Frequently Asked Questions

Below are FAQs about our products. Learn more about our products' characteristics, installation and maintenance.

If you're unable to find an answer that relates to your inquiry, please contact us.

Decking

What is Deckorators Composite Decking made of?

Our patented Eovations™ technology found in Voyage and Vault mineral-based composite (MBC) decking delivers the industry’s best strength-to-weight ratio and has virtually no thermal expansion or contraction. This same technology can also be found in our Picture Frame Deck Board and Porch Flooring. It’s powerful and stable, it doesn’t absorb moisture, and the durable polymer cap stock won’t stain or fade. Since its creation in 2007, Eovations technology has perfected the substrate found in Deckorators Voyage and Vault Decking. This unique process starts with a mixture of polypropylene and calcium carbonate that's pull extruded for cavitation. Cavitation creates tiny air pockets that keep the boards lightweight, but with a fiber-like structure similar to wood, giving it unmatched strength.

Deckorators Vista and Venture composite decking lines are made of wood and plastic and is co-extruded with a durable polyethylene top layer for ultra low-maintenance performance. 

Can Deckorators decking be used as planters or edging?

Yes, Deckorators Voyage and Vault decking as well as Picture Frame Deck Board can be installed in or in contact with the ground or water. Our mineral-based composite (MBC) decking is upheld with our new 50-year Structural warranty and made with patented Eovations technology, which has the industry's best strength-to-weight ratio. These boards are powerful, stable and don't absorb moisture.

Can Deckorators products be used in contact with water or ground?

Yes, Deckorators Voyage and Vault decking as well as Picture Frame Deck Board can be installed in or in contact with the ground or water. Our mineral-based composite (MBC) decking is upheld with our new 50-year Structural warranty and made with patented Eovations technology, which has the industry's best strength-to-weight ratio. These boards are powerful, stable and don't absorb moisture.

Where can I buy Deckorators decking and how much does it cost?

The complete Deckorators line is available at retail lumberyards, home centers and through distributors. For more information, visit our Where to Buy page or call 800-556-8449. It is competitively priced in comparison to premium grades of wood decking and costs less than other high-end composite decking materials.

Is your decking slip resistant?

Voyage Decking provides enhanced traction for increased slip resistance. This capped deck board has been tested by an independent third-party lab in wet conditions under the AS/NXS 4586-2013 standard; decking board were tested on 9/24/18-9/25/18.

Does Deckorators Composite Decking fade?

Deckorators Voyage and Vault Decking have a stain- and fade-resistant cap stock and are backed the industry's best warranty: 50-year Structural, 25-year Stain & Fade and 25-year Removal & Replacement.

Will my composite decking get hot on a sunny day?

On a hot, sunny day composite decking, regardless of brand, may retain heat and feel hot to the touch. This is similar to most other outdoor surfaces, such as concrete, wood decking, or beach sand. On such days individuals are encouraged to cool surfaces with water or wear appropriate footwear.

Is static electricity an issue with Composite Decking?

While all synthetic decking can be subject to static electricity, static on new composite decking to the point of getting a shock is rare. There is no chemical means to reduce static on a deck. As time passes, exposure to the weather will reduce the likelihood that one will experience a static discharge.

Can I place an outdoor area rug on my Composite Decking?

Due to heat/sun exposure, area rugs with rubber or vinyl backings can leave residue on the capped decking surface that may not be easily removable. Woven synthetic fiber indoor/out area rugs without backings also have a tendency to wick water between the rug and the decking. Any dirt under the area rug should be cleaned with mild soap and water. Moving the rug periodically to avoid shadow lines is recommended.

Is Deckorators decking fire rated?

Yes, Deckorators decking retains a Class C fire rating which is the same class as many species of natural wood. Deckorators Vista Fire Rated decking retains a Class B fire rating. This is available via special order and may require an extended lead time.

Is there a compatible hidden fastener system?

Our Deckorators grooved-edge deck boards work perfectly with Deckorators Stowaway™ Hidden Fasteners providing a fastener-free look. These fasteners install between the grooved edges of deck boards which eliminates the need for predrilling, automatically spaces deck boards with the appropriate gap, and makes installation quick and easy.

