5 Quick Tips for Garapa Decking Installation

Popularly known as ‘Brazilian Oak, Garapa wood possesses qualities of very high density and extended durability. This premium quality hardwood with fine grains offers high resistance to fine splits, twisters, decay and fire. Its natural tannic acid contents and oiling, makes it a winner in the fight against termites. With a janka hardness levels of around 1631, it effectively means that Garapa is one of the hardest wood with a phenomenal bending strength of around 12,000 PSI. Here are the fast five tips that will help during installation of Garapa decking.

Proper ventilation beneath the boards

A cardinal point that needs particular attention during installation is the need for proper ventilation beneath the decking boards or planks. The area underneath decking should remain free from objects and structures that will prevent the flow of air. This will offer greater dimensional stability to the boards and prevent it from cupping. Cupping occurs as a result of variable moisture across the surface resulting in a concave surface, where the outsides are marginally higher than the centre of the surface.

Proper fastening of the deck boards

The decking needs to be properly fastened to prevent movement of the boards. Many individuals ignore the need to have properly fastened boards, reducing the number of screws that hold down the boards. Ideally, there needs to be at least two screws on either end of the board at every joist along the layout. This will ensure that the boards are firmly fastened without any warping or cupping. Stainless steel fasteners are the best fasteners to use for holding the boards down.

Pre drilling or pilot drilling

Always pre drill the boards before installation to prevent splitting. Though Garapa is hardwood, the wrong tools can sometimes cause the ends to split. To prevent it, the best option is to pre drill the holes for screws or to pilot drill holes and remove some of the wood, making it easier to bore through before screwing. This takes some pressure off the boards, since most of the screws will typically feature towards the ends of the boards.

Choosing the right side to feature on the surface

While the conundrum of choosing the right side to feature on the surface will remain for long, it is best to look at getting the bark side down to negate the effects of cupping. Wood tends to cup towards the centre. With the bark side downwards, it is possible to fight the effects of cupping on the boards. Garapa, with its distinct hue and texture, offers home owners the luxury of enjoying the appeal of the wood, regardless of the position of the bark face.

Proper end sealing

Sealing of the ends of the installed decking is important. This is necessary to protect the ends from end checking. This needs to be performed immediately after the cutting process. Qualified contractors understand the need for end sealing and rely on good quality clear aqueous wax end sealers to get the best results.

This article is written by Bruce Master. He gained an interest in woodworking at an early age. Bruce Master started working with contractors in the 1970s as a salesman at Ace Hardware in Miami.