Join Duradek at Buildex Vancouver 2015 Starting Today

Professionals who need to know about residential construction and management in Vancouver, BC can invest in their businesses by taking a little break from their day-to-day operations and investing in a little education at Buildex Vancouver 2015, taking place at the Vancouver Trade and Convention Centre West on February 25th and 26th, 2015.

Duradek is proud to be a participating exhibitor at Buildex Vancouver 2015, one of the largest trade shows in Western Canada for Design, Construction and Real Estate Management professionals.
With over 13,000 attendees expected to visit the 600+ exhibitors and over 100 speakers at more than 50 educational seminars, Buildex keeps professional builders, designers and property managers up-to-date on the latest in construction and design trends, and how it affects your place in the building industry.
For any professional in a competitive industry, it is important to be on top of your game, no matter what your specialty may be. That is what makes the Buildex Vancouver 2015 show such an valuable opportunity. Offering the latest and greatest products and information for 3 distinct professional markets, Buildex covers the most relevant topics for Real Estate Design, Building and Management professionals over 2 days.

In addition to the excellent selection of seminars, the presentations to be found throughout the show at the Passive House Pavilion on the show floor are a great source of information. There are also some excellent opportunities for networking as you wander through the exhibit hall or attend the networking reception on Wednesday, February 25th between 4 - 5 pm.

You will find Duradek at booth #307  (near the Construct Cafe) where we can introduce you to our latest selection of PVC Waterproof membranes such as our 'Legacy' line which was recently introduced in honor of Duradek's  landmark 40 years in business. As the pioneers of the sheet vinyl method of waterproofing, Duradek is very happy to introduce this new line that emulates the appearance of aged wood and  provides a stylish outdoor design scheme -  while still providing the superior level of waterproof protection you've come to trust from Duradek.

Duradek has been produced by the same North American manufacturer throughout our entire 40 year history. Having gone through several warranty cycles, we are very confident in our product and that it can provide the high level of waterproof protection you need whether for a single family residence or a large multi-family development.

Multi-residential projects are well protected
with a trained and authorized Duradek installer
and the most reliable vinyl waterproofing.

Duradek provides a reliable source of waterproofing and is a member of several participating associations such as the Greater Vancouver Home Builders Association (GVHBA), Canadian Home Builders Association of BC (CHBABC) Condominium Home Owners Association (CHOA), Landlord BC, and the BC Building Envelope Council (BCBEC). Membership in these associations is advantageous to help share up-to-date information to ensure best practices in residential construction, and you can access a lot of  the information gathered by the professional Vancouver builders market while you explore Buildex 2015.

Duradek invites you to come visit us at booth #307 and ask us anything you'd like to know about outdoor waterproofing projects and what makes Duradek the leader in waterproof roofing membranes you can walk on.

You can talk with Duradek's Regional Sales Representative Winston Conyers who you may recognize from various association events to inquire about how Duradek may be the product solution you are looking for when it comes to reliable roof deck, sun deck or balcony waterproof surfaces....and in Vancouver we know how valuable reliable waterproofing is for protecting the building envelope and saving you from costly repairs in the future!

Duradek's Winston Conyers and Duradek Dealer Dave Geisbrecht
of  North Vancouver Sundecks at a G.V.H.B.A. Grouse Grind Challenge.

 We hope to see you there, but if you can't make it down to Buildex, you can always contact a Duradek dealer in your area for more information on this most reliable method of waterproofing your outdoor living space.

Buildex Vancouver 2015 - Vancouver Trade and Convention Center West
Wednesday, February 25th: 9:30 am - 5 pm
Thursday, February 26th: 9:30 am - 4 pm

Happy 4th of July from Duradek!

The Most Popular Week for Home and Garden Shows to Find Duradek

Home & Garden Shows are the perfect place to get inspiration and ideas for planning your home renovations and there's no shortage of shows to chose from this week, one of the busiest weekends of the spring for this type of event.

If you've got deck renovations on your mind, you won't want to miss the chance to talk first hand with the deck waterproofing professionals of Duradek. Duradek installers know deck waterproofing and will be available at a variety of home shows throughout the season to answer all of your decking questions.

