The Kwila Hardwood Decking is a South-East Asian tropical hardwood used for extensively for decking in NZ.
Specifications
Ventilation- free-air circulation under the decking is very important to help minimise cupping and warping. Proper ventilation ensures the potential difference in moisture content levels between top face and the underside of boards is reduced and extends the life and performance of the deck.
The sub deck should have at least 300mm clearance from the ground. This, in conjunction with suitable board spacing, will allow for adequate ventilation. In wet areas or over water, additional clearance is recommended. Other steps that can be taken to minimise moisture differential are – a ground level vapour barrier*(with slit drainage) and pre-coating the underside of the deck boards. Failure to provide for suitable ventilation is a major cause of early decking failure.
*Note: Using polythene sheet can create water pooling having the opposite effect.
Spacing:
Coating:
To enhance stability, bleeding and Kwila’s natural beauty we recommend coating the decking boards either before or following installation.
Note: When coating decking timber, ensure that the boards are free from surface marks and stains before coating. End sealing will help minimise splitting and surface checking on the ends of the boards.
Fixings:
We strongly recommend use of stainless steel screws for fixing your decking to the deck frame. We recommend 60mm long stainless-steel screws through the pre-drilled face of a 19mm thick decking board, two screws per joist.
Maintenance Cleaning & Washing
Hardwood decks should be cleaned with a stiff brush at least once a year to clear gaps between your decking boards and remove dirt and grim. A stiff brush can also remove any surface mould which can be a slip hazard in wet weather. Keeping the deck clear of leaf litter, moving pot plants and other large objects that may hold moisture to the top of the deck, is also important for the life of the deck. Hardwood Decking can be water blasted BUT it is important to do so at a low pressure so you do not damage the fibers of the timber.
Preparation for re-coating: Removing dirt and mould prior to coating is easy with OneStopDeckShop Deck Clean, a simple 4 step system that ensures your deck is ready for re-coating. OneStopDeckShop Deck Clean active restoration agent is the recommended product for general cleaning. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using.
Re-coating. Always follow the manufacturer’s specification for re-coating. We can assist you with choosing the correct coating product for your job as there is a range of different products that are suited to various deck types.