Top 4 Ways Pool or Hot Tub Areas Benefit From Duradek Vinyl

Take your pool or hot tub area to the next level by adding a walking surface that is attractive, durable and easy to maintain. Duradek vinyl membranes provide a walking surface that elevates your outdoor recreation areas and it is the easiest way to add some individuality and style to complement your outdoor design scheme without any labour on your part for upkeep.

Outdoor pools or hot tubs can be one of the most valued and luxurious residential features to have on your property, especially during the hot summer months. Your pool area is meant to be enjoyed and you already have enough work to do to up-keep the actual pool...you deserve to have a pool deck or hot tub surround that serves only as a place of leisure and enjoyment - not another maintenance chore.

4 Reasons to Choose Duradek for Your Pool or Hut Tub Surround 

#1 - Duradek vinyl membranes provide a low maintenance, attractive surface.

Unlike wood plank surrounds that require regular multi-stage maintenance to keep up their appearance; concrete surfaces that require re-coating and will still inevitably crack; or outdoor carpet surrounds that hold onto moisture and other organic debris - Duradek is an attractive, low-maintenance finish that can be applied to the concrete surface around a pool area.* Duradek only needs to be installed once and requires no maintenance other than an occasional cleaning for its lifespan, which is often expected to be well over the 10 years it is warranted for.

#2 - Duradek vinyl membranes provide a comfortable, slip-resistant walking surface.

When wood plank surfaces have not been maintained and moisture is allowed to penetrate the wood, the resulting surface can become quite slippery. Alternately, a neglected wood deck when very dry can be a haven for splinters; and in an area where there are a lot of bare feet, splinters will not do! Concrete can be a little rough on tender feet and when you are coming out of a pool it can be a source of many skinned knees and stubbed toes. Outdoor carpet will just hold on to any water and can give you a wet, squishy surface that is very unpleasant for bare feet. Duradek vinyl, particularly in a pattern that has a heavily textured surface, gives a pool area an element of slip resistance and is a lot more comfortable on bare feet than rough concrete or slippery, splintery wood.

#3 - Duradek vinyl membranes bring a clean, contemporary style to your pool or hot tub areas.

While most pool areas all start with a concrete base, they do not have to stay that way. Concrete's cold, drab appearance around the poolside can be elevated to a stylish lounging area that compliments the rest of your outdoor design scheme. Your pool deck area is a favourite place for lounging, barbecuing and socializing and like many well used places, can be subject to spills. Unprotected wood or concrete can be easily stained and just trying to remove the marks left behind from a spilled cola or mustard on your concrete will be an extremely frustrating exercise. With Duradek's easy to clean surface, just a simple wipe to remove such spills is all it takes. If wiped up before allowing a stain to set-in, you'd never even know there had been a spill if you had a Duradek surface.

#4 - Duradek vinyl membranes meets building code requirements for chemical-resistance.

Duradek has been tested in accordance with ICC ES Acceptance Criteria for Walking Decks and meets the requirements of AC39 for chemical-resistance, making it suitable for use around pool or hut tub areas. When you are considering coating or surfacing products for your pool deck area, this is an important detail to look at to ensure your surface will not be weakened or discoloured from contact with the pool chemicals.

Whether you are able to enjoy your pool side area only a portion of the year or all year round, using Duradek as the pedestrian surface on your pool lounging area or hot tub surround provides an attractive surface that requires no maintenance and will last you for many years of pool-side pleasure.

Duradek makes an ideal pool deck surface.

• See what makes Duradek a better option than other traditional methods for your outdoor living space.

Indoor pool areas may require the added benefit
of Duradek's waterproofing performance.

Contact a Duradek Dealer near you to inquire about keeping your outdoor living space both protected and beautiful with Duradek vinyl membranes.

 * Quantitative Moisture Testing is recommended before applying any coating over concrete.