If traditional fastening through the top of the decking is preferred, but a fastener-free appearance is still desired, Pro Fastening Systems are the fastest, easiest way to hide deck screw heads on stairs, perimeter boards or when replacing a deck board. For more information, view our Compatible Deck Fastener Information Sheet.

Does Deckorators decking require gapping between boards?

Our patented mineral-based composite (MBC) technology, found in VoyageVault and Porch Flooring delivers the industry’s best strength-to-weight ratio and has virtually no thermal expansion or contraction. While consistent spacing between boards is recommended for all Deckorators decking to allow water runoff, Voyage and Vault deck boards will have virtually no thermal expansion or contraction (approximately ¼” over a 20ft board in extreme temperatures). This means end gapping for Voyage or Vault decking is not of concern; providing a very clean, seamless appearance when installed. For more information, view the installation instructions.

Deckorators Vista and Venture decking must be gapped at the ends to allow for expansion and contraction and gapped between boards for water runoff. At the ends of the deck boards, allow a minimum of 1/16" gap for every 20°F of difference between the installation temperature and the hottest temperature expected. Allow a 1/4" gap between the deck boards and between all decking and any permanent structure or post for water runoff. For more information, refer to the installation instructions.

What type of fasteners and nails are recommended with Deckorators decking?

Major fastener manufacturers produce screws made specifically for composite decking. Use of these screws will reduce the amount of predrilling and countersinking required. For ease of installation, we recommend using 2-1/2" corrosion-resistant, composite wood deck screws. These screws help minimize the common "mushroom" effect that sometimes occurs when using standard fasteners. We recommend the Stowaway Hidden Fastener. We recommend using broad-head stainless steel 2" nails with Fastendry. If traditional fastening through the top of the decking is preferred, but a fastener-free appearance is still desired, Pro Fastening Systems are the fastest, easiest way to hide deck screw heads on stairs, perimeter boards or when replacing a deck board. For more information, refer to the installation instructions.

Does Deckorators Composite Decking meet building code requirements?

Deckorators mineral-based composite (MBC) decking, manufactured by Eovations, LLC have been evaluated by an independent 3rd party evaluation report writer known as Intertek to be code compliant under Intertek’s CCRR-0195 Evaluation Report. See report for complete details. For projects in Canada, please refer to NRC-CNRC Evaluation Report CCMC 14092-R.

Deckorators wood-plastic composite (WPC) decking, manufactured by UFP Ventures II, Inc have been evaluated by an independent 3rd party evaluation report writer known as PFS-TECO to be code compliant under PFS-TECO’s RR-0100 Evaluation Report. See report for complete details. For projects in Canada, please refer to NRC-CNRC Evaluation Report CCMC 13378-R

What joist spans should I use for my deck when using Deckorators decking?

In residential applications, Deckorators decking should be installed on joists spaced 16" on-center when the boards are running perpendicular to the support joists. Decking boards running on a diagonal pattern should be installed on joists spaced 12" on-center. Contact Deckorators Customer Service team at 800-556-8449 for commercial applications. For more details, refer to the installation instructions.

We recommend using ProWood® professional grade treated lumber when building the understructure for your deck. ProWood pressure-treated lumber is made for ground-contact and backed by a lifetime limited warranty against termite infestation and rot.

How much space is recommended for proper ventilation underneath a deck?

A clear 2" space between the bottom edge of the joists and grade is recommended to allow proper ventilation. We recommend using ProWood® professional grade treated lumber when building the understructure for your deck. ProWood pressure-treated lumber is made for ground-contact and backed by a lifetime limited warranty against termite infestation and rot.

Do you recommend predrilling and countersinking when fastening Deckorators decking?

Predrilling and countersinking prior to driving screws achieves the best results for ease of fastening and appearance of the finished project. Because wood decking is not as dense as Deckorators, screws driven into wood decking crush the wood fiber and self countersink. Screws driven into Deckorators displace the material, causing it to mushroom around the screw head. Most consumers do not like the resulting appearance using this installation method. If using ordinary, coarse-thread deck screws, predrilling a pilot hole and countersinking prior to driving screws achieves the best results. For more information, refer to the installation instructions or call 800-556-8449.

