Picture-Frame Borders with Jatoba Decking: Plan the Details

Why Choose a Picture-Frame Border for Jatoba Decking?

Jatoba, also known as Brazilian Cherry, is celebrated for its deep red tones that develop with age and its high strength and durability. A picture-frame border can enhance these qualities by providing a strong visual edge that frames the deck's main surface. This design choice can define the deck area, especially when it abuts a lawn, patio, or other landscaping elements. It also offers a clean, finished look, concealing the ends of the field boards and creating a smooth transition.

Beyond aesthetics, a picture-frame border can offer practical benefits. It provides a robust edge, which can be particularly useful in high-traffic areas or where the deck meets other surfaces. The distinct border can also simplify maintenance by providing a clear boundary for cleaning or finishing applications. Jatoba's natural resistance to termites and weather changes makes it a suitable material for this prominent feature, ensuring the border maintains its integrity over time. (S1)

Structural Support and Blocking Requirements

Implementing a picture-frame border with Jatoba decking requires specific structural modifications to the deck frame. Unlike a standard deck where field boards run perpendicular to joists, a picture frame border typically runs parallel to the field boards along the perimeter, or sometimes perpendicular to the joists at the ends. This necessitates additional blocking or rim joists to provide adequate support for the border boards and for fastening the ends of the field boards.

For a perimeter border, additional joists or blocking should be installed flush with the top of the main joists, creating a continuous band of support around the edge. These blocking pieces provide a solid surface for fastening the border boards and ensure that the ends of the interior field boards have a secure connection. Proper blocking also helps maintain the required spacing between boards and prevents movement, contributing to the overall stability and longevity of the deck. Always consult local building codes and engineering guidelines for specific structural requirements.

Selecting Jatoba Boards for the Border and Field

Jatoba decking is available in a 1" x 5.5" (5/4"x6") profile, typically in lengths from 3 to 24 feet. (S1) When planning a picture-frame border, consistency in board profile is key. The border boards and the main field boards should generally be of the same profile to ensure a uniform surface height and appearance. However, the specific lengths and quantities needed will differ.

For the picture frame, longer boards are often preferred to minimize seams and create a continuous look. For the field, a mix of lengths can be used, with careful planning to stagger butt joints. The rich, deep red color of Jatoba develops as it ages, and selecting boards from the same batch can help ensure a more consistent color development over time, especially for prominent design elements like a picture frame. (S1)

Fastening Methods for Borders and Field Boards

Both hidden fasteners and face fastening can be used with Jatoba decking. For a picture-frame border, the choice of fastening method can impact the final appearance and installation process. Hidden fasteners can provide a clean, unblemished surface for both the border and field boards, maintaining the aesthetic of the hardwood.

If face fastening is chosen, pre-drilling is recommended for Jatoba due to its high density and strength. (S1) For border boards, fasteners should be placed strategically to secure them to the perimeter blocking and to allow for proper spacing. The ends of the field boards, where they meet the interior edge of the picture frame, also require secure fastening to the underlying blocking. Ensure all fasteners used are compatible with hardwood and appropriate for exterior use to prevent staining or corrosion.

Worked Example: Planning a 10'x12' Jatoba Deck with a Picture Frame

Let's consider a hypothetical 10-foot by 12-foot rectangular deck with a single picture-frame border. The Jatoba decking boards are 1" x 5.5" (5/4"x6").

First, determine the dimensions of the picture frame. For the 12-foot sides, you'd need two 12-foot boards. For the 10-foot ends, the border boards would run between the 12-foot side boards. So, 120 inches - 11 inches - 0.25 inches = 108.75 inches (approx. 9.06 feet). You would need two boards of this length. For simplicity and to minimize waste, you might order standard lengths that can be cut to fit, such as two 12-foot boards and two 10-foot boards for the perimeter, assuming offcuts can be utilized elsewhere if a cut plan allows.

Next, calculate the internal dimensions for the field boards.

This gives approximately 131.75 / 5.625 = 23.42 boards. You would need 24 boards to cover this width. Each of these boards would be cut to 9 feet 0.75 inches (approx. 108.75 inches). For the entire project, you'd need 24 boards at approximately 9.06 feet each for the field, plus the perimeter boards. This example assumes square cuts and minimal waste, which requires careful layout and cutting during installation.

Before you order

• Confirm desired picture-frame width and number of border boards.
• Verify the structural integrity of the existing or planned substructure for additional blocking.
• Determine the direction of the main field boards relative to the picture frame.
• Calculate exact dimensions for border boards and field boards, accounting for board widths and spacing.
• Select a fastening method (hidden or face-fastened) and ensure compatibility with Jatoba and the design.
• Plan for board lengths to minimize waste, considering available Jatoba board lengths (3-24 ft).
• Account for expansion and contraction of Jatoba by maintaining consistent board spacing.

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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