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!

Spring Cleaning Advice for your Duradek Deck

Finally! Winter has come to an end and the promises of spring are starting to be revealed with an increased amount of sunshine for many of us as we happily ease into peak season for deck use.

While we anticipate the many barbecues, family events and social gatherings that take place on our favourite outdoor living spaces in the coming months, now is the perfect time to give your deck a really good cleaning to prep it for a long season of enjoyment.

Duradek deck owners can happily start enjoying their outdoor spaces while neighbours with wood decks are procrastinating the labour intensive maintenance required before the leisure time begins...but even Duradek decks need a little TLC in the form of cleaning. Particularly if you've used rock salt or other ice melting chemicals throughout the winter months, you need to give your deck a thorough cleaning before the sun can 'bake' any of those chemicals into your deck surface.

EYA Builders, twice named America's best builder had made good use of thoughtfully planned spaces in their homes which often includes roof decks waterproofed with Duradek. With over 4,000 homes in over 30 neighbourhoods in Virginia, Maryland and Washington DC, EYA builders takes great care of its customers by providing maintenance advice for various features of their newly built homes. This video on cleaning Duradek is one of the ways EYA helps its customers enjoy the fabulous features of their homes and we thought we'd share it with you.



So remember these simple tips for proper care of your deck:

1 - Give your deck a seasonal cleaning.
While all cleaning products are not always available in every market, your best option is to use a cleaning product that states it is safe for use on vinyl. Choose a gentle cleaner and always follow the manufacturers recommendations for use. Here are a few popular examples:

• Vinyl Deck Cleaner (available from Duradek)
• Simple Green
• Tide Detergent (diluted)
• Cascade Powdered Dish Detergent (diluted)

2 - Give your deck a gentle scrub.
Use a soft bristled broom or brush, but be careful to not apply too much pressure that might wear down the embossed pattern of your vinyl.

3 - Be sure to rinse off all cleaning residue very thoroughly.

While Duradek is manufactured with UV and mold inhibitors, in some rare cases mold growth can be a frustrating issue with a little more work required to clean. If you are experiencing mold on your Duradek, you may want to read this article on mold removal which features an excellent case study by Duradek MidAtlantic on how to identify and combat mold.

Cleaning your deck is a comparatively easy, maintenance free alternative to the sanding, staining, painting and sealing required from other deck systems to keep it looking great.

Just invest the few minutes it takes to clean your deck seasonally and you will have a deck you want to show off for many years like these happy Duradek deck owners.

If you don't yet have a Duradek deck and would like a free estimate for the best option in low maintenance decking, contact a Duradek dealer in your area.

We hope you enjoy creating a ton of happy memories on your deck!

Understanding Balcony to Wall Interface Rehabilitation for Repairing Water Damage

When waterproofing has failed on the balconies of multi-residential buildings, particularly condos or apartments, the costs involved in repairing wood rot can be staggering. However ensuring the project is done correctly and avoids further need for repair in the future makes the investment well worth the cost.

We'd like to invite you to check out a great visual provided by RDH Building Science and Technology (see link at bottom of page) that will help you understand the changes in technology that result in a more durable detail. This excellent sequence shows you how best practices take a 6-level system to a 17-level system and provide the most security and confidence that your building envelope is protected at the vulnerable deck to wall intersection. Once the rehabilitation has been done, it looks virtually identical to the original detail from the outside, but it is what is going on underneath that is important to understand.

Important Detail on Working With the Vinyl Membrane in Multi-Layer Systems

One of the critical details on the best practices is to ensure that there is a separation layer between any asphalt based products and the vinyl membrane. Products that are asphalt based and the plasticizers in the vinyl membranes can cause the asphalt to "flow". This is particularly noticeable with rubberized asphaltic "peel and stick" types of products commonly used for waterproofing transitions at doors, windows, etc.



An Asphalt Based Peel and Stick product softened and flowing on PVC.

In summary, here is a comparison of the steps involved in an older system as compared to best practices that exist today.

Old Methods	New Technology Best Practices
1-Interior Gypsum 2-Framing 3-Insulation 4-Sheathing 5-Deck Membrane 6-Cladding	1-Interior Gypsum 2-Framing 3-Insulation 4-Sheathing 5-Building Paper 6-Membrane Flashing 7-Building Paper 8-Framing 9-PVC Coated Metal Flashing 10-Deck Membrane 11-Membrane Isolation Strip 12-Building Paper 13-Membrane Flashing 14-P.T. Strapping 15-Paper Backed Metal Lath 16-Stucco Base Coat 17-Stucco Color Coat

Again, we encourage you to check out this great RDH Balcony to Wall Interface Rehabilitation Graphic Sequence for a thorough understanding of what is going on under the surface in waterproofing projects.

If you'd like to inquire about a Rehabilitation project, call Duradek to be referred to a trained and authorized installer near you.

