Professional`s Guide

Professional’s Guide
www.weatherbest.com
Table of Contents
3
What Customers Want
4
WeatherBest® Premium Grain Decking
5
Colors
6
Rich, Subtle Texture
7
SE & GV Boards
8
WeatherBest® Tropical Decking
9
Pre-Installation
11 Installation
12 Stair Tread Installation
13 Fascia Board Installation
14 Phantom™ Fastener Installation
17 Premium Grain Rail Installation
23 Technical Data Sheet
24 Code Report
25 Frequently Asked Questions
26 20-Year Limited Warranty
27 WeatherBest® WIN Program
O
P
F
Give your customers what they want:
A low-maintenance lifestyle.
Our WeatherBest® product line has been
designed with consumer preference in mind. It’s one of
the most comprehensive lines of products ever created for
the composite category. Beautiful to look at and resistant
to the elements, WeatherBest® decking and railing is
designed to perform year after year, season after season.
All WeatherBest® decking is backed by the research,
development, manufacturing and service of one of the
largest decking and railing manufacturers in the country.
We now offer three tiers of decking to fit any decking
project and budget, WeatherBest® Premium Grain,
WeatherBest® Tropical Decking, and coming soon,
WeatherBest® High Performance Decking. As the market
continues to grow, offering customers more options is the
key to unlocking more sales. The best-looking decking on
the market, with the most realistic woodgrain — that’s
WeatherBest®.
Stand out from the competition with a proven product.
You want fewer callbacks and more referrals from satisfied
customers. Building decks with WeatherBest® decking and
railing is how you do it.
3
The WeatherBest®
Premium Grain
Decking
WeatherBest® Premium Grain Decking
• Resistant to mold, mildew, termites and decay
Premium decking doesn’t get better than this. It’s everything
you could want in a decking product without most of the
hassle. Four rich colors to choose from: Western Redwood,
Tuscan Walnut, Driftwood Grey and Sandalwood. Matching
components complete the look.
• Backed by a 20-year limited warranty
• Corresponding railing, fascia, post sleeve and caps
• Resists warping, splitting and splintering
• Never requires painting, sealing or staining
• Manufacturing process produces random graining, resulting
in subtle variations similar to wood decking
• Reversible boards feature a repeating cathedral woodgrain
on one side and a brushed finish on the other side
Available Components and Actual Dimensions
Deck Board
0.910” x 5.400”
Stair Tread/Railing
3.340” x 1.420”
Solid Baluster
1.375” x 1.375”
Fascia Board
0.75” x 11.25”
LP WeatherBest® Select Roughsawn
Gray Deck
–Naples, Florida
Post Sleeve
3.700” x
3.700” (I.D.)
Matching Post Cap
4.700”x 4.700” (I.D.)
4
Colors
Premium Grain
Driftwood Grey
WeatherBest®
Woodgrain Railing
Face Mount
Premium Grain
Tuscan Walnut
Premium Grain
Western
Redwood
Premium Grain
Sandalwood
Some simple cleaning tips...
We recommend that your customers periodically wash their
deck with water to remove pollen, dirt and other airborne
pollutants that are on the surface (depending upon your
environmental surroundings). When stains occur, clean them
immediately. The longer it goes untreated, the more time
there is for the stain to penetrate into the surface of the
decking product. Try to minimize the occurrence of stains
with the use of splatter guards and doormats. Do not use
harsh abrasives or brushes, as they may damage the surface
of the deck board.
WeatherBest®
Woodgrain Railing
Inset railing mount
Use this 3-step approach when
addressing any stain:
Step 1:
Identify what the stain is. Sometimes this is difficult to
determine, especially if the stain is discovered long after it
has been made. Start with the basics: mild soap (detergent)
and water. Apply to the stain with a white cotton cloth.
Step 2:
Try a cleaner, but always follow the directions and
thoroughly rinse away cleaning residue. If the basic approach
does not work and you know the source of the stain, try
using a cleaning product with one of the following active
ingredients:
• For dirt, grime, mold/mildew or berry stains: use
a cleaner with sodium hypochlorite
• For rust stains: use a cleaner with phosphoric acid
• For oil-based products: use a concentrated
detergent or grease remover
Please note that a shadow of the stain will remain (because
oil and grease tend to penetrate the surface quickly).
