Easy Panel’s composite decking needs joists spaced between 350mm and 400mm apart, measured centre to centre, with at least 50mm of ground clearance. Those figures come straight from our decking specification sheet, along with the board gaps and the four-step hidden clip installation covered below.
Our decking is designed for easy DIY installation. Whether you are a builder pricing a job or a homeowner planning a deck in Brisbane, these are the numbers to check before you order.
What Joist Spacing Does Composite Decking Need?
Composite decking boards from Easy Panel need joists at a minimum of 350mm and a maximum of 400mm, measured centre to centre. Set out your frame within that range before any boards go down.
Installation Measurements at a Glance
Here are the figures from the Easy Panel decking specification sheet in one place:
| Measurement | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Joist spacing (centre to centre) | 350mm minimum, 400mm maximum |
| Ground clearance | 50mm minimum |
| Gap between boards (side by side) | 4mm, set automatically by the hidden fastener |
| Butt join (board end to board end) | 1mm minimum |
| Board side edge to a solid structure | 3mm minimum |
| Board end edge to a solid structure | 3mm minimum |
| Board size | 5.4m long x 140mm wide x 20mm thick |
| Fixing system | Stainless steel hidden fasteners |
How Much Ground Clearance Does Your Deck Need?
The specification sheet calls for at least 50mm of ground clearance under your deck. Check this when you set the height of your frame, before you order boards.
What Gaps Should You Leave Between Composite Decking Boards?
There are four gaps on the specification sheet, and the hidden fastener sets the main one for you.
- Side by side: 4mm between boards. The hidden fastener sets this spacing automatically.
- End to end: at least 1mm wherever two boards butt together.
- Side edge to a solid structure: at least 3mm, for example where the deck meets a wall or post.
- End edge to a solid structure: at least 3mm.
How Do You Install Composite Decking With Hidden Clips?
Easy Panel’s decking uses a stainless steel hidden fastener system. With your joists set out at the right spacing, each board goes down in four steps:
- Fit the clip. Slide the hidden fastener into the groove along the side of the board.
- Line it up. Position the clip so it sits over the joist.
- Screw it down. Fix the clip into the joist. Do not overtighten the screw.
- Move to the next board. Push the next board into the clips and repeat across the deck.
Because the fixings stay hidden, there are no visible screws or nails across the surface. You get a smooth, clean look and a secure, barefoot-friendly deck, and the concealed clip system also speeds up installation.
How Do You Plan Your Layout Around 5.4m Boards?
Every board is 5.4m long. If your deck is 5.4m or shorter in the direction the boards run, you can use full-length boards with no butt joins. Where boards do meet end to end, leave the 1mm minimum gap from the specification sheet.
For a quick estimate, each board covers 144mm across the deck (a 140mm board plus the 4mm gap). One metre divided by 144mm is about 6.9, so every square metre of deck takes roughly 6.9 lineal metres of board.
Can You Install Composite Decking Yourself?
Yes. Easy Panel’s decking is designed for easy DIY installation, and the concealed clip system makes the installation straightforward. Easy Panel also keeps all decking components in stock, so your order can be delivered to your door within 24 to 48 hours.
What Finishes and Colours Are Available?
Boards come in charcoal, mocha and light grey, with a choice of an embossed timber grain or a sanded brushed finish. The result looks and feels like timber, without the oiling or coating. A simple wash with soapy water is all it needs.
Adding a Roof Over Your Deck
Whether you are enjoying a sunny Brisbane afternoon or a rainy evening, insulated roof panels keep your deck cool, shaded and weatherproof, with year-round comfort and protection from the elements.
Quick Answers: Composite Decking Joist Spacing and Installation
What is the maximum joist spacing for composite decking?
For Easy Panel’s boards, joists can be up to 400mm apart, centre to centre. The minimum is 350mm.
How much ground clearance does composite decking need?
At least 50mm, according to the Easy Panel decking specification sheet.
How big is the gap between composite decking boards?
4mm. The hidden fastener sets this gap automatically.
Are the fixings visible?
No. Easy Panel uses stainless steel hidden fasteners, so there are no visible screws or nails on the surface.
How long are Easy Panel’s composite decking boards?
Each board is 5.4m long, 140mm wide and 20mm thick.
How quickly can I get composite decking delivered in Brisbane?
Easy Panel keeps all decking components in stock for delivery within 24 to 48 hours.
Ready to Plan Your Composite Decking?
Browse the full composite decking range to see colours and finishes, then request a free quote or call the team on 07 3299 5541.
