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Cypress Decking Applications and Pricing
Cypress Decking Handling and Pre-Installation Storage: For optimum outdoor performance, Cypress decking is kiln dried to 12% ambient moisture content. Deck boards should be acclimated and stabilized to your climate for a minimum of 5 days prior to installation. Cypress Decking should be kept dry, covered and stored out of
direct sunlight until installed.
Do not store directly on the ground or concrete. Instead, choose a level, protected area. Place a tarp, plastic sheeting or other moisture barrier if on the ground or over concrete. Choose 4x4's or other uniformly sized material (bolsters) at least 3" high. Position the bolsters every 4' to 6' of length on top of the moisture barrier, enabling air to flow from below. If exposed to the elements, also cover the sides and top as well. Adequate ventilation of the deck is essential for long-term stability and to minimize cupping. Proper air ventilation allows air to flow in from outside the deck area, under the joists and up through the gaps between the deck boards. Carefully plan your deck structure to eliminate possible future service concerns.
Basic Installation Guidelines: Pressure treated wood is recommended for joists and any other unseen structural parts of your project. High quality stainless steel or galvanized screws are recommended for use with cypress. Coated or steel/iron products generally cause black staining and corrosion. The proper fastener length for our standard 3/4" net decking is 2-1/4". Use two screws to attach decking to each joist. A gap is recommended between deck boards to aid in air circulation, drainage and expansion of the kiln dried boards. End to end butt joints are installed tight, without a gap. For covered or protected decks, a 3/16” gap is recommended and 1/4" for open decks exposed or partially exposed to the weather. To eliminate the visible appearance of nails and properly set the recommended gap, we highly recommend the use of a hidden deck fastener. Screw and Plug alternative method: Pre-drill and counter bore the deck board no more than 1/4" deep. Drive the screw and lightly tap and glue a 3/8" diameter plug with marine grade epoxy in each hole; sand flush. Finishing: If you do not apply some sort of protective coating, cypress will take on an antique gray appearance. It also will be subject to degrade from the sun's ultraviolet rays, mildew and even some splintering and surface checks. Our cypress decking is kiln dried to 12% ambient moisture content. The grain pattern and surface of cypress readily accepts clear oil based sealants, semi-transparent stains and even paints. Due to the natural protective oils in cypress, a true, oil based sealer or primer is recommended. The use of a synthetic based oil finish (as opposed to linseed and other organic oils, with mildewcide additives) will help to prevent the formation of mold, mildew and fungi especially prevalent in humid climates. A finish with UV protection will prolong the deck finish and service life, no matter the climate. Prior to installation and exposure to the elements, it is imperative to properly seal all deck board sides, including the cut ends with a high quality oil based sealer. To maintain the rich natural cypress color, use a transparent penetrating oil based sealer with UV inhibitors in a trans-oxide pigmented “cedar tone” and reapply annually or as needed.
To the best of our knowledge this information is assumed to be accurate; however, it is the sole responsibility of the installer to adequately test and determine the final applications. Follow all manufacturers recommended application instructions, especially when using proprietary products. |
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