How much gap is there between decking boards?
TC-1 & TC-2 fasteners are designed to provide no initial gap. We recommend setting decking boards as tight as possible and letting boards shrink gap. TC-3 fasteners automatically create a 3/16 inch gap between each board. However, we recommend spacing the decking according to the manufacturers specifications. TC-4 & TC-P fasteners are designed to provide a gap of approximately 1/8 inch. Exotic hardwoods and PVC decking materials tend to have very little expansion or contraction. However, in very dry climates, some shrinking may occur to exotic hardwoods; allowing the boards to acclimate for several days prior to installing may be required. When using exotic hardwoods, check with your decking supplier for estimated reactions in your climate. When using PVC decking materials, we recommend spacing the decking according to the manufacturers specifications.
