns.
What is a 5 4 inch board?
5/4 lumber is lumber that was rough sawn to 1 1/4 inch. When it is finished planed as you would get at a retail lumberyard, it will measure about 1" though that can sometiimes vary upward.
Should I use 2x6 or 5 4 decking?
Which is better and what are the differences? Today, 5/4 decking is more widely used than 2×6 decking. Although the same width, 2x6s are 1/2″ thicker, making them stronger and less bouncy than 5/4 decking spanning the same joist spacing. However, 2x6s cost 30% to 50% more for similar quality and appearance decking.
How thick is 5/4 board?
Each quarter refers to 1/4 inch of thickness, meaning that a 5/4 board is roughly 1 1/4 inches thick. If your project calls for a piece that is exactly 1 inch thick, you'll want to purchase a 5/4 board and mill it down to the proper size using a jointer/planer.
What is the actual size of a 1x4 board?
What is the actual size of a 1x4? 1x Board Sizes These boards lose 1/4 inch in thickness and 1/2 inch in width before leaving the mill. That means a 1 x 4 board is actually 3/4 inches by 3 1/2 inches.
What Is the Standard Deck Board Size?
Common deck board widths are 4”, 6” and 8”. The widths are readily available in most lumber or building supply stores, and the number of pieces easily calculated into deck dimensions. Other widths may be used for aesthetics and effect.
What is the average deck board width?
The most common or standard deck board width is 6-inch wide planks based on square-foot coverage, labor, and material cost.
What is decking on the ground?
A deck is commonly a platform raised off the ground by posts or blocks that support beams that carry joists that the deck boards fasten to. Beams are often under the joists but can be part of the joist frame on smaller decks. The load a deck can support is based on the dimensions and spans of the materials from which the frame is constructed. As with deck boards, the greater the span and the thinner a joist, the more it will flex and bounce.
How much OC can a 5x6 deck board span?
Deck board thickness determines the distance it can span between joists in many building codes. A 5/4”x6” deck board is rated for 12” OC and 16” OC, and a 2”x6” plank can span that plus 24” OC. A 2”x6” plank will flex more when supported at 24” OC than the other two distances, and a 5/”x6” will flex more at 16” OC than at 12” OC. The two most common deck board thicknesses are 5/4” and 2”. Greater thicknesses could be used, but increased weight affects the substructure, and greatly increases costs.
How thick should deck joists be?
If the board is too thin for the span, it will feel spongy or bouncy. Deck joists are commonly 12-inch, 16-inch, or 24” on-center (OC).
How far apart should 5/4 deck boards be?
Most building codes limit 5/4 deck boards to maximum joist spacing of 16” OC if laid perpendicular (at right angles) to the joists. Deck boards that are laid at an angle to the joist are limited to 12” OC (or less) joist spacing. Some composite 5/4 deck boards carry recommendations for joists at 12” OC, while others are reinforced with fiberglass and can span joists at 24” OC. However, it is best to check with the local building inspector for allowances in your area.
What is the difference between 5/4 and 2x6 deck boards?
Since 5/4×6 have a specific purpose, they are milled smoother and have a more rounded edge to prevent splintering and scuffing.
How much does a 5/4 deck weigh?
5/4 decking being lighter may not seem like much, but it adds up. A 12′ (3.6m) 2×6 is roughly 28 lbs. The same length of 5/4 decking is only 19 lbs. I can carry two 2×6 to the back but three 5/4.
Why is 5/4 decking rounded?
The rounded over 5/4 decking also reduces water being trapped on the decking. Not concerning cupping, that’s a fastener and installation issue. But with the edges rounded off, the rain runs off easier. Like a bowl, if the rim is shorter, it holds less water. The same with decking, rounded edges minimize the rim of the bowl, holding less water.
What does rounded edges mean on deck boards?
Like a bowl, if the rim is shorter, it holds less water. The same with decking, rounded edges minimize the rim of the bowl, holding less water. Rounded edges between deck boards also make cleaning between deck boards easier. With a slightly larger gap near the board’s top for the broom to scoop out dirt and leaves.
What is the best decking for a square profile?
For those looking for a more robust, bulkier looking decking, 2×6 decking is a good pick with a square profile.
How many mm can 2x6 decking span?
The extra material of 2×6 boards increases the distance it can span between joists. Where 5/4 decking requires a joist every 16″ (400mm), 2×6 can span 24″ (600mm).
How long does decking last?
Both are treated to prevent fungi growth and limit rot. Extending the lumber life to as much as 40 years but more commonly 15-20 years. Regular sealing to avoid water damage and annual maintenance extends their life and use. With the option of a wide variety of stains available to change your decking and deck’s look.
What is a 2x6 deck board?
Both 2×6 and 5/4 deck boards are made from Spruce, Pine Fir (SPF), more commonly Pine, especially in the United States Northwest. Both are treated to prevent fungi growth and limit rot. Extending the lumber life to as much as 40 years but more commonly 15-20 years.
