Make Your Deck Repair Profitable with Duradek

It is easy for all of us to think of our decks as an ongoing cost, maybe even a money pit. It seems like every few years there is a cost to maintain the deck then there is the hassle of doing the work too. Unless your creative and are willing to explore different ideas like this home owner did. They fixed their deck and made a profit doing it. In the market for a new home, they find a house that has everything they were looking for. It was only missing the home theater room but the house is in great shape with the exception of the wood deck on the back of the house. During the closing period waiting for the big move in they begin to explore the deck repair and what the cost will be.

  During the process they share their wild idea with a local contractor (Steve Nordfors) and he too begins the search for solutions. The contractor comes across Duradek and gets in touch with us, explaining the need for a true walkable waterproof roofing product. We talk for a while and he is given a local installer that specializes in residential decks MBL Construction. Steve has worked with Shane of MBL before so they get to work quickly.

The home owner is thrilled to hear there is actually a solution that will allow them to fix the deck with no ongoing cost and lasts for decades while serving as a roof over their new home theater room! So what really happened here? They repaired an old water damaged wood deck... And turned the deck into the roof of a room addition... And framed in the slab patio under the deck... And made a home theater room Adding significant value to the home.

Sure they spent some money to make these improvements. The significant difference is they also added real value to the home. The market for their neighborhood is $80 SF for interior space, they added 384 SF or $30,720 to the value of their new home. That was a dream come true.   Source: Duradek of Utah / Dekmax Blog - Mar 02, 2015

Busy Week for Coast-to-Coast Canadian Home & Garden Shows

This weekend (March 27 - 29th, 2015) marks one of the busiest weekends of the year for Home & Garden Shows.

Spring is officially here and while evidence of that may not be apparent in every area of the country, soon we will be basking in the golden rays of sunshine that have us happily enjoying our favourite places to be...our outdoor living spaces like our decks, patios and balconies. That makes this weekend the perfect time to check out your local Home & Garden Shows to help you with ideas, inspiration and the right tools you need for your home improvement plans this spring.

The easiest way to get the best value for your home improvement investments is to know what's out there and talk to professionals to guide you to the best solutions for your projects; and the best place to get all the experts and ideas you'll need all in one place is at a Home & Garden Show.

Spring 2015 Home & Garden Shows from Coast to Coast in Canada

Look for your local Duradek installers at one of these great spring Home & Garden Shows to ask anything you need to know about the benefits of low maintenance deck waterproofing with Duradek vinyl membranes.

GVHBA Spring Home Renovation Show
March 28, 2015 at Van Dusen Botanical Gardens
Vancouver, BC
The Greater Vancouver Home Builders Association is hosting this one-day show with educational seminars and exhibition for home owners to find everything you need for your home renovation plans this spring. Find Duradek's Winston Conyers on site with authorized Duradek Dealer City Wide Sundecks to assist you with your decking questions.
www.citywidesundecks.com


Tri-City Spring Home Expo
March 27 - 29, 2015 at the Poirier Center
Coquitlam, BC

This show is great for Tri-City locals as it is a FREE for attendees to browse the exhibitors. Duradek Dealer Quality Vinyl Decking will be on location to discuss your deck building or renovating plans and help you create the ideal low maintenance outdoor living space. Just look for Lyle from Quality Vinyl Decking to get the straight up answers for any decking questions you might have. Quality Vinyl Decking will make sure you get the best outdoor living space for your budget and lifestyle.
www.qualityvinyldecking.ca  


Gardenscape - the Backyard Lifestyle Show
March 27 - 29, 2015 at Prairieland Park
Saskatoon, SK

Be sure to stop by to talk to decking experts from Saskatoon Deck Shop. These decking professionals like Desiree Hubbs and David LaBerge my be recognized from Saskatoon's 'Ask the Experts'consumer advice columns and are the source of all Duradek vinyl deck membranes in Saskatchewan. Saskatoon Deck Shop has a skilled group of Duradek installers who have all been trained in the intricate details of deck waterproofing to make sure your decking investment is going to last.
www.saskatoondeckshop.com



 Need a deck in Saskatchewan?...just ask the Experts from Saskatoon Deck Shop.

