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 Decking & Natural Railing FAQ
Product Characteristics
Installation and Fasteners
Latitudes Ornamental Railing FAQ
Product Characteristics
Installation and Fasteners
Latitudes Luster Railing FAQ
Latitudes Decking & Natural Railing FAQ
Product Characteristics
What is Latitudes Composite Decking and Natural Railing made of?
It is made of wood and plastic that is extruded for strength. Latitudes Capricorn™ tropical decking is also made of wood and plastic, and is co-extruded with a durable polyethylene top layer for ultra low-maintenance performance. Capricorn tropical decking is fortified with the same proven Strandex® technology used in all Latitudes composite products. Find out why you should choose Latitudes for your next composite decking project.
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 over standard composite decking?
Latitudes Slotted Decking comes with a pre-machined 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”. The screws provided with the Equator hidden fastener have black painted heads to greatly reduce the potential glare caused by the sun, keeping the fasteners truly hidden.
What colors and styles do Latitudes Decking and Natural Railing come in?
Latitudes Decking is available in gray, cedar, redwood and walnut. Latitudes Natural Railing is made of all high-strength composites and is available in gray, cedar, redwood and walnut. Choose from a 6-foot moulded rail boxed kit or a 6-foot 2x4 rail boxed kit.
What colors and styles does Latitudes Slotted Decking come in?
Latitudes Slotted Decking is available in gray, cedar, redwood, walnut and two tropical colors in Adobe and Koa. The decking comes with the sides pre-slotted for use with our Equator hidden fastener.
What sizes and lengths do Latitudes Decking and Natural Railing come in?
Latitudes Decking is available in 12’, 16’ and 20’ lengths. Additional components include a 1/2" X 9 1/4 - 12' fascia board, 4”x4”-52” post sleeve, 6’ top 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 57/16” 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.
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 Natural Railing.
Does Latitudes Decking and Natural Railing fade?
Latitudes Decking and Natural Railing 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. Based on independent test research, it has been determined that Latitudes Capricorn tropical decking 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 slight 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 Natural 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. Two glass baluster kits will be required per 6-foot on-center section.
Will chlorine or other chemicals from a swimming pool damage Latitudes Decking and Natural 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 Natural 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 Natural Railing be stored and handled?
You can store it the same way you would store any wood product.
What are the main differences between Latitudes Slotted Decking and other composite decking products?
Latitudes is a versatile composite decking and railing product line. Our Equator hidden fastener allows for the expansion and contraction of the length and width that naturally occurs on composites. Latitudes Slotted Decking is available in six deck colors (Cedar, Gray, Redwood, Walnut and tropical colors in Adobe and Koa), with a reversible finish. Latitudes Natural Railing is available in four classic colors (Cedar, Gray, Redwood, and Walnut) and several railing styles to suit virtually any decking project. Latitudes Slotted Decking and Natural Railing offer long-lasting beauty, low-maintenance and easy installation.
What is the difference between Latitudes Slotted Composite Decking and wood?
Latitudes Slotted Decking combines 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 Slotted Decking. Latitudes Slotted Decking will not splinter like wood and installs with our Equator hidden fastener to provide a barefoot-friendly surface.
What is the difference between Latitudes Composite Decking and Natural Railing and wood?
Latitudes Decking and Natural 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 Natural Railing.
Why is composite decking more expensive than treated wood?
Composite decking is more expensive to manufacture. However, over time, the maintenance, repair and or replacement costs associated with wood outweigh the initial investment in a Latitudes deck.
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 Natural Railing and how much do they cost?
The complete Latitudes line is available at retail lumberyards, home centers and through distributors nationwide. 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 less than other high-end composite decking materials.
What is the difference between Latitudes moulded railing and 2x4 railing?
The moulded railing is a decorative railing and can be installed with natural composite balusters or ornamental round balusters. The 2x4 railing offers clean, straight lines and allows you to face mount ornamental arch, contour, rectangular and glass balusters. The natural composite balusters and ornamental round balusters can also be used with the 2x4 railing.
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 Natural Railing?
Conventional tools can be used with Latitudes for cutting, drilling, and fastening. For your safety remember to wear protective clothing and safety glasses.
What do I use to cut Latitudes Decking and Natural 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 (i.e. TrapEase® by OMG or SplitStop by Titan Metal Werks). These screws help prevent 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 (i.e. TrapEase® by OMG or SplitStop by Titan Metal Werks) for ease of installation. These screws help prevent 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 crush blocks necessary when building a Latitudes Natural Railing?