Caldek Holds Consumer Choice Award in Decking Category

Caldek Sundeck Systems, Calgary’s exclusive Duradek dealer and multi-year Consumer Choice Award winner once again takes the title of best in category for Patios and Decks with Consumer Choice Awards. Caldek's level of quality service and experience brings the professionalism that is a great example of the  type of contractors that are selected as authorized Duradek dealers.

Caldek has been a provider of deck building and renovation services in Calgary since the late 1980’s. The recognition this award title brings to them in their category of Best in Patios and Decks is due to Caldek’s excellent service and experience in addition to the strong and reliable brand recognition of Duradek vinyl deck membranes. For 40 years, Duradek has been reliably protecting balconies, patios and roof decks, earning Duradek the recognition as a brand that homeowners can trust.

If you are in the Calgary area, you can meet the good folks at Caldek Sundeck Systems on September 19th - 22nd at the Calgary Home and Design Show. Take this great opportunity to talk to the decking and waterproofing specialists at Caldek about your deck building or deck renovating options.

How Consumer Choice Awards Works

Consumer Choice Awards is a reliable voice for the opinions, perceptions and expectations of the Canadian marketplace. Established in 1987, Consumer Choice Awards selects their recipients through the responses of thousands of consumers and businesses.

All research is done at arm’s length exclusively by third-party research firm Lazier Marketing, a Canadian owned, independent market research firm. They use scientific methodology with statistically accurate market research. There is no panel of judges to limit the number of companies to be considered or subjectively be influenced and there are no ballot boxes that can be stuffed by family and friends. Companies are chosen through an objective and accurate reflection of the marketplace which is achieved by selecting a cross section of the top small to medium sized businesses in the business and construction industry.

Consumer Choice Award recipients are considered to be a reliable choice when making a purchased decision where it is important to minimize risk due to high cost or unfamiliarity with the service you require.

Duradek Confirms Superior Performance with Competitive Weather Testing

Duradek, the most tested vinyl membrane on the market, extended its dedication to performance testing by contracting the services of a 3rd-party testing agency to conduct accelerated weather tests with Duradek vinyl and the vinyl of an alternate supplier that has been emphasizing their tough, scuff resistant clear topcoat/film. The results speak for themselves...  

The pictures above show the results of equally controlled accelerated weather testing, with one randomly chosen sample of each product. This test was conducted side-by-side over a 9 month period by third-party material testing provider, Atlas Material Testing in Phoenix, Arizona.

(ASTM G90 - Standard Practice for Performing Accelerated Outdoor Weathering of Non-Metallic Materials Using Concentrated Natural Sunlight)

For more information on this comparison testing, see details on this Accelerated Weathering Comparison PDF.

In the lab and on over a 100 million square feet of decks from coast-to-coast...

Duradek Vinyl Membranes Stand the Test of Time.

Providing reliable waterproofing for nearly 40 years, Duradek has proven time and time again that its performance surpasses its warranty terms for long-lasting decking solutions.

Walkable - Waterproof - Roofing Approved

AND - the performance you can count on!

Trained and Authorized Installers - 10-Year Waterproofing Warranty

PLUS... Duradek and Durarail products are virtually maintenance free so you can spend more time enjoying your deck and less time laboring on it this spring!

Duradek - Waterproofing Decks Since 1974.

Trends in Outdoor Living Reveal Duradek as a Top Decking Product Solution

Spring home improvement puts outdoor living space on the top of many homeowners' lists. Atlanta Home Improvement Magazine identifies the top Trends in Patios, Porches and Decks this May 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 nearly 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 Patios, Porches and Decks

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.

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!

Open area, covered area and fire feature - ready for year round use!
(photo provided by Duradek of Georgia)

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 identified as a top trend for 2013. 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.



Gorgeous, low maintenance view deck!
(photo provided by Duradek of Georgia)

Transform Your Deck

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!

Deck Waterproofing Details Require Skill

Deck building is sometimes overlooked as a specialty trade, so if you are building or remodeling a deck it is well worth your time to research a contractor who specializes in deck construction and waterproofing. In fact, the waterproofing element of decks, particularly flat roof decks, is an even further specialized skill within the deck building community. Many general contractors throughout North America are grateful to have a local Duradek installer that they can call for balcony or roof deck projects.

Duradek insists all installers complete a 2-day training.

Vinyl Decking Waterproofing Details

Duradek vinyl membranes have been used to successfully waterproof decks and balconies for nearly 40 years, so you can be quite confident in its strength and durability. However, even the best building products can not perform as intended if not installed correctly. That is why Duradek vinyl membranes are only available to contractors who have successfully completed Duradek's two-day hands-on training.

Water diverters, perimeter details, corner details and vulnerable areas like doorways are given special attention in a Duradek training. With proven installation techniques and ongoing research, Duradek is the true leader in walkable membrane waterproofing. Not only will your deck be protected from water infiltration and freeze/thaw cycles, but you will also have an attractive surface that truly defines your outdoor living space.