Regina Spring Home & Garden Show
March 26 - 29, 2015 at the Canada Center Building - Evraz Place
Regina, SK

Look for Duradek Dealer KM Burgess Agencies Ltd. at aisle K, booth 27. KM Burgess is your source for low maintenance, reliable Duradek vinyl deck membranes.  


Spring Ideal Home Show
March 27 - 29, 2015 at Exhibition Park
Halifax, NS

Duradek Dealer South Shore Custom Decks will be on location to answer any of your Decking questions. Just look for Shane or Misha who can give you great decking advice you can rely on and provide the expert installation you need for a reliable, low maintenance deck.
Visit South Shore Custom Decks on Facebook.   

South Shore Custom Decks helped create many
favourite outdoor living spaces around Halifax

Fredericton Home Show
March 27 -29, 2015 at the Capital Exhibit Center
Fredericton, NB

Look for Beaver Construction. authorized Duradek Dealers for Fredericton to get expert information on your decking projects. Beaver Construction's Blake Price will be appearing on the Seminar Stage at 6:00 pm on Friday, March 27 presenting "Decking Materials and How They Should Be Applied".

 Look for Blake from Beaver Construction at the
Fredericton Home Show for all of your decking needs.

If you can't make it out to one of these great sources of spring home improvement inspiration and advice, feel free to contact a Duradek installer in your area for a free estimate on your vinyl deck waterproofing project.      

Dry Below Decks Made Easy – Part 2: Below vs. Above

When a 2nd level deck needs to serve as a roof for a lower level deck or patio below, you can save time and money by using a SINGLE product that is approved as BOTH a traffic coating and roofing membrane in one. If you have an upper level deck surfaced with Duradek vinyl membranes, you don’t need the expense of an under deck drainage system to keep the area below it dry.

Whether for investment properties or your own residence, getting the most from your outdoor living space includes maximizing the usable space. By turning an upper level deck into a roof for a lower level deck below you gain the advantage of dry outdoor storage or a place to enjoy the outdoors even when the weather conditions are less than perfect.

Using a Duradek vinyl deck membrane is the ideal solution as it provides an attractive pedestrian deck surface while simultaneously acting as an approved roofing membrane with all of the waterproofing details that need to be considered with roof-grade waterproofing. Under deck systems only serve as a water routing system (and sometimes a ceiling for the lower level deck) but your exposed walking surface of the upper level deck would have to be addressed separately.

When you need it to stay dry below an upper level deck. a
walkable roofing membrane like Duradek is the best option.
View Case History #157 on YouTube

A Look at Under Deck Drainage Systems and Why They Might Not be the Best Water Management Solution

There are two basic types of under deck drainage systems; both of which function by allowing water to get through the upper level deck surface and route it between the joists to downspouts and gutters. Theoretically, both of these systems have advantages but realistically neither of these systems provides complete water-tight protection for the building envelope. Water is routed away from the structure, but moisture is still present and trapped with little to no air flow. In addition, since the water routing systems are enclosed, you are unable to visually inspect if all seams or seals remain intact, and only discover those points of vulnerability AFTER there is a leak.

Last week we took a closer look a Trough Systems, which manage the water by routing it between the joists and is completely enclosed by upper deck above and soffit system below. This week we will take a closer look at Panel Systems which routes water below the joists and also often serves as the finished ceiling for the lower deck.

A Closer Look at Dry Below Deck Panel Systems

While a dry below panel system acts as the water routing system and ceiling for a lower level deck simultaneously, it also has its own set of challenges. Advantage - It can be used on an existing deck. Disadvantage - It is labour intensive as it relies on a sloped sleeper system to provide the slope needed to route the water. An elaborate spacer system is attached to the underside of the joists to provide a pitch of ½ inch every 4 feet.

Installation of the actual system begins with attaching a wall trim around the perimeter to create a frame. This includes drilling into the outside of the house and any penetration is a point of vulnerability to be caulked and checked periodically to protect the building envelope.

Installation of a below deck panel system.

