The joist tape that we recommend is: DeckWise® WiseWrap® JoistTape™
It’s a flexible polyethylene waterproof wood flashing designed to protect your decking structure. This high-quality material is fortified with a rubberized asphalt mastic adhesive, offering superior protection against moisture.
Each roll comes in a generous size of 3 inches wide and 75 feet long, with a thickness of 35-40 mil. Effortlessly apply this durable tape to your decking joists, around support posts, and over ledger boards for enhanced longevity and performance.
Applying joist tape to the top of deck joists before installing deck boards offers several benefits that can help extend the lifespan of the deck and reduce maintenance requirements. Some of the key advantages include:
Moisture Protection
Joist tape creates a waterproof barrier between the deck boards and the joists, preventing water and moisture from seeping into the wood. This helps prevent rot, decay, and the growth of mold and mildew, ultimately extending the life of the deck structure.
Reduced Wood-to-Wood Contact
The tape helps minimize direct contact between the deck boards and joists, reducing the potential for squeaks and other noises caused by the movement of wood against wood.
Enhanced Fastener Performance
Joist tape can help maintain the integrity of the fasteners used to secure the deck boards by reducing the risk of rust and corrosion. This is particularly important when using metal fasteners, which can be susceptible to corrosion when in contact with treated wood.
Increased Structural Stability
By reducing moisture intrusion and the associated risks of rot and decay, joist tape can help maintain the structural integrity of the deck over time. This results in a safer and more stable outdoor living space.
Easier Maintenance
By protecting the joists from moisture and decay, joist tape can reduce the need for regular maintenance, such as sanding and staining or replacing damaged joists. This can save both time and money over the long term.
In summary, applying joist tape to the top of deck joists before installing deck boards can significantly extend the life of your deck, reduce maintenance requirements, and improve the overall performance of the structure.