Step 3:
If you still have no success, please give our technical service
group a call at 800-343-3651. Be prepared to provide a
picture of the stain in question and to specify what you
have tried (in terms of cleaners). Again, when attempting
to remove a stain, take care—do not damage the surface
of the product with harsh abrasives, wire brushes or strong
chemicals.
5
Rich, subtle texture that
your customer will love.
WeatherBest® Premium Grain composite decking and
railing gives your customer the great characteristics of
wood, without many of the imperfections.
On weathering: All wood-composite products are
expected to incur some weathering over time. Due
to this weathering process, you will see some color
variation from the original color purchased.
Color Weathering
Results of 3 years in Sacramento, CA*
Before
After
Western Redwood
Driftwood Grey
We produce our WeatherBest® decking color
series to reflect a random natural color and grain
with the same subtle variation that’s highly desired in
wood decking. Our exclusive process will provide a
deck that does not have a manufactured look.
reversible finish
What it means to your customers – a high-quality
addition to their home, with the natural look of
wood and low maintenance.
Our manufacturing process produces random but directional
graining. Depending on the way the planks face the light,
individual planks can appear slightly lighter or darker than the
surrounding planks.
Rustic
Graining all going in the same direction
Rustic
Sandalwood
Results of 1000 hour Xenon Test*
Before
After
Notice with the roughsawn
graining all going in the same
direction, the planks all have a
similar shade.
Notice some of the planks are
a slightly lighter shade with the
roughsawn graining going in
different directions.
These planks appear slightly
darker.
Graining going in different directions
Cathedral
Tuscan Walnut
Here again, where the
roughsawn and embossed
graining are going in the same
direction, the planks appear to
be the same shade.
*Your results could be different.
Graining all going in the same direction
Cathedral
When you vary the direction of the
roughsawn and embossed graining,
the planks can appear to be slightly
different shades.
Darker appearance.
Lighter appearance.
Graining going in different directions
6
Hidden fasteners for
a smooth, blemish
free deck surface
The WeatherBest® GV option available on Premium Grain
and Tropical Decking accepts the Phantom™ Hidden Deck
Fastener.
Phantom™ Hidden Deck Fastener
GV
WeatherBest®
Premium Grain
Made with a thick durable stainless steel alloy, the Phantom™
Fastener improves the final look of the deck surfaces, speeds
installation and reduces labor costs. Pre-gapped to 3/16” every
deck board goes down fast and easy without the need for
pre-drilling or the fear of mushrooming from standard deck
fasteners.
GV option
The GV or grooved option includes a lateral groove
along the side of each deck board to accept
SE
Phantom™ Fasteners.
SE option
The SE or square edge option is used for trim,
GV
details and stair treads.
WeatherBest®
Tropical Decking
SE
7
WeatherBest®
Tropical Decking
Now you can have the rich exotic look of expensive tropical
hardwoods in a high density composite deck board.
WeatherBest® Tropical Decking has a rich blend of natural
tones that blend together to make a deck surface never
achieved by a low maintenance board. This one of a kind
aesthetic, achieved only with WeatherBest® Tropical
Decking will make you change your preception on just how
good a composite deck can look.
WeatherBest® Tropical Decking
• No other deck installs faster.
• No other deck looks better.
Available in GV option for use with the Phantom™ Hidden
Fastener, Tropical decking by WeatherBest® won’t gray
like real hardwoods and requires no staining sealing or end
treatments.
Available Components and Actual Dimensions
Deck Board
0.935” x 5.400”
Fascia Board
0.75” x 6”
Pre-Installation
A few things you should know about
WeatherBest® Decking...
Characteristics
• Warranted not to rot, WeatherBest® products have
superior weathering qualities compared to wood. They
resist splitting, checking and splintering. There are no knots
to fall out.
• Like wood, all WeatherBest® decking will lighten a bit
over time as it weathers, but generally remains close to its
original shade.
• Minor surface scratches will weather over time to match
the deck boards and will not affect the beauty of the deck.
• Mold and mildew may occur on any outdoor building
material. Keep deck free of dirt and grime with periodic
rinsing, and if necessary, use a mild bleach solution or
deck cleaner.
• There will be a slight color variation between boards.
Before you fasten them down, lay the boards out to be
sure you get the color mix that your customer prefers.
• WeatherBest® Premium Grain and Tropical decking may
be installed with either side facing up.