Do I need special tools to install Deckorators decking?

Conventional tools for cutting, drilling and nailing can be used with Deckorators decking. We recommend using a sharp, carbide-tipped saw blade for cutting. For your safety, remember to wear protective clothing and safety glasses.

What glue works well with Deckorators Composite Decking?

Glue is a supplemental adhesive and should never replace a fastener, especially in structural applications. Heavy-duty construction adhesive can be used, but we recommend testing on a small portion of your deck before using the adhesive throughout your whole application.

Can I use a nail gun to install Deckorators Composite Decking?

We do not recommend using nails or a nailer when installing Deckorators Composite Decking. The material is very dense and getting nails to penetrate to a proper depth without bending can be a challenge. A bigger issue concerns the fastening on the end of the boards. We recommend that all holes be predrilled to help reduce mushrooming. Also, it is necessary to predrill the end of the boards to avoid splitting. When using nails or a nailer the concern is that the ends would not be predrilled and possibly lead to cracking and splitting.

How do varying weather conditions affect Deckorators Decking during install?

Deckorators Decking performs well in varying weather conditions; especially mineral-based composite which has the lowest thermal movement of any wood-alternative decking available. During installation, Deckorators decking will contract only slightly in cold weather. In hot weather, it expands. We recommend that the material is on the jobsite 48 hours prior to installation to acclimate. Follow the installation instructions spacing guidelines to ensure proper room for expansion and contraction.

Can I put Deckorators decking over a concrete patio?

Yes. For this application we recommend using the Deckorators Rooftop Sleeper system as supports beneath the deck boards, in conjunction with our mineral-based composite decking. Arrange the sleepers on the existing patio and install decking.

If using wood plastic composite, we recommend that you use 2x6's standing vertically on edge as support joists over the concrete. Next, fasten the decking to the support joists.

Be sure to allow a 1/4" gap between the long edges of the deck boards. Drainage and ventilation are necessary for best product performance. To level the deck, we recommend shims that allow a clear 2" space between the bottom edge of the joists and the concrete. You will need to check with your local building code agency on foundation footing requirements. See installation instructions for full details. 

Can Deckorators decking be used for structural applications?

No. While Deckorators decking does provide superior surface integrity and strength, it is not suitable for structural applications. We recommend using ProWood® professional grade treated lumber when building the understructure for your deck. ProWood pressure-treated lumber is made for ground-contact and backed by a lifetime limited warranty against termite infestation and rot.

Can I fasten Deckorators decking over an existing deck, balcony or porch?

Composite decking is intended to be installed directly to the structural joists. DO NOT fasten to the top of old existing deck planks or balcony and porch floors.

Will Deckorators decking rot, splinter or decay like wood?

No. Deckorators decking has been tested under accelerated weather conditions and is weather-resistant. Deckorators employs a time-tested technology, which provides superior protection against UV degradation and water absorption.

How do I clean my composite deck or rail?

It is important to keep leaves and other materials that can stain off your deck year-round. Sweep off your deck boards and make sure to clean out the spaces between the boards. We recommend using soap or detergent mixed with water to remove any marks or dirt from your deck boards. Power washers can be used to clean deck boards; however, a fan-tip nozzle should be used and should be set on the lowest setting.


Can Deckorators Composite Decking be cleaned with a power washer?

Power washers can be used to clean Deckorators decking products; however, a fan-tip nozzle should be used and the power washer should be set on the lowest setting.

What are the snow and ice removal recommendations for Deckorators decking?

Care should be taken when removing snow from your deck to avoid damaging the deck surface. We recommend using a plastic snow shovel, one without a metal edge. A stiff bristled, push broom can work very well and minimizes lifting. Light snow can also be cleared using a leaf blower.

Do not attempt to break up or scrape ice from the deck surface; use ice melt products when needed. We are not aware of any adverse effects from the temporary use of ice melting products on Deckorators decking; however, we recommend using an ice melt product that is less harsh on the surface. These types of ice melt products may indicate "Safe for Pets" "will not harm concrete," or "will not kill grass.". Ensure that after the ice and snow melts, you brush off any residual ice melt product.

