If you want a covered porch that you can enjoy all-year-round, then Tongue & Groove Porch Decking is the way to go. Porch decking has to be installed differently than standard decking, so here is an easy-to-follow guide:
First, make sure your porch has a pitch to allow for water drainage. With no gaps between the deck boards, moisture will collect and could damage your deck. The entire area must also be covered.
1. Tongue & Groove decking must be installed directly onto the joists, not a sub-floor, so that it can get adequate ventilation.
2. At a 45° angle, predrill into the seam where the boards will meet.
3. Drive a stainless steel trim head screw through your pilot hole and into the joist.
4. Slide the next deck board into place. It should cover up the trim screw head.
If installed correctly, your porch should have a seamless surface. Enjoy your new porch!