If you are going to attend a local Home & Garden show, be sure to look for your local Duradek dealer to see the latest Duradek colours and patterns that will complement your exterior design scheme and bring you the most reliable, low maintenance deck waterproofing system available.

Look For Duradek Installers at These Upcoming Shows Taking Place March 28 - 30, 2014.

The Fredericton Home Show - Fredericton, NB
Taking place at the Capital Exhibit Center, the Fredericton Home Show attracted over 13,000 visitors last year to view the region's best home building and renovating professionals. Look for Duradek dealers, Beaver Construction who are the local Duradek experts. You can talk to waterproofing professional Blake Price or one of his skilled installers for information on transforming your deck.

The Ideal Home Show - Halifax, NS
The Ideal Home Show is the largest home show in Atlantic Canada and this year it takes place at Exhibition Park in Halifax. Showcasing spring building, renovation and landscaping projects, this is the perfect show for you if you are considering adding or renovating a deck on your home. Talk to Duradek professionals South Shore Custom Decks while you are there for professional decking advice. Shane and Misha from South Shore are talented and skilled professionals that will bring you the deck of your dreams.

Gardenscapes - Saskatoon, SK
The 25th Annual Gardenscapes Show is held at Prairieland Park and is a traditional first sign of spring in Saskatoon. It has everything you need to create a backyard paradise and the outdoor living space of your dreams. For all the green-thumb enthusiasts who'd rather be working in the garden than on deck maintenance, be sure to talk to Saskatoon's deck experts Rene and Desiree from Saskatoon Deck Shop who can bring you the beautiful, low maintenance deck you desire with Duradek. For the last 20 years, Saskatoon Deck Shop has been making sure that when it comes to your deck, you do it right the first time!

Greater Kansas City Home & Garden Show - Kansas City, MO
Bartle Hall hosts the Greater Kansas City Home & Garden Show and this 66 year tradition is held in conjunction with the Flower, Lawn and Garden Show to bring attendees the best in spring home and garden tips and products. The show features a great selection of HGTV celebrity guests and experts like the professionals from Essential Extras who specialize in creating unique outdoor spaces like decks, patios and gazebos. These Duradek experts are professionals you can trust with a great reputation as seen through their 40+ years in business and excellent reviews on Home Advisor.com.

Cottage & Lakefront Living Show - Grand Rapids, MI
Taking place at DeVos Place, a state-of-the-art convention center in the heart of Grand Rapids, the Cottage and Lakefront Living Show brings ideas and instruction for all summer-fun activities to enjoy with a cottage lifestyle. From boat building to sandcastle building, to fine art and fine food...you can find it all at the Cottage & Lakefront Living Show. In particular, you can find the professional deck experts of Home Acres Building Supply who can help you with building or renovating the perfect, low maintenance deck. Whether for the summer cottage or your year-round home, Phil and his team from Home Acres Building Supply will make sure you have a well-protected deck with the reliable waterproof protection of Duradek.  



Chose Duradek for the best in low-maintenance decking.

We hope to see you at there! Or look for Duradek at any of the other Home & Garden Shows taking place this spring to help you create the ideal low-maintenance outdoor living space!  

5 Top Decking Trends For 2013

Creating or expanding outdoor living space is a top home improvement trend for 2013 and more than ever homeowners are taking advantage of the opportunity to make their decks an expansion of their home. Decks are no longer restricted to the traditional 20 x 10 foot rectangular deck with limited seasonal use but are fast becoming year-round usable space for leisure, entertainment and functionality.

Here’s a look at some of the top trends in decking in the last year.

1 – Double Your Deck Space

The days of the traditional deck owner are giving way to a new generation of homeowners who value outdoor living and are creating outdoor spaces that rival their interior square footage. One of the easiest ways to double your deck space is to use waterproof outdoor flooring on upper level decks to create dry useable space below.


Duradek vinyl membranes provide roof-grade protection.