All of the other pieces of the system just snap into the frame. In most cases a supporting beam(s) would be used to provide strength for the system. Basic panels serve as the decorative surface and are installed side by side to enclose the joists above. The panels are often PVC and they are flexible enough to install in the frame, but rigid enough to crack or snap when cutting to the appropriate size. The panels snap into the frame system and provide multiple non-permanent seals as they snap into each other to enclose the ceiling.

A gutter is installed on the outside perimeter to catch the water from the slope provided by the panels on the spacers. Water wicking or splash back can occur here so careful installation of the gutter is very important.

Like the trough system, panel systems still require the upper deck surface to be treated or installed separately.

Why Duradek is the Best Choice to Keep it Dry Below

Duradek vinyl deck membranes have been waterproofing decks for over 40 years. Duradek is CAN/CGSB, CCMC and ICC approved as a pedestrian traffic coating and a roofing membrane. It includes warrantied waterproof protection for 10 years, while its traditional service life reportedly averages 20+ years. Unlike many other vinyl deck products, Duradek also offers a written appearance warranty.

Duradek vinyl deck membranes are installed in a single application with methods that consider the details required for secure waterproof protection of the building envelope. Since those critical waterproofing details are so important in protecting the home, Duradek is installed by authorized contractors that have been specifically trained in Duradek’s installation methods.

How Duradek Vinyl Deck Membranes Work

Duradek is adhered directly to the deck surface. The ideal substrate is ¾” T&G Untreated Plywood, however Duradek can also be applied to concrete surfaces. All seams are heat-welded to ensure no water can ever penetrate. The membrane is run up the inside perimeter of the deck against the exterior of the building before the flashing details are added. Particular attention is paid to any areas of vulnerability like door openings.

Water is managed by a 1” in 12” surface slope to the outside edge. Depending on the type of deck, waterproofing details such as edge flashing, drains, scuppers and a gutter system is included if required. All of these waterproofing details are heat-welded or caulked to be completely sealed. The seals are accessible for annual visual inspections. There is less of a chance of surprising leaks with Duradek.

Duradek 'Cork Natural' vinyl is a low maintenance deck surface
as well as a roofing membrane to keep it dry below.

Get the Upper Hand on Your Upper Level Deck

There are several advantages with designing your second level deck to provide cover in order to create dry, usable space below. Sometimes you need dry outdoor storage space for bikes, lawnmowers, sporting equipment or other seasonal items. Maybe you like to spend time outdoors all year round and that protected area provides shelter from the rainy days, or alternately in peak summer season you can get a little shade when you just have to get out of the sun for a while.

Whatever motivates you for creating a dry area below your upper level deck, choosing Duradek and one of its 24 attractive colour options is the best choice for low maintenance decking that doubles your usable outdoor living space.

Duradek vinyl deck membranes provide roof-grade waterproof
protection for a lower patio and dry storage for outdoor items.

You can contact an authorized Duradek Installer in your area for a free estimate on your next decking project or to answer any questions you might have on deck waterproofing.

Check out last week’s article where we compare Duradek to the Trough style of under-deck drainage systems in “Dry Below Decks Made Easy – part 1”.

Duradek Perfects the Trend of a Vinyl Aggregate Pebble Look

Duradek Introduces the Natural Choice for Deck Surfaces

Duradek, the original Walkable Roofing Membrane expands its response to market demands for naturally inspired textures and colour for outdoor living space in its latest addition to the LEGACY line with the all new "Pebble Beach" designer aggregate 60 mil vinyl membrane.

Inspired by Nature...Designed to Withstand It

Duradek Ultra Legacy Pebble Beach

Duradek, the most trusted brand on waterproof membranes has perfected the trend of a natural stone look on low maintenance outdoor walking surfaces by introducing Pebble Beach, the latest addition to the Legacy line of PVC membranes.

Duradek Ultra Legacy Pebble Beach

Pebble Beach brings a remarkable aggregate pebble appearance to outdoor spaces in a simple, one-step application while maintaining the reliable, low maintenance waterproof protection you have come to rely on from Duradek.

This follows the introduction of the first two options in the new Legacy line introduced to honour Duradek's 40th anniversary in 2014...

Duradek Ultra Legacy Barnwood and Driftwood

Your deck can have a look similar to that of aged wood without sacrificing safety, security or waterproofing peace-of-mind.

