Building or Renovating a Sun Deck

Regardless of the region you are located in, May and June are the pinnacle months for builders and contractors to quote on decking projects.

To save yourself time and reduce frustration on a decking project, builders and home owners both need to be sure to review some specific details before the project begins.

What is the right deck surface for you?

Reviewing the pros and cons of decking alternatives can be advantageous, even if you think you already know what you want. Builders can help customers compare decking material options beyond the initial product cost with future considerations such as durability, functionality and maintenance requirements with this convenient comparison chart.

When you see the advantages of a durable vinyl membrane over some of the other decking options, choosing the right vinyl is crucial. Duradek Ultra vinyl membranes are only installed by specially trained installers who know that when it comes to waterproofing, it's all in the details.

Refer to our handy Vinyl Purchase Checklist to assist in your decision making.

Substrate Considerations

Regardless of whether you are installing Duradek Ultra Vinyl Membrane for walkable surfaces, Duradek Ultra Tiledek as a waterproof tile underlayment, or Duradek Ultra Plazadek for waterproofing under overlay products - it is vitally important that you have installed your waterproof membrane as recommended.

This applies to installation techniques, but perhaps more importantly, taking into consideration the substrate that the membrane will be adhered to.

Concrete or Plywood: Application Techniques
are very specific to the type of substrate for
effective waterproofing

Duradek ensures all installation recommendations are kept up-to-date with the changes of industry standards and available materials.

 For best-practices n the application of Duradek membranes and proper substrate requirements, refer to the Techtalk bulletins issued for the following:

Techtalk #126 - Plywood Substrate Recommendations for Canada
Techtalk #126 - Plywood Substrate Recommendations for U.S.
Techtalk #126 - Supplement for Plywood Recommendations
Techtalk #140 - Concrete Substrate Recommendations
Techtalk #161 - Application to Prepared Surfaces

Proper Planning - Work Smarter, Not Harder

In a perfect world, you know exactly what you want before you get started, but in reality you may be uncertain and make requests for details once the project has begun. Be sure to make some important inquiries and critical observations to ensure you will be satisfied and the time and cost involved in your project is spent most effectively.

Is the deck a new structure or are you renovating an existing deck?

• Will you have the desire for dry storage space underneath your deck?
• If it is an existing deck predating current building codes, is there a safety evaluation before renovations begin?

 Is the deck above existing or potential habitable space below?

• Is the deck adequately sloped for proper water flow?
• Does the waterproofing material meet building codes for both pedestrian and roofing applications?

 Is there potential for the installation of exterior tile?

• Is the deck over habitable space requiring a roofing approved waterproofing membrane?
• Is there adequate space allowance for assembly build-up considering clearance for door frames?

May is Deck Safety Month® - The North America Deck & Railing Association (NADRA) provides a handy Deck Evaluation Form to assist you in determining the scope of the project.