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!

Deck Collapse Disasters Strike Again

The peak season for deck use and reported deck collapses has passed (June-August), but in the last couple of weeks there have been a few more deck collapse stories to hit the media with a too-familiar story of people gathered on a balcony or deck for what was meant to be a fun occasion and instead find themselves suddenly plummeting to the ground amidst the debris of the failed deck.

Dekalb County, GA has had two recent incidents. A deck collapse in Ellenwood, GA on August 30th sent multiple people to the hospital after a residential deck pulled away from the home. On August 17th, there was a collapse at a Brookhaven apartment complex had a balcony collapse which injured 3 adults and 2 children. One of the children, an 11 year old boy, was pinned under the rubble until DeKalb County Fire and Rescue arrived.

In Towson, MD, another deck collapse injured 7 people when a second floor balcony of an apartment suddenly gave away. 6 people were treated and released from hospital right away, however one seriously injured person remains in hospital with life threatening injuries. While witnesses claim to have seen between 4 and 10 people on the balcony, it was substantiated as a total of 6 people on the balcony at the time of the collapse. Sadly, the most critically injured person was standing below the deck and was pinned beneath the debris until emergency responders arrived on the scene.

photo from CBS Baltimore

See video coverage:
Several Hurt After Deck Collapses At College Party In Towson: Several Hurt After Deck Collapses At College Party In Towson

One resident of the apartment complex stated that she was not surprised and had her own concerns about the safety of the balconies as she had experience water infiltration into her suite through light sockets, which she felt was a safety hazard.

None of these incidents seem to indicate that over loading the decks was the issue.

So What Then Caused the Decks to Collapse?

Initial responses for inquiries on what causes a deck collapse are commonly quick to question if the deck was built to code with proper permits and inspections but it appears that most times there is no negligence in that area. While there are several possible reasons for the deck failure, more often than not, the failure is attributed in some way to the ledger board that connects the deck to the building structure.

The connecting hardware securing the deck to the house is often the first item to be checked. While inexperienced deck builders may use inadequate nails to secure the deck ledger board to the rim joists of the house, more often than not the correct anchoring fasteners were used. What then causes the fasteners to pull away from the house? Often the culprit is wood rot. When water invasion has weakened the wood to the point of softening or rot, no fastener is able to perform securely.

Waterproofing for Safety

When some home owners (and inexperienced deck builders, for that matter) think about deck waterproofing, the focus of the consideration is often the deck surface or the railings and the aesthetic value waterproofing brings to outdoor living space. Sadly, it is the critical inside perimeter waterproofing details that are neglected that can allow water to infiltrate the deck components and the building envelope which can compromise the structural security.

Many times, water intrusion and wood rot is discovered before weakening to the point of collapse and the deck can be salvaged, but sometimes the water damage goes unnoticed. When this happens for too long, eventually the rot will deteriorate the wood until the deck becomes unsafe (This seems to be more common in circumstances where the owner or manager of the property is not the primary resident, such as in the vacation beach home deck collapse in Ocean Isle Beach, NC in July last year).

For example, see Duradek Case History #151 where the inside perimeter waterproofing details were previously neglected and threatened the structural integrity of the deck. Luckily it was noticed and repaired in time to salvage some of the deck, and most importantly, avoided deck collapse and injury. After looking at these recent deck collapse incidents, and considering the possible causes of these dangerous incidents, you may want to have your own deck inspected.

If you find that it is time for a deck renovation and would like to have a Duradek waterproofing professional provide a free estimate on renovating your deck, contact a Duradek dealer in your area.

For full deck collapse stories, see:

• Deck collapse in Towson, MD on September 1st 
• Deck collapse in Ellenwood, GA on August 30th
• Deck collapse in Brookhaven, GA on August 17th 

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

 

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

Important Consideration if Your Are Getting Quotes on Deck Renovations

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

Have You Checked Your Deck? May is Deck Safety Month

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

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

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

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

 

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

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



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

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

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

How to Clean and Care for Your Vinyl Deck Before Winter

Before the really heavy rain or snow takes over for the chilly winter months, now is a smart time to give your deck a cleaning and inspect the details that will ensure the superior installation of your Duradek vinyl deck is still performing as expected and protecting your home from potential water damage.

Cleaning Your Duradek Deck

Your vinyl deck should be cleaned at least 4 times a year with the Duradek vinyl cleaner available from your local Duradek dealer. This cleaner is designed specifically for vinyl and will NOT leave harmful chemical residue like many household cleaners may. Use warm water and a stiff broom, scrubbing in a circular motion to loosen the dirt. Then simply spray with a garden hose (under pressure) to wash away the loose dirt and flush thoroughly with clean water.