This opens up a variety options for homeowners who can utilize that extra space based on their personal preferences and priorities. Whether for a simple covered patio, a screen-enclosed porch or additional dry storage area, the use of quality roof-grade waterproofing on your upper level deck is a great way to maximize your space. Surfacing your elevated deck with a Duradek vinyl membrane provides the roof-grade waterproofing you need to create dry, usable space below while at the same time providing an attractive, walkable surface in a single, one-time application.

2 – The Shape of Things to Come

Decks are no longer limited to the typical rectangle shape and are taking on a variety of formations to best suit the outdoor enthusiast. As mentioned above, two-level decks are a great way to maximize the space but creative design and innovative products are bringing multiple variations to the traditional deck space. Multi-level decks are gaining in popularity as outdoor living space increasingly emulates interior living with distinct outdoor rooms being created with the use of tiered deck levels and pergolas.



Multi-level decks help create distinct outdoor rooms,
and with roof-grade waterproofing - dry storage below.

Additionally, deck space is not restricted to hard angles. Unique design elements like hexagon or curved decks are increasingly popular. Products like Durarail’s innovative Panorama Post topless glass railing system includes glass channels with a 60° angle variance to allow for easy installation on virtually any shape of deck while bringing a sophisticated railing solution to maximize your view.


Panorama Post makes installations on curved decks easy!

3 – Functional Design with Railings

Railings are not just a functionary safety element; they are an integral part of the design and overall look of your deck. The railing options available today are many and varied which gives homeowners the advantage in coming up with a look that can really bring out the best of their outdoor living space and design preferences.

Topless glass railing systems provide a sophisticated look for the best view decks, cable railing systems provide a view through system that also allows for air flow and any combination of pickets, glass panels, and custom patterns can be assembled to create a truly unique system that gives your home some flair and reflect your individuality.

Customize your railing to suit your exterior design.

4 – Less Work, More Fun

Even people who really love their decks don’t want to have to spend entire days working on it. Sand, stain, seal…repeat annually. Sometimes waiting for the right weather to fall on days you actually have the time to work on your deck means your maintenance is left uncompleted. Or worse…you neglected the maintenance on your wood deck too long and now you are dealing with wood rot and replacing the whole structure.

Why labor on your place of leisure?

Deck enthusiasts have been opting for low maintenance decking materials that allow them to just enjoy their deck, not labour on it. Composite decking materials have gained huge popularity over that last several years, however the quality and longevity of those products has appeared to be a bit of a gamble as seen in some class action suits from some very unhappy composite decking customers.

For a best bet in low-maintenance decking materials, Duradek vinyl membranes have a 40-year proven performance history and provide many years of warrantied waterproof protection for your deck with only a one-time installation. Just a seasonal cleaning is all these deck surfaces need to keep looking great…so people who enjoy time on their decks can continue doing just that!

5 – Fantastic Features

With the trend of increasing the amount of deck space to create versatile outdoor living areas, homeowners are taking advantage of the many options of features available to create their distinct outdoor rooms. Outdoor furniture, fully functional kitchens, fascinating water features and impressive fire features that provide ambiance as well as warmth are some of the most sought after features to incorporate into deck areas.

These additions work great as add-ons, but many deck builders are incorporating these features right into the structure of the deck with built-in seating, lighting and other appliances. Homeowners get the most out of their budgets by proper planning with their deck builder to ensure the most critical elements are included. What can’t be built in immediately can often be added on later.


Beautiful fire feature on a Duradek Cork Macchiato deck.

The Truth Behind the Trends

Just remember that protecting your deck with proper waterproofing is the most critical detail and should be considered right at the beginning of your deck building or renovating plans. No matter how soundly built the structure or how beautifully detailed the features, if your deck is not protected from the elements, eventually it will deteriorate which will affect its stability. Safety is always the most important feature of your deck no matter what the current trends may be.

To discuss waterproofing your deck using a Duradek vinyl membrane as your outdoor flooring, talk to an authorized Duradek installer in your area.

