The Value of a Roof Deck in Urban Real Estate

Citizens of major urban centers all over North America have embraced the value of rooftop decks, but perhaps none more so than Baltimoreans. Whether the view is of the city skyline or the harbor, rooftop decks are an extension of the home and contribute to its overall value, although harbor views will always contribute a significantly higher value.

Even in communities that are not traditionally known for skyline or water views, rooftop decks have become a valued commodity. For example, the Rivercrossing Townhome community in Logan, Utah distinguished itself by adding the element of rooftop decks and automatically increased the square footage of the home by incorporating outdoor living space. (download "Creating Value in Real Estate and Quality of Life").

The Baltimore Sun recently published an article on the topic of rooftop decks and a local real estate agent is quoted as claiming that rooftop decks with a harbor view could add $100,000 to the value of a house, and even a partial harbor view could add $50,000. While not every urban center can expect an increased value with roof decks to that extreme, construction professionals estimate that a roof deck adds at least $5,000 to a home's appraisal, and often more. But the real value to the homeowner is certainly subjective based on how much they actually use deck.

That brings us to one of the factors to consider in adding a rooftop deck to your home - the convenience factor. While new builds often take into consideration that a rooftop deck needs to be easily accessed from the inside of the house, sometimes rooftop deck additions can only be accessed from pre-existing lower level decks. On average, most residential roof decks will be used much more when they can be accessed directly from inside the home.

Another factor  to consider when adding a rooftop deck is the waterproofing. When a deck is over living space, it is critical that the waterproofing performs and protects the entire home from water damage. Products like Duradek Ultra vinyl membranes that are ICC approved as a roofing membrane can provide warrantied waterproof protection. Additionally, finishing your rooftop deck with a Duradek vinyl membrane means that you do not have to worry about any annual maintenance like sanding, staining or painting. Once the Duradek vinyl membrane is installed, all you need to do on your rooftop deck is enjoy it.

(View the Baltimore Sun's photo gallery of Rooftop Decks - note #14 is a Duradek deck....and requires WAY less maintenance than the many wood deck images showing fading, unprotected wood.)

Monument Place - By Duradek MidAtlantic

Duradek is available through authorized dealers in most communities all across North America. If you are in the Baltimore area and would like to discuss building or resurfacing your rooftop deck, contact Duradek MidAtlantic for a free estimate.

Trex Composite Decking Customers need to Check for Broken Deck Boards

Composite decking is such a great product in theory, but the reality of its performance has repeatedly left many of its customers disappointed, frustrated and out of pocket.

The Wall Street Journal’s Marketwatch.com website posted a press release on July 9th with an update from Trex Company, Inc., the world’s largest manufacturer of wood-alternative decking and railing products.  Trex is once again notifying consumers in 16 states who may have purchased defective Trex decking product that results in excessive surface flaking.


Screenshot of The Wall Street  Journal's Marketwatch.com

Previously, Trex announced that a small percentage of boards manufactured at their Nevada plant between 2002 and 2007 suffered from surface flaking due to a manufacturing problem. Now, not only is it alarming for composite deck owners to hear that this Trex notification is happening again, but the reason for the reminder notice is even more disturbing. Claims are starting to come in where badly flaking deck boards that had not yet been replaced have broken. This takes a frustrating appearance issue and elevates it to a potential safety issue.  Is the price of composite decking really worth the cost?

Screen Shot - Google Search: Composite Decking Problems

Trex customers who have the flaking composite boards on their deck are encouraged to contact the company to receive replacement materials by participating in their established replacement program. While the fact that an ‘established replacement program’ was required in the first place does not instil much confidence in the product, it was likely established after the 2010 class action settlement was approved.  (As of January 9th, 2013 legal firm Seeger Weiss LLP was also investigating claims for a class action suit against Trex).  The 2010 class action settlement provides a comprehensive replacement program under the terms of which provide replacement materials for the flaking composite deck boards…but only a portion of the labor. That’s right….the homeowners are stuck paying for a portion of replacing the defective product.

Here are a couple of forums on the topic of Trex. It is very interesting to see the range of comments from both contractors and homeowners that span from 2009 to 2013. Check them out and decide for yourself.

