Housing Market Influences Growth of Plastics in Building Materials

Plastics News recently broke down how plastic products have pushed the envelope when it comes to changes in the building industry over the last quarter century. Duradek is proud to have been a trailblazer with the use of PVC in deck construction that began 40 years ago and still today continues to be one of the most effective ways of protecting the building envelope.

Plastics News reported that putting a proper seal on the building envelope is one of plastic’s biggest contributions to construction in the last 25 years, according to Edward Hudson, director of the market research division for home Innovation Research Lads, a subsidiary of the National Association of Home Builders.

While this includes products like flash tape around doors and windows to wraps around entire exterior shells, material science experts have improved building performance with plastic. Duradek may have helped lead the way as Duradek sheet vinyl and sealing techniques developed in the first half of the company’s history certainly influenced the use of vinyl as a superior waterproofing option.

The inside perimeter where deck meets wall and door threshold
is a critical junction for building envelope protection.

While originally established as a deck waterproof surface for its ability to provide a water-tight seal as well as a pedestrian traffic coating, Duradek PVC membrane was first tested and approved for use as a roofing membrane in 1990. 

Related .pdf: The Duradek Story

Graphic Timeline: Duradek – A Legacy of Leadership

Since that time, Duradek vinyl membranes and sealing techniques have been imitated by multiple competing brands that simply do not have the longevity of experience that Duradek offers in the niche market of deck and flat roof pedestrian deck waterproofing.

Related Post: New Does Not Always Mean Better

Decking, as a category, is one of the biggest contributors to the growth of plastics use in the building industry. This growth is mostly attributed to composite decking products which have grown from virtually non-existent 25 years ago to being an estimated 25-35% of the market. 

Since composite decking products are a relatively immature product in the market, there have been many growing pains along the way including several class action suits due to product failure and multiple trademarked brands coming, going and changing hands. 

Related Post: Vinyl Decking Vs. Composite Decking – Is the Price Worth the Cost?

Another influence that is driving the increase of plastics in the building industry is the growing preference for green housing. McGraw Hill Construction estimates that the green market was 2 percent of residential starts in 2005 but increased to 6 to 10 percent in 2008 and was at least 12 percent in 2013. 

While a green build may not be the primary influencer of home buyers, it has become an increasingly notable feature that green builders have been pulling people along into. Duradek vinyl is a green product and contributes to LEED points for green build projects.

PVC membrane for waterproof surface combined with composite
bench makes best use of plastics for low maintenance decking.
Project and image by Windeck Ltd.

As decks continue to gravitate from humble wooden platforms to sprawling multi-level extensions of the home, Duradek PVC membranes continue to protect decks, roof decks and the building envelope for the costly damage that can arise from water infiltration and wood rot and mold. All this, while also providing an attractive, low-maintenance surface that can last for decades.

For detailed drawings, specifications and other architectural information on Duradek, visit our Architectural Overview page.

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.

Duradek Expert Advice On Waterproofing Flat Roof Decks In 'Carolinas Roofing Magazine'

photo courtesy of Duradek Midatlantic

President of Duradek, John Ogilvie lent his expert advice on waterproofing flat roof decks in the September / October issue of Carolinas Roofing Magazine in a 7-page technical feature article. This insightful article expresses over 30 years accumulated experience in flat roof deck waterproofing solutions and provides building professionals with significant considerations for waterproofing best practices.

John Ogilivie, president of Duradek

John originally wrote this piece as a White Paper entitled 'PVC Sundeck and Flat Roofdeck Installation and Application' in July 2011, and from July to December it has been downloaded from the Duradek website over 2530 times.

This article also provides home owners a dynamic resource for understanding the process of properly waterporoofing decking systems and arms them with the language to ensure clear communication between themselves and their contractors. This is a priceless asset when planning and determining decking projects, along with maintenance considerations for after a new deck has been installed.

Carolinas Roofing Magazine is published bi-monthly and is written for the building professional concerned with the design, specification and application of roofing. A beautiful online version is available at www.carolinasroofing.com where you can review current and past issues with convenient online viewing tools.

Deck Care For The Fall

After several months of enjoying your outdoor deck, there is no more denying that patio season is over.  Autumn deck care may not be the first thing on your mind, but if you are the proud owner of a Duradek, your PVC Vinyl Membrane Waterproofing Solution, you are more likely to enjoy your patio year round with its durable and slip-resistant finish. Duradek treated surfaces have a proven history in maintaining their functionality and often enjoy a life span of up 20-25 years. Like anything that is made to last, proper care and maintenance is important in keeping your Duradek’s appearance looking like new.

While Duradek membranes are manufactured in such a way that they discourage the growth of mildew, moss and algae, it is the organic debris (such as leaves, cedar planters, etc.) that can settle on your deck surface and that may cause some discoloration. Leaves in particular are a nasty culprit, and are best dealt with sooner rather than later. In addition to being a breeding ground for moss and mildew, wet leaves contain dyes that can permanently stain the surface of your beautiful Duradek finish.