Avoid DIY Deck Projects and Find a Duradek Dealer in BC and Beyond

Home owners in BC don't have to have a do-it-yourself approach...they can rely on Duradek professionals to take care of their deck renovations. Duradek vinyl membranes for use on decks and balconies was first conceived in the sunny Okanagan 40 years ago and it is still today the leader in PVC membrane waterproofing.

Duradek can be found from coast-to-coast in North America, but it still keeps its home-base in beautiful British Columbia. Deck waterproofing is a specialty trade and there are a lot of details to take care of to ensure your waterproofing is performing as expected and doing its job of protecting your home.

While some people may prefer to save a few dollars on do-it-yourself deck renovations, the savings are often lost in ongoing repairs. Even selecting a contractor with little experience in deck waterproofing may cost you more in the long run. And with the wet and wildly fluctuating weather in BC, you don't want to take risks with your waterproofing product or installation.

 Duradek goes through extensive testing and third party quality control to ensure our vinyl is of the highest quality to protect your home, but one of the things that truly separates Duradek from other vinyl options is that Duradek is installed only by trained and authorized contractors.

Since BC is the home of Duradek it is not a surprise that some of the most experienced Duradek installers can be found in this western province.  For example, United Vinyl Sundecks who is Duradek's North Vancouver dealer has over 20 years experience in both residential and commercial applications.

 

On Vancouver Island, Victoria Deck Ltd. is the Duradek dealer for the south island. They have been around since 1976 and their experience and skill with vinyl installations makes them an excellent example of what makes a Duradek dealer stand out from other options.

 

Duradek is very proud to work with such a wide range of professional trades men and women who share our philosophy of 'doing it right the first time'. To view details on these great Duradek dealers, or other Duradek dealers in BC, you can search the Duradek listing on the Yellow Pages website. For Duradek installers in BC and all North American locations, visit our 'Find a Dealer' feature to locate a Duradek professional near you.

Important Consideration if Your Are Getting Quotes on Deck Renovations

Please keep in mind that the spring and summer seasons are when many people want their deck renovations done (even through Duradek can be installed all year round in most weather conditions). Since Duradek installers are in demand in peak decking season, get your request for a quote in early and allow for plenty of time for the project to be completed as your contractor may have several decking projects in line ahead of yours...but it will be worth any wait to get it done right the first time!

Top 5 Warranty Questions to Ask About Deck Building Products

There are more deck building products on the market than ever before in the entire history of building decks which can make selecting the right product for your project a bit of a challenge. Of the variety of factors to consider when deciding what decking products to choose, one of the most important considerations is product warranty.

Most respected manufacturers stand behind their product and are willing to provide a warranty with new purchases. But what does that warranty really guarantee? Here are the top 5 questions you should be asking about the product's warranty when you are selecting your decking products:

#1 – How long is the warranty valid?

This is a no-brainer for most people and the automatic first question, however depending on your circumstances; you might want to get a few more details. Is the warranty valid from purchase date or installation date? While usually there is not much of a difference, in some large projects where a missing permit can delay completion by months, this may be something to be aware of.

Duradek’s warranty on our Ultra PVC Membranes is 10 years for leaking due to a manufacturing defect and is valid from the date of installation (reportedly, many homeowners are enjoying the product for twice as long). An important point to note is that Duradek has been around for 40 years...that's 4 complete warranty cycles so there is no guessing if the company will still around to stand by their warranty.

#2 – What does the warranty cover?

With building products, it is not unusual for the function of an item and its appearance to be considered separately. It is important to be aware if your warranty covers the integrity of the product only, or if it covers appearance (see item #3) and how well the product performs (see item #4).

Duradek’s warranty offers independent terms for appearance and workmanship.

#3 – Does the product have a separate appearance warranty; and if so, does it have the same terms as the product’s performance warranty?

Often with building products, the warranty does not include aesthetics and only honours performance. If there is an appearance warranty, it is not necessarily for the same duration as the performance guarantee. For example, the image below shows the result of accelerated weather testing of a decking membrane that has been promoting their scuff resistant clear coat tested side by side with Duradek Ultra Cork.