• BobVila.com - Trex Decking Problems
• ContractorTalk.com - Why is Trex Bad

Choose a Low Maintenance Decking Product You Can Rely On – Duradek Vinyl Deck Membranes

There are other reliable and time-tested ways to enjoy a low maintenance deck. Duradek vinyl deck membranes have been successfully waterproofing decks and balconies in all North American climates for nearly 40 years. The leader in PVC waterproofing, Duradek has watched many manufacturers over the years put a product out on the market that has not been able to live up to its claims in the long term. Sometimes the manufacturing technology simply does not yet exist to meet the ideal criteria, and this has been seen from some vinyl decking manufacturers as well.

Invest your deck building or renovating dollars with a product that has a proven performance history. For a low maintenance, waterproof deck surface that has repeatedly proven that it exceeds its performance guarantees through multiple warranty cycles, choose Duradek for your deck or roof deck needs.



Duradek pvc membranes protect your deck structure and

require no maintenance other than seasonal cleaning.

Deck Autopsy: The Cause of the Collapse

Two weeks after the high profile deck collapse in Ocean Isle Beach, NC the speculation continues on what caused the sudden collapse that sent 21 family members to hospital after attempting a group photo on the deck of the ocean front vacation home. While 25 family members were gathered on the deck, it suddenly gave out and everyone from the infants to the elderly crashed down with the debris to the concrete patio below. Fortunately, there were no fatalities but several traumatic injuries left this family with far different vacation memories than they were hoping to create.

There are several theories on what may have caused the deck to collapse and while this is not a forensic report of the actual cause on this particular collapse, we are going to look at the possible contributors and what you can do to prevent this kind of tragedy on your deck.

WBTV 3 News, Weather, Sports, and Traffic for Charlotte, NC

Possible Causes of Deck Collapse

Not Built to Code – Not Likely
This deck was inspected when it was built in 2003 so it was built to state building code laws. Although further deck inspections are not a legal requirement unless requested, Ocean Isle Beach Mayor Debbie Smith says, “These oceanfront decks need to be held to a higher standard than North Carolina laws require.” This comment addresses the environmental contributors for decks in any coastal community such as high salt content in the air and heavy winds.

Overloading – Possible, But Unlikely
While the possibility of too much weight for the deck has been discussed, in the case of the Ocean Isle Beach collapse it is unlikely. North Carolina Building Inspectors Association President Glenn Batten says that the deck should have held that many people. State law requires a deck to be built to support 40 lbs per square foot, but to accommodate other features like hot tubs or heavy planters, decks are often built to accommodate 50 – 100 lbs per square foot.

Storm Damage – Possible
Glenn Batten goes on to say that the fact the deck collapsed tells him the deck may have suffered hurricane damage. Fasteners could have been pulled and stretched to their limits. While this is not necessarily the main contributing factor in this case, again it brings the environmental factors into the equation where heavy winds and salt air can age a deck much quicker than in inland areas and require more maintenance and commitment to regular annual inspections.

Wood Rot – Most Likely
The video footage of the resulting collapse of this deck seems to indicate that the ledger board and framing of the deck remained intact, but the central collapse of the deck boards indicates that supporting joists were the most vulnerable.

Contributing Editor for Professional Deck Builder Magazine, Kim Katwijk has been tracking deck collapses for 4 years and researching back a further 9 years. Kim says there are two main reasons for deck failures.

1 – The ledger: (the board that runs parallel to the side of the house and supports the edge of the deck, securing it to the house) is just nailed onto the house. Half the weight of the deck is on the ledger board and nails have a tendency to slide out over time.



All wood - even treated wood - will rot if not protected.
Wait too long to waterproof your wood deck, and
you will be rebuilding it.

2 – ROT!: Decks that have not been built correctly or have not been maintained are more susceptible to damage and weakening due to rot. Look for rot’s discoloration in the lumber or anything growing out of the wood. Test for rot by stabbing the wood with a sturdy knife point. If your knife goes in more than one quarter of an inch or you find spongy spots, that means the wood is decaying. If only a few boards are damaged, replace them. You cannot get away with leaving the rotten boards and putting a new board beside it. This will only accelerate the rot by providing fresh food for it. The rot will quickly invade the new board. If you find soft spots in the support posts or beams, you will need to rebuild the deck. (This requires a building permit.) To minimize future problems, hire a professional that specializes in decks. (see link at the bottom of post for helpful tips on selecting a decking contractor.)

