Monday, December 23, 2013
Thursday, December 19, 2013
Duradek Offers Free Registration for 2 Great Industry Shows in Vegas
Builders and remodelers have two great industry events to chose from in the coming weeks and both are great excuses to book yourself a ticket to Las Vegas.
You may still be checking off your Christmas list, but if you are in the light construction industry you might want to put one of these great building industry shows on the list for yourself. The beauty of this kind of business trip is that you can get a lot of exposure to product information and some solid networking accomplished with virtually no cost...you just have to get yourself there!
Duradek invites you to register for free exhibit hall admission to The International Surfaces Event or The International Builders Show in Las Vegas in early 2014.
Whether you are looking for a fantastic waterproof decking solution or an excellent business opportunity to expand your contracting services, you will benefit from coming down and talking with Duradek president John Ogilvie or sales manager Kevin MacMillan.
January 28 - 30, 2014
Visit Duradek at Surfaces - Booth #B2339
Register for free exhibit hall admission!
February 4 - 6, 2014
Visit Duradek at IBS - Booth #S1919
Register for free exhibit hall admission!
You may still be checking off your Christmas list, but if you are in the light construction industry you might want to put one of these great building industry shows on the list for yourself. The beauty of this kind of business trip is that you can get a lot of exposure to product information and some solid networking accomplished with virtually no cost...you just have to get yourself there!
Duradek invites you to register for free exhibit hall admission to The International Surfaces Event or The International Builders Show in Las Vegas in early 2014.
Whether you are looking for a fantastic waterproof decking solution or an excellent business opportunity to expand your contracting services, you will benefit from coming down and talking with Duradek president John Ogilvie or sales manager Kevin MacMillan.
The International Surfaces Event
Mandalay Bay Convention Centre, Las VegasJanuary 28 - 30, 2014
Visit Duradek at Surfaces - Booth #B2339
Register for free exhibit hall admission!
The International Builders Show
Las Vegas Convention Centre, Las VegasFebruary 4 - 6, 2014
Visit Duradek at IBS - Booth #S1919
Register for free exhibit hall admission!
Monday, December 16, 2013
5 Top Decking Trends For 2013
Creating or expanding outdoor living space is a top home improvement trend for 2013 and more than ever homeowners are taking advantage of the opportunity to make their decks an expansion of their home. Decks are no longer restricted to the traditional 20 x 10 foot rectangular deck with limited seasonal use but are fast becoming year-round usable space for leisure, entertainment and functionality.
Here’s a look at some of the top trends in decking in the last year.
The days of the traditional deck owner are giving way to a new generation of homeowners who value outdoor living and are creating outdoor spaces that rival their interior square footage. One of the easiest ways to double your deck space is to use waterproof outdoor flooring on upper level decks to create dry useable space below.
This opens up a variety options for homeowners who can utilize that extra space based on their personal preferences and priorities. Whether for a simple covered patio, a screen-enclosed porch or additional dry storage area, the use of quality roof-grade waterproofing on your upper level deck is a great way to maximize your space. Surfacing your elevated deck with a Duradek vinyl membrane provides the roof-grade waterproofing you need to create dry, usable space below while at the same time providing an attractive, walkable surface in a single, one-time application.
Additionally, deck space is not restricted to hard angles. Unique design elements like hexagon or curved decks are increasingly popular. Products like Durarail’s innovative Panorama Post topless glass railing system includes glass channels with a 60° angle variance to allow for easy installation on virtually any shape of deck while bringing a sophisticated railing solution to maximize your view.
Topless glass railing systems provide a sophisticated look for the best view decks, cable railing systems provide a view through system that also allows for air flow and any combination of pickets, glass panels, and custom patterns can be assembled to create a truly unique system that gives your home some flair and reflect your individuality.
Deck enthusiasts have been opting for low maintenance decking materials that allow them to just enjoy their deck, not labour on it. Composite decking materials have gained huge popularity over that last several years, however the quality and longevity of those products has appeared to be a bit of a gamble as seen in some class action suits from some very unhappy composite decking customers.