For best results in your fall deck care, follow these steps:

·         It is always best to clean your Duradek surface with a diluted amount of our carefully formulated Duradek Cleaner. First clear any residue from your deck, and with warm water diluted Duradek Cleaner solution and a stiff broom, scrub in a circular motion to loosen the dirt and follow with a good rinse.

·         If leaves have stained an area, you may also wish to try applying a bit of Fantastik Spray Cleaner or Cascade Powdered Dishwasher Detergent for just a few minutes, scrub in a circular motion with a soft brush and rinse thoroughly. 

·         Another option would be to use a dilution of 1 tablespoon ammonia with 1 quart of water. 

·         Regardless of which method you use, be sure to rinse off the area thoroughly with lots of fresh water to ensure no cleaning residue remains, and the performance of your Duradek vinyl membrane will continue to serve you well.

We recommend a proper cleaning of your deck surface at least 4 times a year, with best results provided by Duradek Cleaner - specifically formulated for vinyl, it will not leave harmful chemicals like many household cleaners may. This is very important as any chemical residue left on your deck can bake into the vinyl deck surface and cause it to age prematurely or cause discoloration.

It is also a good idea to inspect the caulking at all junctions and joints to ensure your protective membrane is still water-tight and no shifting has taken place under the surface. Remember to check:

·         Posts, Pillars, Corners, Vents, Drains etc.

Once you are satisfied that your vinyl deck has been properly cared for, remember to schedule another routine maintenance cleaning and inspection in the next 3 months, and continue to enjoy your Duradek! 

Is Duradek Really Green? YES!

Years ago, being ‘Green’ meant one of 2 things – Was it made of recycled materials or Could it be recycled?
We are now much more educated on what being ‘Green’ truly means and take into consideration the entire ‘Cradle to Grave’ concept of the product.

Here’s Duradek’s ‘Cradle to Grave’ story...as compared to the alternatives;

Mining – PVC is a derivative of natural gas and sodium chloride; which is also known as Salt and is one of the most abundant natural resources available on earth.
Manufacturing – At one time, manufacturing PVC had some hazardous side effects. But measures have been taken to rectify those and these safety issues no longer exist. The EPA states that while the manufacturing of PVC is on the rise, toxic dioxins are decreasing.
Transportation & Distribution – Due to the low weight of Duradek compared to the alternatives (such as EPDM & pavers or wood planks), there is considerably less energy consumed in the transportation of the product; from raw resources to manufacturing to distribution to the jobsite.
Building Design – The structural requirements to support a deck with heavy pavers requires many more construction materials. Duradek’s light weight needs only basic structural requirements, using far fewer materials and energy.
Installation – The one-step application process of Duradek requires fewer trips to the job site and uses less manpower, both of which means less energy being consumed.
Maintenance – Duradek does not require re-coating or re-staining, both of which consume materials and manpower. Maintaining Duradek consumes far less energy than the alternatives.
Useful Life – Duradek is a waterproofing membrane, therefore the entire structure is protected and will not decay. The structure remains intact, helping the building to last longer. This saves cost, materials and energy in repairs or replacement.
End of Life – When the time comes to renew the surface, Duradek’s re-installation process will consume less manpower, materials and energy, as well as less disruption to the structure and building use.
Disposal – Compared to Treated Lumber PVC does not leach chemicals into the environment as it decomposes. In fact PVC is often used as landfill liners to prevent other materials from leaching toxins into the earth. Other alternatives, such as composite deck boards are much larger in volume therefore taking up much more space in a landfill.
Recycling - The current opportunities for cost-effectively recycling PVC are minimal, but progress is being made. Some solutions include creating new building materials and man-made reefs.

Compare PVC to the Alternatives

When compared to products that perform the SAME function, consider the following:

• PVC's one-step application and longevity compare favorably to the multiple application and reapplication requirements of liquid-applied systems, saving many trips to the job, which in turn consumes less energy.
• There is a huge weight savings benefiting the structural requirements and the energy consumption to transport as compared to an EPDM membrane with concrete pavers.
• When compared to pressure treated wood, there are no chemicals leaching into the environment and likely double the life expectancy.

As a waterproof roof or deck, compared to alternatives, DURADEK IS THE GREENER CHOICE!

Click here to see more information on the Green side of Duradek including LEED points.

Duradek Ultra Tiledek has made the Top 100 in Qualified Remodeler Magazine

Source: QUALIFIED REMODELER Magazine, published by Cygnus
Publication date: June 2010 Issue

The Remodelers’ Choice 100 list for 2010 indicates strong interest in the market for innovative bathroom solutions and products that support energy efficiency. Presented each year, this list is a great resource for remodelers looking for a way to stay abreast of hot products. By keeping up on what’s new in remodelling market, and especially what’s hot, remodelers can remain the expert in this business.

With showers becoming a bigger priority in the master suite, it’s no surprise that shower drainage products make up four of the top 10 spots on The Remodelers’ Choice 100. Peppered throughout the list are also products that help homes become more energy-efficient, including tankless water heaters, insulation and several thermal imagers indicating that your customers are looking to cash-in on rebates and take advantage of longer-term savings.

