- 1. Choose the Right Equipment: To ensure seamless installation, use a 3/8” or 1/2” electric drill. We advise against using battery-powered drills as they may not provide the required torque and power for optimal results.
- The key to a successful installation lies in the proper pre-drilling of the holes. Use a drill bit with a diameter matching the inside diameter of the screw threads. For 1/4" x 20 Trailer Deck Screws, we recommend a 7/32" (0.2188") drill bit, while for 5/16" x 18 Trailer Deck Screws, a 9/32" (0.2812") drill bit is recommended. Precise pre-drilling ensures a snug fit and enhances the overall structural integrity of the trailer.
- 2. Pre-Drilling: After laying the decking, locate the crossmembers and mark the locations for hole drilling. At each spot where the trailer deck wood passes over a crossmember, mark two holes about 1" from each edge of the board. With the selected drill bit, carefully drill through the wood and the underlying metal crossmember. Continue driving the trailer floor screws through the wood and crossmembers just below the surface of the wood so nothing is sticking up. Move on to the next crossmember and repeat.
- Depending on the width of the wood being installed, the crossmember width, and personal preference, either 1 or two screws can be installed. We suggest 2 screws for proper board hold down.
- 3. Countersinking: For a neat and professional finish, use a tapered bit (countersink bit) to cut a bevel around the top of each hole. The countersinking process allows the head of the Trailer Deck Screw to sit below or level with the surface of the deck board, preventing any protrusions that could interfere with the cargo.
- Before inserting the self-threading Trailer Deck Screw, ensure that the drilled holes are thoroughly cleaned with compressed air. Any sawdust or metal filings left behind can hinder the screw's threads, impeding its ability to secure the wood tightly to the metal crossmember below. To ensure maximum holding power and load security, it is imperative not to allow the wood or the screw to sit above the trailer deck surface.
- 4. Secure Installation: Drive the Trailer Floorboard Screws through the wood and crossmembers, just below the surface of the wood, ensuring nothing sticks up that could cause interference. Properly installed screws provide the necessary hold-down for the boards, guaranteeing that your cargo remains securely in place during transit.
- Board Replacement: When replacing boards, avoid reusing old screw holes, as they may compromise the screw's ability to grip and cut threads into the crossmember. Instead, install new screws and holes approximately 1/4" away from the edge of the crossmember, towards the vertical section. This practice maintains the overall strength and stability of the trailer's structure. The new holes and screws will be close to the old ones which is fine.
- 5. DeckWise® Wise Oil® Premium Hardwood Trailer Deck Finish: We recommend DeckWise® Wise Oil® Premium Hardwood Trailer Deck Finish which is the finest quality exterior wood stain ever made for trailer floorboards. A proprietary blend of components including Linseed Oil, Trans Oxide Pigments, UV Blockers and a Fungicide give our Wise Oil® the longest lasting protections available.
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