For a best bet in low-maintenance decking materials, Duradek vinyl membranes have a 40-year proven performance history and provide many years of warrantied waterproof protection for your deck with only a one-time installation. Just a seasonal cleaning is all these deck surfaces need to keep looking great…so people who enjoy time on their decks can continue doing just that!
With the trend of increasing the amount of deck space to create versatile outdoor living areas, homeowners are taking advantage of the many options of features available to create their distinct outdoor rooms. Outdoor furniture, fully functional kitchens, fascinating water features and impressive fire features that provide ambiance as well as warmth are some of the most sought after features to incorporate into deck areas.
These additions work great as add-ons, but many deck builders are incorporating these features right into the structure of the deck with built-in seating, lighting and other appliances. Homeowners get the most out of their budgets by proper planning with their deck builder to ensure the most critical elements are included. What can’t be built in immediately can often be added on later.
To discuss waterproofing your deck using a Duradek vinyl membrane as your outdoor flooring, talk to an authorized Duradek installer in your area.
Here’s a look at some of the top trends in decking in the last year.
1 – Double Your Deck Space
The days of the traditional deck owner are giving way to a new generation of homeowners who value outdoor living and are creating outdoor spaces that rival their interior square footage. One of the easiest ways to double your deck space is to use waterproof outdoor flooring on upper level decks to create dry useable space below.
 |
| Duradek vinyl membranes provide roof-grade protection. |
This opens up a variety options for homeowners who can utilize that extra space based on their personal preferences and priorities. Whether for a simple covered patio, a screen-enclosed porch or additional dry storage area, the use of quality roof-grade waterproofing on your upper level deck is a great way to maximize your space. Surfacing your elevated deck with a Duradek vinyl membrane provides the roof-grade waterproofing you need to create dry, usable space below while at the same time providing an attractive, walkable surface in a single, one-time application.
2 – The Shape of Things to Come
Decks are no longer limited to the typical rectangle shape and are taking on a variety of formations to best suit the outdoor enthusiast. As mentioned above, two-level decks are a great way to maximize the space but creative design and innovative products are bringing multiple variations to the traditional deck space. Multi-level decks are gaining in popularity as outdoor living space increasingly emulates interior living with distinct outdoor rooms being created with the use of tiered deck levels and pergolas.
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| Multi-level decks help create distinct outdoor rooms, and with roof-grade waterproofing - dry storage below. |
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| Panorama Post makes installations on curved decks easy! |
3 – Functional Design with Railings
Railings are not just a functionary safety element; they are an integral part of the design and overall look of your deck. The railing options available today are many and varied which gives homeowners the advantage in coming up with a look that can really bring out the best of their outdoor living space and design preferences.Topless glass railing systems provide a sophisticated look for the best view decks, cable railing systems provide a view through system that also allows for air flow and any combination of pickets, glass panels, and custom patterns can be assembled to create a truly unique system that gives your home some flair and reflect your individuality.
 |
| Customize your railing to suit your exterior design. |
4 – Less Work, More Fun
Even people who really love their decks don’t want to have to spend entire days working on it. Sand, stain, seal…repeat annually. Sometimes waiting for the right weather to fall on days you actually have the time to work on your deck means your maintenance is left uncompleted. Or worse…you neglected the maintenance on your wood deck too long and now you are dealing with wood rot and replacing the whole structure. |
| Why labor on your place of leisure? |
Deck enthusiasts have been opting for low maintenance decking materials that allow them to just enjoy their deck, not labour on it. Composite decking materials have gained huge popularity over that last several years, however the quality and longevity of those products has appeared to be a bit of a gamble as seen in some class action suits from some very unhappy composite decking customers.
For a best bet in low-maintenance decking materials, Duradek vinyl membranes have a 40-year proven performance history and provide many years of warrantied waterproof protection for your deck with only a one-time installation. Just a seasonal cleaning is all these deck surfaces need to keep looking great…so people who enjoy time on their decks can continue doing just that!
