Specifications  Print Version

Species

Radial Decking boards are typically sawn from naturally durable regrowth hardwoods such as Silvertop Ash, or Yellow Stringybark (ie. Class 2 durability). Class 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 the 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

 

 

 

Figure 1

(Radial Decking boards in cross-section)

Profile

Radial Decking boards are 19mm thick and typically supplied in a smooth dressed and seasoned (ie. dry) width of 55mm, 80mm or 100mm (100mm subject to availability). The beveled edges mean less debris will build up in the cracks creating a clean finish.

Lengths and Availability

Radial decking is generally kept in stock. Boards are supplied in random lengths of between 1.0m and 6.0m. (av. lengths approx. 4.0m).

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 decking 55 – 4 to 5mm gaps between boards

-Radial decking 80 – 5 to 6mm gaps between boards

-Radial decking 100 – 6 to 7mm gaps between the board

Fixings: Radial Decking should be screwed with 50mm decking screws, care should be taken close to ends to avoid splitting (You may need to pre drill holes) Radial Decking 55 can be can be fixed with one screw per board per joist, however, two screws at butt joints or ends is advisable (position screws in the centre of boards). Radial Decking 80 & 100 should be fixed with 2 screws per board per joist (position screws approx. 20mm in from the edge of the 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. (NOTE: unprotected northwest facing decks may be subject to extreme temperature changes and therefore,  timber is more likely to check or  move). 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 undercover 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: www.radialtimbers.com.au gallery

Finishing

All exposed, externally fixed decking 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 being 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.