Is joist tape really necessary on pressure-treated lumber?

Yes. Pressure treatment protects against insects and ground contact, but the top surface of a joist traps water from rain and condensation. Joist tape prevents this trapped moisture from rotting the wood.

Does joist tape affect screw holding power?

No. Butyl-based joist tapes self-seal around screw and nail penetrations. The fastener maintains full engagement with the wood while the tape seals the hole against water intrusion.

DeckWise

Joist Protection

WiseWrap® JoistTape™ Butyl

Name: WiseWrap® JoistTape™ Butyl
Brand: DeckWise
Availability: InStock

WiseWrap® Butyl JoistTape™ features a high-performance butyl hybrid adhesive that maintains adhesion at temperatures as low as 25°F—extending the building season in cold climates. The polypropylene backing provides high strength and slip resistance during installation. Self-seals around screws, nails, and fasteners to prevent water infiltration and wood rot. Ideal for colder weather installations where standard asphalt-based tapes lose adhesion. 1-5/8" width is perfect for single joists and narrow applications.

Select Option

Choose your preferred option and quantity below.

1-5/8" Butyl

1 Roll

JTB-1.625x50

1-5/8" x 50' •

$24.99

per unit

3-1/8" Butyl

1 Roll

JTB-3.125x50

3-1/8" x 50' •

$34.99

per unit

Why Choose Joist Protection?

Extends joist life

Prevents rot and decay

Easy application

Self-sealing around fasteners

How Joist Tape Prevents Deck Rot

Clean the Joist Tops

Brush off sawdust, dirt, and moisture from every joist surface. The tape bonds best to clean, dry wood — even pressure-treated lumber benefits.

Roll Out the Tape

Unroll the self-adhering butyl tape along the top of each joist. Press firmly as you go. Overlap seams by at least 2″ to prevent water wicking between layers.

Seal the Ledger

The ledger board connection is the single most failure-prone joint on any deck. Apply ledger flashing tape from the top of the ledger down and over the face, lapping onto the house wrap.

Fasten Through the Tape

When you drive screws or nails through joist tape, the butyl compound self-seals around each penetration — maintaining the waterproof barrier even at fastener points.

Pro Tip from Our Deck Specialists

Even pressure-treated joists rot at the top surface where water pools under decking. Joist tape is cheap insurance that can add a decade or more to your substructure life.

Joist Protection — Common Questions

Frequently Bought Together

Accessories that pair well with joist protection for a complete installation.

Fast LTL freight delivery

Quality Guaranteed

Professional-grade products

In Stock

Ready to ship today

Expert Support

Call 1-844-674-4455

Need Help Choosing the Right Accessory?

Our deck specialists have installed thousands of hardwood decks and can recommend the exact accessories for your project, species, and climate.