5 – Fantastic Features
With the trend of increasing the amount of deck space to create versatile outdoor living areas, homeowners are taking advantage of the many options of features available to create their distinct outdoor rooms. Outdoor furniture, fully functional kitchens, fascinating water features and impressive fire features that provide ambiance as well as warmth are some of the most sought after features to incorporate into deck areas.These additions work great as add-ons, but many deck builders are incorporating these features right into the structure of the deck with built-in seating, lighting and other appliances. Homeowners get the most out of their budgets by proper planning with their deck builder to ensure the most critical elements are included. What can’t be built in immediately can often be added on later.
 |
| Beautiful fire feature on a Duradek Cork Macchiato deck. |
The Truth Behind the Trends
Just remember that protecting your deck with proper waterproofing is the most critical detail and should be considered right at the beginning of your deck building or renovating plans. No matter how soundly built the structure or how beautifully detailed the features, if your deck is not protected from the elements, eventually it will deteriorate which will affect its stability. Safety is always the most important feature of your deck no matter what the current trends may be.To discuss waterproofing your deck using a Duradek vinyl membrane as your outdoor flooring, talk to an authorized Duradek installer in your area.
Wednesday, December 11, 2013
Duradek Recommended Across the Building Industry
Leading publications for the light construction and remodeling industries consistently include Duradek and Durarail as products you can depend on for your decking material needs. These valuable resources for light construction and remodeling professionals allow builders to arm themselves with the knowledge of the best deck building materials and most reliable waterproofing membrane system in the specialty trade of deck building with Duradek.
Qualified Remodeler magazine prides itself on helping independent remodeling firms to stay competitive and more profitable by providing must-have business information, namely best business practices, new product information and timely design ideas.
Qualified Remodeler includes Duradek in their online platform, ForResidentialPros.com where archives of the magazine’s previous issues can be accessed. From the categories of Flooring, Decks & Patios and Outdoor Living, Duradek has been highlighted in this trusted resource.
The Journal of Light Construction Magazine and its online counterpart JLConline.com are reliable building industry publications brought to you by Hanley Wood and are often referred to for product information and building knowledge best practices.
JLC is familiar with Duradek and some time ago published quite a comprehensive article titled “Waterproofing a Rooftop Deck” which details PVC membrane deck waterproofing. More recently this November, JLC included Durarail’s Panorama Post as a notable product with its beautiful ability to virtually ‘bend’ around corners and provide design flexibility for outdoor living space. No other topless glass railing makes defining the perimeter of a curved deck so easy.
When spring comes around, many builders are bound to have projects that require some form of decking, roof decks or outdoor living space. You can simplify the project by relying on a trained Duradek installer for your deck building needs, specifically the highly important detail of deck waterproofing. Deck building is a specialty trade, and waterproofing decks an even more detailed specialty.
Duradek is NOT available as a retail product available to all contractors and do-it-yourselfers. With Duradek, you are guaranteed to have an installer who has been instructed in deck waterproofing best practices along with the resources of technical support from Duradek behind them no matter what specific challenges your project may have.
To ensure your deck building projects are completed professionally with an ICC approved product, get to know the Duradek Installer in your area.
Duradek Included in Qualified Remodeler
Qualified Remodeler magazine prides itself on helping independent remodeling firms to stay competitive and more profitable by providing must-have business information, namely best business practices, new product information and timely design ideas.
Qualified Remodeler includes Duradek in their online platform, ForResidentialPros.com where archives of the magazine’s previous issues can be accessed. From the categories of Flooring, Decks & Patios and Outdoor Living, Duradek has been highlighted in this trusted resource.
Duradek Highlighted by The Journal of Light Construction
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| Panorama Post makes railing installations on curved decks easy! Photo by Duradek of New England. |
JLC is familiar with Duradek and some time ago published quite a comprehensive article titled “Waterproofing a Rooftop Deck” which details PVC membrane deck waterproofing. More recently this November, JLC included Durarail’s Panorama Post as a notable product with its beautiful ability to virtually ‘bend’ around corners and provide design flexibility for outdoor living space. No other topless glass railing makes defining the perimeter of a curved deck so easy.
