Page 17 - OHC Hard Woods Tech Guide - 08102017

HARDWOOD
2 of 2

InSTAllATIon TIpS

ToolS (ConTInuEd)

Board benders such as the BoWrench are highly effective in straightening crooked boards. These types
of tools are typically self locking and can speed up production since another person is not needed to
hold the board in place.

End SEAlIng

End sealing with a wax based product is imperative to minimize end checking. Checking (tiny cracks)
occurs in all hardwood species upon moisture loss. Almost every hardwood decking mill waxes lumber
ends prior to shipping. For best results, wax fresh cut ends immediately after cutting. A small folded
rag lightly dipped into the wax product and dabbed on the cut end will work the best. Avoid waxing the
surface of the deck board as this will cause staining. Excess wax on the surface can be scraped off with
a putty knife and then lightly sanded in the specific area. When ripping boards, wax is not required on
the straight grain, only on cross cut ends. Note: oil-based UV inhibiting products are not effective in
preventing moisture loss at the ends.

fASTEnIng

Stainless Steel fasteners are imperative when fastening Ipe and other hardwoods. The high level
of Tannic Acid in hardwoods will cause a dark brown to black stain when fastening with Zinc coated
fasteners such as galvanized screws. Coatings, found on most other types of non-Stainless fasteners, can
separate from their Carbon Steel body when driven into a dense material such as Ipe. Once the coating
is removed, bare Carbon Steel is left in direct contact with the board and will also cause staining. As a
general rule, hardwoods will outlast most any decking product currently on the market, so use fasteners
that can maintain a similar life cycle.

Face Screwing
Face screwing is the most economical and efficient means of installing hardwood decking. Pre-drilling
and counter sinking is necessary to avoid wood splitting and screw breakage.
Hidden Fasteners
Hidden fasteners help to streamline labor versus face screwing and provide a “screwless” decking
surface. Some hidden fastener systems provide automatic spacing.

fInISHIng

Applying a finish to hardwoods is not required, but is recommended to minimize fading due to Ultraviolet
light exposure. A penetrating, pigmented, UV inhibiting oil is recommended to maintain the wood’s rich
natural color.

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OHC Hard Woods Tech Gd.indd 17 8/10/17 1:32 PM