Please Note:
As with all construction projects, there are certain hazards
involved with the operation of tools and ladders. Using
tools with respect and caution will considerably lessen the
possibility of personal injury. However, if normal safety
precautions are overlooked or ignored, personal injury to the
operator may result.
Remember:
Your personal safety is your responsibility.
9
Pre-Installation (Continued)
General Construction Notes
• WeatherBest® decking, railing components and fascia board must not be used as a component in a truss, structural
diaphragm or interior framing application for joists, rafters, studs, beams, columns and posts. Consult with state and local
authorities in your area regarding building codes and regulations.
• WeatherBest® decking cuts, drills and installs similarly to wood. Use standard tools and standard
carbide-tipped saw blades, too. (A carbide-tip blade with two teeth per inch works well.)
• Refer to the instructions on Page 18 for woodgrain post requirements (6’ centers). Where substructure posts have greater
spacing, additional posts may be required to meet the spacing requirements for the railing. Additional support posts may be
installed more easily before deck boards are installed.
• Use a minimum spacing (3/16”) between boards and (1/8”) at butt joints per installation instructions.
• When face fastening WeatherBest Decking, we recommend the use of #8 x 2-1/2” stainless steel flat-head screws (for
exterior use). They are available in most markets. Two screws must be installed in a deck board at every joist location. All
instructions concerning screw installation, pilot hole size and screw spacing are based on using #8 x 2-1/2” or 3” stainless
steel screws.
• For hidden fastener applications, use the Phantom™ Hidden Deck Fastener. The Phantom™ Fastener was designed
expressly for the lateral deck grooves in each WeatherBest® GV option board. Detailed instructions on the proper usage of
Phantom™ Fasteners are included in this booklet.
• Follow the WeatherBest® installation instructions and those of the fastening system manufacturer when using specialty or
hidden fasteners. WeatherBest® does not guarantee the durability or long-term performance of any mechanical or hidden
fastener. Contact the fastener manufacturer for detailed instructions.
• When applying screws, the wood fibers may “mushroom” out from the hole. Simply hammer them lightly to cover the deck
screw. Although it is not required on decking, pre-drilling 1/8” dia. holes with a countersink will eliminate the mushrooming
and provide a cleaner, more attractive installation, and is highly recommended. You should always pre-drill the end of each
board with a 1/8” bit no closer than 1” from the edge and 1.5” from the end to prevent chipping or splitting.
• Pre-drilled holes are required for all railing installations.
10
Installation
WeatherBest® Composite Decking
Deck Boards
If using WeatherBest® Premium Grain deck boards, either
side may be installed in the “up” position (woodgrain or
brushed surface). WeatherBest® Tropical Decking is also
a fully reversible board, so either side may be installed in
the “up” position.
Screws
See General Construction Notes or Technical Bulletins
online at www.weatherbest.com
Joist Spacing
WeatherBest® decking boards are intended to be
installed on joists spaced up to 16“ on center for
residential applications. Reduce spacing to 12“ when
applying boards diagonally up to 45°.
12” Joist spacing when deck boards are diagonal
Deck Board Spacing
A minimum gap of 3/16” between boards is required for
drainage of water or melting snow and ice.
Butt Joint Spacing
Butt joints must be spaced at least 1/8” apart. However,
since a larger gap may be necessary, a good estimate
is to allow 1/16” for every 20° F difference between
the temperature during installation and the highest
temperature expected where the deck is being installed.
This will allow for expansion during temperature changes.
Screws at ends of boards must be no closer than 1.5” to
the end. A lumber support board (blocking or double joist)
must to be used to support the end of one board and
accommodate the required screw spacing. Do not toenail
or screw at an angle.
Screws at least
1.5” from end of
Deck Board
3/4" Max.
Overhang
2" Max.
Overhang
3/16" Min.
Between Deck
Boards see
instructions
16” O.C. Joist
Spacing Max.,
12” Max. when
Deck Boards on
Angle
12" to ground minimum. Check your
local codes, they may rewquire more!
Joist and deck board spacing
Screws at
least 1” from
end of Deck
Board
DO
NOT
screw
at an
angle
Support board
where two
ends meet
1/8" Min. Between
ends of Deck Boards
see instructions
Butt joint spacing
11
Stair Tread (3 options)
Deck boards (SE only, do not use GV boards as stair treads)
or stair tread rails can be used for stair treads. If deck boards
are used, refer to option B or C. When using deck boards
or stair rails, a 3/16” gap must be left between the boards.
