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Today’s Tip: Cedar Decks

Spacer nail for cedar decking.
By Mark Decks Today's Tip
Spacer nail for cedar decking.
Use a spacer nail when installing cedar decking to give the material room to expand in wet service.

When installing Western red cedar or Redwood decks, the wood is kiln dried and usually requires a spacer (a 16 penny nail works great) between courses. Check with your supplier to confirm.

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Mark
A licensed contractor, tool expert, wood and outdoor enthusiast, and elite Spartan Race competitor, he writes about home improvement and tools for national magazines and websites, and teaches hands-on clinics for other remodeling professionals. Check out his book, The Carpenter's Notebook.
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