Important Installation Tips

1. Never install any Tiger Deck product flat against green treated wood, roofs, concrete or in any application which traps moisture behind the piece (the obvious exception is deck board back against any joist edge, green treat or otherwise). Flat face to flat face creates a moisture gradient and almost always creates a heat gradient as well. This condition creates stresses, which will cause ‘cupping’, ‘splits’, ‘warp’ and other types of damage. Always use Tiger Deck products as a system and as per our design intent. EXAMPLE: Tiger Deck boards must be gapped by our clips or 3/16” apart if face screwed to allow air/water flow.

2. If you want a solid surface with no gaps for covered exterior use, purchase our Tiger Deck T&G Porch Flooring. EXAMPLE: Installing Tiger Deck on a room roof demands a floated system; use 2x2 or 2x4 Tiger Deck as joists, tigerwood lathe between roof and joists, drill vent holes in fascia and use Tiger Deck fastening system.

3. All screws should be pre-drilled to prevent splitting (the only exceptions are the screws provided with Tiger Deck clips when screwed into softwood joists). All screws should also be stainless steel to match the quality and longevity of Tiger Deck products. Minimum space between product and ground or concrete is 16”, installed on wooden joist material with adequate ventilation and drainage under the deck.

4. After installation it is highly recommended that you rent a commercial floor sander. Using the finest sandpaper available for the sander (120 grit or finer), LIGHTLY sand the surface of your deck. This will clean all the dirt, water stains and etc off the deck and open the cells to receive your UV protector. You can of course sand each board lightly with a belt sander prior to installation and try not to walk on the finished portion of the deck prior to applying UV protector.

5. Tiger Deck, like most other wood products, will leave black marks from oxidation when iron is in direct contact with the wood. To avoid this use non-metallic coasters or blocks to separate metal from direct contact with Tiger Deck products.

6. Safety Recommendations: While we have not heard of any allergic reactions to Tiger Deck materials, it is always recommended when working with hardwood lumber to wear safety glasses and a dust mask. Wood slivers should be removed immediately to prevent infection. All standard safety precautions should be used when cutting, shaping or drilling the product.