Specialized Deck Waterproofing with Duradek of Utah

Like all Duradek distributors, Duradek of Utah knows the decking business very well and are experts in the field. When local builders want to offer Duradek vinyl directly to their customers, they are required to successfully complete the two-day training before they are able to purchase the material.

Each aspect of installing the vinyl membrane is covered, and students are required to get some hands on experience in the classroom setting before taking their installation skills to their real-world projects. This far surpasses the the one-page installation instructions provided to some do-it-yourselfers! Check out some of the training details from Duradek of Utah's training sessions....

Home Inspection Checklist Includes Deck Considerations from Duradek

The arrival of spring brings a bevy of home improvement ideas for many homeowners, but before you start compiling your wish-list, it is a good idea to perform a complete annual home inspection to ensure you don’t miss any important details and can properly prioritize your home improvement plans. Atlanta Home Improvement Magazine has given homeowners an advantage with a special section in their April issue and Duradek was happy to contribute some of the key deck considerations for your reference.

The ‘Spring Spruce Up’ (page 37) is a handy maintenance and repair checklist guide full of detailed information on the steps you need to properly provide your home with an annual inspection without missing a thing. This time of year it is particularly important to pay attention to your deck maintenance needs so your deck is safe, secure and ready for enjoyment through the sunny summer months.

Deck Inspection Advice

The folks at Duradek of Georgia are deck experts and members of the North America Deck and Railing Association (NADRA), so they know that deck safety is a primary concern.  On page 41, Duradek of Georgia mentions that with over 40 million decks in North America over 20 years old, homeowners would be wise to refer to NADRAs deck inspection checklist to dive even deeper into inspection and maintenance details for decking. It is important to ensure that any activities or enjoyment that your deck can bring to your family and guests are safe and worry-free.

Of course, general stability of the deck structure is the most important concern, but to ensure your deck structure stays strong you need to be confident that it is properly waterproofed to protect it from being compromised over time by water damage.

Deck Waterproofing

Duradek is the perfect solution for deck waterproofing since the PVC membrane provides a completely water-tight seal around your deck’s surface.  In addition, Duradek vinyl deck surfaces require no yearly maintenance like the sanding and staining a wood deck requires or the re-application of a liquid waterproof coating over a concrete deck. Whether you start with wood or with concrete, once Duradek has been installed you have guaranteed waterproof protection for 10 years.

A deck protected with Duradek as seen in
Atlanta Home Improvement Magazine

In the image above which was included in April’s Atlanta Home Improvement Magazine, you can see how Duradek provides a beautiful, clean and contemporary look. But what it doesn’t show is that this deck also serves as a roof for the ground-level deck below. Not only does Duradek protect the deck structure, but the roof-grade protection of Duradek Ultra membranes ensures that anything below your deck is kept dry too.

Duradek 2nd story deck provides roof-grade
waterproof protection for lower deck

If you are curious about the advantages of Duradek vinyl membranes and would like to talk to a trained and authorized Duradek installer about your potential deck renovations, you can contact a Duradek dealer in your area for a free estimate.

Shows for Home Builder or Home Owner - Duradek is There for You

Whether your decking needs are that of a builder or a home owner, Duradek is ready for a busy spring of solving your deck waterproofing problems to ensure you have an attractive and low-maintenance outdoor living space.

Spring Home Shows This Week

Spring home and garden shows are in full swing and Duradek has been at shows all across North America to share the benefits of PVC decking. When you are visiting your local home and garden shows, be sure to look for Duradek. This week you will find Duradek at the following shows:

March 21 -24, 2013
Regina Spring Home & Garden Show
EVRAZ Place, Regina, SK
Look for Duradek Dealer, KM Burgess

March 22 - 24, 2013
Gardenscape Show
Prairieland Park, Saskatoon, SK
Look for Duradek Distributor, Saskatoon Deck Shop

March 22 - 24, 2013
North Vancouver Home Expo
Karen Magnussen Arena, North Vancouver, BC
Look for Duradek Dealer, United Vinyl

Builder's Shows This Week

March 22 - 23, 2013
JLC Live New England
Rhode Island Convention Center, Providence, RI
Look for Duradek Distributor, Duradek of New England/Railing Pro

March 22 - 24, 2013
Home Builders' Association of Newfoundland
Mile One Centre, St. John's, NL
Look for Duradek Dealers Island Wide Duradek and Duradek Newfoundland Railings

March 22 - 24, 2013
Home Builders' Association of New Brunswick
Le Colisee de Moncton, Moncton, NB
Look for Duradek Dealer Thompson Construction



Look for Duradek at your local Home and Building Shows.

While we are always thrilled to introduce Duradek to people and explain all of the benefits of waterproofing your deck with our Duradek Ultra vinyl membranes, one of the most enjoyable part of home shows for us is to hear the comments of so many happy Duradek customers who tell us, "Oh, we've had Duradek for YEARS!".

If you'd like to find out more about Duradek but you can't make it to a spring home show, feel free to contact a Duradek Dealer near you who can answer your questions or provide a free estimate on your deck.