Three Shows, Three Days – One Incredible Surfacing Event for Free

Three distinct branded shows are now united to create the ultimate industry event – The International Surfaces Event. Taking place at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center from January 28-30, 2014, this show brings you everything you want to discover about all things stone, tile and floor coverings for both indoor and outdoor living space.

Duradek invites you to register for complimentary Exhibits admission ($60 value) and if you register before November 29th you can receive free Education Admission ($250 value) in addition to your Exhibits admission .

 

 

This comprehensive event encompasses industry resources, trademark events and a wealth of education, featuring:

 

SURFACES Show Floor – with thousands of square feet of exhibits, the show floor is where you’ll find the most innovative floor covering products and supplies in every major category. America’s largest event for the floor covering industry, SURFACES is held annually in Las Vegas, NV and offers an unrivaled education program. Duradek will be there at booth #B2339 to take care of your outdoor flooring needs with our Duradek Ultra walkable, waterproof PVC membranes. A great solution for any outdoor pedestrian surfaces, Duradek Ultra is ideal for decks situated over living space where professional waterproofing is critical.

 

StonExpo/Marmomacc Americas Show Floor – from everyone and everything stone and stone related. Interested in stone pavers for your outdoor living space? Here is where you will find them…and remember to check with Duradek over at the SURFACES show floor to find out about Plazadek, our roof-grade waterproofing membrane for use under paver systems.

 

TileExpo Show Floor – here you will find a wide collection of exotic, innovative and distinctive tile products from all around the world. Building and design professionals who are interested in the elegant beauty of tiles on outdoor surfaces likes patios or decks are well served by visiting the SURFACES show floor to stop by the Duradek booth and discover the advantages of the Tiledek system of waterproofing under exterior tiles. With the same roof-grade protection of our original vinyl membrane, Tiledek has been manufactured with a special fabric surface to provide the best adhesion of thin-set in outdoor tile applications. Installed by trained and authorized dealers, Tiledek is part of a superior assembly system that can accept the thin-set tile application immediately after installation.

 

 

 

Other Features of the International Surfaces Event

In addition to the three exhibiting shows, some of the show floor features are:

• Business Enrichment Center – popular area on the show flow that that features an on-floor education stage with seating, Social Lounge, WFCA member lounge, a charging station and free Wi-Fi.
• The Event Main Stage – your hands-on destination for learning new techniques and solutions from industry experts. This centrally located stage will feature education and installation demonstrations that are free with your exhibits admission.
• Cleaning and Restoration Pavilion – get answers to your toughest care and maintenance questions.
• Artisan Avenue – unique products that demonstrate true craftsmanship, artistry and imagination.
• International Pavilions - products from India, China, Italy, New Zealand, Mexico, Pakistan and Turkey.
• Tool Alley – drills down to the core of tools and equipment.
• New Products Marketplace – browse the hottest new product all at once before visiting the manufacturer or suppliers booth for more information.
• Trends Hub – get inspired by the hottest color and texture trends forecasted for 2014.

Remember, register before November 29th, 2013 to take advantage of free education admission!

Stop by the Duradek booth #B2339 to say hello and ask us anything you want to know about deck waterproof surfaces…we hope to see you there!

 

 

 

Win a Pair of Tickets to a Canucks Hockey Game from Duradek

Thursday, November 14th the Canucks look for retribution at a home game against the San Jose Sharks and Duradek wants to send you there to see it live at Rogers Arena in Vancouver, BC.

You can win two tickets for the Canucks game at Rogers Arena on November 14th (estimated value $230). It's easy...all you have to do is LIKE our facebook page! www.facebook.com/Duradek

The draw will take place on November 12th, 2013 at 4:00 p.m. PST.

Yes, this one is for our local Vancouver folks, but hey...even if you don't live in Vancouver, you can still enter the draw and let your best Vancouver buddy have the tickets....

These seats could be yours...just LIKE us on Facebook!

Share this with your Vancouver friends!

Duradek Featured on Home Improvement Call-in Show with Mr. Fix-it in Chicago

Home improvement expert, Lou Manfredini, better known as Mr. Fix-it on Radio 720 WGN in Chicago featured an interview with Duradek Sales Manager, Kevin MacMillan on Saturday, June 1st.

