Frequently Asked Questions
Truly innovative building products are sure to raise lots of questions—everything from “what is this made of?” to “how do I install it?” You can get your bearings on Latitudes® quickly by reviewing these common queries about the product line.
Latitudes® Composite Decking & Railing FAQ
Product Characteristics
Installation and Fasteners
Latitudes Intrepid™ Railing FAQ
Product Characteristics
Installation and Fasteners
Latitudes® Composite Decking & Railing FAQ
Product Characteristics
What are Latitudes composite decking and railing made of?
Latitudes composite decking and railing are made of wood and plastic and is extruded for strength. Latitudes Capricorn® tropical decking and Latitudes Captiva™, also made of wood and plastic, are co-extruded with a durable polyethylene top layer for ultralow-maintenance performance. Both decking products are fortified with the same proven Strandex® technology used in all Latitudes composite products.
Is there a compatible hidden fastener system?
Our Latitudes slotted decking features the Equator® hidden fastener which eliminates pre-drilling and automatically spaces the deck boards with the proper gap, making installation quick and easy. If solid decking is preferred, a biscuit joiner saw can be used to create the slots required for the Equator fastener to fit into. There are several other brands of hidden fastener systems available that work well with Latitudes. Check with the fastener manufacturer to ensure suitability for your application.
What is the benefit of using Latitudes slotted decking instead of standard composite decking?
Latitudes slotted decking comes with a premachined 5/32-inch groove along the sides of the board to accommodate the Equator® hidden fastener. The Equator hidden fasteners are designed to properly space the boards at ¼" and allow for the expansion and contraction on the length and width that naturally occurs on composites. The screws provided with the Equator hidden fasteners have black painted heads to greatly reduce the potential glare caused by the sun, keeping the fasteners truly hidden. Because Latitudes Marine decking is thicker than other Latitudes deck boards, it is not available with a pre-machined groove.
What colors and styles does Latitudes decking and railing come in?
Latitudes Wave™ decking features Strandex® technology and is extruded with the same contoured profile as our capped decking. Available in walnut or gray, Wave comes in a contour profile with slotted edges or a full profile with solid edges. Latitudes Intrepid decking and Latitudes Marine decking are available in gray, cedar, redwood and walnut, with a reversible finish: brushed on one side, embossed woodgrain on the other. Intrepid boards come in a solid profile or slotted for use with our Equator® hidden fastener system. Latitudes Capricorn decking is capped with a resilient polymer technology, so it will withstand the ravages of weather, time and use. Best of all, it looks like real wood, with a true-to-life variegated wood grain surface that comes in two exotic colors—koa and arabica. Like Capricorn, Latitudes Captiva decking is capped with rugged technology that allows it to be stain and fade resistant. Its natural-looking willow, walnut, cedar and gray colors and woodgrain finish make Captiva the perfect blend of beauty and performance. Capricorn and Captiva deck boards come in a contour profile with slotted edges or a full profile with solid edges. Our matching Intrepid composite railing is available in gray, cedar, redwood and walnut colors in moulded and 2x4 profiles. We offer many styles of decorative balusters and post caps to provide a custom look.
What colors and styles does Latitudes slotted decking come in?
Available in walnut or gray, Latitudes Wave™ decking comes in a contour profile with slotted edges or a full profile with solid edges. Latitudes Intrepid decking and Latitudes Marine decking are available in gray, cedar, redwood and walnut, with a reversible finish: brushed on one side, embossed woodgrain on the other. Intrepid boards come in a solid profile or slotted for use with our Equator® hidden fastener system. Latitudes Capricorn decking is capped with a resilient polymer technology and has a true-to-life variegated wood grain surface that comes in two exotic colors—koa and arabica. Like Capricorn, Latitudes Captiva decking is capped with rugged technology that allows it to be stain and fade resistant. Its natural-looking willow, walnut, cedar and gray colors and woodgrain finish make Captiva the perfect blend of beauty and performance. Capricorn and Captiva deck boards come in a contour profile with slotted edges or a full profile with solid edges.
What sizes and lengths do Latitudes decking and railing come in?