Decks in Demand for 2013 Residential Landscaping

Terraces, Patios and Decks were identified as the top outdoor living trends for 2013 according to results of the 2013 Residential Landscape Architect Trends survey conducted by the American Society of Landscape Architects. The survey polled landscape architects who specialize in residential design and asked them to rate the expected popularity of various residential outdoor design elements for 2013. In addition to Terraces/ Patios/ Decks topping the expected demand at 97.6%, the results also show demand for low maintenance design and sustainability.

ASLA Executive Vice President and CEO Nancy Somerville, Hon. ASLA says, “In this uncertain economy, homeowners want to get more enjoyment out of their yards. They want attractive outdoor spaces that are both easy to take care of and sustainable”.

With the desire for outdoor living space on the rise, Duradek is the ideal product choice to fill the need of many of these anticipated outdoor living space design trends with our single-ply, low maintenance walkable roof membrane and the inherit green features with PVC membranes longevity. Duradek provides homeowners with an attractive walking surface that waterproofs their balcony or roof deck in one step, without the need for annual maintenance which presents an economic advantage measured in both time and money over a simple wooden deck or liquid coating system that would require regular upkeep or reapplication.

Check out some of the survey results below and how Duradek is an optimal product choice to meet the needs of these expected demands.

Outdoor Design Elements
(Overall rating for 2013)

Percent Rating Popular or Somewhat Popular:

Outdoor living spaces
(kitchens, entertainment spaces) – 94.5%

Duradek provides an attractive and easy to clean surface
for your outdoor living space with slip resistance and
UV and mold inhibitors built into the material.

Outdoor recreation amenities
(pools, spas, tennis courts) – 76.3%

Duradek also makes an attractive and easy to
maintain surface for pool and hot tub surrounds.



Sustainable design practices – 74.8%

PVC’s one-step application and longevity compare
favourably  to the multiple application and
reapplication requirements of liquid applied systems,
and unlike pressure treated wood, no harmful chemicals
are eventually leeched into the landfills.



 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Outdoor Structures
(Overall rating for 2013)

Percent Rating Popular or Somewhat Popular:

Terraces/patios/decks – 97.6%

Whether it a ground level patio or a roof deck
over living space, Duradek membranes provide
waterproof protection with a 10-year warranty.

 

Fencing (includes gates) – 89.6%

Durarail powder coated aluminum railing and
fencing systems are the perfect complement
to Duradek to match its durability and low
maintenance performance.
No rust, no sanding, no staining…ever!

 

To view the complete published survey results, visit the American Society of Landscape Architects News.

If you’d like to discuss how Duradek can benefit your home or project, one of our specially trained Duradek installers in your area would be happy to answer your questions.

Top 5 Deck Maintenance Tasks

While a properly built and waterproofed deck requires very little maintenance, it is no excuse to ignore deck maintenance or deck repair tasks all together. A very small amount of time is all it takes to avoid costly repairs, or worse, personal injury due to deck collapse.

Duradek Recommends Performing the Following Top 5 Deck Maintenance Tasks.

#1 TASK: General Deck Inspection

FREQUENCY (per year): once

DESCRIPTION:

1. Inspect your deck for any built-in or added on features to ensure they are functioning correctly and safely.
2. Be sure that all lighting is working, and clean all light covers to allow adequate light to shine through.
3. Ensure all electrical outlets, appliances and features are up to code and that there are no electrical cords presenting a tripping hazard.
4. Ensure that any sources of fire or heat such as fire pits, chimneys, grills, heaters and candles or placed safely away from flammable surfaces and protected by a non-flammable pad.
5. Test all outdoor furniture for stability.
6. Be sure to store all deck related chemical products away from children (i.e. barbecue fluids, cleaners, etc.).

POSSIBLE OUTCOME IF NOT DONE: deck safety may be compromised and could result in damage/expense to your deck or cause personal injury.

#2 TASK: Detailed Deck Inspection

FREQUENCY (per year): once

DESCRIPTION:

1. Check for stability of the wood in several different areas of the deck. Be sure to check deck boards (if exposed), stairs, support posts and joists under the deck and the ledger board (where the deck attaches to the house).
2. Inspect any caulking that has been used at deck/wall intersections, around any posts or protrusions, etc. for damage or openings, re-caulk as necessary.
3. Pay special attention to any areas that tend to remain damp, are regularly exposed to water or are in contact with fasteners.
4. Note: If you are uncertain of the condition of the wood, you can use a tool like an ice pick or a screwdriver to test the wood by attempting to penetrate the wood surface. If you can easily penetrate ¼ to ½ inch, break off a sliver of wood without splinters, or the wood is soft and spongy, decay may be present.
5. Look for any small holes in the wood that may indicate insects.
6. Check flashing along where deck meets house and along deck perimeter to ensure flashing is firmly in place.