Duradek Ultra Legacy Barnwood and Driftwood

Up close you can recognize the characteristics of the vinyl membrane with its slip resistant, textured surface; but when laid out on a deck the colour blends and pattern allow your eye to pick up the traditional appearance of wood grains, but without any of the maintenance that wood requires.

Legacy Driftwood vinyl on a front porch.
Photo by Home Defect Analysis and Solutions
in Houston, TX.

These exceptional products are an innovative example of Duradek's leadership in outdoor flooring.
Exclusively installed by specially trained professionals, Duradek has been the leader in waterproof deck membranes for over 40 years and provides low maintenance, stylish solutions for outdoor living space.

View or download the .pdf of the Press Release introducing "Pebble Beach". (432 KB)

To request information on your next decking project, contact one of our skilled Duradek Installers in your area.

Dry Below Decks Made Easy – Part 1: Trough vs. Top

They say there are two sides to every story, but when it comes to 2nd level decks acting as a roof for a patio below, you only need a one-sided solution – Duradek vinyl membranes. You don’t need the expense of an under deck drainage system if you have a deck surfaced with Duradek.

For an investment as large as residential properties, maximizing usable space is on the top of most home owners’ lists. It is certainly important to developers and designers who want to maximize the value of the homes for their clients. With the ever-growing demand for more outdoor living space it only makes sense to maximize space by turning an upper level deck into a roof for a lower level deck below.

Duradek vinyl deck membranes are the perfect solution as they serve as both the pedestrian deck surface and the roofing membrane in one single product application that completely considers protecting the building envelope. Under deck systems only serve as a water routing system (and sometimes a ceiling for the lower level deck) so you still have to consider the exposed surface(s) of the upper level deck separately.

An attractive upper deck CAN double as a roof
(see bottom image for lower level view).

Why Under Deck Drainage Systems May Not be the Best Roof Deck Solution for You

There are two basic types of under deck drainage systems.
1 – Trough systems
2 – Panel systems

Both of these systems function by allowing water to get through the upper level deck surface and then routing it between the joists to downspouts or gutters; neither system provides complete water-tight protection for the joists, fastening points, supporting beams or building envelope. Water is routed away, but moisture is still present and lack of air flow just traps that moisture between the surface of the upper deck and the roof of the lower deck. While some installation methods will rely on caulking or butyl tape to seal seams, you are unable to inspect if those seals remain intact as they are inaccessible once the deck is complete.

A Closer Look at Dry Below Deck Trough Systems

The under deck drainage trough systems are only a realistic option for a new build decks as the troughs must be installed between the joists before the deck surface is complete. It is not a good option for existing decks as the upper level deck surface would have to be removed for it to be installed.

When the trough systems are installed, the material is usually not run up the siding of the house which means the building envelope is not completely protected and it is possible for moisture to find its way through, risking wood rot where the deck meets the house.

Another issue with the trough systems is that it is dependent on the area between the joists to allow the proper slope to route the water away. With a ceiling on a lower level deck, most people will run some sort of piping or conduit for electrical purposes and the placement of those may form damming or tenting causing an interruption of water flow and trap moisture.



A trough style under deck drainage system can not be installed
on an existing deck without disassembling it.

The water flow of a trough system is routed to a downspout at each trough, but where the trough meets the downspout it is (again) not sealed. A simple, small cut where the trough terminates at the downspout is all that is performed to prevent wicking and keeping the water from getting below the trough. If the width of the water flow exceeds that of the cut, it can easily wick up below the trough.

A soffit system to serve as the ceiling on the lower level deck would have to be installed to conceal the troughs and joists. If any moisture has gotten past the trough it can become trapped within the joists and soffit system below with little airflow.

Finally, once a dry below trough system is completely finished, the upper level deck surface needs to be installed. At this point the fasteners puncture the trough membrane from above and may allow moisture into the joist area…but you will never know about it until you have a leak because it is completely buried between surface and soffit.

Why Duradek is the Best Choice to Keep it Dry Below

Duradek is a PVC membrane system and has been waterproofing decks since 1974. Duradek is CAN/CGSB, CCMC and ICC approved as a pedestrian traffic coating and a roofing membrane. It is installed in a single application providing warrantied waterproof protection for 10 years, while its traditional service life reportedly averages 20+ years.

