Frequently Asked Questions

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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

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

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".

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.

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.

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].

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.

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

The rechargeable batteries should last approximately one year.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

"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.

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

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.

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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). 

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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.

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

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

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.

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

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.

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.

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.