Latitudes Decking is available in 12’, 16’ and 20’ lengths. Additional components include a 1/2" x 9-1/4" - 12' or 1/2" x 11-1/4" - 12' fascia board, 52" post sleeve, 6-foot rail, 38” baluster, post cap and color-coordinating hardware kits with color-matched screws. Latitudes Marine Decking is thicker than typical composite deck boards and is engineered for use on wide joist spacing. Latitudes Marine decking dimensions are 1¼” x 5-7/16” x 16’.
Is Latitudes decking fire rated?
Yes, Latitudes decking carries a Class C fire rating, which is the same class as natural wood.
Where can Latitudes Marine decking be used?
Latitudes Marine decking can be used in virtually any type of outdoor area near water, such as boardwalks and docks. Latitudes Marine decking cannot be used for any structural support members. Latitudes Marine deck boards should be installed on maximum joists spaced 24" on-center. Refer to the load and span chart for more information.
Can Latitudes Marine decking be immersed in water?
No. Although Latitudes Marine decking can be frequently splashed, it cannot be constantly immersed in water.
Has Strandex® Technology been tested in saltwater/marine environments?
Yes. In the late 1990’s the Office of Naval Research sponsored a project to determine the acceptability of wood plastic composites as components of naval piers. One area of concern was possible biodegradation of the wood plastic composites. Washington State University, in cooperation with Strandex Corporation, supplied composite materials for biodegradation testing. Some of these materials were made using the formulation that has become the recommended Strandex PE formulation. Biodegradation testing was carried out using a protocol developed by the Naval Facilities Engineering Service Center. Two areas of concern are relevant to wood based composites exposed to a saltwater environment. Fungal decay is of concern in parts of structures that are above water because of the moist conditions and periodic wetting. Marine boring organisms attack wood under water in the marine environment. This is the second area of concern. The recommended Strandex formulation was tested and found resistant to fungal decay in accelerated decay procedures and resistant to attack from marine borers. The marine borer test specimens evaluated after 2 years of exposure did not show any colonization. Because the potential use in piers testing was focused on structural integrity of the composites, aesthetics such as color fade and staining were not addressed by the study. View Phase I: Testing/Studies. View Phase II: Testing/Studies.
Can I get a sample of the Latitudes product?
Yes. Simply fill out the sample kit request form and we will mail one to the address provided. Please note that we do not ship to post office boxes or outside the US.
What is included in the sample kit?
Our kit includes two sample pieces of Latitudes composite decking, color chips, literature and one Equator hidden fastener.
Add the finishing touch and show off your Latitudes deck with pride. Request your free brass Latitudes emblem today!
How long will the texture last?
Foot traffic, traffic patterns, objects like furniture dragged on the surface, weather exposure, cleaning products used, frequency of cleaning especially with commercial pressure washers (not recommended), will all affect the factory surface finish of Latitudes decking and railing.
Does Latitudes composite decking and railing fade?
Latitudes Intrepid decking and railing, Latitudes Wave, and Marine board will lighten over time to a beautiful, weathered tone within the same color family. This color-tone shift is dependent upon exposure to sunlight and other environmental factors. The weathering process begins upon installation and is generally complete within 60 to 90 days. Independent test research has determined that Latitudes Capricorn and Captiva will experience virtually no fading, as it is co-extruded with a durable outer shell.
Why is my gray Latitudes deck turning tan?
All wood composite decking materials fade when exposed to UV light from the sun. Latitudes can experience some color shifting as it goes through this mellowing process. Tan or greenish gray hues from the natural wood fiber contained in the product are often noticeable as this fading process progresses. Depending on the exposure conditions where a particular deck is built, this acclimation is usually complete within 60 - 90 days from when the Latitudes deck boards were installed. At the end of the fading process the deck appears gray and the tan and/or greenish gray hues are rarely noticeable.
Should I purchase all of my decking material at one time?
Yes, purchasing all required decking material at one time is recommended as manufacturing runs can produce slightly different colors. Like most composites, individual Latitudes deck boards will have color variations from piece to piece. This is due to the natural variations in wood fibers and polymers. Color variation is not covered by warranty. We recommend purchasing extra material in case boards need to be repaired or replaced in the future.
Will Latitudes decking and railing rot, splinter or decay like wood?
No. Latitudes has been tested under accelerated weather conditions and is weather resistant. Latitudes employs Strandex technology, which provides superior protection against UV degradation and water absorption.