Watch for Highlights, Call for Details
While winter has us in the downslope of demand for deck building, be sure to keep an eye on these publications this spring for updates on Duradek and other recommended building products from the industry publications you can rely on.When spring comes around, many builders are bound to have projects that require some form of decking, roof decks or outdoor living space. You can simplify the project by relying on a trained Duradek installer for your deck building needs, specifically the highly important detail of deck waterproofing. Deck building is a specialty trade, and waterproofing decks an even more detailed specialty.
Duradek is NOT available as a retail product available to all contractors and do-it-yourselfers. With Duradek, you are guaranteed to have an installer who has been instructed in deck waterproofing best practices along with the resources of technical support from Duradek behind them no matter what specific challenges your project may have.
To ensure your deck building projects are completed professionally with an ICC approved product, get to know the Duradek Installer in your area.
Monday, December 9, 2013
Dealing with Snow and Ice on Your Vinyl Deck
Those of you who have a deck protected with Duradek’s Walkable Rooftop Deck and Waterproofing Vinyl have an attractive and low maintenance decking solution throughout the year and winter is no exception. Duradek vinyl allows for easy and worry-free winter deck care.
Duradek vinyl is strong and you can use a variety of snow and ice melting solutions on it without concern.
- Rock Salt - OK!
- Kitty Litter (for non-slip traction) - OK!
- Snow Melting Chemicals - OK!
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| Duradek can handle the snow and the ice-melters to get rid of it. |
Duradek patterns and colors are beautiful all year round, but how does a homeowner ensure that they are going to get the most longevity in their deck’s appearance when the wicked winter weather attempts to cover our decks with ice and snow?
All you have to do to ensure your deck is unaffected by brutal winter conditions is to remember a couple of simple tips:
Only use a plastic shovel to remove snow and ice from your deck surface.
- Driving a metal shovel down through the snow and ice to your deck surface risks puncturing the vinyl and sacrificing your waterproof security.
Clean your deck with soap and water, and rinse before the spring and summer sunshine returns.
- While the chemicals from de-icers do not damage the vinyl surface when applied, if its film is left on the surface, direct sun can bake the chemicals into the vinyl which is harmful and will affect your deck’s appearance.
If you do not yet have a Duradek waterproof deck and you would like to talk to a Duradek dealer about your decking needs, contact a Duradek dealer in your area for a free estimate.
Wednesday, December 4, 2013
Free Registration for International Builders Show - February 2014
The NAHB International Builders Show (IBS) is only a couple of months away so if you are a building industry professional now is the time to start making your plans to attend. Taking place at the Las Vegas Convention Center February 4th - 6th, 2014, IBS is the largest annual light construction show in the world and now is even bigger as it co-locates with the Kitchen & Bath industry show.
Duradek invites you to attend with free exhibit hall registration and come by to visit us at booth #S1919 to discuss your deck building challenges and waterproofing needs.
Expected to attract over 75,000 builders, remodelers, developers, architects and other industry professionals from over 100 countries, The International Builders Show will house over 1,500 exhibitors to demonstrate the latest product innovations and building solutions for virtually all of your construction needs.
In addition to co-locating with the Kitchen & Bath show, this year’s IBS offers a few more changes as well, specifically within their Education Programs. The 2014 education enhancements focus both on content and delivery with new session formats, technology upgrades, a variety of interactive architectural and design plan reviews and more hands-on demonstrations both on and off the show floor.
The Building Knowledge Sessions have been revamped for 2014 with approximately 100 sessions available being reduced from 90 minutes to 60 minutes to allow for a more focused, in-depth discussion.
For example, Building Knowledge Session – Utilizing More Trade Contractors is a great stop for remodelers and small volume builders who have to balance the cost and value of maintaining a dedicated staff versus utilizing trade contractors. In some cases it may make much more sense to develop loyalty with trade contractors, particularly in specialty trades like deck waterproofing. If you are a small volume builder or remodeler, developing a relationship with your local Duradek contractor who has been specially trained and have access to Duradek’s impressive technical support and proven techniques can be a huge asset to your business when your projects require decking expertise!
