My two decks (12'x26' and 12'x14') are in good shape. Minor rot has been repaired.
I am applying 5/8" Tongue & Groove plywood over the 2x6 deck board as a base for 68 mil vinyl covering. I know I need to align the plywood end butts solidly on the 2x6, but I am not sure of the size of the end gap, 1/8"?
I am also unsure of the spacing of the deck screws that I will be using to secure the plywood to the 2x6. I believe 12" spacing may be adequate on both the edge and the field of the plywood?
Deck specs:
- Joists are 2x8 on 16" centers and running perpendicular to the house, the gaps between the 2x6s range from 1/8 to 1/4".
- The long side of the deck is fastened securely to the house with a ledger board and hangers.
- The outboard deck supports are 3-2x10s fastened together, with those being supported by 6x6 posts on concrete pillars.
- There is appropriate grade away from the house.
I was finally able to get in touch with the manufacturer. mfarver, they echoed your comments and also told me to leave 1/16 between the butt ends of the plywood.