Can I install DrySpace by myself?
Yes. Complete, easy-to-follow instructions come with your DrySpace purchase. Installation is easiest with two people. You are likely to have the tools and materials you need, or they are easy to find at your local hardware store.
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Is professional installation of DrySpace available?
Yes. DrySpace has professionally- trained Certified Installers in most geographic locations. Visit our Dealer/Contractor Finder to locate a Certified DrySpace Installer in your area.
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Will chemical treatments or stains damage DrySpace?
No. Common, off-the-shelf stains and chemical wood cleaning treatments have no adverse effects on DrySpace.
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Is there a DrySpace warranty?
Yes. TimberTech DrySpace has a 25-year limited residential warranty on products purchased on or after Jauary 1, 2007. DrySpace products purchased prior to this date have a 5-year limited warranty. TimberTech warrants to the original consumer purchaser that under normal use and service conditions, the DrySpace System will not peel, blister, pit, flake, crack or corrode as a result of manufacturing defects, or as a result of exposure to ocean air (salt spray). Click here to visit the warranty page.
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Could I install DrySpace by using F-Brackets only and not the Combo Bracket (Joist Cover/F-Bracket combo)?
No. The Combo Bracket (Joist Cover/F-Bracket Combo) must be used to collect any water that drains through or around the joist.
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What is TimberTech?
TimberTech is a leading manufacturer of low-maintenance, high-quality decking and railing solutions. TimberTech products provide a revolutionary alternative to traditional wood - they don't rot, warp or splinter, and they look great year after year. And unlike wood, TimberTech products require no painting, staining or sealing.
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Does TimberTech have a warranty?
Yes. The warranty is given to the original consumer purchaser of TimberTech decking materials, railing systems,(excluding metal baluster components of such rail systems,which are covered under a separate 10-year warranty) and DrySpace drainage system. TimberTech warrants to Purchaser that, for a period of twenty-five (25) years from the date of the original consumer purchase, under normal use and service conditions, that the decking and railing materials will be free from material defects in workmanship and materials, and will not check, split, splinter, rot or suffer structural damage from termites or fungal decay; and the DrySpace System will not peel, blister, pit, flake, crack or corrode as a result of manufacturing defects, or as a result of exposure to ocean air (salt spray). Click here to visit the warranty page.
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Does TimberTech decking come in any colors?
TimberTech decking planks come in nine product profiles and nine colors. Earthwood Plank and Floorizon Plank come in Tropical Rosewood, Tropical Teak and Tropical Walnut. XLM Plank comes in Mountain Cedar, RiverRock and SandRidge. Floorizon Plank and TwinFinish Plank come in TimberTech Cedar, Grey and Redwood. ValuPlank and DockSider come in TimberTech Cedar and Grey.
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Does TimberTech railing come in colors?
Yes, TimberTech’s Ornamental Rail is available in Cedar, Grey, Redwood and WhiteSand. TimberTech RadianceRail comes in a Coastal White and Classic Black. And TimberTech BuilderRail comes in Cedar, Grey and Redwood with black metal balusters.
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Will TimberTech decking and railing fade in color?
Yes, most materials exposed to UV and weathering will fade. TimberTech decking and railing solutions are blended with high quality raw material and UV-inhibiting pigments to produce products consistent in color. Because of the quality of material used, most TimberTech decking and railing products fade less than other composites available.
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What effect does heat have on TimberTech products?
The effect that heat has on TimberTech products is similar to the effect it has on a wood deck. All TimberTech colors were developed with reflective, inorganic pigments which are more expensive than organic pigments, but dramatically reduce heat build-up. Some competitors use organic pigment due to the cost of the reflective, inorganic pigments.
TimberTech's R&D engineers have been developing pigment systems for vinyl siding for over 60 years, providing the expertise for TimberTech to have one of the coolest composites available.
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How will saltwater affect TimberTech products?
Saltwater climates are a perfect application for TimberTech products. Saltwater will have no ill effects on TimberTech.
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Can TimberTech products be used as a porch?
Yes, many porches are built with TimberTech products. However, if using Floorizon Plank, special ventilation requirements must be met. There must be a minimum of 12" unobstructed continuois airspace along three sides of the deck to allow cross ventilation for Floorizon Plank. This should be located just below the bottom of the deck joist. Refer to the TimberTech Installation & Maintenance Guide.
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Can I build my TimberTech deck directly over an existing surface?
