# Composite Decking Expansion & Contraction: Miters, Butt Joints & Breaker Boards Explained - The Deckheads Podcast

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/the-deckheads-podcast-477069/composite-decking-expansion-contraction-miters-butt-joints-breaker-boards-explained-the-deckheads-podcast
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/the-deckheads-podcast-477069/composite-decking-expansion-contraction-miters-butt-joints-breaker-boards-explained-the-deckheads-podcast.md
Podcast: [The Deckheads Podcast](https://stenobird.com/podcast/the-deckheads-podcast-477069)
Published: 2026-06-18T19:21:02+00:00
Episode link: https://thedeckheadspodcast.podbean.com/e/composite-decking-expansion-contraction-miters-butt-joints-breaker-boards-explained-the-deckheads-podcast/
Audio file: https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/ndi25mbkx8fghdqb/podcast_137ih4a.mp3
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JSON: https://stenobird.com/v1/public/podcasts/the-deckheads-podcast-477069/episodes/composite-decking-expansion-contraction-miters-butt-joints-breaker-boards-explained-the-deckheads-podcast
Duration seconds: 2427

## Resource

Are your mitered deck joints opening up after installation? You're not alone — it's one of the #1 callback reasons for deck builders. In this episode of The Deckheads Podcast we break down everything you need to know about managing joints in composite and PVC decking. 🔧 WHAT WE COVER: Why composite and PVC decking expands and contracts more than you'd expect Mitered joints vs. butt joints — which to use and when The "day 1 vs. day 100" rule for choosing your jointing method When miters are acceptable (hint: keep it under 12 feet) How to use breaker boards to define "rooms" and hide expansion Fascia corners — why you should avoid mitering fascia, and what to do instead Gap Cap: a new product that solves fascia corner and picture-frame joints Why you must follow manufacturer gapping instructions to keep your warranty How to protect yourself when a homeowner insists on a risky installation 🇨🇦 GAP CAP IN CANADA: We're the official Canadian distributor for Gap Cap. Canadian stock is landing soon — we'll be able to ship anywhere in the country. Builders and dealers: reach out about wholesale pricing. 🪵 BRANDS DISCUSSED:Deckorators Voyage • Eva-Last Apex Plus • Clubhouse PVC • Azek • Trex • Fiberon • Venture Decking 🛠️ PRODUCTS MENTIONED:Gap Cap • Axxent End Cut Paint • Marksman Pro X1 • Camo Fasteners Whether you're a pro builder or a serious DIYer, understanding how your decking moves with temperature is the difference between a deck that looks great on day one and one that still looks great years later. 🛒 Shop composite and PVC decking: www.tuds.ca📲 Follow us:Instagram: theultimatedeckshopFacebook: The Ultimate Deck Shop #CompositeDeck #DeckBuilding #PVCDecking #DeckInstallation #DeckTips #MiteredJoints #BreakerBoard #GapCap #Azek #Trex #DeckPodcast

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