Will chlorine or other swimming pool chemicals damage Deckorators decking?

While no formal testing has been done, we have not seen or heard of any ill effects from standard pool chemicals.

What is the difference between Deckorators Composite Decking and wood?

Deckorators decking combines the look of wood with the durability of plastic. Unlike wood decks, which require continuous maintenance, there is no need to apply weather protectants or water seal products to Deckorators decking.

Why is composite decking more expensive than treated wood?

Composite decking is more expensive to manufacture. Over time, however, the maintenance, repair and/or replacement costs associated with wood outweigh the initial investment in Deckorators deck products.

What is the benefit of using Deckorators grooved decking instead of standard composite decking?

Deckorators grooved decking comes with a premachined 5/32-inch groove along the sides of the board to accommodate the Stowaway™ Hidden Fastener. This hidden fastener was designed to properly space the boards at 1/4" and allow for the expansion and contraction on the length and width that naturally occurs on composites. The screws provided with the hidden fasteners have black painted heads to greatly reduce the potential glare caused by the sun, keeping the fasteners truly hidden.

What would you recommend using for the understructure of a deck?

We recommend using ProWood® professional grade treated lumber when building the understructure for your deck. ProWood pressure-treated lumber is made for ground-contact and backed by a lifetime limited warranty against termite infestation and rot.

Railing

Do I need special tools to install Deckorators railing?

Conventional tools for cutting, drilling and nailing can be used with Deckorators railing. We recommend using a sharp, carbide-tipped saw blade for cutting. For your safety, remember to wear protective clothing and safety glasses. Reference the Railing tab on the Installation Instructions page for railing instructions specific to each product line.

Should I use special tools to install the Cable Railing?

We recommend a new 5/8" chrome-plated socket to protect the fitting from raw steel. Avoid installing with rusty tools, as they leave rust deposits on the surface of the fittings almost immediately. After installation, it is critical to clean the system completely with a stainless cleaner and a soft clean rag in order to clear the surface from carbon deposits. For more information, refer to the Cable Railing Installation Instructions.

How do I maintain my Cable Railing?

Use warm water and mild soap when cleaning. Avoid harsh solutions or abrasive cleaning materials, including but not limited to: alkaline or acidic cleaners or solutions containing trisodium phosphate, phosphoric acid, hydrochloric acid, hydrofluoric acid, fluorides or similar compounds. Avoid using power-cleaning tools. Clean the fittings and cable after installation and every 6 months thereafter.

Do Deckorators railings meet building code requirements?

Deckorators composite railing, manufactured by UFP Ventures II, Inc have been evaluated by an independent 3rd party evaluation report writer known as Intertek to be code compliant under Intertek’s CCRR-0171 and CCRR-0335 Evaluation Reports. See reports for complete details.

Are support blocks necessary when building a Deckorators railing?

Yes. Support blocks add strength to the railing system and provide support to prevent the railing from sagging. Spacing varies by railing system. Reference the Railing tab on the Installation Instructions page for railing instructions specific to each product line.  If possible, support blocks should be installed so they are aligned beneath a baluster for maximum reinforcement.

How do I maintain my Aluminum Railing?

We recommend checking and cleaning your Aluminum Railing once per year in normal environments. In more hazardous environments or if heavy soiling occurs, more regular cleaning may be required. To clean, wash the railing with a solution of warm water and mild detergent and rinse to remove all residues. The railing should be cleaned using a soft cloth or sponge. Test the cleaner in a small, inconspicuous area prior to applying it to the entire railing system to ensure that no color change or damage will occur.

How do I clean my composite deck or rail?

It is important to keep leaves and other materials that can stain off your deck year-round. Sweep off your deck boards and make sure to clean out the spaces between the boards. We recommend using soap or detergent mixed with water to remove any marks or dirt from your deck boards. Power washers can be used to clean deck boards; however, a fan-tip nozzle should be used and should be set on the lowest setting.


Are any of your railings ADA-compliant?

Yes, our Secondary Handrail is ADA-compliant. This attractive and highly versatile, secondary handrail is ideal for meeting building codes when required. Made of heavy gauge aluminum and durable PVC, the system includes five different radius elbows and several styles of returns to meet every possible installation. The railing is available in Textured Black and Textured White and Weathered Brown to complement a home's exterior.

