Deck Joist Tape vs Deck Joist Coating: Which is Better?

-

 

 

Your deck represents a significant investment, serving as more than just an outdoor retreat. Whether you constructed it yourself or enlisted the help of experts, safeguarding that investment must be your number one priority. Both deck builders and DIY enthusiasts understand that the lifespan of your deck heavily relies on the protection of its substructure, particularly the joists. This is where joist tape shines. But how does joist tape stack up against other deck protection strategies? Let’s dive in and explore.

 What is Joist Tape?

Joist tape is a waterproof butyl or acrylic adhesive tape that is applied to the top of deck joists before the deck boards are installed. Its primary purpose is to protect the joists from water infiltration and rot, extending the life of your deck by up to 2–3 times.

Benefits: 

  • Waterproof Barrier: Seals the top of joists, preventing moisture intrusion that causes rot.

  • Self Seals: Butyl Tapes Self Seal themselves when a screw or nail goes through the protective layer.

  •  Prevents Wood Splitting: Acts as a cushion between metal fasteners and wood, reducing the risk of splitting. 

  • Extends Substructure Life: Helps deck framing last as long as the surface boards.

  • Easy to Install: Peel-and-stick design speeds up application.

  • Cost-Effective: Compared to full flashing or joist caps, it’s inexpensive yet highly effective. 

     


     

Different Types of Joist Tape?

Butyl Tape 

Butyl Joist Tape like Resisto's Joist Guard is the most common type used in deck construction. It is thick, sticky, and highly effective at sealing wood against moisture. Some of the key characteristics include:

  • Durability – Once applied, it adheres permanently to the wood surface.
  • Waterproofing – Forms a strong seal that prevents water intrusion.
  • Weather Resistance – Withstands extreme temperatures and exposure to the elements.

However, butyl tape requires careful application. Once the backing is removed, it must be placed correctly, as repositioning can be nearly impossible. If two sticky sides of a strip of this tape touch, there is no separating them, and the strip becomes waste.

 

 Acrylic-Based Joist Tape

Acrylic-based joist tape, like G-Tape by Mitsubishi Nichigo, is a newer alternative that has gained popularity due to its ease of use. Key benefits include:

  • Reposition-able Application – Unlike butyl tape, acrylic tape does not stick to itself permanently, making it easier to handle. The full adhesive properties of this tape increase over time, and are fully set in a few hours, depending on the environmental temperatures.
  • Tears easily – Can be torn by hand, unlike butyl tape, which requires a knife or blade.
  • Weather and Temperature Resistance – Performs well in extreme temperatures.

G-Tape has become a favorite among contractors because it simplifies installation without sacrificing durability or effectiveness.


Deck Joist Frame Coating

 

Another effective solution for protecting your deck framing is the Roll-On Deck Frame Coating by FastenMaster. This product offers a liquid-applied roll-on alternative to joist tape and is ideal for those looking for a full-coverage method of sealing their framing components.

What is It?

FastenMaster’s Roll-On Deck Frame Coating is a durable, elastomeric coating designed to be applied directly to the top and sides of deck joists, beams, and ledger boards. Once cured, it forms a waterproof barrier that seals the surface against moisture and UV exposure.

  • Full Coverage Protection – Covers the entire surface, including edges, corners, and gaps where joist tape might not reach.
  • Easy Application – Can be rolled or brushed on like paint, making it simple for DIYers and professionals alike.
  • UV Resistant – Unlike some joist tapes, it provides protection from sun damage.
  • Adheres to Damp Wood – Allows for greater flexibility in weather conditions during application.
  • When temps are warm, coating can be ready for decking in 30-60 minutes.

 This coating is ideal for complex deck designs or areas where tape might be difficult to apply. This product is great for intricate blocking work on stairs, box steps, or heavy framing with sistered beams or joists.

Conclusion 

Protect your deck’s framing with deck joist tape, a cost-effective and powerful solution against moisture damage, rot, and fastener corrosion. By selecting either butyl or acrylic-based tape, or even FastenMaster’s innovative roll-on coating, you’re ensuring your deck remains resilient and lasts for years to come. 

Should you have any questions or need personalized recommendations, don’t hesitate to reach out to any of Chamberlain Timber Marts knowledgeable Team Members! 

 

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Quality cabinets are the heart of a gorgeous kitchen

-
Image
  The kitchen is often considered the heart of the home, and one of the most important features influencing both its functionality and style is the quality of the cabinets. Kitchen cabinets are the biggest feature in a kitchen and are often the most expensive element. They should maximize storage, be solidly built to last and look beautiful. From meal prep to organization, cabinets play a crucial role in everyday life. Whether you’re cooking, cleaning, or simply storing items, the importance of high-quality kitchen cabinets is felt daily. This is why investing in durable, well-crafted cabinetry is essential for both the longevity and performance of your kitchen. Below is a list of helpful tips to think about as you plan your renovation or remodel: Do you have young children and/or pets?   You may want to talk to your designer about the durability of various cabinet materials and the ease of keeping cabinets clean. How do you want to function in you...
Read more

Wood Siding vs. Aluminum Plank: Why Choose FastPlank® Systems?

-
Image
  With such a wide range of siding materials available on the market today, deciding on which is best for your project may feel overwhelming. Wood has long been a popular building material for it’s naturally beautiful grain, but rising costs and frequent maintenance are making it become less desirable overall. Customers often want the beautiful appearance of wood, but end up using newer materials that provide an easier installation and improved durability. Aluminum plank siding, like FastPlank ® , is one of these options, boasting outstanding longevity, durability and water management capabilities with little downside. FastPlank ® Systems offers the best of both worlds, by providing aluminum plank siding with natural wood grain designs. Those in the market can now choose from one of the many standard wood grain finishes ; including dramatic dark walnut and popular light cherry options (among others). This means that aluminum plank siding can be used to make modern, aff...
Read more

Spring clean-up: where to start

-
Image
  After a long winter and as the weather warms up into spring, Canadians start venturing outside. With this change of seasons, you can take advantage of the longer, warmer days by beginning your outdoor spring clean-up. Getting your property cleaned up now will make a big difference in how your property looks.    Yard Clean Up  Rake Excess Leaves  On one of the first dry days, its a good idea to rake any leaves left over from Fall. We recommend using a large poly leaf rake like this one .  Check for Litter Over winter, Litter can pile up around your curb or where snow is pushed. Once the snow has melted its a good idea to take walk around and pick up any litter you see.    Gardens  Clear Garden Beds Pull out and weeds that may have started growing in your gardens and any dead leave that may have found their way into them.  Replace any Missing Aggregate Over the winter months its not uncommon for Mulch or rocks to go missing, spring i...
Read more