Duradek’s installation methods consider the critical details required for secure waterproof protection of the building envelope. Since those waterproofing details are so important in protecting the home, Duradek is only installed by trained and authorized installers.

Duradek is adhered directly to the plywood or concrete deck surface and all seams are heat-welded to ensure no water can ever penetrate. The membrane is run up the inside perimeter of the deck (recommended 6 inches) against the exterior of the building before the flashing details are added.

The professional installers of Duradek vinyl deck membranes
are skilled in the details needed for reliable waterproofing.

Water is managed by a 1” in 12” surface slope to the outside edge. Depending on the type of deck, waterproofing details such as edge flashing, drains, scuppers and a gutter system is included if required. All of these waterproofing details are heat-welded to be completely sealed. The perimeter edges can be caulked as they are accessible for annual visual inspections. There is no room for water infiltration with a Duradek system.

Once installed, Duradek reliably provides you a roof for the lower deck below and the walking surface for the upper level deck. On the lower level, the joists are still exposed but with open air flow they are not vulnerable to static water and any moisture will naturally evaporate. If you would like an enclosed ceiling and lighting installed for your lower level deck, the area between joists is completely dry and clear of obstruction for the addition of conduits and a soffit system.

Of the many reasons you might want to create a dry area below your upper level deck, choosing one of Duradek’s beautiful designer finishes offers the best choice for low maintenance decking that doubles your usable outdoor living space.

The roof-grade waterproof protection of Duradek vinyl above
helps to double usable outdoor living space.

Check back next week when we take a close look at the second type of under-deck drainage systems – Panel Systems.

Outdoor Living Trends to Consider this Spring

Spring home improvement puts outdoor living space on the top of many homeowners' lists. Here we take a look at some of the most popular trends from the last year to assist you in choosing what upgrades will bring you the most satisfaction from your outdoor living space.

Duradek has been in the decking industry for over 40 years, and many of the same benefits Duradek vinyl has brought to homeowners through the decades are the same solutions that can make outdoor living a great experience today.

Top Trends in Decks and Balconies

1. Outdoor Kitchens

From simple grill and prep area to complete outdoor kitchen with refrigerator and sink, outdoor kitchens are a feature many grill-masters want to invest in. According to HBPA, 62% of grill owners cook outside all year round.
Duradek vinyl is a great option for outdoor kitchen areas with it's easy to clean surface.

2. Year Round Use

Enjoying your deck year-round is not limited to residents of states like Georgia or Florida. For cooler climates with shorter summer seasons, outdoor living space can be comfortably enjoyed year round with the addition of fire features or heaters. Additionally, multi-level outdoor living space allows the flexibility of enjoying an open deck or a covered patio.

Beautiful AND Functional!
(photo by Duradek of Georgia)

Duradek is a roofing approved pedestrian membrane so the same walking surface that protects your top deck also provides your lower-level deck with roof grade waterproof protection. No need for the occasional spring shower to keep you from enjoying your outdoor living space!

3. Chameleon Lighting

Clever placement of outdoor lighting fixtures as part of structural elements gives a sophisticated look to any deck or patio. This feature also means electrical wiring is hidden within those structures and not posing a safety risk laying out on the usable area of the deck.
Posts and columns may make a great structure to disguise your lighting in, but remember to make sure they are waterproofed correctly. If you are using wood posts, they are just as vulnerable to water infiltration as any vertical perimeter wall around your deck.

4. View Decks

Roof top decks are becoming more and more popular for added outdoor living space. Whether due to landscape elevation or restricted space, more and more people are enjoying the benefits that come with roof top decks and the amazing views that often accompany them. When it's all about the view, the added advantage of view-through railing systems give residential roof decks a sense of high class luxury right at home.

Rooftop decks are the feature that Duradek is perfectly made for. With ICC approved roof grade waterproof protection and a 10-year waterproofing warranty, Duradek brings peace of mind that when you are enjoying your outdoor living space, the indoor living space below is properly protected.

