Step 4: Attach the Decking

Attach the first surface board flush to the edge of the deck. Secure with two 2 1/2" deck screws at the connection of each blocking board. If the surface boards are pressure treated and wet, position them flush against each other (edges touching). Within a few days, a small gap will form as the boards dry and shrink. If the surface boards are cedar, redwood, or composite decking, leave a 1/8" gap between the surface boards.