See below for minimum space requirements for your TimberTech deck planks:
XLM Plank, Earthwood Plank, DockSider Plank, TwinFinish Plank and ValuPlank
There must be a minimum of a 2" (nominal) sleeper system supported by and connected to the substructure over which the deck is to be built.
Floorizon Plank
There must be a minimum 12" high unobstructed continuous air space along at least three sides of the deck to allow for cross ventilation. Specific application requirements apply to Floorizon. Please see our Installation Instructions for proper ventilation requirements.
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Can I use TimberTech for the surface of a boat dock?
Yes, TimberTech DockSider Plank is ideal for dock, marina and boardwalk applications. TimberTech DockSider can span 24" on-center for both residential and commercial applications. TimberTech XLM Plank, Earthwood Plank, TwinFinish Plank, and ValuPlank can also be used on docks. Floorizon Plank cannot be used in this application due to ventilation requirements.
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Can I use TimberTech Floorizon product if I do not have a minimum of 12" from the bottom of the joist to the ground?
No, the Floorizon product cannot be used in any application that does not have at least 12" from the bottom of the joist to the ground. Without adequate ventilation, the top surface is typically dry and underneath the deck could be damp from moisture and or humidity. This, in some cases, may cause the Floorizon profile to cup slightly and would void the warranty. Please see our Installation Instructions for proper ventilation requirements.
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Can I use TimberTech DrySpace with TimberTech Floorizon Deck Planks?
Yes. With proper installation, TimberTech DrySpace can be used with Floorizon Planks. The moisture will be carried away from underneath the Floorizon Planks. It is the moisture underneath the Floorizon Planks that could cause cupping. In addition, since the V-Panels are cut 3" from the beam or rim joist, there should be some air flow around the planks.
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Can I use glue or caulk with TimberTech?
In the past, we have not recommended the use of glue or caulk with any TimberTech products. Some of our contractors have been successful using an adhesive identified as Tremco Vulkem 116 Polyurethane Adhesive, along with nails. This is what we would recommend if an adhesive were needed.
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Can TimberTech's Floorizon Planks be made into a watertight surface?
No, TimberTech Floorizon is made with weep holes every 9" on the tongue. These weep holes allow water to drain off of the deck. Correct installation of the product with hand pressure gives you a gap of up to 1/4" between planks. This gap allows the product to expand and contract with temperature changes. If this gap is made watertight by a caulk product, the product will not have the ability to expand and contract in the gap. If your project requires a dry space beneath the deck you can install TimberTech DrySpace.
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Can I cantilever the TimberTech on my deck?
Yes. TimberTech XLM, Earthwood, DockSider,TwinFinish and ValuPlank can be cantilevered 1” over the last support. TimberTech Floorizon planks should not be cantilevered.
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Can I use a router on the TimberTech product?
Yes, if it is a solid profile such as our TwinFascia, DockSider, TwinFinish or ValuPlank a router can be used. These TimberTech products will route just like wood.
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What is the maximum span for the deck planks?
| | 100 psf | 200 psf | | Floorizon (Canada can span 575mm) | 24" on center | 16" on center | | | DockSider | 24" on center | 22" on center | | Earthwood, TwinFinish, ValuPlank | 20" on center | 16" on center | | XLM | 16" on center
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See Installation Instructions for plank installations that are not perpendicular.
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Can I install my porch pillars or hot tub on top of my TimberTech deck?
Yes, but the underlying joist system, not the TimberTech planks should be the supporting mechanism. TimberTech is not a load-bearing product.
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What kind of fastener should I use with TimberTech?
For installing TimberTech solid planks, we recommend high-quality coated, stainless steel or composite deck screws. For XLM Plank, Earthwood Plank, TwinFinish Plank and ValuPlank: use a minimum #8 x 2-1/2". For DockSider Plank: use a minimum #8 x 3". Refer to our Installation Instructions for more information. TimberTech grooved planks are installed using the TimberTech CONCEALoc Hidden Fastener. Follow the directions on the CONCEALoc box or bucket.
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Do I need to gap TimberTech when installing it?
Yes. All TimberTech products should be gapped to allow for expansion and contraction of the product. Allow 1/4" minimum gap where the planking meets an adjoining structure or post. Gapping guidelines for all TimberTech planks are: Below 32 degrees - allow 3/16" gap; 33 to 74 degrees - allow 1/8" gap; above 75 degrees - allow 1/32" gap.
