How to Space Deck Boards
- 1). Talk to the lumbar dealer about the type of wood you are using. Redwood does not contract as much as cedar. Air dried cedar will shrink up to 1/8 of an inch on 3 1/2 inch wide deck boards. Kiln dried cedar will not. It is not recommended to space air dried cedar since it will contract according to Tim Carter.
- 2). Begin to lay the boards out along the deck frame. Position the boards on the joists.
- 3). Place a nail in between the board at each end and in the center of the board. The top of the nail catch on the boards, leaving the nail hanging in place.
- 4). Push the deck boards together gently to create an even distance between all boards on the deck with the nails hanging in between.