The Mr. Fix-it show is a popular call-in radio show that airs weekly on Saturdays from 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. EST with a loyal following of listeners who keep the phone lines busy, hoping for some home improvement pearls of wisdom from Mr. Fix-it.
 

Listeners this week were able to hear Lou interview Duradek’s Kevin MacMillan and hear some specific questions about Duradek vinyl waterproofing membrane. As a home improvement expert, Lou had some pointed questions right off the start about the make-up of the actual product and installation details. Some of the points covered in the radio interview included:

• Best uses for Duradek – ideal use as a walkable roofing membrane for use on decks over living space.

Whether directly over living space, or as a second level deck
requiring dry space below, Duradek guarantees
waterproof peace-of mind.

• Warranty and lifecycle – 10 year waterproofing warranty with a 15-25 year lifecycle.
• Substrate requirements – over plywood or concrete, Duradek can be used for nearly any deck surface that has been prepared with adequate slope.
• Slip resistant properties – rain and snow are not to be feared. Duradek’s slip resistance also makes it an ideal use for pool and hot tub surrounds as well as deck surfaces.
• Manufacturer location and history – Produced by the same North American manufacturer for nearly 40 years.
• Where Duradek can be used / climate conditions – Duradek has been used in all North American climates from Arizona to Alaska.

 Duradek can handle the sun or the snow, and still look beautiful.

In only a few minutes, Kevin was able to address these questions and more about the Duradek system of waterproofing decks and roof decks over living space. You can listen to this interview online at the Radio 720 WGN website.

---

Lou Manfredini, aka Mr. Fix-it.

The Mr. Fix-it Show has been a call-in favorite in the Chicagoland area since 1995 and has developed a following with its entertaining mix of practical, useful and valuable home improvement advice. Host, Lou Manfredini, is a regular contributor to NBC’S Today Show, makes regular appearances on NBC5’s morning news and host of ‘House Smarts’, and is a contributing editor to USA Weekend Magazine’s column ‘House Smart’.

 

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.



The Most Overlooked Home Maintenance Task - Deck Inspections

Deck inspections are quite possibly the most commonly overlooked home maintenance task. Perhaps it is because it is an outdoor extension of a home’s living space, or perhaps it is due to its seasonality of active use. No matter the reason, it is critically important to perform this maintenance task regularly to avoid the dangerous risk of deck collapse.

The number of deck failures resulting in injuries is increasing at an alarming rate. According to the North America Deck and Railing Association (NADRA), there are over 40 million decks in the U.S. that are over 20 years old, which means they were built prior to current building code standards and may hold greater risk than newer decks. 

If that staggering statistic doesn’t encourage you to inspect your deck, take a look at this video from the NADRA Western Washington Chapter performing a simulated deck collapse.


NADRA offers a fantastic, free consumer checklist for deck inspections available for download from their website. They also offer a very thorough deck evaluation checklist for builders and inspectors to assist in the evaluation process.

While these documents can aid you in determining if you need to perform any repairs to your deck, there are a few things that should always be left to the professionals:

• Waterproofing a deck, especially a deck over living space
• Waterproofing under exterior tile
• Replacing a railing system by puncturing a waterproofing membrane

When it comes to waterproofing decks, patios and roof decks over living space, the performance is all in the details and we cannot stress enough the importance of utilizing the services of a deck waterproofing professional well versed in the intricate details involved in successful waterproofing of your outdoor living space.

Duradek Ultra walkable, waterproof vinyl membrane, Duradek Ultra Tiledek under tile waterproof membrane, and Durarail powder-coated aluminum railing systems are all available only through Duradek’s network of trained and authorized waterproofing experts.

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.

Duradek Wishes Everyone a Happy Holdiay Season

Caring for Your Vinyl Deck This Winter

Those of you who have a deck protected with Duradek’s Walkable Rooftop Deck and Waterproofing Vinyl have an attractive and low maintenance decking solution, and winter is no exception. Duradek vinyl allows for easy and worry-free winter deck care. Duradek vinyl is strong and you can use a variety of snow and ice melting solutions on it without concern.