Fascia boards must not be used as stair treads or deck
boards.
Deck Board Option B
3/16" Min. Between
deck boards
Screws at least 1.5"
from end of deck
board
9"
Stair rail option A
9"
9"
3/16" Min. Between
stair tread rails
9"
Stair riser
Screws 1.5"
from end of board
Deck Board Option C
18"
3/16" Min. Between
deck boards
Screws at least 1.5"
from end of deck
board
18"
Stair riser
12"
Using WeatherBest® Fascia
to Trim Edges/Stairs
The fascia board is merely a decorative cover; it must not be
used as a deck board or stair tread. When installing the fascia
board, use #8 x 2-1/2” stainless steel screws. See the fascia
board installation page for the correct screw spacing; leave a
minimum 1/8” gap between fascia boards and the house or
other decking.
12
12"
12"
Stair riser
2 x 4 x Tread
width-wood
blocking
Fascia Board Installation
The fascia board can be attached to various rim joist sizes.
The width of the fascia board is designed for a
2 x 12 wood joist size. For smaller sizes (e.g., 2 x 10,
2 x 8 and 2 x 6), the board must be trimmed to be flush with
the wood joist.
Recommendations
1. Two people are needed for installation due to
weight of materials.
2. During installation, if possible, clamp the fascia
board in place when pre-drilling and securing with
screws (e.g., #8 x 2”, stainless steel).
Caution:
Screw spacing along the length of the board must be 8”
or LESS. This helps minimize the occurrence of buckling
of the board. As with most fascia products, some bowing
(or buckling) of the fascia board may occur as the framing
shrinks. Spacing between the fascia boards and deck boards
must be at least an 1/8” minimum.
13
WeatherBest® Composite Decking
(Phantom™ Hidden Fasteners)
Structural Joist
16” O.C.*
Structural Joist
Structural Joist
Figure 2: First Board
Deck
Board
To accommodate normal expansion/contraction and proper
drainage, leave a 3/16” space between each parallel deck
board and 1/8” between each end-to-end seam. A 1/4”
space should be left between the deck board and any
permanent structure or post (fig. 2).
1/8”
1-1/2”
GV (Grooved) boards are not recommended for stair
tread applications.
Phantom™ Fastener
1”
1.Position the first deck board on the support joists. Leave a
1/4” gap from any permanent structure (fig. 2).
2.Pre-drill the first deck board with a 1/8” drill along the
outside edge of the board at every support joist. To
prevent cracking of the board the holes at the end of the
board should be a minimum of 1-1/2” from the end. The
holes along the grooved edge of the board should be a
minimum of 1” from the edge.
3.Secure the first deck board by fastening a #10 x 2-1/4”
long stainless steel deck screw in each pre-drilled hole. DO
NOT OVER-TIGHTEN THE SCREWS.
4.Insert a Phantom™ fastener into the side channel of the
board at every support joist (pronged end first). Pronged
end should engage the deck board by a minimum of
5/16” (fig. 3a). Center the screw hole on the joist.
5.Install a screw (provided with the fasteners) through the
hole in the Phantom™ fastener into the center of each
support joist. Angle the fastener toward the first deck
board (fig. 3a). DO NOT OVER-TIGHTEN THE SCREWS.
14
Structural Joist
1/4”
Initial installation of deck boards
Fastener
Figure 3: Installation
Insert pronged tab
into fixed board.
5/16” engagement
a
• Slide fastener into side channel of decking board at every support joist.
• Install screw provided through fastener hole into each support joist.
b
• Locate next slotted board against the fastener tabs.
• Slightly lift the outer edge of the board and slide over fastener tabs.
3/16” gap
c
• Be sure fasteners are fully seated into each board to ensure even spacing.
Wall or other permanent structure.
Structural joists should be spaced no more than 16” on
center for most residential applications and no more than
12” on center for commercial uses (fig. 1). For best results,
double joist any end to end seam. If applying deck boards
diagonally across joist, the joist spacing should be reduced
by 4”. All GV (Grooved) decking is intended for deck
surface only not for structural members.
Structural Joist (added to support end-to-end seam)
Structural Joist
Prior to installation consult building code requirements
for proper installation. Local building codes supersede any
and all recommendations in the following guide. Before
installing GV (Grooved) decking, thoroughly review the
installation instructions.