Duradek's vinyl membranes are a truly low-maintenance product, requiring only seasonal cleaning and do not have to be re-coated...ever! Combined with Durarail powder-coated aluminum railing systems, such as the beautiful and sophisticated topless glass Panorama Post, you get the best in low maintenance outdoor living space for your home.

The perfect at-home outdoor leisure space!
(photo from Duradek of Georgia)

If you'd like to see how Duradek can help transform your deck or balcony into a low maintenance outdoor living space, you can contact a Duradek dealer in your area for a free estimate.

Enjoy your outdoor living this spring!

Best Spring Deck Maintenance Advice - Part 2: Maintenance

The cost and time required for deck maintenance can vary widely depending on the type of decking and deck waterproofing that you have chosen.

A deck protected with a vinyl membrane might take only minutes for a simple cleaning and visual inspection while a wood or concrete deck can require several hours labour spread across several days.

Regardless the type of deck, the time required for maintenance is certainly worth the investment as compared to ‘letting it slide’ for a year only to find out that a simple maintenance chore has now become an expensive retrofit or renovation.

Maintenance Checklist for Decks and Balconies

Perform your annual spring deck maintenance with this easy-to-follow checklist:
Regular Maintenance Tasks

• Remove piles of wood, stone or other debris from around the building to avoid rodent, insect, termite or spider infestation.
• Prune shrubs, trees and other vegetation (recommend a minimum of 12 inches from the roof/deck) to avoid insect infestation, hard-to-clean sap and potential storm damage.
• Clean leaves and debris from gutters and downspouts to avoid drainage problems.
• Clean off any debris from the deck surface as soon as possible. The tannin in leaves can stain a deck horribly regardless of the type of surface, but if allowed to sit for an extended period on unprotected wood or concrete, the stain may never come out. On vinyl decks you may have some success with diluted ammonia or outdoor bleach to remove organic stains resulting from leaves, growth of algae, moss or mold spores but this will usually involve a lot of elbow work to be effective.
• Clean with a cleaning agent made specifically for the type of surface. Most manufacturers will offer a cleaner specific to their product that will leave less harmful residue than typical household cleaners. If that is not available to you, choose a mild, eco-friendly cleaning agent. Use a stiff bristled brush, scrubbing in circular motions. It is very important to always flush thoroughly with clean water. Any remaining residue can damage your deck’s appearance when sun exposure will ‘bake’ the chemicals into the surface.



Cleaning a Duradek vinyl deck is easy, just be sure
to flush very thoroughly when done.

• Certain household and industrial cleaners can cause damage and discoloration and are not recommended. Avoid the use of:
  • Powered Abrasives
  • Steel Wool
  • Dry Cleaning Fluids
  • Lacquer Thinner Solvents
• You may choose to pressure wash your decks, ledger boards and facades. Be sure to use no more than 150 psi and do not point nozzle directly towards building interior or on any seams or attachments on the deck itself.

For more details on cleaning tough stains from your vinyl deck, see Duradek's Care and Cleaning recommendations.
Waterproofing Maintenance Tasks
Aesthetics aside, depending on the type of deck(s) you have, there may be further maintenance to ensure the waterproofing will continue to perform:

• Wood Decks: paint or water-seal all exterior wood including deck surface, overhangs and railings; and apply anti-skid coating to any exterior steps. You may have to perform some sanding to prepare the deck for the new paint or sealant. For best protection, this should be done annually.
• Concrete Decks: fill or patch any cracks or chipping sections of concrete; and apply anti-skid coating to any exterior steps. Apply sealant as needed – approximately every 1 - 2 years.
• Vinyl Membrane Decks: No waterproofing maintenance is required as the vinyl membrane is intrinsically waterproof and is textured for slip resistance. The recommended annual cleaning will keep the anti-slip texture clear of organic growth.

Low Maintenance Deck Waterproofing

For over 40 years, Duradek PVC membranes have provided home owners reliable waterproof protection without the need for ongoing maintenance, allowing more time for leisure and less on the labour!