Obviously, if the deck material on the left had been installed on your home and turned this dark over time from natural sunlight as the testing emulated, you would want it to be replaced. As far as our research shows, this particular manufacturer does not offer an appearance warranty at all, and you may find yourself in a long debate or simply replacing the product entirely at your cost.

Duradek’s warranty terms include a 5-year warranty on the product’s appearance for our 60 mil Ultra vinyl.

#4 – Is there a separate workmanship warranty?

While a product can be tested for performance in a number of ways, the truest test of all is its success in its intended application. When it comes to waterproofing, no matter how great a product is, if it is not installed with consideration to all of the intricate details involved in proper waterproofing techniques, it is very difficult to guarantee performance.

Duradek is installed only by trained and authorized installers who have completed Duradek’s training in proper waterproofing details and have access to Duradek’s technical staff for support if needed. In addition to the product and appearance warranty offered by the Manufacturer, Duradek installers offer their own separate Workmanship Warranty. While Duradek ensures all installers are skilled in the proper application of PVC membranes, it is still important to check references and past projects when selecting your contractor.

 #5 – Are there limitations or restrictions to the product’s warranty?

Does the manufacturer limit the warranty to everything imaginable so that you aren’t really getting a warranty worth the paper it is printed on? Phrases that include “subject to”, “with the exception of”, “when used with” or “in the event of” should be read very carefully as you might find yourself in a circle of restrictions that make a warranty claim virtually impossible. Sometimes you may even see the same warranty present contradictory phrases where the “limited to” and “including but not limited to” clauses leave you scratching your head on what the manufacturer is willing to guarantee. While most warranties will not cover damages resulting from improper maintenance or Acts of God, make sure you are getting one that actually backs up the product’s performance.

Duradek Ultra is a proven, reliable product and the Duradek warranty backs that up. While there are certainly realistic limitations as with any warranty, Duradek lays them out in a straight forward manner so that homeowners with a Duradek vinyl deck know what the product expectations are, what the installing contractor is responsible for and what the homeowner’s responsibilities are.

After 40 Years in Business, Duradek Knows its Warranty Cycle 

Not only is Duradek the original vinyl deck membrane that has been around for decades, but it has been produced consistently by the same manufacturer and maintained by the same ownership.  

Sometimes if the manufacturer of a product has had a change in ownership, the warranty terms offered through the previous owner is not legally binding to the new owner, even if the product in question retains the same brand name. This issue of manufacturer warranties far exceeding proven lifecycles has come up with new product innovations that have not fully matured through their infancy stage such as some composite decking products.

Make sure you look for the “Duradek’ stamp on the product you choose, and the best way to ensure this is to select one of Duradek’s authorized dealers.

The professionals at Saskatoon Deck Shop are the
go-to resource for Deck expertise in Saskatchewan.

Staycation Strategies - Top 10 Tips

Long weekends in May traditionally mark the unofficial start of cottage season, but if you are avoiding the frantic rush to get out-of-town this May long-weekend and opting instead to enjoy your outdoor living space at home, we've got some tips for you to get the most enjoyment and rejuvenation from your staycation.

1 – Plan for your pleasure. Do all of your shopping, errands and chores before the start of your staycation so there is no need to interrupt your leisure time with any household needs.

2 – Choose to say ‘no’. Do not do any projects on your to-do list or accept invitations out of obligation…this is relaxing time!

If you have a high-maintenance deck, your staycation is not the time to tackle it (although it is the perfect time for daydreaming about your ideal deck!)

3 – Loose track of time. Don’t keep checking the clock…you don’t have to be anywhere. Indulge in the luxurious freedom of being purely self indulgent with what you want to do, when you feel like doing it.

4 – Turn off the phone. Unless you are organizing time with your loved ones, don’t let unexpected calls distract you from your leisure time. As good as your intentions are to not think about work, your best-friend’s current drama and your extended family’s needs, all it takes is one unexpected call to get the wheels of your mind turning and distract you from your leisure time.