POSSIBLE OUTCOME IF NOT DONE: deck stability and safety may be compromised, and worst case scenario could result in a deck collapse, extensive repairs and personal injury.

#3 TASK: Deck/Stair Railings Inspection

FREQUENCY (per year): once

DESCRIPTION:

1. Deck stairs should appear even without sagging and should not sway or move.
2. Check any railings or handrails to be sure they are firmly in place.
3. Check steps to be certain they are securely attached and not decayed.
4. Ensure all railing fasteners are in place and are not corroded.
5. In the case of decks waterproofed with a vinyl membrane, ensure all caulking around surface mounted posts are intact.

POSSIBLE OUTCOME IF NOT DONE: un-noticed water infiltration through even the smallest of entry points can cause eventual water damage and costly repairs, and unstable railings can cause personal injury.

#4 TASK: Deck Cleaning

FREQUENCY (per year): 4 times

DESCRIPTION:

1. The removal of any debris and proper cleaning is a crucial step in maintaining your deck’s appearance. Remove organic matter such as leaves or moss, which may become a slip-hazard.
2. Most times a mild household cleaner diluted in water and using a soft brush or broom for scrubbing, then rinsing thoroughly will remove dirt and freshen up your deck’s appearance.
3. Performed seasonally, this will keep most naturally occurring staining and discoloration from occurring.

POSSIBLE OUTCOME IF NOT DONE: the appearance of your deck will be compromised without regular, seasonal cleaning. If any organic debris is not removed it can promote the growth of mildew and pose a slip hazard. If de-icing or cleaning agents are not properly cleaned and rinsed off of a deck, it can adversely affect the appearance as the sun can ‘bake’ the chemicals into the surface causing discoloration.

#5 TASK: Deck Waterproofing

FREQUENCY (per year): As needed based on deck type and inspections

DESCRIPTION:

1. The type of deck you have will determine the amount of time and money required to sustain waterproofing performance.
2. With a wood deck, you may be required to sand and stain yearly to maintain your waterproofing and appearance.
3. With liquid coatings over concrete, re-application is required.
4. With a Duradek vinyl membrane waterproofing system, no re-application is required and the waterproofing function can perform up to 2-3 times the length of the 10-year waterproofing warranty offered by Duradek. That being said, while Duradek withstands a lot of wear and tear, if something has cut the vinyl it should be re-welded by a Duradek Trained Applicator before allowing it to leak.

POSSIBLE OUTCOME IF NOT DONE: If waterproofing is not completed as required, water can infiltrate the decking system and the building envelope, which in the case of decks over living space, can cause exponential damage and repair costs to your home.

When it comes to waterproofing decks, patios and roof decks over living space, the performance is all in the details and we highly stress the importance of using the services of a waterproofing professional who knows the many details involved in successful waterproofing.

Duradek Ultra walkable, waterproof vinyl membrane has been waterproofing decks for nearly 40 years and is available only through Duradek’s network of trained and authorized waterproofing experts.

These same waterproofing experts can provide the Durarail powder-coated aluminum railing systems to ensure your entire deck project is handled professionally and is made to last.

If you would like to contact one of our qualified Duradek installers to provide a free, no-obligation estimate on your decking project, look for a Duradek dealer near you.

Deck Collapse Dangers Can Be Avoided

While builders are held up to strict building code standards today, this has not always been the case. Many homes built 20 - 30 years ago were built when common practice did not include these current standards, and as such, potentially pose a risk to homeowners or residents who are completely unaware of the hazards. Additionally, some more recent home improvement projects have had decks added by someone with basic carpentry skills who bypassed permitting issues and may lack the specialized knowledge that applies to deck building, leaving the people actually using the deck to rely on luck more than on the stability of the structure.

Both of these common scenarios are very dangerous and costly.

Avoid Deck Collapse Danger With Professionals

While Duradek does not typically deal with the actual structure of the deck, we strongly urge Home Owners to hire credible carpenters. Do your research and ask for references. Your Duradek installer will often be able to refer you to a qualified deck builder if they do not perform that specialty themselves. It is also wise to confirm your builder pulls a building permit as that will assist in ensuring the structure is well built and goes through an inspection process with a building inspector.

Once the deck is built, Duradek can step in to ensure the structure remains strong and not damaged by water intrusion to keep your deck safe and secure for many years to come.  Duradek believes that only professionals trained specifically in the intricate details of deck waterproofing should be installing your deck waterproofing system and Duradek undertakes extensive 3rd party testing of the performance of Duradek Vinyl membranes. With the combination of a tested product and trained professionals you can avoid some of the risks of a substandard decking system.



An Example of a collapsed deck.
image from jimfletcher.net

Take for example, the renter of a home in Smyrna, GA. Just two weeks ago, after enjoying Thanksgiving dinner with family and friends,  the deck of her home collapsed …with 8 people on it at the time! Luckily, in this case there were no life-threatening injuries; however this incident is just one of many deck collapses in the U.S. each year that reminds us of the importance of deck safety and the necessity of performing safety checks, particularly on older homes.