Additional education programs include Spotlight Sessions where experts discuss emerging trends and expanded Master Sessions to cover even more important topics in building.
Duradek invites you to attend with free exhibit hall registration and come by to visit us at booth #S1919 to discuss your deck building challenges and waterproofing needs.
Expected to attract over 75,000 builders, remodelers, developers, architects and other industry professionals from over 100 countries, The International Builders Show will house over 1,500 exhibitors to demonstrate the latest product innovations and building solutions for virtually all of your construction needs.
In addition to co-locating with the Kitchen & Bath show, this year’s IBS offers a few more changes as well, specifically within their Education Programs. The 2014 education enhancements focus both on content and delivery with new session formats, technology upgrades, a variety of interactive architectural and design plan reviews and more hands-on demonstrations both on and off the show floor.
The Building Knowledge Sessions have been revamped for 2014 with approximately 100 sessions available being reduced from 90 minutes to 60 minutes to allow for a more focused, in-depth discussion.
For example, Building Knowledge Session – Utilizing More Trade Contractors is a great stop for remodelers and small volume builders who have to balance the cost and value of maintaining a dedicated staff versus utilizing trade contractors. In some cases it may make much more sense to develop loyalty with trade contractors, particularly in specialty trades like deck waterproofing. If you are a small volume builder or remodeler, developing a relationship with your local Duradek contractor who has been specially trained and have access to Duradek’s impressive technical support and proven techniques can be a huge asset to your business when your projects require decking expertise!
Additional education programs include Spotlight Sessions where experts discuss emerging trends and expanded Master Sessions to cover even more important topics in building.
Not Only About Building Knowledge
While the exhibit hall and the education sessions will pack your mind with insight and ideas, IBS is not just about education. There are a variety of networking and social events to help you balance out the show with a little fun.- IBS Opening Ceremonies (Tuesday, Feb. 4th, 8:00 – 9:15 a.m.) - 4-star general and former leader of the Joint Special Operations Command (JSOC), General Stan McChrystal headlines the opening ceremonies and few others can speak with such authority on leadership and teamwork. Additional inspiration comes from the performances of Cirque Fantastic with awe-inspiring and breathtaking feats with their distinctive, elegant acrobatics well suited for a Las Vegas stage. Limited seating – first come-first served.
- The Official IBS House Party (Tuesday, Feb. 4th, 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.) – a laid back way to kick off the show the right way with great music and food at the Hard Rock Café on the strip. Tickets Required.
- IBS Spike Concert (Thursday, Feb. 6th, 5:00 – 7:30 p.m.) – 4 time Grammy winner Pat Benatar performs with Neil Giraldo at the South Hall S4. Tickets Required.
- Young Professionals After Hours Party (Wednesday, Feb. 5th, 8:30 – 10:30 p.m.) – For the under 40 crowd, a networking social event with live band, open bar and hors d’oeuvres. Tickets Required.
Register for Free Exhibit Hall Admission for IBS 2014
Duradek wants to invite you to register for free IBS Exhibit Hall admission. Remember, we are at booth S1919 and we will be showcasing the latest designs in our proven system of waterproof vinyl deck membranes and our innovative railing solutions by Durarail.Monday, December 2, 2013
How to Clean and Care for Your Vinyl Deck Before Winter
Before the really heavy rain or snow takes over for the chilly winter months, now is a smart time to give your deck a cleaning and inspect the details that will ensure the superior installation of your Duradek vinyl deck is still performing as expected and protecting your home from potential water damage.
If you choose to use a household cleaning product, we would recommend Cascade Powdered Dishwasher Detergent or Simple Green as reasonable options, however we do not recommend the use of household cleaners in general as certain types of cleaners, powdered abrasives, steel wool and industrial cleaners can cause damage and discoloration. Dry cleaning fluids should not be used as they will remove the printed pattern and glass. Waxes should not be used as they may contain dyes or solvents that can permanently damage the protective coating. Your best choice of cleaning products will state that it is safe to use on vinyl.