• Rock Salt - OK!
• Kitty Litter (for non-slip traction) - OK!
• Snow Melting Chemicals - OK!

Duradek patterns and colors are beautiful all year round, but how does a homeowner ensure that they are going to get the most longevity in their deck’s appearance when the wicked winter weather attempts to cover our decks with ice and snow.

Luckily, for the Duradek homeowner, Duradek’s superior vinyl strength and durability is no match for Mother Nature. All you have to do to ensure your deck is unaffected by brutal winter conditions is to remember a couple of simple tips:

Only use a plastic shovel to remove snow and ice from your deck surface.
Driving a metal shovel down through the snow and ice to your deck surface risks puncturing the vinyl and sacrificing your waterproof security.


Clean your deck with soap and water, and rinse before the summer sunshine returns.
While the chemicals from de-icers do not damage the vinyl surface when applied, if its film is left on the surface, direct sun can bake the chemicals into the vinyl which is harmful and will affect your deck’s appearance.

That’s all there is to it! Now you can rest assured that you can take all precautions available to keep your deck clear of ice and snow through the cold winter months and look forward to the return of the warm weather to get back to enjoying your deck again.

If you do not yet have a Duradek waterproof deck and you would like to talk to a Duradek dealer about your decking needs, contact a Duradek dealer in your area for a free estimate.

Duradek Products Recognized by Professional Deck Builder Magazine

Professional Deck Builder magazine is a go-to resource for many deck building professionals and a reliable resource for the decking industry. In November, Professional Deck Builder Magazine recognized two of Duradek’s superior waterproofing products:

Duradek Ultra Vinyl Membranes, the single-ply vinyl waterproofing membrane with roof grade protection is mentioned by Professional Deck Builder Magazine in its November issue. As a walkable, roofing membrane, Duradek provides both the waterproof protection and a walkable, stylish finish in one step.  Duradek, the original sheet-vinyl waterproofing membrane, has been protecting decks for nearly 40 years.

Also mentioned in November’s Professional Deck Builder Magazine is Duradek Ultra Tiledek. Tiledek is the waterproof membrane designed specifically to go underneath exterior thin set tile. While it provides the same degree of roofing approved waterproof protection as Duradek Ultra, Tiledek comes with a cloth surface that allows the thin set mortar and tiles to be securely adhered.
While this particular product review mentions some of the superior features of Duradek Ultra Tiledek membranes such as the ability to withstand high-heat and high-moisture conditions, the article states that the only ‘hitch’ of the product is that it can only be purchased and installed by an authorized Duradek dealer.

Well, this is actually one of the features that Duradek is very proud of. Duradek president John Ogilvie states, “No matter how good a waterproofing product is, if it is not installed properly you cannot be sure it will perform as intended.”

That is why Duradek membranes are only installed by professionals that have been specifically trained in the intricacies of deck waterproofing and best practices in applying PVC membrane systems. Check out our blog post, Deck Collapse Dangers for some examples of why using a specialized deck builder and products that meet current building code requirements is so critical in your deck building projects.

Duradek Cares About Your Deck Safety

Decks along the shorelines
were pummelled by Sandy

Deck safety is always a concern, but following the wake of Hurricane Sandy, eastern homeowners must pay extra attention to a potentially dangerous situation. Although the declared disaster zones were primarily along the coastal areas and damage to decks may be quite obvious, it is the deck structures on buildings further inland or that still appear intact that can pose the most risk...especially when considering the addition of wet, heavy snow on structures with questionable stability.

Immediately following a disaster of this magnitude, the response efforts first focus on emergency rescue, restoration of essential services, clean-up of debris and destruction that poses an obvious danger to people, then overall clean up and damage assessment.

Let’s talk a little about assessing the damage to your deck.