In November, Professional Deck Builder Magazine posted a great article from Editor Andy Engel entitled “Confessions of a Former Deck Builder”, which is a synopsis of a talk he recently gave at a conference in Atlanta. This honest and straight forward recollection of his early days building decks is a realistic account of the history of the decking industry and further highlights the need for regular deck inspections.

North America’s biggest proponent of deck safety is NADRA, the North America Deck and Railing Association. NADRA knows that deck safety is a serious issue and encourages home owners and builders alike to be aware of the safety checks that should be performed on decks and balconies. According to NADRA, there are 40 million decks in the United States that are over 20 years old, so it is crucial for homeowners to check their decks.

A deck collapsed while hosting a wedding reception.
image from ajc.com

If you are concerned about the safety of your deck or you would like to ensure your deck waterproofing keeps your home protected, contact an authorized Duradek installer who can visit you for a free estimate on your deck renovation needs.

A two-level deck waterproof protected by Duradek

Duradek provides waterproofing you can rely on. When it comes to waterproofing decks…we’ve got you covered!

Duradek Offers Discount on Deck Rebuilds After Sandy

While we at Duradek cannot begin to fully appreciate the destruction that eastern U.S. residents faced with Hurricane Sandy and the amount of work required to clean up the damage left behind, we certainly would like to assist in the rebuilding process and help those who dealt with property losses get back to their quality of life.

Being in the decking business, we know that communities from coast-to-coast take great pride in their natural environments and outdoor living space. Sandy packed a far-reaching punch and hundreds of residents certainly lost their decks and balconies altogether, but even homes where the decks are still standing may have lost critical stability and made their decks unsafe for use.

Duradek Discount Offer for Hurricane Victims

Duradek, in conjunction with our local Distributor Specialty Building Systems, would like to assist these homeowners in our own small way by contributing 15% off of the cost of material for our Duradek vinyl membranes in waterproofing your new or reconstructed decks. This offer goes out to all residents in the affected regions in New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania.

Working with Specialty Building Systems, our eastern American distributor in NY, NJ and PA, homeowners in these disaster regions may request 15% off the cost of vinyl when they choose a Duradek dealer for their deck rebuilding. Duradek and Specialty Building Systems will present this offer for one year to the anniversary of Hurricane Sandy, but we will require that some proof of hurricane damage be submitted for this special discount offer (photographs or a copy of an insurance claim would suffice).

Roof Deck Waterproofed by Duradek Vinyl Membrane

It doesn’t matter if your previous deck was a Duradek deck, wood deck, a composite deck, a fiberglass deck, an EPDM roof deck or even a competitive vinyl deck…Duradek will help you waterproof your re-build!

Duradek brings the best in waterproof protection for your home.

Choosing a Duradek dealer for your deck waterproofing takes all of the guesswork out of choosing a contractor. All Duradek installers are trained and authorized, so you don’t have to worry about the skill or reliability of the people working on your home.

If your deck was affected by Sandy, you or your insurance or restoration company can contact Specialty Building Systems at 1-800-765-9865 or email sbsddek@verizon.net for peace of mind in your rebuilding.

In addition to all other building code approvals, Duradek has been tested to show our Duradek Ultra Vinyl meets the requirements and received evaluation reports for both Wind Uplift and for Pull-Off Testing for Edge Flashing.

We know that this small gesture cannot make up for the losses and the trauma that Sandy delivered, but we sincerely hope that we can do our small part in helping you take back your quality of life and enjoy your outdoor living space.

Vinyl Decking Vs. Composite Decking

Is the Price Worth the Cost?

Vinyl decking has long been a reliable, low maintenance solution for waterproofing decks and outdoor living space but in the last few years there has been quite a buzz about WPC decking, or wood plastic composite decking – the new kid on the block for low maintenance decking options. Information and images are showing up from sources like the article, “Some Issues with Composite Decking” from home inspector, Jason Horn that raise more questions, and possibly some doubt about composite decking.

If you are comparing options for building or renovating a deck, doing a little homework will save you a lot in the long run for getting the most value for your investment.

Duradek and Durarail bring protection and style
to your outdoor living space.

The Price You Pay for Your Deck

While actual costs will vary greatly from project to project, composite decking has shown costs of 2 to 5 times more than decks built from pressure treated wood, and nearly twice as much as a deck protected with PVC Vinyl. While the cost of material contributes to this difference, a lot of the extra cost is attributed to labor. The composite decking boards have less strength than regular wood and have a tendency to sag or bow, so the supporting joists must be placed closer together. Additionally, each board must be pre-drilled prior to installation during the fastening process.



Composite boards bowing and sagging
- image from GardenStructure.com

While waterproofing your deck with a vinyl membrane will contribute to the overall cost of the material for your decking project, the installation is handled by expertly trained installers and the vinyl can be installed and walked on within the same day. Additionally, the primary substrate of the deck is still a solid wood foundation, which protected by Duradek vinyl, can last for decades.

