The ACRE Decking Installation Guide (2025 PDF) provides complete instructions for installing ACRE® decking, including substructure preparation, joist spacing, hidden-fastener compatibility, gapping requirements, finishing, adhesives, and long-term care. This guide is the primary reference for contractors and installers working with ACRE on decks, porches, and outdoor living spaces.
ACRE decking must be stored flat, kept dry, and acclimated for at least two hours before installation. Material must not be installed wet. The guide emphasizes proper airflow: decks require a minimum of 1½” clearance beneath joists and unobstructed ventilation at 50% of the deck perimeter. Sleeper systems must be at least 1½” tall and set directly over a solid substructure that drains freely.
Joist spacing may not exceed 12″ on-center for standard layouts, diagonals, or commercial applications. Blocking is required every 4–6 feet, and all joists must be in-plane so decking doesn’t telegraph dips or crowns. Stairs require 8″ maximum stringer spacing, and grooved boards cannot be used as stair treads.
ACRE expands and contracts with temperature changes. Installers must follow the gapping chart carefully: tightly butted above 90°F, lightly butted from 60–89°F, 1/16″ from 36–59°F, and 1/8″ below 35°F. Butt joints require 2× blocking and two face-fastened screws into each of the last two joists for control.
Surface fastening uses minimum #8 × 2½” exterior screws with 1½” penetration into solid framing. Screws must be positioned ½” from board ends and ¾” from edges. Hidden fastening options include CAMO EDGE, EdgeX, EdgeX Metal, and TigerClaw TC-G/TC-120. Grooved boards must be used with compatible hidden systems, and a center “pin” screw is required to balance thermal movement.
Finishing recommendations include water-based paints, stains, or clear coats with LRV 55 or greater, applied flat before installation for best results. Acceptable adhesives include PVC glues, polyurethane adhesives, and construction adhesives—wood glue is not permitted.
Maintenance instructions advise rinsing ACRE every 6–12 months, avoiding harsh composite cleaners, limiting pressure washers to 2500 PSI with a fan tip, and preventing heat buildup from fire pits or Low-E window reflections.
Download the full ACRE Decking Installation Guide (2025 PDF) below for structural diagrams, fastener compatibility, airflow requirements, and complete installation steps. Your TimberTown team is here to help plan your ACRE decking project.
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