Yes, crush 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. Crush blocks add strength to the railing system and provide support to prevent the railing from sagging. Two crush blocks are required for rail sections 48” to 72” in length. Install one crush block for sections that span 24” to less than 48”. Crush blocks should be installed aligned beneath a baluster for maximum support.
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 tropical decking cannot be routed as it is co-extruded with a durable polyethylene outer shell.
What glue works well with Latitudes Decking and Natural 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. Capricorn decking is co-extruded and cannot be routed.
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, you can install Latitudes Decking over a concrete patio. 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 1/4" gap between the long edges of the deck boards. Drainage and ventilation are necessary for best product performance; therefore, we recommend shims to level the deck 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.
Does Latitudes Composite Decking and Natural 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. Latitudes Natural composite railing has been evaluated by engineers at an independent third party test laboratory. The results demonstrate Latitudes Natural railing, when installed according to the manufacturer’s installation instructions, complies with ICC-ES AC174-06, section 5.1 for use as a guardrail system.
Can Latitudes Decking and Natural Railing be used for structural applications?
No. While Latitudes Decking and Natural Railing provide superior surface integrity and strength, they are not suitable for structural applications.
Can Latitudes Decking and Natural 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. Latitude 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 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 Ornamental Railing FAQ
Product Characteristics
What does Latitudes Ornamental Railing consist of?
Latitudes Ornamental Railing consists of rails and posts combined with decorative balusters and post caps. The Round Baluster Kit, which is available in stainless, white, black and bronze includes 15- ¾” x 32” or ¾” x 36” aluminum balusters and 30 FastBall™ Connectors. The Round Baluster Kit is designed to work with the moulded rail. The Contour Baluster Kit, which is available in bronze and black includes 14- 1” x 32-1/4” or 1” x 40” aluminum balusters. The Rectangular and Arch Baluster Kits are available in bronze and black and include 14- 1” x 32-1/4” aluminum balusters. The Contour, Arch and Rectangular baluster kits are designed to work with the 2x4 rail and contain the required quantity of balusters and color coordinated screws to construct one 6-foot on-center railing.
What colors and styles does Latitudes Ornamental Railing 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 with color matching composite bases. The metal caps available are stainless with gray, redwood and walnut trim, copper with cedar trim, and stainless with redwood trim. The glass caps available are Grapevine Tiffany-style with gray trim, Sapphire glass or Garnet glass with gray trim, Sunflower Tiffany-style with cedar trim, and Mission Tiffany-style with redwood and walnut trim. Latitudes Solar Post Caps allow you to light up your deck without wiring or electricity and are available in pewter and white.
Does Latitudes Ornamental Railing meet building code requirements?
Latitudes Ornamental railing systems assembled with metal balusters, have been evaluated by engineers at an independent third party test laboratory. The results demonstrate that Latitudes Ornamental railing systems assembled with metal balusters, when installed according to the manufacturer’s installation instructions, comply with ICC-ES AC174-06, section 5.1 for use as a guardrail system. Latitudes Ornamental railing assembled with glass balusters is for decorative use only and can only be used in those applications where a structural railing is not required by building codes.
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 15 years. Each baluster is coated with a durable powder-coat finish.
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 Ornamental Railing?
Conventional tools can be used with Latitudes Ornamental Railing for cutting, drilling and fastening. A miter saw is needed to angle the round metal balusters for stairways. For your safety remember to wear protective clothing and safety glasses.
Are crush blocks necessary when building a Latitudes Ornamental Railing?
Yes, crush 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. Crush blocks add strength to the railing system and provide support to prevent the railing from sagging. Two crush blocks are required for rail sections 48” to 72” in length. Install one crush block for sections that span 24” to less than 48”. Crush blocks should be installed aligned beneath a baluster for maximum support.
Latitudes Luster Railing FAQ
Product Characteristics
Can Latitudes Luster be used with other decking products?
Latitudes Luster is versatile by design. The bronze railing complements many types of decking material including composite, vinyl, concrete or wood.
Does Latitudes Luster meet building code requirements?
Latitudes Luster co-extruded railing has been third party tested to meet the requirements of AC174.
Will Latitudes Luster expand and contract due to varying weather cycles?
Latitudes offers years of product performance with slight expansion or contraction due to varying weather cycles.
Can Latitudes Luster be built at varying angles?
Latitudes Luster can accommodate 90°, 45° and 22.5° angles.
Will Latitudes Luster fade over time?
Because Latitudes Luster railing is co-extruded with a durable acrylic top layer, virtually no fading will occur.
View our Care and Warranty FAQ’s to receive answers to your most common care and warranty questions.
