Starborn Industries · Deck Protection
JOISTCOTE™ Deck Frame Coating
A water-based alternative to traditional deck joist tape, designed to protect deck framing and simplify installation.
Brush or roll on protective coverage for deck framing—including areas where applying tape can be difficult.
Product Overview
Starborn JOISTCOTE™ is a water-based protective coating designed to help protect and extend the service life of deck framing. Instead of cutting and fitting strips of joist tape, the coating can be applied directly to suitable framing surfaces using a brush or roller.
Its smooth, non-tacky finish, quick set time, and easy soap-and-water cleanup make it a practical option for deck builders looking to save time and labor. JOISTCOTE is especially useful for coating framing details where tape can be difficult to apply.
Key Features & Benefits
Deck Tape Alternative Apply a protective coating directly to deck framing without cutting and fitting tape around every detail.
Helps Protect Deck Framing Designed to help protect the deck frame and extend its service life.
Brush or Roller Application Apply with a bristle brush or a minimum 2-inch high-density roller.
Smooth, Non-Tacky Finish Dries to a smooth finish without tackiness when properly applied and dry.
Efficient Jobsite Application Helps save installation time and labor, particularly around framing details where tape is difficult to use.
Water-Based Formula Cleans up with soap and warm water.
Freeze/Thaw Stable Designed to be freeze/thaw stable. Follow the manufacturer's storage instructions and protect the product from freezing during storage.
Product Specifications
Formula Water-based protective coating
Coverage 1 gallon covers approximately 480 linear feet, according to Starborn.
Recommended Tools Bristle brush or minimum 2-inch high-density roller
Dry to Touch Approximately 30–60 minutes, depending on conditions
Full Cure Approximately 24 hours
Cleanup Soap and warm water
Application Instructions
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Prepare the product. Stir JOISTCOTE before use to ensure a consistent mixture.
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Prepare the surface. Remove debris from the framing before applying the coating.
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Check moisture conditions. Do not apply to oversaturated or wet surfaces. Pressure-treated lumber must be dry to the touch; normal dampness is acceptable.
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Apply the coating. Use a bristle brush or a minimum 2-inch high-density roller. Coat the surface generously until the wood grain is no longer visible and the finish appears completely opaque.
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Allow it to set and cure. The coating typically sets in 30–60 minutes and fully cures after approximately 24 hours. Actual times vary with temperature, humidity, and other weather conditions.
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Install deck boards at the right time. Install only after the coating has set and is completely dry to the touch.
Storage & Maintenance
Storage: Keep in a cool, ventilated area at temperatures no higher than 104°F. Protect from freezing. If frozen, allow the product to thaw before use.
Resealing: The container can be sealed and the product reused.
Shelf life: Use unopened product within one year.
Cleanup: Clean application tools with soap and warm water.
Pro Tip: Apply JOISTCOTE before installing the deck boards so the framing is accessible. Pay special attention to corners and other areas where conventional joist tape can be difficult to fit, and apply enough coating to achieve a fully opaque finish.
Important: Coverage and drying times are approximate and depend on application and weather conditions. Follow the manufacturer's instructions and allow the coating to become completely dry to the touch before installing deck boards.
