The Deckorators SureStone / Mineral-Based Composite Decking Installation Guide (PDF) provides complete instructions for installing Deckorators Voyage, Vault, Summit, Excursion, and other mineral-based composite (MBC) deck boards. This guide includes joist spacing requirements, gapping rules, fastener recommendations, cutting instructions, stair construction details, and long-term care and maintenance best practices.
SureStone (MBC) decking is engineered for superior strength, stability, and slip resistance. The guide begins with required tools and safety equipment, including carbide blades, composite-rated screws, tape measures, spacing tools, and drill bits. Installers are reminded to check local code requirements before building.
Joist spacing must follow the guide’s structural tables:
• **Perpendicular installs:** 16″ on-center residential / 12″ commercial
• **Diagonal installs:** 12″ on-center
• **Stairs:** maximum 9″ stringer spacing (5 stringers minimum for 36″ tread width)
Gapping requirements vary with temperature. At installation above 32°F, boards require 1/8″ side-to-side and 1/16″ end gaps; below freezing, those increase to 3/16″ and 1/8″. All decking must be spaced 1/4″ from permanent structures and posts.
Fastener instructions include using corrosion-resistant, reverse-thread composite screws at least 2½” long with 1¼” minimum joist penetration. Boards must be pinned at the center using a #8 × 2″ screw through the groove to control expansion, while allowing both ends to move freely. Hidden fasteners are acceptable if compatible and installed per manufacturer directions.
Cutting recommendations include 40–80 tooth carbide blades, jigsaws for openings, and sanding cut edges with medium-grit sandpaper. Protruding fibers should be trimmed with a utility knife rather than pulled.
Stair guidelines specify 1/8″–1/4″ tread gaps, 11″ minimum depth, 9″ max stringer spacing, and two fasteners per joist on each board. Blocking or double-joist support is required anywhere two board ends meet.
Maintenance guidance includes seasonal cleaning with mild detergent, avoiding pressure-washing at high PSI, mold-prevention tips, and recommendations for snow removal using plastic shovels or leaf blowers.
Download the full Deckorators SureStone / MBC Decking Installation Guide (PDF) below for spacing tables, fastener diagrams, stair details, and cutting recommendations. For help planning a Deckorators project, your TimberTown team is always here to help.
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