Kim Katwijk also advises, “Assess whether the structure is solid. When you walk on the deck, you should not feel it move. It should not tilt. The railing should be firm and not moveable. The fasteners should not be loose or corroded. If you own a wood deck, you should clean and seal the boards every year.”

If annual maintenance like sanding and sealing your wood deck is not something you can realistically commit to performing, you may want to consider an alternate option that has proven successful waterproofing results to keep your deck safe from wood rot.

Keep Your Deck Safe From Wood Rot With Duradek

The waterproof protection of Duradek vinyl membranes
allow you to enjoy a maintenance free deck without
the worry of water damage or wood rot.

Duradek, the original vinyl waterproof membrane has been protecting decks, balconies and roof decks in all North American climates for nearly 40 years. Whether your deck is over living space or over a patio below, Duradek is building code approved as a walkable roofing membrane. Using a Duradek professionally installed waterproof membrane means that not only is the area under your deck completely protected, but water is kept out of the entire deck structure, which Prevents Rot from being able to occur!

Duradek Ultra vinyl membranes provide an attractive walking surface and superior waterproofing performance in a one-time application. It is warrantied to last for 10 years and is known for a life expectancy that can double that, with no sanding, staining or re-coating required. The only thing you need to do to keep your Duradek looking great is a seasonal cleaning (in addition to the annual inspection you should be performing no matter what type of deck waterproofing you use).

Additionally, Duradek is available only through a network of trained and authorized installers that are well-versed in the intricacies of professional deck waterproofing. If you would like to get a free estimate on protecting your outdoor living space and keeping your deck safe, contact a Duradek dealer near you.

Useful Resource: Checklist for Selecting Your Decking Contractor (downloadable pdf)

Just Announced - Duradek Chosen as One of the Best New Products for 2013

Duradek vinyl membranes have been selected by Professional Builder Magazine as one of the Top 101 New Products for 2013. Details on the top 101 products will be featured in the August edition of Professional Builder Magazine.

Having been the leader in vinyl deck membranes for nearly 40 years, we are very proud to have been selected as one of the best new products with our latest innovative and stylish design options for our time-proven waterproof decking membranes.

Duradek's latest vinyl options include two exceptional designs manufactured right here in North America.

Duradek Ultra Cork line of vinyl membranes are a very stylish and contemporary looking walking surface for your outdoor living space with 4 distinct and attractive color shades that compliment most exterior design schemes.

 

Available Duradek Ultra Cork Colors:

• Espresso
• Graphite
• Macchiato
• Natural

 

Duradek Ultra Cork Natural

Duradek Ultra Cork Natural was the ideal choice for this multi-level deck that now has dry storage below for their mower and landscaping equipment. Installed by Quality Vinyl Sundecks.

Duradek Ultra Forest Floor vinyl membranes are a truly innovative design, inspired by nature an appealing to homeowners who like a unique, yet subtle look to blend harmoniously with the natural environment. These neutral shades are versatile and beautifully connect your home's exterior and landscaping.

Available Duradek Ultra Forest Floor Colors:

• Alder
• Ash
• Birch

Duradek Ultra Forest Floor Ash

Duradek Ultra Forest Floor Ash beautifully blends with the natural environment on this expertly installed custom deck. Installed by HTR Duradek.

To discuss using Duradek for your low-maintenance deck or balcony waterproofing, contact one of our trained and authorized Duradek dealers near you.

Remodeling Cost vs. Value in Decking: Composite, Vinyl or Wood

Remodeling Magazine has recently published its Remodeling Cost vs. Value Report 2013 and it indicates that outdoor living space is among the most cost-effective improvements a homeowner can make.

The National Data for this report comes from 81 U.S. cities and compares the average cost for 35 popular remodeling projects with the value those projects retain at resale. This year’s report is a positive sign for the remodeling industry as the 2013 National average cost-value ratio rose to 60.6%, ending a 6-year decline.

