When building a deck, achieving the correct spacing between deck boards is crucial for both the functionality and longevity of your deck. Proper deck spacing allows for water drainage, ventilation, and reduces the risk of decking damage like mold and rot. If the spacing is too tight, water can’t drain, leading to moisture buildup. If it’s too wide, you risk safety concerns such as items slipping through or even difficulty walking on the surface. Deck spacers are essential tools for creating consistent gaps between decking boards, but not all spacers are created equal.
The Problem with Traditional Deck Spacers and Jigs
When it comes to achieving uniform deck spacing, many DIYers and contractors still rely on traditional methods or cheap, low-quality spacers and jigs. While these tools may seem like an affordable or easy solution, they often come with significant drawbacks that can slow down the deck-building process or lead to unsatisfactory results.
For example, many deck spacers available on the market are flimsy and prone to breaking. Cheap plastic spacers or jigs can snap under pressure, forcing you to stop mid-project to replace them. This is frustrating, time-consuming, and ultimately adds to the cost of your decking project.
Another issue with traditional spacers is the lack of color coding. Without color-coded spacers, it’s difficult to ensure consistency across the entire deck. Having the wrong gap size between boards can lead to unsightly results, poor water drainage, and ventilation issues. For example, you might accidentally use a 1/8” spacer in some areas and a 1/4” shim in others, which can result in irregular gaps and compromise the overall functionality of the deck.
Many builders use 8d to 16d penny nails as a quick and inexpensive deck spacing method. While this might seem like a simple and effective approach, it comes with serious downsides. The most significant issue is that nails can fall through the deck and become a hidden safety hazard for homeowners. If the construction site is not cleaned up properly, anyone walking underneath the deck could step on a sharp nail, resulting in painful injuries or even a tetanus shot! Additionally, using nails doesn’t ensure even gaps. They can easily shift, bend, or fall out of place during installation, leading to inconsistent spacing between boards. This can undermine the overall appearance and performance of your deck. Finally, using nails for spacing is an inefficient method. Constantly adjusting and checking the nails to ensure uniform gaps can slow down the entire project and add unnecessary time and frustration.
The Imus Seal SealSpacer Solution
Thankfully, there’s a better solution: Imus Seal SealSpacer Deck Board Spacer. SealSpacer is a patent-pending tool designed to provide perfectly uniform deck spacing with ease, and it’s quickly becoming the go-to option for DIY deck builders, homeowners, and professional contractors. SealSpacer includes four color-coded spacer sizes—1/16” (blue), 1/8” (green), 3/16” (yellow), and 1/4” (orange)—to ensure the ideal gap for any decking material, whether it's composite decking, wet lumber, or dry lumber. This precision eliminates the guesswork and ensures your deck boards are spaced perfectly every time.
Unlike traditional methods like nails, SealSpacer stays securely in place during installation. It features an ergonomic swiveling design that makes it easy to use, even for beginners. Simply choose the spacer size you need, place it between the boards, and continue installing your decking with confidence. Plus, the spacers effortlessly flip into position and fold away neatly for convenient storage when you’re done—making your project faster and more efficient.
Why SealSpacer is the Best Deck Spacer for Homeowners and Professionals
Another benefit of Imus Seal SealSpacer Deck Board Spacer is its durability. Built from high-quality materials, this tool is designed to withstand the rigors of repeated use, ensuring you get the most out of your investment. Whether you’re building a new deck or renovating an old one, SealSpacer offers precision, safety, and efficiency that you won’t get from other methods like using nails or makeshift spacers.
If you’re ready to take your deck-building project to the next level, Imus Seal SealSpacer Deck Board Spacer is the tool you need for professional-quality deck spacing. Say goodbye to the hassle of nails or flimsy jigs, and hello to perfectly spaced deck boards. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a DIYer just starting out, SealSpacer ensures a flawless finish every time.