FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS FOR PROFESSIONALS

This section is meant to address the kinds of questions a TanDeck contractor or supplier might have. For other questions about TanDeck characteristics and maintenance, please see our Consumer FAQ’s.

Are there any special considerations I need to be concerned about when using TanDeck Alternative Decking Products?
Do I need special tools to work with TanDeck Alternative Decking Products?
What type of fasteners are recommended TanDeck decking and railing ?
Do I need to pre-drill TanDeck material before screwing through the surface?
Can TanDeck products be used for deck posts or joists.
What joist spans should I use for my deck when using TanDeck Alternative Decking?
Does TanDeck require gaps between deck boards when butt jointing?
What sizes and lengths dose TanDeck come in?
CanTanDeck Alternative Decking be stained or painted?
What type of railing system is offered with TanDeck?
Can I fabricate, mill or route TanDeck boards for special installations?
How should TanDeck Products be handled and stored?
What happens to TanDeck in hot or cold weather?
Should I worry about TanDeck being in direct contact with the ground?
Will the color and texture of every TanDeck board be the same even if manufactured at different times?
What is the weight difference between TanDeck Products when compared to wood?

Are there any special considerations I need to be concerned about when using TanDeck Alternative Decking Products?

TanDeck has a very long lifespan so build your frame to last. The Install Guidelines need to be followed to ensure a professional installation.

Do I need special tools to work with TanDeck Alternative Decking Products?

Standard woodworking tools can be used. TanDeck can be cut and milled in the same manner as wood. Carbide tipped bits and blades are recommended. Always use tools according to manufacturer’s instructions, and wear protective clothing and safety glasses for your safety.

What type of fasteners are recommended TanDeck decking and railing ?

TanDeck Alternative Decking recommends using Stainless Steel screws and hardware, the Omega board, 5/4 G&G Deckboard and 1x6 T&G Deckboard has hidden clip fasteners to apply the decking to the frame. See the TanDeck Installation guidelines for more information. For a list of accessories click here.

Do I need to pre-drill TanDeck material before screwing through the surface?

We recommend that you use TanDeck’s hidden fastener system which does not require applying screws directly through the material. For finishing pieces, or where screws are required, pre-drilling is not necessary. However, material may “mushroom” slightly around the screw heads. This can be “tapped down”, to partially cover the screw heads, or countersink to remove some material to be displaced by the screw.

Can TanDeck products be used for deck posts or joists.

No, TanDeck Alternative Decking Products are not suitable for structural applications. Please see Tangent’s PolyForce™products for more information.

What joist spans should I use for my deck when using TanDeck Alternative Decking?

When using TanDeck Omega Board and 5/4 decking, joist spans of 16” on center is fine for residential use (60 lbs,/sq.ft.). When applying the decking at a 45º angle you must frame your decking at 12” on center. It is recommended when installing the 1x6 T&G Deckboard to use joist spans of 12” on center. See the TanDeck Installation guidelines for more information.

Does TanDeck require gaps between deck boards when butt jointing?

Because TanDeck will shrink and expand in temperature extremes, installers should always avoid using butt joints. Use TanDeck T-molding or use the “feature board” method to cover the expansion and contraction that can occur. See the TanDeck Install Guidelines for more information.

What sizes and lengths dose TanDeck come in?

TanDeck Decking is produced in 12ft, 16ft, 20ft and 24ft lengths. Railing components are made mostly in 12ft. lengths. For a complete product list, please click here.

Can TanDeck Alternative Decking be stained or painted?
No. Stain or paint will not penetrate the surface because the product doesn’t absorb moisture.

What type of railing system is offered with TanDeck?

TanDeck offers two types of railing systems, our premium Series 5 Rail System and our Standard Rail System. Both of the beautiful railings are available in matching deck colors plus white. More information.

Can I fabricate, mill or route TanDeck boards for special installations?

Yes, all TanDeck can easily be worked with any standard wood working tools.

How should TanDeck Products be handled and stored?

We recommend that 24 hours before installation installer remove packaging and lay out the TanDeck materials loosely on a flat surface to allow product to acclimate to the ambient temperatures. This is especially important during extreme temperature conditions – cold or hot.

What happens to TanDeck in hot or cold weather?

All resin based products tend to expand and contract in a predictable manner under normal seasonal and daily temperature swings. This physical property must be recognized and accounted for in the design and installation of your deck. See the TanDeck Install Guidelines for more information.

Should I worry about TanDeck being in direct contact with the ground?

No, all TanDeck products can contact the ground, be buried and even immersed in salt water without any concern of rot or decay.

Will the color and texture of every TanDeck board be the same even if manufactured at different times?
We make every effort to maintain color consistency. However, because we use recycled plastic resins in our products, slight shade variations can occur. We recommend mixing boards if several pallets of materials will be used.

What is the weight difference between TanDeck Products when compared to wood?

TanDeck Products are comparable to wood. The Omega Board planking with its engineered shape significantly reduces weight. It weights less than regular lumber and 50% less than comparable composite decking.