If you choose to use a household cleaning product, we would recommend Cascade Powdered Dishwasher Detergent or Simple Green as reasonable options, however we do not recommend the use of household cleaners in general as certain types of cleaners, powdered abrasives, steel wool and industrial cleaners can cause damage and discoloration. Dry cleaning fluids should not be used as they will remove the printed pattern and glass. Waxes should not be used as they may contain dyes or solvents that can permanently damage the protective coating. Your best choice of cleaning products will state that it is safe to use on vinyl.

While all cleaning methods require a thorough rinse with water, using any household product dramatically increases the need to flush the deck thoroughly with clean water to ensure all residues are removed. The residue may not be obviously visible to the eye, but if any remains, the sun can bake the harmful chemicals into your vinyl and it may affect its appearance.

If your vinyl pattern is one of the more textured surfaces that offers a more effective non-slip characteristic, it will likely require a little more cleaning effort than a vinyl pattern with a smoother surface. Power washing is an effective method of removing dirt and debris, although it is not intended for removing embedded stains. Set your power washer at 1500 psi (max.) and hold nozzle 12 inches from the surface and be careful to avoid seams, railing attachments, caulking or house trims.

Care for Your Duradek Deck

Deck inspections are an important part of your home maintenance and should be completed at least once a year.

When inspecting your deck, remember to:

• Check the caulking seals around posts and pillars
• Check corner details
• Check the caulking seals around vents and drains

Check that the perimeter of you deck against the house
remains securely sealed.

Be sure to check seals around posts and pillars and
that the flashing on the outside edges is securely in place.

Over time, the structure your Duradek membrane is adhered to may crack, shrink or shift and these inspections will uncover any potential problems with broken seals. If you discover some caulking has pulled away from the wood or a seal has cracked, contact your Duradek dealer who will recommend the proper sealant to correct it.

It is much better to check for these little details before the heavy rains come and you discover water has found a way to get through into your home.

 

Cleaned and Cared For…Now Enjoy!

Though no exterior surface is completely impervious to the elements, by taking the small amount of time required to properly clean your deck at the change of the seasons, you will help to ensure that your deck appearance lasts as long as the guaranteed waterproofing performance of your Duradek vinyl deck.

No matter what the season, Duradek protects your outdoor living space all year, every year.

To find a local Duradek Dealer, visit the Duradek website’s Dealer Locator.

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

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

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

Do Enjoy Your Deck By:

1 - Basking in the Sun:

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

2 - Lounging in the Shade:

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

3 - Fun with the Kids:

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

4 - Cooling off in the Pool:

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



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

5 - Barbecues:

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

Don’t Enjoy Your Deck By:

1 - Darts or Throwing Knives:

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

2 - Fireworks:

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

3 - Dragging Heavy or Sharp Objects:

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

4 - Cut things:

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

5 - Overloading Capacity:

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


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

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

Vinyl Decking Seam Strength Test with Duradek

Vinyl Decking is the ideal choice for low maintenance decking, but some folks may question the reliability of the seams where the vinyl sheets are joined. With the results seen from some vinyl suppliers, this concern is valid as evidenced in the image below.


This other vinyl was installed with a 'butt-joint'
and sealed with a liquid sealer.

Duradek vinyl is worry-free and the seam strength is stronger than what you will ever need for your deck or balcony. Check out this video where Duradek of Utah uses the power of a Ford 250 to put the strength of Duradek's heat welded seams to the test.



Duradek's heat welded seams performed by trained and authorized installers give you complete peace of mind that:

• your vinyl waterproofing remains intact
• your home remains protected
• your outdoor living space remains beautiful

Duradek's heat welded seam includes a 3/4 inch overlap.

For a flush surface, the Duradek 3/4 inch heat welded

seam can be installed with a recessed channel routered

into the deck surface for a nearly invisible look.

When Choosing a Decking Product, ‘New’ Does Not Mean Better

Would you risk investing in a building product that may or may not perform successfully? In our fast-paced North American culture, we are often seduced by the magic words ‘new and improved’ and will line up in droves for the latest consumer gadgets. But when it comes to building products, we have to be careful not to let this attraction to ‘new’ and exciting seduce us away from trusted materials that have proven to be reliable. (Read our post "7 Critical Questions to Ask When Investigating New Decking Material Products")

New products continue to fail at a disturbing rate and one source estimates that more than 90 percent of all new products fail within two years; and another study suggested that the failure rate for new industrial products may be as high as 30%.

New Product Failure Rates infographic

Decking Product
Innovation vs. Performance

There have been plenty of advances in manufacturing technology and even more impressive and innovative ideas, but until the resulting new products have been around for a while, how is a home builder or home owner to know if the product will really live up to its performance claims?