What to Do if Your Deck Shows Obvious Damage

Firstly, DO NOT walk on your deck if it shows signs of damage or instability. It is important that you obtain the services of a professional contractor or inspector in your area. Due to the number of people who will be seeking these services, you may have to wait awhile to have someone come out to your location, but it is worthwhile to ensure that your damaged deck is dealt with as safely as possible. One resource that many people turn to is NADRA, the North American Deck and Railing Association, and NADRA offers a lot of good resources including a directory of qualified contractors.

Second, if you are choosing the services of a contractor, even in desperate times it is worthwhile doing your homework. While most people really rally together after a disaster, there are always the unscrupulous few who will try to take advantage of a situation for personal gain. The Virginia Building and Code Officials Association has put out a great article entitled Consumer Guide to Selecting a Contractor – Be Careful of Crooks. If you are looking for a contractor who specialized in waterproof decks and flat roofs, contact one of our specially trained Duradek installers for a Free estimate on rebuilding and waterproofing your deck.

Shorline residents will likely
have to rebuild all decks.

What to Do if Your Deck Appears Undamaged

Assessment of the structural wellness of your deck should not be overlooked. Even if it appears to be structurally sound, your deck’s stability may have been compromised and you should not assume it is safe before performing a thorough and proper assessment.

Don’t put off inspecting your deck until spring when you will be using it more heavily again and be taken by surprise by a shaking structure. Or worse, think your deck is ok but find out in the spring that water damage has affected your building envelope and compromised the structural integrity of your home. Even if your deck looks alright after a major storm, it is a good idea to:

• Check for split wood or sagging surfaces.
• Check for secure posts and joists, ensuring there is no leaning and deck support is sound.
• Check that flashing and other water routers are secure and firmly in place.
• Check for loose or missing fasteners like missing screws or popped nails.
• Check stairs and railings to ensure stability.
• Check deck accessories such as lighting, fireplaces, and furniture to ensure there is no risk of fire or of items falling.

If there is any indication after inspection that the stability of your deck is questionable, be sure to consult with an inspector or a professional contractor like a specially trained Duradek installer before using it.

What to Do if Your Deck Escaped Undamaged

If your deck went through a hurricane and escaped without any damage, you should consider yourself very lucky! You had a great combination of a good contractor that built your deck and probably some very good luck.

If you are a Duradek homeowner and your Duradek Vinyl deck survived the Hurricane Sandy, we’d love to hear your story. Write to us at duradek@duradek.com and tell us your story of “deck survival”.

Good luck to all of you dealing with the post hurricane clean-up and rebuilding process. We hope that Duradek may be able to provide you with some of the material you need to bring your deck back to safe and protected use.

Duradek Extrends Sympathy and Respect for Those Affected by Hurricane Sandy

Damage from Sandy - photo from Getty Images

At Duradek, our thoughts have been with the residents of the communities affected by the destruction of Hurricane Sandy. After Sandy battered the coastal areas of the eastern seaboard leaving behind a tangled mess of devastation, we joined the rest of the world in quiet astonishment at the amount of damage the storm left behind and with a new level of respect for the strength of the people dealing with such challenging circumstances.

Then mother nature added insult to injury with an early winter storm on the east coast, complete with wet, heavy snow. While many people affected are only now recovering their basic services and the entire scope of the damage has not yet fully been assessed,the clean-up process is well on its way. For some it is a process of clearing the debris, for others it is completely starting over…but for all, we send you our best wishes and our respect for the strength and fortitude that you’ve demonstrated through such challenging times, and the unity that has pulled people together to get through it.

This spirit of unity and progress is well spoken by president Obama in this clip:



While we at Duradek cannot begin to fully comprehend the destruction that eastern U.S. residents faced with this disaster, we certainly extend our thoughts and best wishes to those who dealt with the storm’s fury and suffered from lack of essential services, property losses and personal trauma. And we sincerely extend our hope that all those affected can begin to move forward and get back to their quality of life on the east coast.

Sandy damage at Kitty Hawk, NC
photo from Flikr - dedhed1950

Duradek and Mother NatureTeam Up in Decking

Duradek, the original Walkable Roofing Membrane has done it again! Following the successful addition of the Forest Floor line to Duradek’s extensive collection of 60 mil vinyl colors and patterns, a third color is now being introduced in this innovative and popular pattern.

