How many times has it been that a deck board is installed and the exposed end remains pristine as the day it was installed. Over time these ends start getting dull and rough over time. Sometimes there would be cracks and splits and other times the wood may cup which gives a very bad look and aesthetic to the deck.
One method of mitigating this problem is to install a trim board across the perimeter of the entire deck that is exposed. This minimizes damage to the cut ends of the deck boards as they are now protected by a finished board running in the opposite direction. This is called Picture framing or sometimes racetrack decking as these are straight horizontal planks placed on the sides of a deck.
Firstly, blocking needs to be installed between every joist where the picture frame boards will be parallel to the joists. A short deck board may be required depending on the deck perimeter design. You should keep these general installation practices in mind when you install them. Make sure that no composite decking is supported by less than three joists below. Install additional support between the standard spacing whenever a separate short piece is needed to complete the frame. The contact area between the decking boards and the support should also be minimized as this would allow the wood to not bear any additional load than necessary for the frame.
There are times when the trim board is installed by some deck builder over the edge of the rim joist and about an inch in order to tuck the fascia board neatly underneath it. This would not only improve the look of your deck by making it give a cleaner look but also would be helpful to drain the water off the boards' edge.
Preplanning is important when it comes to installing rail posts and the rail system will be intersecting with the surrounding decking as if it is not planned then it would make the deck much less clean overall.
Read more: Deck Patterns, Layouts & Design Ideas
Creating Support for the decking border
Blocking should be installed level to the top of the frame along the sides of the deck and at the very least 16” on the center. Scrap material can also be used for blocking. It is recommended to use scrap material as this would convert what was already waste generated on items that have been bought already as this would use the scrap in a meaningful way minimizing waste, increasing efficiency, and ultimately saving money.
Running the Border
Install the picture frame border with your desired overhang. Whenever you are taking measurements for installing a picture frame border take into consideration the thickness of the skirting or fascia boards that will be installed against the frame below. The thicker the fascia or skirting that will be installed the more the overhang of the border should be.
Adjusting the rail posts
The picture frame border should be notched to leave a gap for the rail posts. Leave a ⅛” to a ¼” gap for the composite or wooden decking to space properly when it expands or contracts thermally. Wooden picture frame decking can be notched flush with the post.
Picture framing along the house walls (Optional)
You can choose to continue this picture frame along the house wall if that is the look that you desire. You might need to cut and adjust the picture frame according to the corners that it will be going around. Usually, it is a 45-degree miter cut to adjust for 90-degree wall corners. You might need to properly cut deck boards to prevent incoherent deck designs too.
FAQs
What is a picture frame deck edge?
A picture frame deck edge involves installing border boards around the perimeter of the deck, typically at a 45-degree angle, to protect the exposed ends of the main decking boards and enhance the deck's appearance.
Why should I install a picture frame around my deck?
Installing a picture frame border helps protect the cut ends of decking boards from weathering and moisture damage. It also provides a clean, finished look that can elevate the overall aesthetic of your deck.
How do I prepare the deck frame for picture framing?
Before installing the picture frame, ensure that additional blocking is added between the joists where the border boards will be installed. This provides the necessary support for the frame and prevents sagging.
What materials are needed for a picture frame deck edge?
You'll need decking boards for the border, additional joists or blocking, exterior-grade screws or fasteners, a power miter saw, measuring tape, and safety equipment.
How do I cut the picture frame boards?
Use a power miter saw with a fine-toothed blade to cut the border boards at a 45-degree angle. Measure carefully and cut each board to the desired length to ensure a tight fit.
Should I install the picture frame boards before or after the main decking?
It's generally recommended to install the picture frame boards first. This allows for easier cutting and fitting of the main decking boards, and ensures that the border is securely in place before the field boards are added.
How do I fasten the picture frame boards?
Fasten the border boards using exterior-grade screws or color-matched fasteners. Ensure that the screws are driven into the joists or blocking, and that the boards are securely attached without over-driving the screws.
What is the recommended spacing for the picture frame boards?
Maintain a consistent gap between the border boards and the main decking to allow for expansion and contraction of the materials. The exact spacing may vary depending on the decking material used, so refer to the manufacturer's guidelines.
How do I handle corners when installing a picture frame?
At corners, miter the ends of the border boards at a 45-degree angle to create a clean, seamless joint. Ensure that the cuts are precise and that the boards fit tightly together.
Can I use different materials for the picture frame and main decking?
Yes, you can use different materials for the border and the main decking. However, ensure that the materials are compatible in terms of expansion, contraction, and maintenance requirements.
How do I install fascia boards with a picture frame edge?
When installing fascia boards, ensure that they are positioned to overlap the picture frame border slightly. This helps to conceal the edges of the decking and provides a finished look.
What are some design considerations for picture framing?
Consider the width of the border, the color contrast between the border and main decking, and the overall style of your home and landscape. A well-designed picture frame can complement your deck's aesthetic and enhance its visual appeal.
Are there any maintenance tips for a picture frame deck edge?
Regularly clean the deck to remove debris and prevent staining. Inspect the border boards for signs of damage or wear, and replace any boards as needed. Follow the manufacturer's maintenance recommendations for the specific decking materials used.
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