Duradek's roofing approved traffic membrane is the ideal solution for all of your outdoor living space walking surfaces. From roof decks to pool areas, Duradek is attractive, slip resistant and is available in a variety of colours and textures to c0mpliment any outdoor design schemes. Duradek is also proud to offer a written appearance warranty protecting you from excessive discoloration beyond normal wear and aging in addition to its 10-year waterproofing warranty.

If you want to learn more about the advantages of Duradek™ vinyl membranes and Durarail™ aluminum railings, talk to a trained and authorized Duradek installer for a free estimate.
www.duradek.com

Missed our last post? Check out "Best Spring Deck Maintenance Advice - Part 1: Inspections"

Best Spring Deck Maintenance Advice - Part 1: Inspections

Ah, spring time! Already here for some parts of the country...just around the corner for others, early spring is the time to start preparing our outdoor leisure areas for a satisfying season of sun and fun. For those of us with sundecks or balconies, that means spring deck maintenance time and crossing our fingers hoping we don’t hear that ugly 4-letter word – “LEAK”.

The first priority....finding out how hard winter actually was on our decks and balconies. The single most influential factor in reducing high maintenance costs is to be sure the waterproofing is intact and the building envelope is still protected to avoid unexpected water infiltration and resulting damage. Whether you have a small balcony or expansive roof deck, significant and costly repairs due to leaks and water intrusion can often be avoided with simple annual maintenance and inspections.

Inspection Checklist for Decks and Balconies

It is important to check all deck perimeter details
are securely in place and repair if needed.

Perform your annual spring deck inspection with this easy-to-follow checklist:

• Inspect for ice or wind damage: gutters that have pulled away from the building, separation of the gutter seams, etc. Fix or replace as needed.
• Check flashing where the deck and the house meet and along the deck perimeter to ensure it is still securely in place without any damage or deterioration and fix as needed.
• Check doorways and other entryways to ensure all sealing or caulking is still in place.
• Check any caulk at perimeters or posts and re-caulk where it is missing or worn away.
• Look for loose or cracked trim, signs of decay or insect damage.
• Check the deck slope. Over time, the main building or the deck structure may settle, shrink or shift causing cracks or points of vulnerability. Be sure the deck slopes away from the building to avoid pooling water adjacent to the building or entryways.
• Check the stability of the wood in several different areas where applicable, including deck boards, stairs, support posts and joists under the deck and ledger board (where the deck attaches to the house). Look for small holes in the wood that may indicate insect damage is present.
• When checking wood, pay special attention to areas that tend to remain damp, are regularly exposed to water or are in contact with fasteners. If you are uncertain of the condition of the wood, use a tool like an ice pick or screwdriver to attempt to penetrate the wood surface. If you can break off a sliver of wood without splinters, easily penetrate to ¼- ½ inch or find that the wood is soft or spongy, decay may be present.
• Check exterior outlets and faucets for cracks or leaks and repair as needed.
• Inspect any vents for openings to prevent rodent intrusion.
• Check curbs or retaining walls for shifting or damage.
• Inspect all railings for rot, loose bolts or caulking and fix as needed. Railing maintenance can be significantly reduced by choosing aluminum over wood.

Check the area around any posts...a common
spot for water infiltration which can lead to rot.

Areas of Concern? Call a Professional

Of course, general stability of the deck structure and a protected building envelope are the most important concerns. If during your deck inspection you have noticed any structural issues or suspect there may be water damage, you will be best served by contacting a professional to assess the situation. It is to your advantage to gain the peace of mind that your home is protected and your family is safe, happy and will continue to enjoy your outdoor leisure space.

It is critical that you properly waterproof to protect the building from eventually being compromised by water damage. (See more about maintenance and waterproofing on our next post, "Best Spring Deck Maintenance Advice - Part 2: Maintenance").



Inspect your deck in the spring to have a leisurely, worry-free summer.

Professional Deck Waterproofing

For over 40 years, Duradek PVC membranes and installation techniques have provided reliable waterproof protection to protect the integrity of the deck and building envelope. Duradek is a CAN/CGSB and ICC approved pedestrian traffic roofing membrane and is installed only by trained professionals for warrantied waterproof protection.

If you want to learn more about the advantages of Duradek™ vinyl membranes and Durarail™ aluminum railings, talk to a trained and authorized Duradek installer for a free estimate.