Check Deck Board Butt Joints and Spacing

What happens here

Observe the deck boards for large gaps between them, especially at butt joints where two boards meet end-to-end. The video shows significant gapping, which occurs because wood contracts over time. This creates uneven surfaces that trap leaves and debris, leading to rot. To prevent this, for decks longer than 20 feet, incorporate a 'breaker board' that runs perpendicular to the main deck boards. All end-to-end butt joints should terminate at and be supported by this vertical breaker board, providing a clean and stable seam that accommodates wood movement without creating large gaps.

Goal: Prevent excessive gapping and debris trapping in deck boards by using a breaker board for long decks.