What should be considered when selecting a deck board?
Dimensions and thickness aren’t the only factors that should be considered when selecting the proper deck board for your project. You should also factor in material, cost, appearance, and more. Consider the following when you’re choosing your deck boards: Material.
How thick is a wood plank?
When a tree is used to construct wood planks, they are generally milled to equal 1 or 2-inches thick and have varying width dimensions. After it’s cut, the wood is either kiln or air-dried, decreasing its moisture content. As the planks dry, the wood will shrink, effectively reducing the width.
How far can 2x6 planks span?
When you compare the two, 2×6 planks can span a larger distance. They can also be used diagonally up to 16” OC and in a perpendicular pattern up to 24” OC. On the other hand, 5/4 deck boards are able to extent 16” OC perpendicularly, and only 12” OC or less when oriented diagonally across the joists.
How far apart should deck joists be?
Most deck joists are either spaced 12-inch, 16-inch, or 24” on-center (OC). Overall, the more extensive the distance between joists, the more support that must be provided by the boards due to the enhanced potential for flexing. Deck board thickness is determined by the distance it can span between joists and is established in most building codes.
What is OC in decking?
Joint spacing is often referred to as “On-Center,” or “OC,” and is used to describe the distance between each joist in inches from the center-of-joist to center-of-joist.
What is nominal lumber?
The nominal dimensions of lumber are typically based off the rough-cut size before it has been planed smooth. When the rough-cut lumber is planed smooth, the result is dimensional lumber. Examine the table below for the actual dimensions that correspond to some of the most common nominal lumber dimensions:
Why is it important to build a deck?
Constructing a deck is an excellent way to establish your outdoor living space and extend the enjoyment and overall use of your backyard. Selecting the right board size for the job isn’t just a matter of pricing; there are a number of other factors to keep in mind.
How much does a deck board weigh?
The most common deck board size is 16ft with a 1 inch thickness and weighing about 1.59 pounds. This type of deck board is commonly referred to as 5/4 decking.
How thick should a deck board be?
The thickness of the deck board, on average, should be about 5/4″ and 2″. Homeowners can use thicker deck boards if preferred. Still, increased weight affects the structure, and ultimately more materials will be needed to support the wider deck boards.
What Size Deck Screws?
A significant requirement for screws to be used on decking is that they should sink at least an inch or more to ensure that the decking boards are tightly screwed and last a long time.
How long is a Trex deck board?
Trex specialized in deck supplies and building. They have an array of deck boards spanning up to 20 ft long because they are produced with a hybrid material of recycled plastic and wood. They have a variety of lines with different needs in mind, and they come in three sizes.
How far can steel beams support a deck?
Steel beams are a great option as they support a distance of up to 20ft long deck; a downside is that steel beams are pretty expensive.
How to determine the durability of a deck?
Thickness is important in determining the durability of your deck. The decking boards should support the weight of the people enjoying the deck and keep people from falling through the joists. The deck boards’ thickness should also be wide enough to have a solid feel as you walk; creaking is inevitable if the deck board is too thin.
What are some examples of deck boards that are easily affected by environmental factors?
Wood, pressure-treated wood, and red cedar are examples of board deck materials that are easily affected by environmental factors if no intervention is done, such as humidity that could cause molds or UV rays that could bleach the wood. These types of deck boards are cheaper.
How thick is a 5/4 board?
Instead of reading it as a fraction, it should be read as a number of quarters: 5/4 is five quarters, 4/4 is four quarters, etc. Just as the 5/4 board is 1¼-inches thick because it is five quarters, a 4/4 board is 1 inch thick because it is four quarters. A 12/4 board would be three inches thick…and so on and so on.
Why do people use 5/4 boards?
In North America, a vast majority of decks are built with 5/4 boards. This is because it is generally an economical choice that is easy to work with. Plus, many people like that it can be an eco-friendly choice. For instance, if two similar-sized decks are made, one with 5/4 boards and one with 2×6 boards, the 5/4 board deck will require fewer trees to be cut down to get the same amount of wood.
How do you Say 5/4 Lumber? What do you call 5/4 Lumber?
But how do you say it? 5/4 lumber is called a few different terms. The term can vary regionally, or by profession, as some trades will use different terminology depending on what works for them. However, here’s two that you can’t go wrong with:
What is the best wood for a deck?
One of the most common hardwood deck building materials is 5/4 boards of mahogany. This hardwood is very durable and is naturally resistant to warping and damage caused by insects. While it may be a more expensive choice initially, the deck is likely to last for several decades.
How thick is 5/4ths lumber?
5/4ths is a common pre-cut of lumber, but the actual thickness of the board is 1.25 inches.
Is wood sold by measurements?
Wood is sold by nominal measurements, not actual measurements. Plus, hardwoods and softwoods have different standards. All of this can make it a little bit confusing when you are trying to make a purchase!