Does Latitudes decking provide good traction in wet or dry conditions?
Yes, Latitudes decking is slip resistant.
How do the railing kits work?
Since we offer a wide selection of complementary railing products, we package the components separately so you can choose the combination that best suits your taste. All of the components are sold in kits containing the appropriate amount to construct a 6-foot on-center rail. The only exception is the glass baluster kit. Typically two glass baluster kits will be required per 6-foot on-center section.
Will chlorine, other swimming pool chemicals, or salt water damage Latitudes decking and railing?
While no formal testing has been done, we have not seen or heard of any ill effects from standard pool chemicals.
How do varying weather cycles affect Latitudes decking and railing during installation?
Latitudes performs well in varying weather conditions. During installation, it will contract only slightly in cold weather. In hot weather it expands. We recommend that the material is on the job site 48 hours prior to installation to acclimate. Follow the installation instructions spacing guidelines to ensure proper room for expansion and contraction.
How should Latitudes decking and railing be stored and handled?
You can store it the same way you would store any wood product.
What is the difference between Latitudes composite decking and railing and wood?
Latitudes decking and railing combine the look of wood with the durability of plastic. Unlike wood decks, which require continuous maintenance, there is no need to apply weather protectants or water seal products to Latitudes decking and railing.
Why is composite decking more expensive than treated wood?
Composite decking is more expensive to manufacture. Over time, however, the maintenance, repair and/or replacement costs associated with wood outweigh the initial investment in Latitudes deck products.
What is the benefit of using solid composite decking over hollow composite decking?
It is easier to work with a solid product because it frames like wood and feels more substantial on the deck.
Where can I buy Latitudes decking and railing and how much do they cost?
The complete Latitudes line is available at retail lumberyards, home centers and through distributors. For more information, visit our How to Buy web site or call (877) 463-8379. It is competitively priced in comparison to premium grades of wood decking and costs less than other high-end composite decking materials.
What is the difference between Latitudes Intrepid moulded rail and 2x4 rail?
The attractive Latitudes moulded rail can be installed with natural composite balusters, round aluminum balusters or square aluminum balusters. The 2x4 rail offers clean, straight lines and allows you to face mount ornamental arch, contour, rectangular and glass balusters. The natural composite balusters, round aluminum balusters and square aluminum balusters can also be used with the 2x4 rail.
What’s the maximum amount of LEDs that can be on a single transformer?
Up to 24 LEDs can be added to a single transformer. 16 is recommended for the best performance.
Add the finishing touch and show off your Latitudes deck with pride. Request your free brass Latitudes emblem today!
Installation and Fasteners
Why do the deck boards need to be installed facing the same direction?
The appearance of this product changes when viewed from different ends. To achieve the most consistent color, install all of the boards in the same direction using the product end tags as a point of reference or install all of the boards with the arrows on the product stickers pointing in the same direction. Installing boards in opposing directions will create contrasting light and dark shades of the deck board color and is not covered under warranty.
Do I need special tools to install Latitudes decking and railing?
Conventional tools for cutting, drilling and nailing can be used with Latitudes. We recommend using a sharp, carbide-tipped saw blade for cutting. For your safety, remember to wear protective clothing and safety glasses.
What do I use to cut Latitudes decking and railing?
The same tools used to cut pressure-treated wood can be used to cut Latitudes. We recommend using a sharp, carbide-tipped saw blade.
Can you recommend someone to install my Latitudes decking and railing?
Consider using one of our experienced Latitudes Certified Installers. Only the most professional, reliable, and skilled building professionals become Official Latitudes Certified Installers. By selecting a Latitudes installer you can expect to receive the highest standards of service and installation of your Latitudes products.
Do you recommend pre-drilling and countersinking when fastening Latitudes decking?
Although not required, pre-drilling and countersinking prior to driving screws achieve the best results for ease of fastening and appearance of the finished project. Because wood decking is not as dense as Latitudes, screws driven into wood decking crush the wood fiber and self countersink. Screws driven into Latitudes displace the material, causing it to mushroom around the screw head. Most consumers do not like the resulting appearance using this installation method.
If using ordinary, coarse-thread deck screws, pre-drilling a pilot hole and countersinking prior to driving screws achieve the best results. For more information, refer to the installation instructions or call 877-463-8379.