5 – Turn off your computer. Let’s face it…you spend too much time on it anyway. Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest can live without you for a few days. Don’t let following those “you gotta’ see this…” links suck up hours of your valuable staycation time…chance are those same posts will still be available for you to check out in a few days.

6 – Read with abandon. Not business reports or educational material, but something for pure pleasure, guilty or otherwise.

There's plenty of time for lounging and reading when you have a low-maintenance Duradek deck.

7 – Turn up the tunes. No matter if you are a fan of country, jazz, hip-hop or good old fashioned rock n’ roll, your favourite music can be a mood elevator and add an extra element of enjoyment.

8 – Time with those you love. Family and friends bring the most pleasure in life whether you are in your most desired bucket-list destination or just in your own back yard. A little time with your loved ones with no agenda and no pressures, just the joy of their company, can do wonders to refresh the spirit.

9 – BBQ something new. While most of us with decks and barbecues enjoy throwing our favourites on the grill as often as possible throughout the year, adding something new on the grill in addition to your go-to favourites brings a little sense of newness and discovery without ever leaving your deck.

When you are barbecuing on a Duradek, spills are easily cleaned off the surface.

10 – Be self indulgent. It’s your time for recharging. If people have requested things from you that are not life-or-death emergencies, there’s no reason they can not wait a few days. If you want to eat something that is beyond your caloric limit, what’s wrong with a little cheat? If you want that extra margaritas while lounging on your deck, hey, you're not going anywhere…why not? The point being that discipline, self-care and taking care of others in your life are all important, but your staycation is about recharging and rejuvenating for yourself…so enjoy it!

Duradek Ultra Cork Natural and Panorama Post.

If you are one of the many people who have opted to invest in some upgrades to your home and outdoor living space instead of going away on vacation and you are interested in speaking with a decking professional, talk to an authorized Duradek dealer in your area. Duradek waterproofing professionals can provide deck renovation advice and help you achieve your ideal, low-maintenance outdoor living space. There are plenty of advantages to having a Duradek vinyl deck including freedom from maintenance, an excellent selection of colour options, a great peace-of-mind warranty and reliable waterproofing you can trust.

Enjoy your staycation!

The Sun's UV Effects on Your Deck

By mid-May most of us are seeing an increased amount of sunshine and have started clearing, cleaning and preparing our decks for a much anticipated season of soaking up the sun and enjoying our outdoor living space. But does your deck love the sun as much as you do, or does the sun’s UV effects on your deck leave you resenting its rays?

While our love of the sun is pretty much universal with its mood elevating effects and increased dose of vitamin D, too much of a good thing can do us harm. The earth’s atmosphere blocks approximately 98-99% of the sun’s UV radiation, but that remaining 1-2% can have some undesirable effects. We are well aware of what sun exposure can do to our skin and we go to great efforts to protect it, but the truth is that the sun’s UV radiation will age anything that is exposed to it…and that includes our decks.

A common issue with any item that experiences permanent or prolonged exposure to the sun is fading or discoloration. We see this all the time with fabrics, paints or plastics on our outdoor items. There is simply no escaping those UV rays.

Our decks are no exception. If you’ve placed furniture or other large sun-blocking items on your deck then years later moved those items, the difference in color where the deck has been hidden from the UV rays can be evident.

With vinyl deck membranes you have the advantage of long-lasting waterproof protection without the need for maintenance, but it is important to remember that not all vinyl is created equal. To get the most out of your vinyl deck, chose a brand that has a proven performance history and has demonstrated that it stands up to the elements, including UV exposure.

Duradek vinyl deck membranes have demonstrated superior performance when compared to other vinyl brands in how well it ages from UV exposure. Certainly, like anything that is permanently outdoors, there will be some color fading over time but when tested against other vinyl brands, Duradek clearly stands out as one of the best vinyl options for maintaining its appearance from UV aging.

