Walls on Trex Decking

[spockman]

In an exterior deck application can you run a load bearing wall on top of trex (or similar) decking? If not, any ideas on a clean detail?

Please note framing has been designed to support load.

Thanks

 

[structSU10]

see the ICC report:

http://www.icc-es.org/Reports/pdf_files/ESR-3168.pdf

It lists material properties and allowable loads and spans. Should be a good place to start

 

[SlideRuleEra]

Four years ago I designed and built a deck using Trex. It is an excellent product, when used for its intended purpose... however, IMHO, it is absolutely worthless as a structural material. When not properly supported it will deflect significantly (and permanently) under only its own dead load. The best technical info that I could find was the "Trex Usage Guidelines", available (free) here:

http://www.trexpartners.com/usage-and-care/usage-guidelines

Note the statement near the start of this document:
"Trex is not intended for primary structural members such as load bearing columns, joists, stringers and beams."

As for your request for a clean detail... just treat Trex as if is "structurally invisible". That is, the framing for the Trex supports your intended wall, the Trex may be present but is not loaded by the wall.

http://www.SlideRuleEra.net

http://www.VacuumTubeEra.net

 

[XR250]

no - it will creep