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It is 90 degrees out today. Do I still need to gap my deck according to the Installation Instructions?
Yes. While the movement of TimberTech is minimal, you still need to allow gapping for expansion and contraction regardless of temperature.
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Do I have to pre-drill TimberTech when installing?
For the deck planks, you need to pre-drill in extremely cold situations and when you are within 1-1/2" from end of plank. It is recommended that you pre-drill when installing TimberTech railing components. You may also choose to pre-drill when installing deck planks for the aesthetics.
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Can TimberTech be installed automatically by using a nail gun?
TimberTech recommends using high-quality coated, stainless steel or composite decking screws for all plank installations. We feel that using such a screw gives the homeowner the best option for matching the life and performance of the fastener with the that of the deck. However, other fastening methods can be used.
TimberTech's stainless steel CONCEALoc Hidden Fastener was designed to install TimberTech Earthwood Grooved Plank. Refer to our Installation Instructions.
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What can I do to remove ice and snow from my TimberTech deck?
If you reside in a cold weather climate where ice and snow periodically come in contact with your deck, use calcium chloride or rock salt to melt the ice and snow.
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What can be done to remove scratches, nicks, cuts and grooves from my TimberTech deck?
For all TimberTech products (except Earthwood Plank, Floorizon Plank in tropical colors, BuilderBoard, RadianceRail and Ornamental Rail) scratches, nicks, cuts and grooves can be eliminated by using a wire brush. Brushing will need to be consistent with the grain of the product.
For Earthwood Plank and Floorizon Plank in tropical colors, surface scratches and abrasions will fade after weathering. Once these planks have fully weathered, they are more resistant to visible scratching. For minor scratches, you can use a soldering iron such as the LSP-25 (manufactured by Wall Lenk Corp.) to melt and return the scratch back to the original color. Try on a sample piece first. Use soldering iron with caution. Click here to view the TimberTech Care and Cleaning Recommendations.
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Can TimberTech be painted or stained?
Although not recommended, TimberTech products may be painted or stained. TimberTech can not guarantee the performance of anything applied to the product. For painting information contact your TimberTech dealer or a local paint supplier. For further information on staining your TimberTech decking refer to our Care and Cleaning Recommendations.
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What can be used to clean spot stains such as oil, grease and other stains?
Oil Eater® Cleaner and Degreaser is very effective against oil, grease and other stains. For extra heavy oil and grease stains or other specific stain types, check with your local lumberyards, hardware stores or home centers for cleaners applicable to a specific stain type. On TimberTech products (except Earthwood Plank, Floorizon Plank in tropical colors, BuilderBoard, and the Ornamental Rail and RadianceRail Systems): if stains have set you may want to use a fine sandpaper and sand lightly, following the wood grain finish of the plank. The sanded area will weather back in approximately 8-10 weeks.
Click here to view the TimberTech Care and Cleaning Recommendations.
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What can be used to clean rust, ground-in dirt and grime from my TimberTech deck?
Use a cleaner that contains Phosphoric Acid or Oxalic Acid. This type of cleaner is available at home centers, lumberyards or hardware stores. Follow the manufacturer’s application instructions.
On TimberTech products (except Earthwood Plank, Floorizon Plank in tropical colors, BuilderBoard, and the RadianceRail and Ornamental Rail Systems): if the stains have set, you may use fine sandpaper and sand lightly followed by a wire brush to re-grain the decking (this applies to brushed surfaces only). Always follow the wood grain finish. The sanded area will weather back in approximately 8-10 weeks but can vary depending on location and specific application.
Click here to view TimberTech’s Care and Cleaning Recommendations.
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Can I power wash my deck?
Yes, you can wash your deck with a power washer. To avoid damaging wood, you definitely want to use a fan tip nozzle, and spray in the direction of the brush/grain pattern.
Power washing will enhance results when cleaning your TimberTech deck. 1500 psi is the recommended maximum for TimberTech products. Higher water volumes will generally allow effective cleaning at lower PSI. You can basically manipulate the psi, flow rate and tip to achieve the optimal cleaning properties for the surface you are cleaning. Most of the rental units available at local hardware stores and home centers are 1500-2500 psi machines that deliver 2-3 gallons per minute. These machines will normally do a nice job on wood and will be adequate for the TimberTech surface with the proper cleaning product.
Use caution not to damage the material and always take the proper safety precautions when operating a power washer.