Wall or other permanent structure.
* Typical residential joist spacing.
12” O.C. for commercial applications
Always check local codes before construction.
Structural Joist
Installation
Figure 1: Preparation
Figure 4: Maintain Gapping
1/4" spacing form permanent
structures like walls ad posts is required
Wall or other permanent structure.
6.Position the next deck board against the fastener tabs
and slide the board onto the tabs. If necessary, slightly
lift the outer edge of the board to ease the assembly of
the board onto the fastener tabs (fig. 3b). When installed
properly the fastener will ensure a 3/16” gap (fig. 3c).
7.Repeat steps 4 - 6 for each deck board.
8.Position the final deck board onto the last set of
Phantom™ fasteners. Ensuring a consistent gap between
boards (fig. 4), predrill the final deck board with a 1/8”
drill along the outside edge of the board at every support
joist. The holes at the end of the board should be a
minimum of 1-1/2” from the end. The holes along the
grooved edge of the board should be a minimum of 1”
from the edge (fig. 5).
1/8”
Deck
Board
9.Secure the final deck board by fastening a #10 x 2-1/4”
long stainless steel deck screw in each pre-drilled hole.
DO NOT OVER-TIGHTEN THE SCREWS
Structural Joist
3/16”
1/8”
Wall or other permanent structure.
Figure 5: Last Board
Deck
Board
scrap board
1-1/2”
1”
Structural Joist
3/16”
15
Figure 6: Removing Board
Figure 7: Replacing Board
Cut Here
Remove center
cut out
Trim tabs from
fasteners with
exposed screws
only.
1/8”
Figure 6a
Engage
fastener
tabs into
side deck
channel
3/16”
Cut Here
New Board
Remove side
pieces
Deck Board Replacement
1. Make two parallel cuts down the center of the board to be replaced. Remove the center section from the board (fig.6).
2. Remove the remaining two pieces from the tabs of the corresponding hidden fasteners.
3. With a reciprocating saw, remove the tabs on the fasteners which have the screw showing (fig. 6a).
4. Position the new deck board onto the remaining tabs (fig. 7).
5. Ensuring a consistent 3/16” gap between boards, predrill a 1/8” hole along the unfastened edge at every support joist.
6. Secure the board by fastening a #10 x 2-1/4” long stainless steel deck screw in each pre-drilled hole.
16
Installation
WeatherBest® Premium Grain Railing
The railings can be built and installed for face mounting on
the railing posts (A) or inset between the railing posts (B). If
you don’t want the posts extending above the rail, you can
modify the Inset Design (B). In this installation, the posts are
cut shorter so that the railing top boards cover the posts.
In both cases, the railing height does not exceed the 42”
maximum.The illustrations below are views from on
the deck. Remember, you must pre-drill all screw holes.
Outside Design A
Inset Design B
1/8" Min. clearance
at Post
Top
Board
Top boards
flush at post
corner
With Post Caps
Handling
outside
corners
Post
Top
Board
Without Post Caps
Colors have been used in the following instructions to help identify
the parts in the drawings and the material used to make them.
Top Board
Deck Board
Post Sleeve
Post Sleeve over
Lumber
Horiz. Rails
Stair Tread/
Rail Stock
Supports
Stair Tread/
Rail Stock
Baluster
Solid Baluster
Stock
Also available: WeatherBest® White Composite Railing co-extruded composite railing that will
not rot or peel. For installation instructions, please visit www.weatherbest.com.
17
1
Railing Post &
Sleeve Installation
4 x 4 wood posts should be located at a maximum of 72”
on center. They must be completely boxed in for support
on all four sides. The post must be long enough to reach
from the bottom of the joist through the deck planking
and extend 45” above the top of planking. This will result
in posts extending above the railing and being “capped.”
The inset railing (Design B) can be mounted to offer a nocap installation; this will reduce the post height above the
planking to 41”. After posts are mounted, cut post sleeve to
length and slide over posts.
