Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ: Installation Questions

Do I need special tools to work with WeatherBest decking?
WeatherBest decking is just as easy to work with as wood. It can be cut, drilled, and fastened using standard tools. Carbide blades are recommended for best performance.
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Does WeatherBest decking require gapping between boards?
Yes, in both directions. Changes in temperature will cause slight expansion/contraction. Therefore, gapping is required both side-to-side and at the end joints to allow for the thermal expansion/contraction. Please see the installation instructions for more details.
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What joist spans should I use for my deck when using WeatherBest decking?
For both WeatherBest® Premium Grain and Tropical deck boards, the maximum allowable joist spacing is 16" on center for residential applications. When installing WeatherBest boards on a diagonal to the joists, do not exceed 45°. The maximum allowable span is 12”.
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Can any deck be built using WeatherBest decking?
Check with your local building code for design and construction requirements in your area, but nearly any deck idea can be completed with WeatherBest.
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Can WeatherBest products be used for the deck posts or joists?
No, WeatherBest decking may not be used as a component in a truss, structural diaphragm, or in interior framing applications for joists, rafters, studs, beams, columns, or posts. It is solely for deck flooring and rails.
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Can WeatherBest composite post sleeves be used for column cladding?
No. WeatherBest composite post sleeves are not intended for use as column cladding or as part of load bearing support posts. Post sleeves are used as decorative cover over 4x4 wood posts to provide a completed look to a WeatherBest composite deck railing system. The sleeves are cut to length, flush with the deck and usually extend to a height determined by local building code requirements and the railing design. For example, in those instances where post caps are used, the post sleeve may extend to 45" to accommodate this design aesthetic . See our railing installation instructions for construction details.
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What type of fasteners are recommended for WeatherBest decking?
We recommend Phantom II hidden deck fasteners for the cleanest and fastest installations.

There are other choices in fastening systems and several products have been tested on WeatherBest. The results can be found in Technical Bulletin 1001. Before using specialty screws or hidden fastener systems, check with your local building code authorities. In some areas, there are specific requirements for screw pull-through capacity and wind uplift resistance capacity, especially in locations that are known for hurricanes and tornadoes. Only your local building authority can determine if your chosen fastener is adequate.

Follow WeatherBest installation instructions and those of the fastening system manufacturer when using specialty or hidden fasteners. Fiber Composites does not guarantee the durability or long-term performance of any mechanical or hidden fastener. Contact the fastener manufacturer for detailed instructions.
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Is pre-drilling recommended when installing WeatherBest decking and railing?
When applying screws, the wood fibers in the deck board may "mushroom" out from the hole. Simply hammer them lightly to cover the deck screw. Pre-drilling 1/8" diameter holes with a countersink will eliminate the mushrooming and provide a cleaner, more attractive installation, and is highly recommended. You should always pre-drill the end of each board with a 1/8" bit no closer than 1" from the edge to prevent chipping or splitting.

For all railing installations, pre-drilled holes are required.
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