Yet the range of products on the list is very broad. Featuring the most requested products shown in Qualified Remodeler over the past 12 months, the list offers everything from creative lighting solutions to recycled synthetic roofing.

Products that have also been featured as a Remodelers’ Choice product of the month are designated with a blue ribbon. These are products that not only received many requests for more information in the month in which they were initially published, but also continued to generate enough interest many weeks later.



To view to entire article online, please click here.
To view Duradek’s #31 spot article, please click here.

Duradek Ultra Tiledek has made the Top 100 in Building Products Magazine

Source: BUILDING PRODUCTS MAGAZINE
Publication Date: 2010-06-20

Searching for something stylish for your latest project? Something innovative? A time-saver? A sustainable solution? Look no further. The 2010 Top 100, our annual ranking of the building products, materials, and tools readers wanted to know more about, showcases an array of product introductions for the home and the job site that can help you differentiate your projects while saving your crews time and your clients money.

As in past years, many of the products reaching the Top 100 are unique, with never-before-seen technologies and designs. Still other offer a more subtle twist--in style, functionality, or performance--that captures readers' attention. No matter the appeal, each honoree is worth a second look.

Among this years list are a number of trends, unsurprisingly dominated by the residential market's most popular buzzword--sustainability. In all seven of our coverage areas, including Windows, Kitchens, and Exteriors, green products are present and, in several cases, the No. 1 attention-getter. It's hard to deny not only the influence of green building on manufacturers' R&D, but also the overwhelming desire of contractors to learn more about the products that make up sustainable homes.

Rankings for the 2010 Top 100 are based on the number of clicks received by new products featured on ebuild New Products News, the twice-weekly e-mail newsletter from Building Products, as well as from our sister publications Builder, Remodeling, Custom Home, Tools of the Trade, and The Journal of Light Construction, and their web sites. Each Top 100 product is republished on the following pages within its designated category--Bath, Construction, Exterior, Interior, Kitchen, Tools & Equipment, or Windows & Doors.

To view the entire article online, please click here.
To view Duradek's #30 spot article, please click here.

What Is Duradek, You Ask…?

Duradek is the trade name for a line of PVC vinyl membranes that were developed to solve waterproofing problems for sundecks, flat roof decks, balconies and other leisure walking surfaces. The technology was borrowed from the marine industry where PVC was being used to waterproof hull liners for over 25 years. If PVC membrane could perform well in those harsh marine environments, then it can certainly waterproof decks and balconies!

As the industry leader in sheet waterproofing systems, Duradek has been applied to literally billions of square feet of walking surfaces, to protect them from rot, decay and to form a roof over the space below. Now, with over 36 years of waterproofing experience, Duradek is still the primary choice of Architects, Builders, Property Managers and Homeowners who appreciate our attention to detail.

Here is Duradek's current product line-up:

Duradek Ultra – Duradek is the original sheet vinyl designed to waterproof flat decks and roofs. Duradek is textured to provide slip-resistant walking surfaces and comes in a wide variety of colors and patterns to provide a contemporary, clean look previously unavailable in the outdoor waterproof flooring industry. Installed in one easy step and in almost any weather condition, Duradek can be used immediately. Duradek provides the waterproofing and the walking surface in one simple solution.

Duradek Ultra Tiledek – Duradek Ultra Tiledek is identical to Duradek Ultra except the top surface is a fabric top, to which the thinset mortar mix that holds down tile, can tightly adhere to. Installed with the same waterproofing details and techniques as Duradek, Tiledek is the waterproofing roofing membrane under a tile, slate or porcelain finished surface. In addition to protecting the surface below, Tiledek also acts as a crack isolation barrier to bridge small cracks in the substrate preventing those cracks from transferring through to the tile.

Duradek Ultra Plazadek – Duradek Ultra Plazadek is designed specifically for the purpose of waterproofing flat deck or roofs which are intended to have pavers, stamped concrete or a wood/synthetic wood duckboard system placed overtop for pedestrian traffic. Plazadek is identical in construction to Duradek Ultra, installed with the same waterproofing techniques, by the same network of trained applicators and performs the same function of protecting the living space below.

Durarail – Durarail is a powder coated aluminum railing and fencing system produced by Duradek. Constructed with a heavy wall thickness of durable aluminum, the system is exceptionally strong. It enables wider spans between posts and provides for a better visual appearance and view. The TGIC powder coating comes in 8 standard colors, in addition to over 180 custom colors and provides a maintenance free, durable and attractive finish which meets AAMA 2604 and 2605 specifications. The Durarail finish will not rust, peel or corrode even in harsh environments. Durarail is available in many styles, from pickets to view-through glass and is easily customized to satisfy any requirement.

Durarail has systems that meet the rigorous building code standards in both the US and Canada. Additional engineering is available to satisfy even the toughest of code jurisdictions.

A Durarail railing or fencing system is a safe, strong, yet attractive addition to any outdoor living space.