FAQs

Q: What do I need to know about building an EVOLVE® deck or dock?
A: Virtually any deck, dock, or porch design can be built using EVOLVE® plastic lumber.  While EVOLVE® is much like working with traditional wood materials, some simple construction modifications will eliminate any complications caused by expansion and contraction.  An installation video and guide are available from your local supplier and should be reviewed prior to construction. 

Q: Will EVOLVE® plastic decking expand or contract with heat changes?
A: Yes. EVOLVE® plastic lumber does expand and contract along its length, so it is very important to follow our construction guidelines. It is recommended that the deck boards should not exceed 16’ in length, and be kept as short as possible to reduce the expansion and contraction. Always try to avoid using butt joints. If unavoidable, butt joints must fall on a joist and you will need to use a “T” strip joint cover to cover the expansion and contraction at that joint.

Q: What tools do I use when working with EVOLVE® plastic lumber?
A: Standard woodworking tools can be used. You may have to use a lower speed with your router or planer/jointer to prevent “gumming up” of the router bit or the planer/jointer knives. Carbide tipped bits and blades are recommended. Always use tools according to manufacturer’s instructions, and wear protective clothing and safety glasses for your safety.

Q.  Why types of fastening options can I choose for the deck?
A:  You may choose screws, adhesive, or clips.  We provide a thorough overview of each method in our installation video.

Q: Will I have to pre-drill EVOLVE® decking?
A: No, it is not required. However, material may mushroom around the screw heads. This can be tapped down to partially cover the screw heads, or left as is.

Q. Can EVOLVE® plastic lumber be used for structural applications?
A. No. While EVOLVE® high density plastic lumber  is virtually indestructible and impervious to deterioration, it doesn’t have the same stiffness of wood lumber. Therefore, it is not intended for use as a column, beam, joist, stringer, stud or other primary load-bearing member.

Q.  Can EVOLVE® plastic lumber be used for fascia and trim?

A:  Yes.  EVOLVE® can be manufactured in a wide range of profiles for specialty trim work and other applications.  Use EVOLVE® to cover posts and create specialty rail features to give your deck a coordinated, finished look.

Q: Do you have plastic railing available?
A: Yes, there are several options available to coordinate with your deck or other project. Please contact RENEW® Plastics customer service.

Q: What is the proper joist span to use when constructing a deck?
A: EVOLVE® high density plastic lumber should be put on 12” joist centers when using the 3/4" x 5 1/2" or 3/4" x 6” Tongue and Groove material. The joists should be of the highest quality due to the longevity of the plastic lumber. We recommend using a high quality kiln dried wood product, or galvanized steel, for your substructure to prevent warping and bowing. Click here to get our EVOLVE® Deck Design and Installation Guide.

Q: Is there anything special to consider when building the substructure?
A: Yes. We recommend installing wind bracing on a 45° angle to the joists, at 4’ to 6’ intervals, especially on larger decks. This should prevent your substructure from twisting if weather conditions abuse your deck. You can also use traditional blocking methods for your joist substructure.

Q: How do I install the tongue and groove product?
A: You install it like hardwood flooring. You can blind screw through the tongue of each deck board to get a fastener-less look on the deck surface. Click here to get our EVOLVE® Deck Design and Installation Guide.

Q. Will my deck floor be watertight when using the 3/4" x 6” tongue and groove boards?
A. No. Water will seep through the T&G joints.

Q: Can I cut notches into the product?
A: Yes, but 90-degree cuts should not be used. You should always use radius corner cuts when notching EVOLVE® high-density plastic lumber, as you would with any other hard surface material. Click here to get our EVOLVE® Deck Design and Installation Guide.