Do you recommend pre-drilling and countersinking when fastening Latitudes slotted decking?
The Equator hidden fastener eliminates the need to pre-drill and countersink the majority of the deck. The deck perimeter will be secured with screws and we do recommend pre-drilling and countersinking in this instance. It is not required; however, the best results for ease of fastening and appearance of the finished project are achieved by pre-drilling and countersinking prior to driving screws. Wood decking is not as dense as Latitudes slotted decking. Screws driven into wood decking crush the wood fiber and self countersink. Screws driven into Latitudes displace the material causing it to mushroom around the screw head. Most consumers do not like the resulting appearance using this installation method. Installers feel that extra time and labor is a cost to them. Many of the pros who have worked with Latitudes felt the same; but, they have found how pleased the homeowner was with the job by following the recommended fastener application.
Major fastener manufacturers produce screws made specifically for composite lumber. Use of these screws will reduce the amount of pre-drilling and countersinking required. For more information, refer to the installation instructions.
For more information, please call 877-463-8379.
What type of fasteners and nails are recommended with Latitudes decking and railing?
Major fastener manufacturers produce screws made specifically for composite decking. Use of these screws will reduce the amount of pre-drilling and countersinking required.
For ease of installation, we recommend using 2-1/2” corrosion-resistant, composite wood deck screws. These screws help minimize the common “mushroom” effect that sometimes occurs when using standard fasteners. For more information, refer to the installation instructions.
What type of fasteners and nails are recommended with Latitudes slotted decking?
The Equator hidden fastener is designed for use with Latitudes slotted decking and simply sets into the grooved slot in the side of the board. Where screws are needed, we recommend using 2-1/2” corrosion-resistant, composite wood deck screws for ease of installation. These screws help minimize the common “mushroom” effect that sometimes occurs when using standard fasteners. It can also reduce the amount of pre-drilling and countersinking.
Can I use a nail gun to install Latitudes composite decking?
We do not recommend using nails or a nailer when installing Latitudes composite decking. The material is very dense and getting nails to penetrate to a proper depth without bending can be a challenge. A bigger issue concerns the fastening on the end of the boards. We recommend that all holes be pre-drilled to help reduce mushrooming. Also, it is necessary to pre-drill the end of the boards to avoid splitting. When using nails or a nailer the concern is that the ends would not be pre-drilled and possibly lead to cracking and splitting.
Are support blocks necessary when building a Latitudes railing?
Yes, support blocks are required on all rail sections wider than 24” between connection points i.e. post to post, post to wall or wall to wall. Support blocks add strength to the railing system and provide support to prevent the railing from sagging. Two support blocks are required for rail sections 48” to 72” in length. Install one support block for sections that span 24” to less than 48”. Support blocks should be installed aligned beneath a baluster for maximum reinforcement.
Can I rout Latitudes composite deck boards?
Yes. Standard Latitudes deck boards are easier to rout than wood and provide a smooth, clean edge. Latitudes Capricorn and Captiva cannot be routed, as they are co-extruded with a durable polyethylene outer shell.
What glue works well with Latitudes decking and railing?
Glue is a supplemental adhesive and should never replace a fastener, especially in structural applications. Heavy-duty construction adhesive can be used, but we recommend testing on a small portion of your deck before using the adhesive throughout your whole application.
What joist spans should I use for my deck when using Latitudes decking?
In residential applications, Latitudes decking should be installed on joists spaced 16” on-center when the boards are running perpendicular to the support joists. Decking boards running on a diagonal pattern should be installed on joists spaced 12” on-center.
Latitudes Marine Decking can be installed using a maximum joist spacing of 24” on-center as it is thicker and designed for wider joist spacing. Contact Latitudes Product Support at 877-463-8379 for commercial applications. For more details, refer to the installation instructions.
Can I hide the slotted deck board groove at the edge of the deck?
Several methods may be used to conceal the grooved board edges. This is easiest achieved by raising the fascia to cover the board edge. Another way is to “picture frame” the entire deck. The best appearance will be achieved by miter-cutting the deck corners. Install the outside deck boards allowing them to overhang the deck framing. Snap a chalk line flush with or up to 1-1/2” from the deck framing and trim with a circular saw. Rout the edges for a smooth rounded edge, if desired. Note: Latitudes Capricorn and Captiva decking cannot be routed, as it is co-exruded with a durable polyethylene outer shell.
