Specifications  Print Version

Species

Decking boards are typically sawn from naturally durable regrowth hardwoods such as Silvertop Ash and Brown Stringybark (ie. Class 2 durability). Other species (including Class 1 durability) may also be available on request. Both Class 1 & 2 timbers are deemed suitable for use as decking in Australian Standard AS 080-1693.

Silvertop Ash has a greater tendency for expansion and contraction when exposed to the weather and elements. Because of this, it is very important to

allow recommended spacing between boards to avoid issues when timber swells due to increased moisture content. Some surface checking may occur if timber is exposed to the weather and these non structural cracks that are typical in most Australian hardwoods are more prominent in Silvertop Ash.

Grade

Timber is graded in accordance with AS27462 – 1994 Australian Standard Part 2 Grade description.

Sketch / Sections

Profile

The boards are 19mm thick and typically supplied in a smooth dressed and seasoned (ie. dry) width of 80mm. The main features of all boards are:

• a domed upper face designed to shed water
• sloping sides to prevent debris build
• concave lower faces to reduce contact with the joist and thus reduce the likelihood of moisture being trapped

Lengths and Availability

Radial Decking is generally kept in stock. Boards are supplied in random lengths of between 1.5 and 5.4m but some shorter lengths may also be included (av. lengths approx. 4.0m but wider profiles will contain more shorts). Short packs containing lengths between 1.8m and 2.4m are available on request. Set length boards may be available in limited quantities as a special request (a surcharge is applicable to all set length orders).

Fixing & Applications

Fixing Recommendations:

Setting up: Radial Decking is laid wide face up. Gaps should be left between boards to allow for swelling during wet weather. The amount of swelling (or shrinkage) will vary depending on the width of the board, the species of timber and local climatic conditions. Joists should be spaced at max. 450mm centres.

Installation: For most “typical” installations, the following spacing guide should be followed but also consult Radial Timber Sales for site specific recommendations (eg. in areas subject to high moisture such as south facing decks or in bush settings, it may be advisable to increase the spacing between boards to allow for additional swelling):

• RADIAL DECK 80: 5 to 6mm gaps between boards

Fixings: Decking can be gun or hand nailed with 50mm long hot dipped galvanised or stainless steel “twisted shank” or “ring shank” nails or decking screws, but care should be taken close to ends to avoid splitting (pre-drill all holes if hand nailing). Radial Decking 80 should be fixed with 2 screws per board per joist (position screws approx. 20mm in from edge of board).

Seasoning & Storage: Some surface checking may occur if timber is exposed to the weather but these non structural cracks are typical in most Australian hardwoods. It is also normal for hardwoods to leach red/brown extractives during heavy rain periods. Extractives tend to be less prominent in lighter species but it is advisable to cover or protect walls and paving until all extractives have leached (can vary depending on rainfall but will generally continue for up to 6 months). Packs should be stored up off the ground and under cover or protected with an additional tarp to prevent swelling. If wetting does occur, allow a min. of 24 hours for timber to dry before fixing.

Suggested Applications

Radial Decking is a stylish alternative to traditional decking and has been used in: houses, apartments, visitor centres, restaurants, parks, screens and fences. For images of Radial Decking visit the deck product galleries.

Finishing

All exposed, externally fixed cladding will tend to fade to a silver grey colour if left uncoated. The degree of greying will vary depending on the amount of exposure to sun, wind and rain. The timber used in this above ground product has natural durability and when used in conjunction with good building practices, should generally not require additional treatment against decay.

Native timbers should be offered some weather protection while acclimatising to local conditions. Radial Timber recommends the application of an oil based sealer or decking finish on external timber (especially if unseasoned or fixed during extreme weather conditions). There are a variety of treatments, stains and coatings available and most can be applied prior to or shortly after fixing. For more detailed information, please call us on 03 9768 2100.