While all cleaning methods require a thorough rinse with water, using any household product dramatically increases the need to flush the deck thoroughly with clean water to ensure all residues are removed. The residue may not be obviously visible to the eye, but if any remains, the sun can bake the harmful chemicals into your vinyl and it may affect its appearance.
If your vinyl pattern is one of the more textured surfaces that offers a more effective non-slip characteristic, it will likely require a little more cleaning effort than a vinyl pattern with a smoother surface. Power washing is an effective method of removing dirt and debris, although it is not intended for removing embedded stains. Set your power washer at 1500 psi (max.) and hold nozzle 12 inches from the surface and be careful to avoid seams, railing attachments, caulking or house trims.
When inspecting your deck, remember to:
Over time, the structure your Duradek membrane is adhered to may crack, shrink or shift and these inspections will uncover any potential problems with broken seals. If you discover some caulking has pulled away from the wood or a seal has cracked, contact your Duradek dealer who will recommend the proper sealant to correct it.
It is much better to check for these little details before the heavy rains come and you discover water has found a way to get through into your home.
No matter what the season, Duradek protects your outdoor living space all year, every year.
To find a local Duradek Dealer, visit the Duradek website’s Dealer Locator.
Cleaning Your Duradek Deck
Your vinyl deck should be cleaned at least 4 times a year with the Duradek vinyl cleaner available from your local Duradek dealer. This cleaner is designed specifically for vinyl and will NOT leave harmful chemical residue like many household cleaners may. Use warm water and a stiff broom, scrubbing in a circular motion to loosen the dirt. Then simply spray with a garden hose (under pressure) to wash away the loose dirt and flush thoroughly with clean water.
If you choose to use a household cleaning product, we would recommend Cascade Powdered Dishwasher Detergent or Simple Green as reasonable options, however we do not recommend the use of household cleaners in general as certain types of cleaners, powdered abrasives, steel wool and industrial cleaners can cause damage and discoloration. Dry cleaning fluids should not be used as they will remove the printed pattern and glass. Waxes should not be used as they may contain dyes or solvents that can permanently damage the protective coating. Your best choice of cleaning products will state that it is safe to use on vinyl.
While all cleaning methods require a thorough rinse with water, using any household product dramatically increases the need to flush the deck thoroughly with clean water to ensure all residues are removed. The residue may not be obviously visible to the eye, but if any remains, the sun can bake the harmful chemicals into your vinyl and it may affect its appearance.
If your vinyl pattern is one of the more textured surfaces that offers a more effective non-slip characteristic, it will likely require a little more cleaning effort than a vinyl pattern with a smoother surface. Power washing is an effective method of removing dirt and debris, although it is not intended for removing embedded stains. Set your power washer at 1500 psi (max.) and hold nozzle 12 inches from the surface and be careful to avoid seams, railing attachments, caulking or house trims.
Care for Your Duradek Deck
Deck inspections are an important part of your home maintenance and should be completed at least once a year.When inspecting your deck, remember to:
- Check the caulking seals around posts and pillars
- Check corner details
- Check the caulking seals around vents and drains
 |
| Check that the perimeter of you deck against the house remains securely sealed. |
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| Be sure to check seals around posts and pillars and that the flashing on the outside edges is securely in place. |
Over time, the structure your Duradek membrane is adhered to may crack, shrink or shift and these inspections will uncover any potential problems with broken seals. If you discover some caulking has pulled away from the wood or a seal has cracked, contact your Duradek dealer who will recommend the proper sealant to correct it.
It is much better to check for these little details before the heavy rains come and you discover water has found a way to get through into your home.
Cleaned and Cared For…Now Enjoy!
Though no exterior surface is completely impervious to the elements, by taking the small amount of time required to properly clean your deck at the change of the seasons, you will help to ensure that your deck appearance lasts as long as the guaranteed waterproofing performance of your Duradek vinyl deck.No matter what the season, Duradek protects your outdoor living space all year, every year.
To find a local Duradek Dealer, visit the Duradek website’s Dealer Locator.
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