The South Atlantic region ranked as the 3rd highest for cost recouped on home improvement projects, mostly attributed to low construction costs, along with the West South Central region who ranked 2nd. Ranking 1st was the Pacific region where despite having the highest construction costs, high resale values kept the cost-value ratio as the best in the country.

Outdoor living space was highlighted in the top value projects with decking ranked 3rd.  Stemming from this report, the Florida-Times-Union’s  Jacksonville.com website featured an article ‘Expanded outdoor spaces make area homes more marketable’ comparing wood decks made with pressure treated wood and decks made from composite decking in that region.  However, a third alternative, decking with Duradek vinyl membranes makes a cost-effective option for the most efficient use of your deck remodelling dollars.

General Estimate Comparison for a 16 x 20 Foot Deck

* Estimates based on Jacksonville, FL market. Wood and Composite estimate from Pratt Custom Services; Vinyl deck estimate from Rowe Roofing.

16 x 20 ft. Wood Deck (with pressure treated wood): $7,900

While a wood deck has the lowest initial construction investment, wood decks require regular maintenance to maintain structural integrity. Pressure treated or not, all wood rots if not properly waterproofed. If not regularly maintained, these decks can often become water damaged and need to be replaced which means all that pressure treated wood ends up in the landfills leeching harmful chemicals into the environment. (See Case History #134 for an example).

Wood Rot on Pressure Treated Wood Deck

16 x 20 ft. Composite Deck: $13,900

A higher initial investment, composite decks do not require regular maintenance for waterproofing. However composite decking is still a relatively young product and can yield unpredictable results. For a more detailed look some of the concerns about composite decking, refer to Composite Decking Vs. Vinyl Decking articles on:

• Price,
• Appearance, and
• Performance.

Composite Deck Boards Showing Signs of Flaking.

16 x 20 ft. Duradek Vinyl Deck (with non-treated wood): $11,700

Duradek vinyl decking is a low maintenance decking product requiring only seasonal cleaning to stay looking great. Duradek is also an economical and environmentally responsible choice. Duradek is applied to non-treated wood and has a very long life expectancy if properly cared for. While the waterproofing warranty is for 10-years, Duradek’s longevity often exceeds double that, being replaced more for updating the look of your outdoor living space than for waterproofing integrity.

Duradek Vinyl provides roof grade waterproof protection
for use over living space or simply dry storage below.

Check for Yourself

When investigating costs for any home renovation project, it is always a good idea to get a few different estimates. In addition to a quality product, you also need a qualified contractor for the job.

Duradek vinyl membranes are only available through a network of trained and authorized dealers who are skilled in the specialty of deck waterproofing. If you’d like to consider Duradek for your outdoor living space, you can contact Rowe Roofing in the Jacksonville area, or find a dealer in your area for a free estimate.

Duradek vinyl membranes have been protecting decks for nearly 40 years. Its performance is proven with over 125 million square feet of decking in all North American climates.

Additional Resource

For another perspective on the value of outdoor living space, see Creating Value in Real Estate and Quality of Life.

Nothing Lasts Forever, But Duradek Outlasts the Rest

Recently, Duradek released the results of some Accelerated Weather Testing putting Duradek and another vinyl brand to the test (ASTM G90). The testing continues and shows that over time, the vinyl brand that features a coating layer that is intended to protect the vinyl from scuffs and marks actually works against the overall appearance by excessive darkening from UV exposure.

These pictures show the progression of equally controlled accelerated weather testing, conducted during the course of the last year by third-party material testing provider, Atlas Material Testing in Phoenix, Arizona. The images on the left are Duradek, the original vinyl membrane and the samples on the right are another vinyl brand.



Accelerated Weather Testing Comparison.

ASTM G90 is a widely used outdoor accelerated weathering test method. It concentrates natural sunlight via 10 highly reflective, specially coated mirrors onto the specimen target area with an intensity of approximately eight suns. The device tracks the sun and exposes specimens to the full spectrum of sunlight, making it one of the most realistic accelerated tests available.