Accelerated Weather Testing (ASTM G-90) Results for Three Vinyl Options

The images below show the results of Accelerated Weather Testing (ASTM G-90) conducted by Atlas Material Testing Solutions on three different vinyl brands and shows the effects of 840 MJ UV which equates to about 2.5 years of Arizona sun exposure*. (These tests results are from the second round of tests conducted to corroborate the results of the first round of testing and have shown consistent results).

Vinyl-TD Results – Clear coat technologies are not yet advanced enough to
avoid discoloration from UV exposure. These images show the effects of 840 MJ UV.

 

The vinyl brand above is clearly showing signs of darkening and in the first sample even shows visible cracks in the surface. This particular brand of vinyl uses a clear vinyl coat to protect its surface from scuff marks; however the appearance of scuffs may be preferable to the degree of discoloration from the UV exposure.

Vinyl-DR Results – Products available at a much lower price than similar products can often indicate inferior performance. This image is at 840 MJ UV, but this vinyl brand showed failure at only 140 MJ UV.

 

These two samples above are produced off-shore and started failing at 140 MJUV. This vinyl brand is being marketed as a cost-effective alternative for the budget conscious home owner or developer, but clearly the savings are not worth the end result.

Duradek Results – Duradek stands up to UV exposure better than many vinyl options.
At 840 MJ UV there is very little change in appearance.

 

Duradek is the original vinyl membrane and has been installed on decks in all North American climates for 40 years. From the images above you can see that Duradek can handle the effects of UV exposure much, much better than the competition. There is almost no change in appearance after 840 MJ UV exposure, and even at 1820 MJ UV exposure the effects on the appearance are minimal.

Vinyl-TD and Duradek Results – This image compares the results of accelerated weathering tests at 1820 MJ UV. Duradek show very minimal appearance changes while vinyl-TD has changed drastically.

 

The image above shows vinyl-TD next to Duradek in comparing the effects of 1820 MJ UV next to a control sample. The difference is quite dramatic and a shocking example of why it is so important to choose a product you can rely on. It is certainly worth noting that Duradek offers an appearance warranty while many vinyl brands do not.

For a product you can rely on with professional installers who know deck waterproofing, contact a Duradek dealer in your area for a free, no-obligation estimate on your deck renovation.

To see results of previous tests, check out these articles:

July 10, 2013 - Nothing Last Forever But Duradek Outlast the Rest

May 15, 2013  – Choosing a Waterproof Membrane for Your Deck

May 8, 2013 -  When Choosing a Building Product, New Does Not Always Mean Better

April 30, 2013 – Duradek Confirms Superior Performance with Competitive Weather Testing


* source of UV exposure equating to annual sun exposure
http://www.gaf.ca/Commercial_Roofing_Systems/EverGuard_TPO/Correlating_Accelerated_Laboratory_Field_and_Thermal_Aging_TPO_Membranes.pdf
The Sun's UV Effects on Your Deck

Duradek is Helping Change the Landscape of Salt Lake City - One Roof Deck at a Time

The Broadway Park Lofts are a victorious triumph in architectural achievement and urban residential development perseverance. These luxurious loft-style condominium units are refining urban lifestyle preferences and changing the landscape in Salt Lake City.

After a rocky start with the first phase of the project, construction halted when the housing market took a dive in 2009 and the promising development was left sitting as an empty shell. After a three year stalemate and a maze of legalities, the developers at ClearWater Homes acquired the project through grit, determination and vision which have culminated into a one-of-a-kind modern urban living experience which is truly the first of its kind in Salt Lake City.

The Broadway Park Lofts. Photo by ClearWater Homes

Located at 360 W Broadway (300 South) in downtown Salt Lake City, the two towers of the Broadway Park Lofts, named ‘Parkview’ and ‘Lanai’, hold a total of 82 units housed over 3 levels. Each unit spans 2 floors and range in size from 424 sq. ft. to 1,100 + sq. ft. (excluding Penthouse units) and they are available in one or two bedroom floor plans. The main level has received R2 zoning to allow for market units; perfect for coffee shops, yoga studios, art galleries and other community enhancing enterprises. The second and third levels perfect a sleek, industrial design with lanai style balconies and modern, garage-door-style floor to ceiling windows that open up the urban lifestyle to an outdoor living experience. But it is the 3rd level that really benefits from one of the most luxurious features in urban living…a private roof-top deck.