Here are a couple of examples of decking products that have been introduced to the market place a little prematurely, essentially turning their initial customers into a low-cost alternative to long-term product testing.

Composite Decking – But it was so Good in the Beginning

Still the ‘new’ kid on the decking block, composite decking hit the marketplace with enthusiasm and charm. The appeal of a low maintenance decking product that looks good and is manufactured in part with recycled materials is enough to instill warm and fuzzy feelings to a product selection decision.

But one look at the YouTube video from this composite deck home owner shows that the initial thrill of his new deck was replaced with frustration and disappointment, an all-too-familiar story with many composite deck home owners’ experiences.

PVC Decking – Not All Vinyl is Created Equal

PVC membranes have been a reliable deck waterproofing solution for decades. Duradek, the industry’s leader in PVC waterproofing pioneered the use of this single-ply, walkable waterproof membrane nearly 40 years ago and it is the most tested vinyl membrane on the market today.
While other vinyl manufacturers who have entered the supply chain are eager to differentiate themselves with ‘new’ and improved features, these innovations have yet to be proven to be successful over time.

The image below shows the results of a side-by-side accelerated weathering test conducted by Atlas Material Testing in Phoenix, Arizona over a 9 month period. The test procedure emulates a time span of UV exposure using natural concentrated sunlight. The sample on the left is from a vinyl manufacturer who has been emphasizing their tough, scuff-resistant top coat; the sample on the right is Duradek Ultra.

PVC Vinyl Accelerated Weather Testing Results

When choosing a vinyl membrane, these results are critically important because if you were to experience the eventual darkening of the vinyl surface on your deck, there is little recourse for you to take to be compensated for replacement. Often, the warranty for appearance on a pedestrian surface is much less than that of the waterproofing warranty, and home owners could be potentially stuck with a very unattractive, although still waterproofed deck.

Side Note – this particular company does not even offer an Appearance Warranty on their product at all.

Don’t take chances with your deck. Duradek is the Time, Tested and Approved decking membrane that you can rely on.

Contact a Duradek Dealer in your area for a free quote and do some comparisons for yourself!

Practice Safe Decks this Season

It's that time of year again when those of us with decks and patios have been excitedly preparing our favorite outdoor living areas in anticipation of the barbecues, games and luxurious lounging that is sure to follow in the coming summer months.

Having installed over a million square feet of vinyl decking, Duradek wants to be sure that your deck is still the best it can be. While the obvious task of cleaning any organic debris, dirt and soil from the deck surface is usually the first step for many homeowners, be sure to include the critical step of inspecting the waterproofing details such as the caulking around posts and drains.

May is Deck Safety Month ®  

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

As many decks remain that were installed prior to today's building codes, deck safety is an issue that is important to address and NADRA provides a Deck Safety Consumer Checklist and a Deck Safety Evaluation Form for builders. This is a fantastic free tool for keeping all your deck renovation assessment details together and can be very handy to reference  when getting estimates or discussing project options.

Duradek takes deck safety very serious too. Whether you are located in Canada or the United States, there are building requirements to consider in constructing your deck surface and preparing the substrate. Right from the initial construction of the deck to the condition of the substrate, the installation of the vinyl waterproof membrane and the installation of the railings, each stage requires its own detailed expertise and is a major factor for Duradek recommending that you do not do the job yourself.

Find a Duradek waterproofing specialist near you for a free estimate on your deck.

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.



Is Your Deck Still Buried in Late Winter Snow?

While there is only a week left of winter and we are all anticipating getting out on our decks this spring, many North American communities are still covered in a blanket of white. If your deck is protected with Duradek vinyl, you've got an advantage with how easy it is to remove snow from your Duradek and prepare for the spring.

Duradek vinyl membranes protect your deck and your home from melting snow and ice that has the potential to cause water damage, and once you get all that snow removed you will see that your Duradek has survived the winter very well. Just be sure to use a snow shovel that does not have a metal edge so that you don't risk damaging the vinyl surface.

Check Out How This Duradek Homeowner Feels About Snow Removal From a Duradek Deck

Once you are free from winter, remember to give your Duradek deck or balcony a cleaning to remove any chemical residue from de-icers that you may have used throughout the winter. The chemicals in de-icers themselves will not harm your vinyl deck surface, but if the sun has a chance to 'bake' the chemicals into your deck it may age your deck's appearance faster than normal UV exposure would.

That's it for maintenance! Decks protected with Duradek need no other maintenance besides a seasonal cleaning and annual inspection. So when the spring weather arrives and your neighbors are busy slaving away with sanding and staining, you can invite them over for a relaxing beverage on your beautiful, low maintenance Duradek deck. And you might want to share with them that they can contact a Duradek Dealer in your area for a free estimate for their own decks too.

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.

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