Does Latitudes decking require gapping between boards?
Yes. Latitudes Decking must be gapped at the ends to allow for expansion and contraction and gapped between boards for water runoff. At the ends of the deck boards, allow a minimum of 1/16” gap for every 20 degrees F° of difference between the installation temperature and the hottest temperature expected. Allow a 1/4” gap between the deck boards and between all decking and any permanent structure or post for water runoff. For more information, refer to the installation instructions.
How much space is recommended for proper ventilation underneath a deck?
A clear 2" space between the bottom edge of the joists and grade is recommended to allow proper ventilation.
Can I put Latitudes decking over a concrete patio?
Yes. It is possible to install Latitudes decking over a concrete patio. First, check with your local building code agency on foundation footing requirements. We recommend that you use 2x6s standing vertical on edge as support joists over the concrete. Next, fasten the decking to the support joists. Be sure to allow a ¼" gap between the long edges of the deck boards. Drainage and ventilation are necessary for best product performance; to level the deck, we recommend shims that allow a clear 2" space between the bottom edge of the joists and the concrete.
Can I fasten Latitudes decking over an existing deck, balcony or porch?
Composite decking is intended to be installed directly to the structural joists. DO NOT fasten to the top of old existing deck planks or balcony and porch floors.
Latitudes composite decking and railing meet building code requirements?
Latitudes composite decking, manufactured by UFP Ventures II, Inc., has been evaluated by ICC-ES to be code compliant with details listed under the ESR-1573 Evaluation Report. The structural performance of the Latitudes Intrepid railing system has been tested and evaluated by professional engineers at an independent third-party test laboratory known as Architectural Testing Inc (ATI). The results demonstrate that the different combinations of the Latitudes Intrepid railing system as noted in ATI’s CCRR Report 0150 complies with 2009 International Building Code; 2009 International Residential Code; ICC-ES AC174 effective June 1, 2009; ASTM D7032-07; and ANSI Z97.1-2004.
Can Latitudes decking and railing be used for structural applications?
No. While Latitudes Decking and Railing provide superior surface integrity and strength, they are not suitable for structural applications.
When do you need to install a graspable secondary handrail on a residential deck?
A graspable secondary handrail is an important component to consider when planning a deck with stairs. So whether you're constructing a residential composite deck, lumber deck or a deck made from other decking material, you're typically required to install a graspable secondary handrail on one side of the deck's stair railing when there are four or more stair risers present.
Key Residential Stair Handrail Requirements (IRC - International Residential Code)
- Stairways having four or more risers, or rising more than 30 inches in height, whichever is less, must have at least one grab rail.
- Handrails with a circular cross section shall have an outside diameter of at least 1-1/4 inches and not greater than 2 inches. If the handrail is not circular it shall have a perimeter dimension of at least 4 inches and not greater than 6-1/4 inches with a maximum cross section of dimension of 2-1/4 inches.
- The grab rail must terminate at the newel post (top and bottom posts).
- Clear space between a handrail and a wall or other surface shall be a minimum of 1-1/2 inches.
- The height of handrails must be installed 34 inches - 38 inches from the upper surface of the handrail to the surface of the tread.
Graspable secondary handrails are required by more and more building codes / deck codes in areas across the country. Latitudes features a secondary handrail system in their deck railing products lineup.
This attractive and highly versatile graspable handrail is ideal for meeting building codes when required. Made of heavy gauge aluminum and durable PVC, the system includes five different radius elbows and several styles of returns to meet every possible installation. The railing is available in three colors (adobe, tan and white) to complement a homes exterior.
As always, check your local building code or ask your building inspector to make sure you or your contractor installs a secondary handrail when required by law.
Check out the American Wood Council's "Design for Code Acceptance" document for complete details. Stair handrail requirements are outlined on page 18.
Can Latitudes decking and railing be used for building a dock?
Latitudes decking can be used as dock planking, but it cannot be used for any structural support members. Standard Latitudes deck boards should be installed on joists spaced 16” on-center. Latitudes Marine decking is thicker and is designed for joists spaced 24” on-center. Both Latitudes Decking and Latitudes Marine Decking can be used in dock and marine applications provided that they are not continually submerged in water.