Garage door style windows open up each unit to the outdoors.

Accessed by an additional spiral staircase from the top level units’ second floor to the roof, each private roof deck spans an area of 300 sq. ft. and provides the additional outdoor living space that is so desirable but quite often under-utilized in many urban centers. Real estate agent, Connor Southworth reported, “These units are really cool, but they also cost about $40,000 more than the middle floor units. Well worth it, though, in my opinion.”

Preparing the roof deck substrate for the application of Duradek vinyl.

According to the American Institute of Architects, 63% of architects cite outdoor living space as the most popular ‘special function room’ in housing construction, and Remodeling Magazine’s 2014 Cost-Vs.-Value Report includes multiple deck addition options in the ‘biggest gainers’ category. There is no doubt that outdoor living space is growing in demand in residential construction in both single family homes and multi-residential developments.

Roof decks sometimes bring hesitancy to developers as there are so many considerations to constructing them properly. When any outdoor pedestrian surface is situated over living space, a reliable walkable, waterproof surface is critical. ClearWater Homes boldly and confidently set precedence for roof top decks in Salt Lake City with this project by utilizing the specialized roof deck waterproofing provided by Duradek vinyl membranes. Not only was Duradek a proven, reliable, warrantiedsolution for waterproofing the roof decks, but it also provided a low maintenance surface for the owners of the units since Duradek vinyl does not require any maintenance to continue performing…just an occasional cleaning to maintain its aesthetic appeal.

Broadway Park Lofts garner some inspiration from its namesake and brings New York style luxury to Utah where roof decks are gifted with the amazing views found in the Salt Lake City skyline and amazing Utah sky. This developer has recognized that roof decks do not need to be restricted to harbour cities where they are traditionally found in greater numbers, and they can take advantage of the views and maximize space in any community.

ClearWater Homes’ V.P. of Strategy and Development, Matt Kidd says, “The value of having the rooftop deck is returned in spades for the home owner. Not only are they able to enjoy an extra 300 square feet, but it comes with panoramic views of the Wasatch front extending from the capital building north all the way to Thanksgiving Point and all parts west! Imagine enjoying an evening alone or with friends watching the sunset and city night life unfold before you while relaxing on your rooftop.”

The roof decks at the Broadway Park Lofts bring the ultimate urban advantage giving these Salt Lake City residents the ability to enjoy the sights of the Saturday Farmer’s Market, the 4th of July fireworks or the Twilight Concert Series right from the comfort of their own home. After all, lifestyle is really what this development is all about. With a Walk Score of 89 out of 100, residents can walk or bike to work, enjoy the local parks and enjoy gastronomic favorites right on the same block like Tony Caputo’s Market, Carlucci’s Bakery, Bruges Waffles and Frites; even Gateway Mall is mere walking distance away. Plus, when traveling, residents can enjoy leaving their car in the secure garage and walk to TRAX to hop the train to the airport and never have to rely on paying for parking.

If you are in the market for a condo purchase in Salt Lake City and want to snap up one of the penthouse units with a roof top deck you may be disappointed because those rooftop units currently support a long waiting list of potential buyers waiting to hear of the next release date for availability. However there are still some of the first and second level units available for affordable urban luxury. Currently there are 12 new residents (with a dozen more in the purchase process)already enjoying their new lofts and surrounding Warehouse District neighbours and local businesses.