As always, check your local building code or ask your building inspector to make sure a secondary handrail is installed when required by law.

When do you need to install a graspable secondary handrail on a residential deck?

A graspable ADA-Compliant Secondary Handrail is an important component to consider when planning a deck with stairs. So whether you're constructing a residential composite deck, lumber deck or a deck made from other decking material, you're typically required to install a graspable secondary handrail on one side of the deck's stair railing when there are four or more stair risers present.

Key Residential Stair Handrail Requirements (IRC - International Residential Code):

  1. Stairways having four or more risers, or rising more than 30 inches in height, whichever is less, must have at least one grab rail. 
  2. Handrails with a circular cross section shall have an outside diameter of at least 1-1/4 inches and not greater than 2 inches. If the handrail is not circular it shall have a perimeter dimension of at least 4 inches and not greater than 6-1/4 inches with a maximum cross section of dimension of 2-1/4 inches. 
  3. The grab rail must terminate at the newel post (top and bottom posts). 
  4. Clear space between a handrail and a wall or other surface shall be a minimum of 1-1/2 inches. 
  5. The height of handrails must be installed 34 inches - 38 inches from the upper surface of the handrail to the surface of the tread. Graspable secondary handrails are required by more and more building codes / deck codes in areas across the country.

This attractive and highly versatile, ADA-Compliant Handrail is ideal for meeting building codes when required. Made of heavy gauge aluminum, the system includes five different radius elbows and several styles of returns to meet every possible installation. The railing is available in Textured Black, Textured White and Weathered Brown to complement a home's exterior.

As always, check your local building code or ask your building inspector to make sure a secondary handrail is installed when required by law.

Check out the American Wood Council's "Design for Code Acceptance" document for complete details. Stair handrail requirements are outlined on page 18.

How do varying weather conditions affect Deckorators railing during installation?

Deckorators performs well in varying weather conditions. During installation, it will contract only slightly in cold weather. It expands in hot weather. We recommend that the material is on the job site 48 hours prior to installation to acclimate. Reference the Railing tab on the Installation Instructions page for spacing guidelines to ensure proper room for expansion and contraction.

What glue works well with Deckorators railing?

Glue is a supplemental adhesive and should never replace a fastener, especially in structural applications. Heavy-duty construction adhesive can be used, but we recommend testing on a small portion of your deck before using the adhesive throughout your whole application.

Can Deckorators railing be used for structural applications?

No. While Deckorators railing does provide superior surface integrity and strength, it is not suitable for structural applications.

Will chlorine or other swimming pool chemicals damage Deckorators railing?

While no formal testing has been done, we have not seen or heard of any ill effects from standard pool chemicals.

How do I order Deckorators Contemporary Cable Rail?

This guide explains the basic components that are used in the Deckorators® Contemporary Cable Rail.

Post Caps

What are the inside dimensions of your post caps?

Our post caps come in many sizes, but the most common sizes are 4x4 and 6x6, which are made to fit a standard 4x4 or 6x6 posts. The inside dimensions of the standard 4x4 measure 3-5/8", and the inside dimensions of the standard 6x6 measure 5-5/8".

  • 4" x 4" (inside dimensions: 3-5/8" x 3-5/8") post caps, which are made to fit a standard 4x4 post
  • 6" x 6" (inside dimensions: 5-5/8" x 5-5/8") post caps, which are made to fit a standard 6x6 post
  • 4" x 6" (inside dimensions: 3-5/8" x 5-5/8") post cap
  • 8" x 8" (inside dimensions: 7-5/8" x 7-5/8") post cap
  • 2-1/2" x 2-1/2" (inside dimensions: 2-1/2" x 2-1/2") post caps

What are the dimensions of a standard 4x4 or 6x6 wood post?

The lumber industry defines standard wood post sizes as 4x4 or 6x6. The outside dimensions of the standard 4x4 measures 3-1/2" x 3-1/2", and the outside dimensions of the standard 6x6 measures 5-1/2" x 5-1/2".

How do I attach the post cap to the post?

