Deck Building 101 - decking material

[Stonehenge]

In my research I see treated 2x4's and 2x6's being used - is this the norm? I'd think the stuff that's 5/8" x 6" would be the norm.

Also, anyone have experience with Trex? I have people asking about it here.

[diginahole]

I use 2 by's or 5/4. I think 1 by's are a bit thin.

[Stonehenge]

I think it may have been 5/4's that I saw - shows you what I know 'bout lumbah. :blush:

[diginahole]

5/4 lumber is usually about the same price as 2 by. The edges are radiused and the lumber is often better quality. With 2 by's the joists can be spaced 24" o.c. 5/4 (1" finished) need to be on 16" centers.

[Bladewizard]

Now Your Talkin My Language....I have been building decks for a while since the season started....I have installed in the past, 2x6 Decking and also 5/4 decking....I have also installed Trex decking......The advantage of using Trex is that it is maintenance free....No staining or painting.....The disadvantage is you are limited to the finish colors.....5/4 decking will look nicer and longer than 2x6, if you install with the crown going the right way.......I have recently been installing a new product called TIMBER TEK...There are 3 varieties of decking to choose from, depending on the elevation of the deck being built..There are Tongue and Groove.......Corrugated open back.....and Solid(like Trex) This type comes in a variety of colors...I just finished up one with T&G.....It looks SWEET...No Nails exposed.....The contractor and customer loved it.....I loved installing it too.....1 screw per joist, Not 2......And there is Clapboard for finishing off around the edges..........One of my Blade customers has put me to work Full Time with his building Jobs.....I'll leave that Stone Work to you guys.........If you need any help building a project out of Wood......ASK AWAY...........CYA