Railing Post
45"
(41" Design B
“no Caps”)
SLEEVE
Step
Jois
Deck Board
t
Rim Joist
Rim
Joi
t
Jois
st
Deck Boards not
shown to expose
detail
2 Carriage Bolts, Nuts &
Washers in both Directions
Assemble & Mount
Outside Rail (Design A)
Step
2
Measure distance between posts center to center. Cut two
pieces of rail to this length, less 1/8” (Fig. 1). Position the two
horizontal rails side by side. Locate Baluster centers and mark
on both rails. The 6’ rail will have 13 Balusters, starting from
the center with the last Baluster being about 6” from the
ends. Cut Balusters to 39” long (it will take 13 Balusters for
a 6’ span). Balusters should be positioned every 5” on center.
Lay down the rails; position Balusters on marks (next page,
Fig. 2). Each Baluster will be attached at both ends to the rails
with two screws. End screws must be at least 1” from end of
Baluster. Use a square to line up and hold each Baluster as you
pre-drill the screw hole and install the screws.
18
Figure 1
Assemble Railing
Center of Post to
Center of Post
less 1/8”
(71-7/8” for 6’ Centers)
5"
Find Center, Mark it
and every 5” (6 times)
toward each end
Installation (Continued)
Step
4
Figure 2
2 Screws at each
end 1.5" Min.
from end
Install Top Board
Cut top board to length of top rail. Notch the top board (Fig. 4)
on both ends. Position top board on railing. It should extend just
over the top rail edge and have a 1/8” gap to post on both sides
(Fig. 5). Clamp in place; secure to top rail by pre-drilling hole and
installing screws 3/4” in from each end and then every 12” to
the center of the top rail. Install post caps.
1/8" Minimum clearance around Post
Center on mark
Post
Step
3
Top view of Post
and Top Board
Attach Assembled Railing
Cut two pieces of rail 2” long. These Crush Blocks are
installed to support the bottom of the railing at equal
intervals between posts. Use one screw to secure each
block to the Deck Board. Position railing on Crush Blocks
with horizontal rails on outside face of posts (Fig. 3). Center
horizontal rails so that ends align with center of post. Align
rail, level and clamp in place. At each rail end, drill and
secure with two (3”) screws 3/4” in from edges. Cut two
pieces of rail at 3-3/8” long. One goes on each post, level
with the top rail to support the end of the top board.
Figure 3
Top Board Support (3-3/8”)
flush with top of Top Rail
and outside corner of Post
attach with 2 (3”) Screws
both posts
2 (3") Screws at
each end 3/4” in
from end
Railing Rail
Length of Top Board
1-9/16"
2-7/16"
Notch both ends
Figure 4
1/8" Min. clearance
around Post
Screws (2-1/2")
at each end 3/4”
in from end and
every 12” into top
rail
Post
Top view of Post
and Top Board
Post
Top view of Post
Figure 5
Crush Blocks, screwed to
deck board under horizontal
bottom rail. Install 2 blocks
evenly spaced between
posts.
Rail outside edge
19
Assemble & Mount
Inset Rail (Design B)
The following instructions illustrate mounting the railing
with support posts extending above the rail top board and
capped. The posts can be cut shorter (41” above deck
boards) so that railing is flush with top of posts. The top
board flows over rails onto posts, eliminating caps. For this
second version, the rail (same construction as below) is
vertically mounted flush with the top of the post. The top
board is then placed from post to post.
3/4"
This edge (3/4” row of
holes) always faces
the railing
1-1/2"
4"
10"
39"
This edge (1-1/2" row
of holes) always
aligns with the
outside of the post
10"
Step
2
Cut and Install
Support Rail
Cut two pieces of rail to 39”, mark them for holes as shown
in figure 6. Cut two pieces of rail 2” long; these Crush
Blocks will be installed to support the bottom of the railing.
You will temporarily use them to vertically locate the support
rails on the post. Position Crush Block and rail support
against side of post as shown (Fig. 7). Locate and drill eight
holes through rail and into post. Secure with (3”) screws.
Install second rail to other post.
4"
Figure 6
Figure 7
Railing Rai l
Post
Top view of Post
and support
Drill holes, attach withith
(3”) screws at marked
locations
Support (edge with
1-1/2” row of holes)
flush with inside of
Post
Use Crush Block (2”
piece) to locate vertical
position of support.
