How to Install Vinyl Decking

Vinyl decking material is a reliable product intended for application over roof top decks and balconies. It comes in 5 and 6 foot rolls and is a thick plastic with a textured surface. After a deck is constructed, vinyl decking material is adhered to the deck floor with a type of adhesive and heat. It is durable and long lasting. If you are looking to enhance the appearance of your deck, why not try quality vinyl decking? It will increase your properties value and add aesthetic appeal to your home.

Things You'll Need

• Hammer
• Sandpaper
• Cement flooring leveler
• Bucket
• Spatula
• Vinyl decking
• Utility knife
• Tape measure
• Contact cement
• Heat gun
• Roller

Instructions

1. Hammer down all existing nails and screws to ensure that none are sticking up from the deck surface. Grind down all the high spots on the sheathing material.

2. Mix a cement flooring leveler material with water until it is runny.

3. Apply it over the sanded areas, and between the joints, to give the deck an even and smooth surface. Let it harden for eight hours.

4. Measure the length and width of the deck. Cut the right amount of vinyl decking from the roll using a utility knife.

5. Apply the vinyl decking to the deck with contact cement. Overlap each course of decking material 3/8 inch and heat weld the vinyl decking at the seams to make one continuous piece.

6. Use an industrial strength heat gun. Attach a fine tipped nozzle to the gun and set the temperature high. As you are welding the seams, roll them out with a small roller, flattening them out and forming a waterproof seal.

Tips & Warnings

• Practice the melting and rolling technique on a scrap piece of vinyl decking before embarking on the real project. It isn't hard to install vinyl decking but it does take some getting used to.

• Always practice safety when using heat. Be careful not to overheat the vinyl decking, because it will melt. Do not try to heat your seams with a hair dryer. They do not get hot enough.