Can Latitudes Intrepid slotted decking be used for building a dock?
Latitudes slotted decking can be used as dock planking, but it cannot be used for any structural support members. Latitudes slotted deck boards should be installed on joists spaced 16" o.c. and each board should be fastened with 2 screws through the face of the deck board at each end. Some docks are built with supports 24" o.c. or greater, this would need to be adjusted when using Latitudes. Latitudes decking can be used provided that it is not continually submerged in water.
Can Latitudes decking be used as planters or edging?
Latitudes decking is not recommended for ground contact applications. It is designed to be used as a deck surface only.
Latitudes Intrepid Railing FAQ
Product Characteristics
What do Latitudes ornamental railing components consist of?
Latitudes ornamental railing components consist of composite rails and posts combined with decorative balusters and post caps. The metal balusters are constructed of extruded aluminum and have an advanced powder-coat finish for long-term performance. The finish on the balusters is powder-coated with an AAMA2604 compliant material, which provides 5 times the outdoor exposure performance and twice the humidity exposure as AAMA2603. Latitudes ornamental glass balusters are made of 5/16-inch thick tempered safety glass.
What colors and styles does Latitudes ornamental railing components come in?
Latitudes ornamental round balusters are available in black, white, bronze and stainless. Ornamental arch, rectangular and contour balusters are offered in black and bronze. Ornamental glass balusters are clear to provide an unobstructed view of the landscape. The composite rails and posts come in gray, cedar, redwood and walnut. The post caps come in several colors and styles to add the finishing touch to your railing system.
Will the finish on Latitudes Ornamental metal balusters peel or chip over time?
The finish on Latitudes ornamental balusters is guaranteed not to chip, crack, check or peel for period of 25 years. Each baluster is coated with a durable powder-coat finish. Refer to the Ornamental Baluster Warranty for more information.
Will my copper post caps remain a shiny copper color?
Our copper post caps come with a thin, clear marine lacquer designed to protect them before and during installation. Once exposed to the elements, the sun’s ultraviolet rays, moisture, and pollution begin to break down this coating, exposing the metal underneath. In its natural state, copper breaks down in the elements and patinas. In general, copper progresses from a natural salmon color to a series of russet browns and grays, and finally to a blue-green or gray-green patina.
How do I keep my copper post cap from turning green/patina?
To maintain the shiny look, apply a car wax immediately after purchasing the cap, and reapply every 3 to 6 months.
Can I speed up the patina process on my copper post caps?
To encourage a natural patina, remove the lacquer with mineral spirits and grade 0000 steel wool.
Will my stainless steel post caps rust?
Stainless steel is an alloy of iron that contains more then 10% chromium. Stainless steel has a hard oxide coating which makes it resistant to stains. Corrosion and wear strip away this coating causing the steel to rust. To maintain this coating, clean periodically with a mixture of vinegar and club soda.
Installation and Fasteners
Can you recommend someone to install my Latitudes decking and railing?
Consider using one of our experienced Latitudes Certified Installers. Only the most professional, reliable, and skilled building professionals become Official Latitudes Certified Installers. By selecting a Latitudes installer you can expect to receive the highest standards of service and installation of your Latitudes products.
Do I need special tools to install Latitudes Intrepid railing?
Conventional tools for cutting, drilling and nailing can be used with Latitudes Intrepid railing. We recommend using a sharp, carbide-tipped saw blade for cutting. A miter saw is needed to angle the round metal balusters for stairways. The ornamental round aluminum balusters are installed using the FastBall™ Connector. FastBall Connectors are included with the round baluster kit to make baluster-to-rail assembly quick and easy. For your safety, remember to wear protective clothing and safety glasses.
Are support blocks necessary when building a Latitudes Intrepid railing?
Yes, support blocks are required on all rail sections wider than 24” between connection points i.e. post-to-post, post-to-wall, or wall-to-wall. Support blocks add strength to the railing system and provide support to prevent the railing from sagging. Two support blocks are required for rail sections 48” to 72” in length. Install one support block for sections that span 24” to less than 48”. Support blocks should be installed aligned beneath a baluster for maximum reinforcement.