ClearWater Homes of Utah has a mandate of building functional, beautiful and energy-efficient homes and this urban masterpiece in the heart of Salt Lake City is an incredible example of functionality meeting luxury. Now, with the cautiously optimistic resurgence in new build construction, ClearWater Homes has made The Broadway Park Lofts a shining example of the best in urban living by maximizing space in a desirable urban center and by meeting the growing demand for extending residential living space to the outdoors.

Matt Kidd from ClearWater Homes adds, “Knowing that our rooftop decks not only provide a unique experience for our residents but a long lasting waterproof protection for their investments gives us the peace of mind to continue this development model for all of our communities going forward.”

CSI Tour of Broadway Park Lofts

Join Duradek of Utah's (Dekmax) Matt McClure to get a sneak peak at these gorgeous rooftop decks and take advantage of making your inquiries on the unique features of roof deck waterproofing. Design professionals can get a detailed look inside the Broadway Park Lofts when the Salt Lake City chapter of the Construction Specification Institute (CSI-SLC) will conduct a tour on May 21st, 2014. The tour will cover the layout of the buildings and discuss the obstacles, successes and future of the final development which is expected to be completed mid to late summer 2014.

Download this article (1.43 MB .pdf), "Changing the Landscape in Salt Lake City One Roof Deck at a Time".

Have You Checked Your Deck? May is Deck Safety Month

Ahhhh, May! That favourite time of year when we really begin preparing our outdoor living areas in anticipation of the barbecues, games and luxurious lounging that is sure to follow in the coming summer months.

Having been around for 40 years with over 125 million square feet of vinyl decking installed throughout North America, Duradek wants to be sure that your deck is still the best it can be. While the obvious task of cleaning any organic debris, dirt and soil from the deck or patio surface is usually the first step for many home owners, be sure to include the critical step of a complete deck inspection.

Paying particular attention to the waterproofing details on and around your deck such as the caulking around posts and drains can help you isolate any vulnerabilities in your deck before weakening can occur or unfortunate accidents can take place.

 May is Deck Safety Month ®   
The North America Deck & Railing Association (NADRA) is the decking industry's most visible association, and they have a very strong consumer focus. Deck safety is a critical issue to NADRA, and the organization has a mandate of increasing public awareness of the necessity of regular inspections and maintenance of existing decks, and proper installation of new decks. This initiative prompted NADRA to declare May as Deck Safety Month ® in 2006.

 

NADRA estimates that there are 40 million decks in the U.S. that are over 20 years old, which means they were installed prior to today's building codes. This makes deck safety a critical issue that must be addressed and NADRA helps to make it easy by providing a Deck Safety Consumer Checklist and a Deck Safety Evaluation Form for builders. This is a fantastic free tool for keeping all your deck renovation assessment details together and can be very handy to reference  when getting estimates or discussing project options. You can get both of these very handy free tools on the NADRA website.

 Deck collapses happen far too frequently and when they do happen, they happen fast. For example, the Christmas Party in Indiana in December 2013 where a group photo on the deck was interrupted as the deck gave way with no warning, sending two dozen family members crashing to the ground. The family released security footage of the collapse and it is startling to see how sudden and unexpected the collapse was.
See the footage of the deck collapse on YouTube.



More recently, in April 2014 another family photo resulted in five out of sixteen family members suffering injuries when they fell 10 feet to the ground when the deck collapsed on a deck at a restaurant in Ontario. This wooden deck appears to have been left unprotected from the elements and seems to be yet another unfortunate example of a deck weakened by water infiltration to the point of structural insecurity.

Duradek is proud to be a member of NADRA and takes deck safety very serious too. Whether you are located in Canada or the United States, ensuring your deck meets building requirements is critical which is one of the many reasons it makes sense to have your deck build by a decking professional. Right from the initial construction of the deck to the condition of the substrate, the application of the waterproofing and the installation of the railings, each stage requires its own detailed expertise and is a major factor for Duradek recommending that you do not do the job yourself.

If you are considering renovating your balcony or deck to ensure your family photos are all taken safely, one of our Duradek trained waterproofing specialists would be happy to provide you with a free estimate on your decking project.