Remove after Support
attached
No Caps Installation
20
Installation (Continued)
Step
3
Assemble Railing
Measure distance between inside of posts. Cut two pieces
of side rail to this length less 1/4” (Fig. 8). Cut Balusters to
37-1/2” long (it will take 13 Balusters for a 6’ span). Balusters
should be positioned every 5” on center. Position the two
horizontal rails side by side. Locate Baluster centers and mark
on both rails. The 6’ rail would have 13 Balusters starting
from the center. Lay down the rails; position Balusters on
marks (Fig. 9). Each Baluster will be attached to the rails
with two screws at each end. End screws must be at least 1”
from end of Baluster. Use a square to line up and hold each
Baluster as you pre-drill the screw hole and install the screws.
Figure 8
Figure 9
2 Screws at each
end 1.5" Min.
from end
Inside of Post to Inside
of Post less 1/4" (67"
for Posts on 6'
Centers)
Center on mark
5"
Find Center, Mark it and
ever 5" (6 times) toward
each end.
21
Step
4
Step
Attach Assembled Railing
The Crush Blocks (cut in Step 2) are installed to support the bottom of
the railing at equal intervals between posts. Use one screw to secure
each block to the Deck Board. Position railing on Crush Blocks and
center horizontal rails so that ends have a minimum 1/8” gap to post
(Fig. 10). Align rail, level and clamp in place. At each rail end drill and
secure with two (3”) screws into support rail 3/4” in from edges.
5
Install Top Board
Cut top board to length of top rail (Fig. 11). Position top board on
railing (Fig. 12). Clamp in place, secure to top rail by pre-drilling hole
and installing screws 3/4” in from each end and then every 12” to the
center of the top board. Install post caps.
1/8" Minimum clearance around Post
1/8" Min. clearance at Post
2 (3") Screws at
each end 3/4” in
from end
Railing Rail
Post
Post
Top view of Post
and Top Board
Top view of Post
Length of Top Rail
Figure 11
Crush Blocks, screwed to
deck board under horizontal
bottom rail. Install 2 blocks
evenly spaced between
posts.
Screws (2-1/2”)
at each end 3/4”
in from end and
every 12” into
top rail
Rail outside edge
Figure 10
1/8" Min. clearance
at Post
Post
Top view of Post
and Top Board
Figure 12
NOTE:
If you’re doing the no post caps installation, the top board extends
from post center to post center. Maintain 1/8” gap between top
boards where they meet on center of post.
22
Technical Data Sheet
Based on Requirements of AC-174 @ 70F [16” O.C.]
Property
Standard
WeatherBest®
AVG. MOE
(Modulus of Elasticity)
ASTM D6109
520, 300 [PSI]
AVG. MOR
(Modulus of Rupture)
ASTM D6109
2,770 [PSI]
AVG. FLAME SPREAD INDEX
E84
100 (PASS)
AVG. SCREW WITHDRAWAL
ASTM D1761
248 [LBS]
AVG. SCREW PULL-THRU
ASTM D1037
300 [LBS]
TERMITE
ASTM D3345
“10” Rating
DECAY*
ASTM D1413-99
0% Wt. Loss
Technical Data Defined:
MOE – Modulus of Elasticity identifies the material “stiffness” (when bending the deck board)
MOR – Modulus of Rupture identifies the material “strength” (when bending the deck board)
An Average Flame Spread Index of “100” is a Class C (or Class III) product
The Average Screw Withdrawal value reported includes a safety factor of (3.0)
The Average Screw Pull-Thru value reported includes a safety factor of (3.0)
A Termite Rating of “10” is the highest possible rating (with “0” being a failure)
*A Decay Rating of “0%” Wt. Loss is the highest possible rating (weight loss indicates decay). Please note the decay tests (as per
ASTM D1413-99) are based on exposure to brown rot (G. trabeum) and white rot (T. versicolor) fungi.
23
Code Report
WHEN INSTALLING WeatherBest®
PRODUCT, YOU MUST USE CODE
REPORT: ESR - 1008
Confirmation received from ICC Evaluation Services, Inc.
(ICC-ES) indicates that WeatherBest® Decking & Railing
products comply with the provisions of the 2003
IBC/IRC and 1997 UBC. This confirmation, as evidenced
in ICC-ES evaluation report ESR-1088, provides guidance
to code officials faced with approving the use of
WeatherBest® Decking & Railing products under these
codes. The evaluation report is available online at www.icces.org. It can also be found at www.weatherbest.com.
AS ALWAYS, FOLLOW YOUR LOCAL
BUILDING CODE REQUIREMENTS AND
CONSULT WITH YOUR BUILDING CODE
OFFICIAL TO ENSURE YOU MEET ALL
REQUIREMENTS.
