Installation

Important Information

It is important to use proper protective clothing and safety equipment. Protection of the eyes, nose and mouth from dust particles is especially important when cutting and drilling in confined spaces. Using safety glasses, gloves a dust mask and long sleeves is highly recommended.

Always exercise precaution and care when lifting DeckSTAR boards. Do not attempt to lift or carry more DeckSTAR boards than can be safely handled at any given time. It is the sole responsibility of the homeowner, contractor or installer to determine the specific requirements, effectiveness, suitability and safety in regards to any application or use of DeckSTAR products. DeckSTAR products must be installed safely, correctly and meet and comply with all the relevant regulations and all respects of the Building Code of Australia.

Due to normal timber variances in grain, colour variation of DeckSTAR boards will occur. The weathering process for DeckSTAR products will vary according to exposure to different climates, sunlight and moisture. The maximum joist spacing is 450mm. Proper ventilation and air circulation underneath the DeckSTAR is necessary to facilitate the evaporation of water and moisture. The recommended minimum ground clearance is 300mm.

STORAGE & HANDLING

Because DeckSTAR boards have an oil coating, they are prone to slipping and sliding. Therefore, they must be laid flat especially during transportation and never at an angle. DeckSTAR boards must be stored on a flat dry surface and at least 100mm off the ground. It is very important that DeckSTAR boards remain covered until it is time to use them for installation.

CUTTING & DRILLING

For best results, use carbide tipped blades and router bits or 20-grit diamond-tipped blades. Pre-drilling and countersinking all holes is essential when installing DeckSTAR boards. The diameter of the hole should at least be the diameter of the screw shank.

Fastening

DeckSTAR boards will expand and contract with changes in temperature and moisture. Therefore a minimum side gap between boards is 4mm for 90mm wide and 6mm for 140mm wide. It is recommended that 450mm wide joists be used as the sub-deck structure. Whilst screwing is the recommended method of fixing DeckSTAR products, it is particularly essential to use screws to fix 140mm wide decking boards. Pre-drilled holes must be at least 15mm away from the end and the side of the board.

DeckSTAR must be fixed with 2 fasteners at every joist. No claims will be recognised if fastening instructions are not adhered to.

OILING

DeckSTAR products already have a coating of decking oil applied. This is an under-coat only and will wear off quickly if another coat is not applied. If you let this initial coating wear off, your DeckSTAR boards will go grey in color. However, this will not affect the structural integrity of the product. When you re-coat DeckSTAR boards, we strongly recommend another oil based product. (not acrylic)

Any oil based product is acceptable. Please see your stockist for a suitable product.

CLEANING & CARE

Cleaning DeckSTAR with warm soapy water is generally all that is required. Non-abrasive cleaners may also be used. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and try out on an inconspicuous area first.

Do NOT use a pressure washer.

Do NOT sand your DeckSTAR boards, as this will reduce the thickness of the flat surface; and the core of the board may show through.

"Mother Nature Approved".

Watch DeckSTAR on Better Homes and Gardens

Watch DeckSTAR on Better Homes and Gardens