Duradek and Durarail provide long lasting results.

The Performance of Your Deck

Like many other decking materials, composite decking boards need room to expand and contract. There have been many instances of composite boards cracking and splitting along the edges, and even some occurrences of deterioration along the primary surface of the boards. View for yourself some of the unwelcome results with composite decking. Some composite decking manufacturers have attempted to resolve this issue by ‘capping’ the boards with a protective coating,  however some of these composite deck boards are showing swelling at the ends where there is nothing to keep moisture from getting into the wood fibers.

Composite boards showing signs of flaking.

But beyond the deck surface, it is the deterioration of the wood joists underneath the composite that must be considered. The drying qualities of composite decking on the surface can be counterproductive to the actual structure of the deck. While wood decking will absorb some moisture and eventually release it to the air around it, composite decking does not absorb water. Any moisture that gets trapped underneath the composite decking and on top of the wood joists would tend to stay there and keep the joist from drying properly, making the joists more susceptible to rot and decay. For some interesting comments and images, check out “Lots of Noise About Composite Decks” on the Business of Building Decks and Fences blog.

Duradek vinyl membranes virtually eliminate the issue of wood rot. The vinyl completely seals the deck with a water-tight surface and provides roofing grade protection for the structure underneath. The water is not absorbed by the deck, but drains with a natural slope and water routers and diverters that keep the structure protected.

If you are interested in discussing deck waterproofing options with a Duradek professional installer, find a Duradek dealer near you for a personal consultation on your decking project.

Vinyl Deck of Choice for Pulte Homes is Duradek

Duradek and Durarail are one of the balcony products of choice for Pulte Homes, one of America’s largest homebuilders. Pulte Homes has maintained a disciplined approach to construction over the last 50 years and has homes in over 35 markets across the country. Over the years, Pulte Homes has won more awards for customer satisfaction than any other homebuilder and it is their unwavering commitment to quality and choosing quality products like Duradek that demonstrates that commitment to excellence.

U.S. New Privately-Owned
Housing Units Authorized
by Metropolitan Area: 2011

According to the U.S. Census Bureau News Joint Releasefrom the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development released on October17 residential construction statistics show that new housing construction is on the rise, particularly with multi-residential developments. A good example of this type of development is the PulteHomes development of the MetroWest community in Fairfax, Virginia. This community of luxury townhomes and townhome condominiums offers the best in quality and style so it was a natural choice to include balconies and roof top decks finished with the attractive and dependable Duradek vinyl to provide reliable waterproof protection. Designed to be low maintenance, Duradek and Durarail are the perfect choices due to their durability and long-lasting performance that requires very little cleaning maintenance to keep looking great.

Duradek on the Townhome Condominiums

The MetroWest community has two distinct styles of Townhome Condominiums: The “Lafayette” and the “Saratoga”, with the desirable Saratoga including a Duradek balcony off of the kitchen.


MetroWest Townhome & Condonuminium Balconies by Duradek

Duradek on the Townhomes

There are three styles of townhomes at the MetroWest community: The “Blake”, “Stuart” and “Tyler”. All are available with decks, and as the design includes placement of some of the decks overtop of the first floor garage, it is imperative that the deck waterproofing perform as a roofing grade membrane to fully protect the structure underneath.

 

MetroWest Townhome Rooftop Deck with
 Waterproof Protection by Duradek

This is where Duradek is clearly the vinyl waterproof membrane of choice as it offers a walkable surface with roof grade waterproof protection. In a choice of over two dozen styles and colors, Duradek has a look for any homeowner, including the proud new homeowners of a MetroWest townhome.



Duradek and Durarail are the perfect low-maintenance combination
for Roof Grade Waterproof Protection on Walkable Rooftop Decks

Vinyl Decking Vs. Composite Decking - Performance Results

Duradek has found that sources like GardenStructure.com and ProSalesMagazine.com are just two of the many sites that are discussing the topic of composite decking, a decking product alternative that has raised many questions. Vinyl decking has developed a reputation as a reliable, low maintenance solution for waterproofing decks and outdoor living space, but if you’ve been to any home shows or building shows in the last few years, you have probably seen or heard about composite decking.

Composite decking is a wood and plastic combination formed into planks that closely resemble the look of real wood. In theory, WPC decking, or wood plastic composite decking has an appeal for people who like the look of wood, but want a low maintenance alternative. But if what you truly want is a deck that is made to last without a lot of maintenance, you might want to do a little investigating before you sign any contracts.

Decking Products: Proven Performance or Trial and Error

Duradek, the premiere deck waterproofing PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) membrane has a history of nearly 40 years of protecting decks throughout North America. There are few waterproofing products that can come close to matching Duradek’s record of performance for waterproofing effectiveness and the promise of low maintenance deck surfaces. Certainly over such a span of years, there has been ongoing research and development to ensure Duradek is always working well with new grades of lumber and updated building codes, and only subtle adaptations to already proven methods of application has kept Duradek rated as an approved walkable roof deck membrane. Overall, Duradek is a time proven success story for waterproofing decks.



