Steel Or Aluminum Framing Install Method
The recommended joist flange size is 2 ½ to 3 inches wide. The minimum joists flange size is 2 inches, which will support two tiles with a bearing of 1 inch for each tile. Anything over 3 inches is not recommended.
An edge trim of composite decking, wood decking, or steel or aluminum angle must be used around perimeter of deck to lock in the tiles.
The deck tiles can be glued down to the steel joists with the same adhesive that is used for gluing it to wood joists, see DekTek’s Adhesive Brochure. The best way to install the tiles over steel joists is by using the 1/4-inch tile tab method. You first apply the glue in 4 to 5 dabs on the two joists where the tiles will be sitting. Make sure the dabs are tall enough to hold the 1/8-inch gap that the plastic tile tabs create. Then set the white plastic tile spacers in the four dabs of glue under each corner of where the tile will go. The purpose of the 1/4-inch tile tabs is to help hold the tile 1/8 inch above the joist flange and create an air space to breathe and allow for better water drainage.
For installations questions please feel free to call us at 218-380-9330.
