Choosing AZEK PVC Decking Board Widths for Your Layout

AZEK PVC Decking Board Widths: Options and Availability

AZEK PVC decking is available in two main board widths, each offering distinct design possibilities. The most common width across all collections is 5-1/2 inches. This standard size provides a classic deck board appearance suitable for a wide range of architectural styles.

For those seeking a bolder, more contemporary look, AZEK also offers a wider 7-1/4 inch board. This wider profile is exclusively available in the AZEK Vintage Collection. The Vintage Collection features wire-brushed, low-gloss boards designed to mimic reclaimed wood, making the wider profile a natural fit for its aesthetic.

When planning your project, confirm the specific collection you are interested in to ensure the desired board width is available. The Landmark Collection and Harvest Collection primarily feature the 5-1/2 inch width.

All AZEK decking boards are manufactured with a nominal thickness of 1 inch and are available in square or grooved edge options for varied fastening methods.

Visual Impact of Different Board Widths

The width of your decking boards plays a significant role in the overall visual impression of your deck. Narrower boards, like the 5-1/2 inch option, tend to create a more traditional and intricate pattern. They can make a smaller deck appear larger by introducing more lines and visual texture. This width is versatile and complements various home styles, from classic to modern.

Wider boards, such as the 7-1/4 inch Vintage Collection profile, offer a more expansive and contemporary aesthetic. They reduce the number of visible seams, creating a smoother, less busy surface. This can be particularly effective on larger decks where a grander, more open feel is desired. Wider boards can also emphasize the natural grain patterns and multi-tonal colors of the decking, especially in collections like Vintage with its distinctive wire-brushed finish.

Mixing Board Widths: Design Considerations

While AZEK offers different board widths, mixing them within the same deck field is generally not recommended due to potential challenges with fastening, spacing, and achieving a cohesive look. However, creative use of different widths can be incorporated into design elements such as picture-frame borders or accent areas, provided careful planning and consistent spacing are maintained. For instance, a wider board could frame a field of narrower boards, or vice-versa, to create a distinct visual break.

If you plan to incorporate different widths, ensure you account for the exact dimensions, fastening requirements, and any necessary transition pieces. Always consult the manufacturer's installation guidelines for proper spacing and fastening for each board width to ensure structural integrity and a consistent appearance.

Worked Example: Calculating Quantities for a 12x16 Foot Deck

Let's consider a hypothetical deck measuring 12 feet by 16 feet. We will calculate the number of boards needed for two scenarios: using 5-1/2 inch wide boards and using 7-1/4 inch wide boards. For this example, we assume boards will run along the 16-foot length, meaning we need to cover the 12-foot width. We will use 16-foot length boards to minimize waste from cuts.

Important Note: AZEK PVC decking requires a specific gap between boards for drainage and expansion. This is a common spacing; always verify the exact required gap in the current manufacturer installation guide for your specific product and local conditions.

Scenario 1: Using 5-1/2 inch wide boards (available in all collections)

Board width: 5.5 inches (0.4583 feet)

Total deck width to cover: 12 feet

Number of boards = Total deck width / Nominal installed width per board

Number of boards = 12 feet / 0.4739 feet/board Number of boards ≈ 25.32 boards

Since you cannot purchase partial boards, you would need to round up to 26 boards. Each board would be 16 feet long.

Total lineal feet = 26 boards * 16 feet/board = 416 lineal feet.

Scenario 2: Using 7-1/4 inch wide boards (Vintage Collection only)

Board width: 7.25 inches (0.6042 feet)

Total deck width to cover: 12 feet

Number of boards = Total deck width / Nominal installed width per board

Number of boards = 12 feet / 0.6198 feet/board Number of boards ≈ 19.36 boards

Rounding up, you would need 20 boards. Each board would be 16 feet long.

Total lineal feet = 20 boards * 16 feet/board = 320 lineal feet.

This example demonstrates that wider boards require fewer individual pieces to cover the same area, potentially simplifying installation and creating fewer seams. Always add a small percentage (e.g., 5-10%) for cuts, waste, and future repairs when ordering.

Fastening Systems and Board Widths

AZEK PVC decking boards are available with either grooved edges for hidden fasteners or square edges for face fastening. Both board widths (5-1/2" and 7-1/4") are compatible with these fastening methods. Hidden fasteners, such as US4 clips, fit into the grooved edges of the boards, creating a clean, screw-free surface. Face fastening involves screwing directly through the face of the board into the joists below, typically using color-matched screws.

Regardless of the width chosen, ensure that your fastening system is compatible with AZEK PVC decking and adheres to the manufacturer's installation guidelines. Proper fastening is critical for the long-term performance and stability of your deck.

Complementary Products for Your Deck Project

Beyond the decking boards themselves, consider other components to complete your AZEK PVC decking project. Matching fascia boards are available to finish the perimeter of your deck, providing a clean, cohesive look. These are often available in widths and colors that coordinate with your chosen decking collection.

For railings, explore options like the US4 railing systems, which offer a range of styles and materials that can complement the aesthetic of your AZEK deck. Additionally, don't overlook under-deck drainage solutions if you plan to create a dry space below your deck.

Finally, ensure you select appropriate fasteners.

Consider these related products to ensure a complete and harmonious outdoor living space: Decking, Hardwood Decking, Ipe Decking, Composite Decking, PVC Decking.

Before you order

• Determine your desired aesthetic: Traditional (5-1/2" boards) or contemporary (7-1/4" boards, Vintage Collection only)?
• Verify board width availability within your chosen AZEK collection.
• Measure your deck area accurately to calculate lineal footage needed.
• Add a waste factor (e.g., 5-10%) to your board order.
• Choose between grooved (hidden fastener) or square (face fastener) edge profiles.
• Plan for matching fascia boards and any railing systems (e.g., US4).
• Consider the impact of board width on the visual scale of your deck.
• Review manufacturer installation guides for specific spacing and fastening requirements.

Confirm installation details, approved uses and warranty terms in the current instructions for the exact product and profile. Your installer should verify the substrate, structure and applicable project requirements.

Questions to help you decide

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