A deck protected with Duradek Ultra Cork Natural membrane

Composite decking, however, is still developing through its infancy stage and manufacturers seem to steadily be making changes or ‘improvements’ to the product. From the original WPC (Wood Plastic Composite) to today’s Capped WPC, what works and what doesn’t work is changing. Now there is even a company developing a wood plastic composite using nanotechnology to create a tougher ‘cap’ to encircle the composite deck boards. For many building professionals, these types of innovations raise more questions and uncertainty on long-term performance value. Sites like GardenStructure.com are attempting to shed some light on the topic of composite decking and its manufacturers.

Deteriorating Composite - Image from GardenStructure.com

There is a huge strain on contractors to develop enough familiarity with composite products to have the required amount of expertise that you would expect from their services. Installations of products that are going through so many early stage developmental changes are quite risky indeed. Besides the fact that contractors may not have enough history with composite products to deal with intricacies that may apply to a given installation, it is the manufacturing companies that offer the warranty on the product. There has been some notable turnover in the composite decking industry, and one company has changed ownership twice since their composite decking products were released, which in effect makes any warranties offered by prior ownership completely worthless. ProSalesMagazine.com offers an insightful article on composite decking from the deck builders perspective.

Duradek vinyl has been produced by the same North American manufacturer for its entire history and has maintained consistent ownership for nearly 40 years. Duradek’s leading 10 year waterproofing warranty raised the bar for industry performance and Duradek professionals know the intricate details involved in waterproofing.

In fact, Duradek vinyl is installed ONLY by specially trained and authorized installers, so there is no guesswork on the job site. When you call a Duradek installer, you can be confident that your contractor knows the product well and has been specially trained in its installation, that the product performs well, and that you have the written guarantee of roof grade waterproof protection.

If you would like to speak with a Duradek installer in your area for a free, no-obligation estimate on your deck, check out Duradek’s ‘Find a Dealer’ page to begin your journey towards beautiful and protected outdoor living space.

Waterproof Deck Details

Waterproofing details for your deck or flat roof, no matter how small they may seem, make the critical difference between a successful waterproofing job and an expensive lesson. There is nothing quite as disheartening as discovering that the money and time invested in your deck renovations was ineffective and resulted in the need to replace water damaged sections of your home. When your deck is not built or waterproofed correctly, all of the surrounding area of your home is at risk of water infiltration.

The professional installers of Duradek vinyl waterproof membranes have been in the decking business for decades. For nearly 40 years, Duradek has been waterproofing decks in all North American climates and one thing is consistent no matter what the region or type of decking material used…if you cut corners on waterproofing details, it will cost you more in the long run.

Details Matter…Especially in Waterproofing Decks and Flat Roofs

Duradek is the leader in waterproof decking and has the most tested and approved PVC vinyl on the market for use on walkable rooftop applications. Although Duradek is confident that our vinyl is the most superior product of its type available, it is the installation details that really count for how well the product performs. That is why Duradek is installed only by trained and authorized contractors that are well-versed in the intricate details of waterproofing. Many do-it-yourselfers, and many professional builders for that matter, do not have the specific knowledge and experience required to ensure all of the waterproofing considerations have been carefully addressed.


Duradek of Utah / Dek Max transformed this damaged deck.

Take a look at this video clip presented by Matt at Duradek of Utah / Dek Max. Matt reviews just a few of the waterproofing details to consider with installing a waterproof vinyl membrane and highlights a couple of the details that make the Duradek difference.

Waterproofing Details You Need To Know

When you are building or renovating your deck, be sure to rely on a waterproofing professional to ensure your waterproofing will stand the test of time. Using an authorized Duradek installer is the only way to ensure you get the Duradek warranty and be secure in the knowledge that your deck has guaranteed waterproofing performance for at least 10 years.

Sure there are ways to save money on any home improvement project, but if you want the performance of your deck waterproofing project to last, make sure you do it right the first time. Some homeowners discover this through trial and error. Take a look at this example where a homeowner went through various attempts with other contractors before calling in the Duradek experts.

How to Clean and Care For Your Duradek Vinyl Deck

If you are a homeowner with a deck protected with a Duradek vinyl membrane, you are fortunate that you were able to enjoy your outdoor living space this summer without the necessity of having labor intensive maintenance to ensure your deck performs as intended.  With Duradek vinyl, there is very little required to keep the appearance of your deck looking good. All your deck needs is some simple seasonal cleaning and your Duradek protected deck will look great for many years.

Care for Your Duradek Deck

As summer winds down and we approach the autumn weather, now is a perfect time to review the details of inspecting that the superior installation of your Duradek protected deck is still performing as guaranteed.
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

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.

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 as a reasonable option, 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. 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 residue is 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 the appearance of your vinyl.

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 (which we will address next week!). 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.

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.