While the Duradek samples on the left show a small amount of fading that you would expect from constant UV exposure of the course of several years*, the vinyl on the right that features a clear-coat surface shows some very disturbing and excessive darkening. While this likely would not affect the membrane’s waterproofing performance, it is most certainly not the look most homeowners would choose for their outdoor living space.

* exact real-time equivalent of accelerated weathering measured in MJ UV will vary from region to region.

Looks Aren’t Everything, But…

The peace of mind gained from a waterproof deck surface should not be lost to disappointing
appearance results. When you invest in a product that is meant to last, we want you to enjoy it
throughout its lifetime.

While any item vulnerable to constant UV exposure and other environmental elements will experience weathering effects over time, you have every right to be satisfied that your decking product will not undergo dramatic appearance changes. When a product (or a new product feature) has only been in use for a fraction of its promised warranty, how can you really be sure that the product will perform as intended?

For your peace of mind and best investment for your home renovation dollar, choose building products that have a solid history. Duradek has been produced by the same manufacturer since 1974, which means Duradek has performed successfully for 4 complete warranty cycles. There is no guess-work involved. The performance has been proven on over 125 million square feet of deck surfaces in all North American climates.

With a proven history, an industry leading warranty that covers 10-years of waterproof protection AND a 5-year appearance warranty to protect you from excessive discoloration, Duradek is the clear choice for a beautifully finished waterproof deck surface.

Download Accelerated Weathering Progression (.pdf)

The ‘What’ and the ‘Who’ of Your Outdoor Living Space

With summer upon us there has been a lot of discussion on deck makeovers and decking trends.

Recently ABC2 News’s Charlie Crowson featured “Look Before You Leap When Choosing Between a Deck or a Patio” (see video below).  With so many design and product options, giving consideration to terrain, weather and what you will be using your outdoor living space for will help you to choose what type of deck or patio is right for you.

Angie Hicks of Angie’s List says, “You also need to consider what the lifelong maintenance is as well. For instance, a wood deck is less expensive than a composite deck to install initially but requires more maintenance.”

This consideration is where Duradek really stands out from other decking options. Duradek is an ideal low-maintenance product. After its single-ply installation, Duradek can be used immediately and never needs any ongoing maintenance. A simple seasonal cleaning is all you need to do to keep your Duradek vinyl deck looking great.



While this report discusses the popular trends of larger size decks and incorporating multiple levels for distinction of separate areas, one of the most important points mentioned is that deck building is not a DIY project.

Ironically, a Duradek installation video demonstration was recently included on the DIY Factory website; however Duradek is not a do-it-yourself product. Deck building and the waterproofing aspect in particular are very much specialty skills and it is well worth your investment to hire a pro.

In fact, this is why Duradek is only available through a network of authorized installers who have been trained in the intricate details of deck waterproofing. And when it comes to hiring contractors, it is always a good idea to do your research. Angie’s List advice says it is critical to hire licensed contractors and never sign a contract until you read the small print. You definitely want to be sure you know exactly what you are getting.

For example, when you choose Duradek vinyl for your deck because of its 10-year warranty and nearly 40 years of successful deck waterproofing all across North America….make sure it is really Duradek that your contractor is providing. As the pioneer in PVC waterproofing, the “Duradek” brand is often synonymous with vinyl membranes the same way “Kleenex” is often used as the generic term for disposable tissues. If you are going to choose a vinyl deck, it is important to remember to choose a vinyl that you know has reliably performed through several warranty cycles.

To help you navigate your way through your selection process, we’ve put together some helpful checklists on key considerations when it comes time to build or renovate your deck or patio.

• Vinyl Purchase Checklist
• Railing Purchase Checklist
• Contractor Selection Checklist

5 Do’s and Don’ts for Enjoying Your Summer Holidays on Your Vinyl Deck

Patriotic holidays and vacation time are a favorite  part of summer, and while there are abundant activities to choose from on these occasions, home owners that have great outdoor living space often prefer avoiding the crowds and celebrating with friends and family in their own back yard.

Here are a few ways Duradek can help make a good thing better while you enjoy your deck or balcony during your summer holidays.