Click here to view TimberTech’s Care and Cleaning Recommendations.
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Can I use TimberTech DrySpace with TimberTech Floorizon Deck Planks?
Yes. With proper installation, TimberTech DrySpace can be used with Floorizon Deck Planks. The moisture will be carried away from underneath the Floorizon Deck Planks. It is the moisture underneath the Floorizon Deck Plank that could cause cupping. In addition, since the V-Panels are cut 3" from the beam or rim joist, there should be some air flow around the planks.
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Can TimberTech Ornamental Rail and RadianceRail be curved?
Yes, our railing products can be curved in a variety of styles. Click here for details www.timbertech.com/curvedrail
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How long are the RadianceRail baluster end plugs?
There is two inches of solid material with a centered pilot hole that extends through the entire end plug.
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My RadianceRail components appear to be two different shades, what should I do?
The two support rails within the kit could appear lighter or darker than the balance of the components. When assembled, these support rails will not be visible so you can proceed with assembling your rails.
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How do I know how many CONCEALoc Hidden Fasteners I’ll need for my project?
You can determine the number of fasteners needed by multiplying the number of joist you have by the number of decking boards.TimberTech has made it easy by packaging CONCEALoc fasteners in cartons that cover 100 square feet or buckets that cover 1000 square feet.
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Do I need to gap my planks when I'm using the CONCEALoc Hidden Fasteners?
The CONCEALoc fasteners provide proper/consistent spacing between the sides of the planks. You will need to gap the ends at all butt joints 1/8”.
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Is it possible to replace a plank installed with CONCEALoc Hidden Fasteners, if it gets damaged after installation?
Yes, you can find complete details on how to do this in the TimberTech Installation Guide and on TimberTech’s website www.timbertech.com.
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Can CONCEALoc Hidden Fasteners be used with other decking styles?
Yes, they can be used with all of the TimberTech solid planks (with a routed groove): XLM, Earthwood, TwinFinish, and Docksider. Refer to the TimberTech Installation Instructions.
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What are the CONCEALoc Hidden Fasteners made of?
The CONCEALoc fasteners are made from .060 304 stainless steel. This material, with its high nickel content, will ensure a long life even in harsh environments.
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What type of screw is provided?
Every carton and bucket of CONCEALoc Hidden Fasteners includes enough stainless steel screws to install the box of fasteners.
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Are fasteners visible?
CONCEALoc Hidden Deck Fasteners have a dark brown coating. This coating helps the fastener hide in the shadow of the joists, and makes the fastener virtually invisible.
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Is there a CONCEALoc Hidden Fastener installation video available?
Yes, visit www.timbertech.com to view footage or request the DVD be sent to you by calling 1-800-307-7780.
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What tools are required to install the CONCEALoc Hidden Fasteners?
No special tools are required when using TimberTech grooved planks, just a drill. When using TimberTech solid planks, a router will be needed to create a groove at each joist. You can find complete details on how to do this in the TimberTech Installation Guide and on TimberTech’s website www.timbertech.com.
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How are the BuilderRail metal balusters coated and doesn’t iron typically rust?
TimberTech iron products are galvanized inside and out, and powder coated to allow for the highest standard of quality on the market. All powder coated products are backed by a 10-year limited warranty against manufacturing defects.
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What height is the BuilderRail assembly? Ex: is the baluster length going to give me a 36” finished height?
BuilderRail kits will provide a finished rail height of approximately 36”. You will not need to cut the balusters down to obtain a code compliant height.
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What angle do the BuilderRail stair baluster connectors work on?
Baluster connectors for stair installation will work for stairs with a 35 degree pitch with 5 degrees of flexibility in either direction.
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What is the benefit of using the BuilderRail rail bracket?
The benefit of using our color matched powder coated rail bracket is strength and safety. Using the bracket provides a code compliant system that is easy to install and looks great.
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Does BuilderRail have code approval?
BuilderRail has been submitted for CCRR and ICC testing.
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What is the maximum span of BuilderRail?
BuilderRail is designed to span 8’ from center to center of post. BuilderRail is provided in full 6’ and 8’ lengths but should never be installed at full length.
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Do I need to pre-drill when installing BuilderRail?
Yes. You must pre-drill for all baluster connectors and screw locations including the rail to post brackets.
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How do I cut BuilderRail?
BuilderRail cuts just like wood. Rails can be cut with a circular saw. Metal balusters should not be cut and will void the warranty of the balusters.
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