24
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does composite decking cost more than treated wood?
The up-front cost of WeatherBest® products is a little more than traditional wood. But factor in the typical cost of
maintenance and labor over time to keep a wood deck looking good, and that amount far surpasses the price of a
WeatherBest® deck.
What is composite decking made of?
WeatherBest® decking is made from recycled wood mixed with polymer resins, extruded under high pressure. Surface
textures are then brushed or embossed into boards to achieve the natural look of wood.
Will composite decking weather over time?
All products made with wood will experience some weathering over time. You will see some color variation from the original
color due to the weathering process. Scratches from deck furniture or foot or pet traffic will fade over time to become less
noticeable.
Do I have to worry about splinters with composite decking?
You won’t have to worry about getting splinters with WeatherBest® products, because they are warranted
not to splinter, split or rot.
What is the difference between vinyl and composite decking?
Unlike vinyl, which is typically 100% plastic, WeatherBest® decking is a wood and polymer composite material. Because
of the wood content, WeatherBest® decking offers the advantages of lower thermal expansion/contraction and better UV
resistance.
How durable is composite decking?
WeatherBest® decking is extremely durable. Our 20-year limited warranty explains the details. To find out more, visit
www.weatherbest.com.
Can any deck plan be built using composite decking?
Whether the design is simple or multi-level, WeatherBest® decking is suitable for most residential applications. Curving or
bending of deck boards is not recommended because it is beyond the scope of the code evaluation report ESR-1088.
Can WeatherBest be installed on the roof or directly on the ground?
WeatherBest® decking cannot be used on roofs. WeatherBest® products should not be attached
(or installed) to any solid surface or watertight flooring or roofing systems such as waterproof membranes,
roof decks, concrete, sheathing or patios. For a complete list of “conditions of use,” please refer to section
5.0 of code report ESR-1088.
How close can WeatherBest® be installed to the ground?
WeatherBest® products must not be installed directly on the ground. The substructure must be a wood framing system that
meets your local code requirements and our installation instructions. The height of the substructure from the ground should
be a minimum of 12” to allow for good air circulation and adequate drainage of water. The contractor and/or homeowner is
responsible for the design and installation of the substructure (it must meet your local code requirements and our installation
instructions).
Is composite decking difficult to work with?
WeatherBest® products cut, drill and install just like wood.
25
20
TWENTY-YEAR LIMITED
WARRANTY
WeatherBest® composite decking offers the warm look
of traditional wood. It handles like wood and installs with
the same building tools. But unlike wood, WeatherBest®
composite decking comes with a 20-year limited warranty. This
means that instead of constant maintenance, your customers
can look forward to relaxing.
Ask your WeatherBest® representative or your
retailer for a copy of the warranty by calling 800.343.3651 or
visiting our Web site at www.weatherbest.com.
www.weatherbest.com 800.343.3651
For further information on WeatherBest® decking, including product
updates, frequently asked questions, dealer locators, technical bulletins
and more, please visit our Web site at www.weatherbest.com.
26
Be part of a WIN-WIN Situation
Sign up! When you’re a part of the WeatherBest® Installer Network (WIN), we’ll provide you with leads and a listing in
the contractor locator section of both our Web site and our toll-free customer call center. The WIN program is a great
way to make the most of your WeatherBest® business. Offer your customers the best in decking! Your WeatherBest®
representative has the details.
Throw a deck party and get leads too!
Start selling WeatherBest® products! Sign up for the WIN program, and we’ll give you just about everything you need to
throw a successful lead-generating event. It includes a $200 rebate for the host homeowner, customized invitations for the
homeowner and rebate coupons for guests of the party. Additionally, the Deck Party program provides an allowance for a
door prize and food & beverages! See your WeatherBest® representative for details.
To become part of a WIN-WIN situation, talk to
your WeatherBest® representative about joining today. For
complete WIN program details, visit
www.weatherbest.com or call 800.343.3651.
Check our Web site for complete details – specification and program offerings are
subject to change.
27
© Copyright 2007, Fiber Composites, LLC. WeatherBest and the
WeatherBest logo are registered trademarks of Fiber Composites,
LLC. All rights reserved.
10/07 WB-0001-LIT
www.weatherbest.com
800.343.3651