Do Enjoy Your Deck By:

1 - Basking in the Sun:

If you like nothing more than catching some rays as you kick back on a lounger on your deck, this simple pleasure is easy to do from any exposed deck. Just remember to put on the sunscreen for UV protection. UV protection is not overlooked on your Duradek vinyl deck. Duradek vinyl is manufactured with built in UV inhibitors to protect it from the sun’s damaging rays. In fact, Duradek stands up very well to UV exposure compared to other vinyl options as proven by our Accelerated Weather Testing and our 40 years decking experience. 

2 - Lounging in the Shade:

If you have a more delicate constitution than your sun-worshiping counter parts, an elevated deck protected with Duradek vinyl provides a great covered area for a lower level deck that allows you to enjoy the summer weather without being exposed to the direct sunlight.

3 - Fun with the Kids:

Your deck is an ideal place to keep the kids engaged and happy with fun crafting projects like painting, coloring or games. With Duradek vinyl, spills are easily cleaned and you don’t have to worry about splinters in little bare feet.

4 - Cooling off in the Pool:

If you are fortunate enough to have a pool in your yard, Duradek makes a great surface for pool surrounds. The textured surface provides some slip resistance, and the low maintenance longevity of Duradek vinyl allows you to spend more time in the pool and less time maintaining the pool deck.



Duradek vinyl makes a great surface for around the pool area.

5 - Barbecues:

Arguably one of the most popular summertime activities, barbecues on the balcony are a great way to enjoy the company of friends and family and makes your deck a great social gathering place. Grease drips, spilled barbecue sauce and condiments are not a problem for the easy-to-clean vinyl deck surface. Just don’t leave the spills too long or a simple wiping off the surface may become a more involved scrubbing cleaning.

Don’t Enjoy Your Deck By:

1 - Darts or Throwing Knives:

Unless you can guarantee all participants are world class champions, any activity that involves throwing sharp objects should be avoided on a vinyl deck. Duradek Ultra vinyl is a quality 60 mil PVC membrane that provides a completely water-tight seal when applied to your deck surface. Punctures, however miniscule, may allow moisture to navigate its way underneath the vinyl and comprise the waterproofing integrity.

2 - Fireworks:

While Duradek vinyl is made to meet a Class A fire rating for fire resistance, we don’t recommend you participating in any activity with excessive sparks or open flame that can come into direct contact with your vinyl deck. Save the fireworks for the community gatherings or at least a safe distance from your home.

3 - Dragging Heavy or Sharp Objects:

While barbecues or other appliances for an outdoor kitchen area, decorative lighting and fire features are a popular choice for personalizing your deck, be sure to add it to your deck carefully. Heavy objects such as these may have sharp edges that can result in puncturing the vinyl if dragged. Use a dolly if you can, or use a protective drop sheet along the path you are moving your heavy item.

4 - Cut things:

Crafting is a favorite activity to take outdoors in the summer time, but if you are working on your Duradek vinyl deck remember that you should never cut anything directly on the deck surface. Carefully cutting out a cardboard figure with a utility knife for your child may have you smacking yourself on the forehead when you lift it up to admire your work and notice an exact replica of the shape outlined in the surface of your vinyl. While often cuts can be repaired by a Duradek dealer visiting your home armed with a heat gun, you may end up on a waiting list for these specialized services, and the longer cuts in your vinyl remain, the more your deck structure is exposed to risk of moisture invasion. Think ahead and put down a piece of plywood or other hard surface before cutting anything on your vinyl deck surface.

5 - Overloading Capacity:

No matter what type of surface you have finished your deck with, the structural load bearing weight of your deck or balcony is not unlimited. Factors such as outdoor furniture, fire features, hot tubs and heavy planters all contribute to the weight load on your deck. Keep in mind that if your deck is built to code, in most cases it will likely have been built to carry 60 pounds per square inch. But the challenge for most people is not knowing if their deck is built to code.


Gulf Shores deck collapse in March 2013 - for AL.com

The North America Deck and Rail Association estimates that there are over 40 million decks in the U.S. that are over 20 years old and built prior to current building code standards. If you want to investigate this for yourself a little further and need details for deck load capacity, Ideas for Deck Designs offers some practical guidelines. A better safe than sorry approach may be worth keeping in mind when you are hosting gatherings on your deck, and if you are going to party on the patio, do it safely.