We recommend using an exterior-grade construction adhesive to adhere the cap to the post. Apply the adhesive liberally to the inside of the cap and place the cap firmly over the top of the post. If you prefer to use Brad nails, be sure to predrill all nail holes to avoid splitting. For more information, refer to the installation instructions.

Should I allow my treated wood post caps to "season" outdoors before I apply a protective finish?

No. Our treated wood post caps are kiln-dried and do not require a drying period. We recommend applying a protective finish immediately to the post cap.

What preservative is used to protect Deckorator's pressure-treated wood post caps?

Our wood post caps are protected by Copper Azole Type B (CA-B), an EPA-registered pesticide containing copper and azole compounds to protect it from termite attack and decay. For more information, refer to the Copper Azole Safe Handling Information [pdf - 39.1 KB].

Do I need to apply a finish to my wood post caps?

As with all wood products, we recommend that you coat the wood post caps with a high-quality exterior finish to preserve the wood's natural beauty and ensure a lifetime of enjoyment. Apply to all wood areas, including the underside of the cap, before installation.

How do I attach the solar post cap light to my post?

To attach our solar post cap light to a post, apply an exterior-grade construction adhesive to the inside edge of the molding at the bottom of the light, and then place the light firmly onto the post. For more information, refer to the installation instructions.

Should I remove the thin, clear plastic film over the top of the solar collector on the solar post cap light?

Yes. The clear plastic film is meant to protect the solar collector during shipping.

How do I activate the solar post cap?

  1. 1. Remove top by pressing inward on the side of the clear lens, grasping the edge of the top and lifting it off
  2. 2. Install the batteries.
  3. 3. Replace the top by snapping it back onto side panels. (Ensure that the holes in the sides are matched up with the stubs on the top.)
  4. 4. Place your solar post cap light in direct sunlight for 24-48 hours to fully charge.

How bright is the solar post cap light?

The solar post cap light provides an ambient light not suitable for tasks.

What is the lumen output of the solar post caps?

Output is 1-2 lumens when the batteries are fully charged. The lumen value will slowly decrease as the energy from the batteries is consumed.

Where can I purchase replacement LED light bulbs?

The LED bulbs are part of the whole solar cell component and are not designed to be replaced. The LED bulbs have an average life of 10 years, with a normal usage of 6 to 8 hours per day. We do have Solar Collector Replacement Units available.

What kind of replacement batteries should I buy for the solar post cap light?

If the rechargeable batteries provided with the cap will no longer recharge, they can be replaced with any AA rechargeable batteries. The life depends on the quality of the batteries purchased.

How long will the rechargeable batteries provided with the solar post cap last?

The rechargeable batteries should last approximately one year.

Can I use regular, non-rechargeable batteries in the solar post cap light?

No, the solar post cap light is designed to be used with rechargeable batteries. If regular batteries are used in the sun, they will destroy the solar collector. We do have Solar Collector Replacement Units available for some post cap lights.

How long is the life of the LED light bulbs?

With a normal usage of 6-8 hours per day, the LED bulbs should last an average of 10 years. We do have Solar Collector Replacement Units available.

Will the metal solder on my glass post caps oxidize?

Exposure to the elements may cause the copper-wrapped solder on your glass post cap to oxidize and lose its original color. Applying car wax before placing the post cap outdoors will help to prevent the initial oxidation. We have found regular furniture polish to have the same affect, but its prevention time may vary based on geographical location. Reapply the car wax/furniture polish every 3 to 6 months as needed.

Will my copper finish post caps remain a shiny copper color?

Our copper finish post caps come with a thin, clear marine lacquer designed to protect them before and during installation. Once exposed to the elements, the sun's ultraviolet rays, moisture and pollution begin to break down this coating, exposing the metal underneath. In its natural state, copper breaks down in the elements and patina. In general, copper progresses from a natural salmon color to a series of russet browns and grays, and finally to a blue-green or gray-green patina.

How do I keep my copper finish post cap from turning green (developing a patina)?

To maintain the shiny look, apply a car wax immediately after purchasing the post cap, and reapply every 3 to 6 months.

What does "patina" mean?