An instant favorite with designers and home owners alike, Forest Floor resonates with the desire for naturally inspired colors and textures, and the ability to provide stylish outdoor living space while still having guaranteed waterproof protection.

Duradek Ultra Forest Floor Ash

Duradek Ultra Forest Floor Ash Swatch

A cool, earthy hue softly presents the distinctive fossilized leaf pattern in gentle taupe with grey under tones for a subtle and attractive waterproof finish on balconies, decks and patios.

Reminiscent of an actual forest floor, Duradek Ultra Forest Floor Ash offers a unique, naturally inspired design in a calm blend of neutral shades that invites harmony to virtually any outdoor living space or exterior design scheme.

The flagship color for this exclusive line launched in the summer of 2011 was Duradek Ultra Forest Floor ‘Birch’, followed in summer of 2012 with Duradek Ultra Forest Floor ‘Alder’.

Duradek Ultra Forest Floor Ash
Photo provided by Duradek of Georgia

This unique product is an innovative example of Duradek’s leadership in outdoor flooring.

Exclusively installed by specially trained professionals, Duradek has been the leader in waterproof roofing membranes for nearly 40 years and provides low maintenance, stylish solutions for outdoor living space.

Duradek Ultra Forest Floor
Ash, Alder and Birch

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

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.

Duradek Dealers Are Rooftop Deck Waterproofing Experts

A great deck waterproofing product like Duradek can last for decades and has a reputation of superior performance, however, like most products, proper installation is critical to benefit from the strength of the product. This is why Duradek is installed ONLY by trained and authorized installers who are well versed in the intricate details of exterior waterproofing.

Duradek has unwavering confidence in the durability and reliability of their Duradek Ultra vinyl membranes and its Durarail powder-coated aluminum railings. As a leader in rooftop decks and outdoor waterproof flooring, Duradek knows that when it comes to building a deck and waterproofing it to last, it's all about the details. When authorizing new Duradek Dealers, their knowledge, skills and commitment to excellence are essential elements in the Duradek equation. After all, a great tradesman can make even the worst product work, but even a great product, installed by a poor tradesman will fail.

New Duradek Deck Waterproofing Expert: Pinnacle Roofing and Coating Inc.
in Alabama

Duradek Dealers can be found from coast to coast, and now there is a fantastic new Duradek Dealer to be found in the state of Alabama. This latest addition to the Duradek network of Dealers is Pinnacle Roofing and Coating in Northport, Alabama.

The Pinnacle Team:
1st row – Marvin Blevins, Patrick Shanks, Brian Collins
2nd row – Aaron Camatti, Mike Loxterman (trainer) Danny, Jeff Collins

Pinnacle Roofing and Coating specializes in Commercial and Residential roofing products and has been in business since 2007. Having built a reputation on service and quality workmanship, owner Aaron Camatti recognized the strength of the Duradek brand and saw that it was a product that could compliment his current business and benefit his customer base. After several conversations and interviews, a training date was established, and Duradek Trainer, Michael Loxterman was sent to Northport to ensure the Pinnacle team was fully versed on the intricate details of deck waterproofing with Duradek vinyl membranes for decks, patios and rooftop applications.

There's a lot to cover in a Duradek training program

Opportunity to Excel as a Duradek Dealer

Duradek installers are educated
in each intricate detail.

If you are a builder, roofer, remodeler or contractor, or have a background in the building industry and are looking for a new business opportunity with a reliable product, you could possibly become an authorized Duradek dealer. Check our Dealer opportunities online to learn more about Duradek's benefits and the potential it can bring to your home or your business. If you have any questions regarding the potential in this excellent business opportunity and the possibility of becoming a Duradek dealer, email your inquiries to Sales Manager, Kevin MacMillan at duradek@duradek.com for more information.

If you are not in the market for a fantastic business opportunity, but you are considering building a deck or renovating an existing deck, contact one of our amazing Duradek Dealers near you to discover the Duradek difference!