"Patina" refers to the natural weathering of copper due to airborne sulfur compounds, which gradually change copper’s surface color. The resulting color, called a patina, depends on location and climate. Salt, moisture, sunlight, ultraviolet rays and pollution can affect the final color. In general, copper progresses from a natural salmon color to a series of russet browns and grays, and finally to a blue-green or gray-green patina. To maintain the shiny look, apply a car wax immediately after purchasing the post cap, and reapply every 3 to 6 months. To encourage a natural patina, remove the lacquer with mineral spirits and grade 0000 steel wool.

Can I speed up the patina process on my copper finish post caps?

To encourage a natural patina, remove the lacquer with mineral spirits and grade 0000 steel wool.

Will my stainless steel post caps rust?

Stainless steel is an alloy of iron that contains more than 10% chromium. Stainless steel has a hard oxide coating that makes it resistant to stains. Corrosion and wear strip away this coating, causing the steel to rust. To maintain this coating, clean the post cap periodically with a mixture of vinegar and club soda.

What is the metal underneath the post caps with the powder-coated finish?

The base of our powder-coated post caps is made of stainless steel.

Lighting

What is the wattage and lumen information for the recessed lights?

Transformers are available in 12 watt and 50 watt, which are sold separately.

Why do I need a transformer for my low voltage system?

Transformers reduce 120-volt household electricity to a safe 12-volt current. Do not attempt to hook up a low voltage system to an ordinary electrical outlet without using a 12-volt transformer.

Is this low voltage lighting system safe around my kids and pets?

Yes – since it runs on 12-volt electricity, there is no fear of electric shock. It is safe around children and pets.

How do I know which size transformer to buy?

You will need to buy a transformer that accommodates the wattage of your entire low voltage system. To determine the total wattage, add up the wattage of each fixture to be used. For example, if you are using 10 lights that are rated at 1 watt each, the total wattage of your system would be 10 watts.


Deckorators Component (each) Wattage
Low Voltage Post Cap Light
1 watt
Lighted Willow Baluster
0.27 watts
Lighted Square Baluster
0.27 watts
Recessed Light (each)
0.47 watts

Can I install my low voltage products indoors?

No. All Deckorators low voltage products are for outdoor use only.

How close can I install the low voltage products next to my pool?

Lighting components must be installed at least 10 feet away from a pool, spa or fountain.

Can I connect my transformer to an electrical outlet using an extension cord?

No. The transformer should be connected directly into the outlet.

Can I bury the main low voltage cable or the cable connector?

You are not required to, but you can bury the low voltage cable and the cable connector, no more than 6 inches deep.

Are there any tips on feeding the low voltage cable through the drilled holes in the post sleeves?

Use a twist tie or thin piece of wire bent into a hook to reach into holes in the post sleeves and guide the cable through the holes.

My system won't turn on. What do I do?

Try these trouble-shooting tips:

  1. 1. Make sure that the transformer is plugged into an electrical outlet that is working. If there are any electrical switches that control the outlet, make sure they are in the "on" position.
  2. 2. Make sure the transformer is the correct size and can accommodate the total wattage of your system.
  3. 3. Check that the timer settings on the transformer are correct. To check the system during the day, cover the photo eye with a piece of black electrical tape.
  4. 4. Check to see if there is a loose connection at the transformer pressure plates.
  5. 5. Check the locations where the lighting fixtures connect to the low voltage cable to make sure that the prongs have pierced the cable.
  6. 6. Trace the low voltage cable from the transformer to the lighting fixtures to ensure the cable has not been cut.

What is the lumen output of the solar post caps?

Output is 1-2 lumens when the batteries are fully charged. The lumen value will slowly decrease as the energy from the batteries is consumed.

General

Where can I buy Deckorators products and how much do they cost?

The complete Deckorators line is available at retail lumberyards, home centers and through distributors. For more information, visit our Where to Buy page or call 800-556-8449. It is competitively priced in comparison to premium grades of wood decking and costs less than other high-end composite decking materials.

Can you recommend someone to install my Deckorators decking or railing project?

Consider using one of our experienced Deckorators Certified Pros. Only the most professional, reliable and skilled building professionals become official Certified Pros. By selecting a Certified Pro, you can expect to receive the highest standards of service and installation for your Deckorators products. Check out our Locate A Contractor section.

Does Deckorators composite decking meet building code requirements?

Deckorators composite decking, manufactured by UFP Ventures II, Inc., has been evaluated by ICC-ES to be code compliant with details listed under the PFS-TECO RR-0100 Evaluation Report (pdf - 1 MB)

What is powder-coating?

Our Aluminum Balusters are treated with powder-coating. Powder-coating is a dry finishing process in which finely ground particles of pigment and resin are electrostatically charged and sprayed onto an electrically grounded post cap. The charged powder particles adhere to the grounded post cap until they melt and fuse into a smooth coating in the curing oven. The result is a uniform, durable, high-quality finish that is also environmentally friendly. Our Classic, Baroque, Arc, Estate and Traditional balusters are powder-coated with AAMA2604 compliant material, which provides 5 times the outdoor exposure and twice the humidity exposure as AAMA2603.

Is there any care or maintenance required for the cast stone postcovers or postcover caps?

Postcovers & Caps come sealed with a matte finish stone sealer, so no additional sealing is required. Periodic cleaning is recommended as needed to remove surface dirt. Clean with mild soap and water and use a soft brush to remove any dirt buildup. It is always a good idea to test the cleaner in a small, inconspicuous area prior to applying it to the entire postcover.

What is post base trim?

Post base trim is a trim molding for the base of a post. Post base trim is available in 4” x 4” and 6” x 6” sizes and two wood species: pressure-treated pine and cedar. Our post base trim is cut to size, with three sides pre-joined. The fourth side can be easily slipped into place and attached with finish nails, staples or exterior-grade construction adhesive.

Cladding

Can the Deckorators mineral-based composite decking be used as cladding?

Yes, our MBC decking can be installed as wall cladding in a vertical and horizontal application.

Does Deckorators MBC Decking used as cladding have comprehensive installation instructions to explain what is required to apply the cladding properly?

Yes, there is a 3 page summary complete with figures to help with mounting the cladding.

Can I use hidden fasteners with my Deckorators MBC Decking used as Cladding?

Yes, we sell a hidden fastener known as the Stowaway clip that can easily be used to mount the slotted deck boards. NOTE: The Stowaway Clip can only be used when the long length of the boards are in the horizontal direction.

Is it possible to attach Deckorators MBC Decking used as clading by applying screws to face of the board without showing the screw head?

Yes, we offer a screw made by Starborn known as the Pro-Plug system. This system allows you to counterbore a face screw through the board and into a furring strip and then cover the head of the screw hole with a plastic cap that is the same color as the cladding.

Is it possible to use pressure-treated Southern Yellow Pine furring strips that are 1.5" wide by 0.75" thick?

Yes. This is acceptable since it is treated to resist rot and decay.

What size Deckorators MBC Decking can I use as cladding?

Deckorators offers three different widths: 3.5", 5.5", and 7.25" and they can be bought in 12', 16' and 20' foot lengths.

Can the Deckorators MBC Decking used as cladding be attached to the wall with the long length of the board running vertically or at an angle?

Yes, you can do this however this can only be achieved by face-screwing into the furring strips. NOTE: The Stowaway clip does not work with the the long length of the boards installed vertically or at an angle.

When two boards are placed end-to-end, are there special instructions for fastening along with gapping requirements?

Yes, there are easy-to-read details in the installation instructions that tell what to do in this scenario.

Do the 1.5" wide by 0.75" thick furring strips need to be attached to the vertical 2x4 studs?

No - the furring strips spaced at a maximum of 24" on/center are only required to be fastened to 7/16" thick rated OSB or plywood wall sheathing.

What type of screw is used to attach the furring strip to the wall sheathing?

Since the exterior wall cladding is out in the elements, it is required to use a #10 x 2" long Starborn Epoxy-Coated or 316 Stainless Steel Screw.

The building inspector is requesting technical information on this product and application. What do I give the inspector?

Deckorators has partnered with a 3rd party evaluation report writer known as ICC-ES who has issued ESR-4548 showing specific engineering details to help the inspector accept the product very easily.