Duradek Recognized by Canadian Business Journal

The Canadian Business Journal recognized Duradek as a featured manufacturer in the March 2014 issue (#198) of their leading business magazine. With 2014 marking Duradek's 40th year in business, we couldn't be prouder to appear in Canada's longest-publishing business magazine.

Duradek is especially proud to be a recognized Western manufacturer as many national product manufacturers are based out of Ontario, Duradek remains western based in British Columbia where vinyl membrane deck waterproofing was first conceived.

(See the full Duradek Story for details).

The Canadian Business Journal is sent digitally each month to over 37,000 senior executives in Canada and receives a month average of over 400,000 unique visitors to its website. The online publication also holds the highest independently audited and verified readership of any Canadian Business-to-Business publication. It keeps Canadian business leaders informed on current business news, industry topics and trends including a glimpse into major Canadian industries such as Construction, Energy, Food and Drink, Healthcare and Manufacturing.

While Duradek is a mature, reliable product that has been around since 1974; The Canadian Business Journal is truly wise from experience since it was founded in 1928 as 'The Commerce of the Nation' as the voice of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce. The magazine was renamed the Canadian Business in 1933, but its official association with the Chamber of Commerce did not end until 1977. Today, the magazine's official media partnership is currently held by George Media and is owned by Rogers Communication.

See the featured article, "Duradek-Waterproofing Your Outdoor Living Space for 40 Years" in the March issue of the Canadian Business Journal online.

Duradek Offers Free Registration for 2 Great Industry Shows in Vegas

Builders and remodelers  have two great industry events to chose from in the coming weeks and both are great excuses to book yourself a ticket to Las Vegas.

You may still be checking off your Christmas list, but if you are in the light construction industry you might want to put one of these great building industry shows on the list for yourself. The beauty of this kind of business trip is that you can get a lot of exposure to product information and some solid networking accomplished with virtually no cost...you just have to get yourself there!

Duradek invites you to register for free exhibit hall admission to The International Surfaces Event or The International Builders Show in Las Vegas in early 2014.

Whether you are looking for a fantastic waterproof decking solution or an excellent business opportunity to expand your contracting services, you will benefit from coming down and talking with Duradek president John Ogilvie or sales manager Kevin MacMillan.

The International Surfaces Event

Mandalay Bay Convention Centre, Las Vegas

January 28 - 30, 2014

Visit Duradek at Surfaces - Booth #B2339

Register for free exhibit hall admission!

The International Builders Show

Las Vegas Convention Centre, Las Vegas

February 4 - 6, 2014

Visit Duradek at IBS - Booth #S1919

Register for free exhibit hall admission!

Why Duradek Trains Contractors and Educates Architects

by Duradek Northwest President, Matt Whale

Why does Duradek train contractors and provide education to architects and designers, and is that important?

It is my understanding that the greater percentage of all building related lawsuits are due to water intrusion. So, when entering into the field of roofing or waterproofing, one enters into a field wrought with legal liabilities. Because when decks and roof-decks leak they can cause simple water damage or catastrophic failure.



Duradek Technical Manager, Len Viegener
conducting a training at Duradek HQ.

Whether one has flooring, roofing, carpentry or waterproofing experience it is important to augment each trade's techniques with historical application performance procedures. Having said this, areas that need to be taught for proper PVC waterproof deck installations are proper seam welding and the "capping' of the seams, outside and inside "deck to wall" interface flashing installation, door pan, drain, scupper and overflow application, Deck preparation basics, where you are taught what are acceptable deck construction techniques, slopes and materials, based on successful deck history should also be taught. Now for you professionals, saying that you did not build the deck may not get you off the hook. It is understood that a professional knows what he is placing his product on and its suitability to perform (if you can see it or discover it, you accept it and are most likely liable for it).



Duradek installers in training.

One way to get around the problem is sell the product "over the counter" to anyone with the cash. This puts all the product performance liability onto the installer, or "Do It Yourselfer" and removes all of the installation and most of the product liability for the manufacturer or reseller. Add to the product a "Limited Material Warranty" that further limits the manufacturer's liability and specifies the remedy to supplying materials to only the affected area. Also exclude all aesthetics issues and put the claim criteria into a fee based inspection service call and if deemed out of the realm of material problem you can bill the consumer. Now you have a market program provided by many deck product manufacturers.

Please understand I am not a lawyer, so for a complete legal warranty evaluation, please contact such a person (my personal disclaimer). I write this to help, not discourage; to enlighten not mask; to help you make an informed and educated decision. So does Duradek educate and train? Yes they do. Is it important? Absolutely, because when you are committed to an industry and to your customers, it just seems like the right thing to do.

Duradek Northwest
Mathew Whale CSI, CDT

Download PDF version here.

If you are interested in becoming an authorized Duradek Dealer, check out some details on our Business Opportunities page.

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....

7 Critical Questions to Ask When Investigating New Decking Material Products

In the November/December 2012 issue of Mid-Atlantic Builder Magazine, there was a great article entitled “Switching Building Products” (Download .pdf of "Switching Building Products" article) that addressed key questions to ask and answer before switching to a new building product. There are many considerations for a seemingly minor product switch in residential construction, and asking the right questions ahead of time can help you minimize the risk of using a new product.

We invite you to consider these key questions as they apply to decking materials and show how Duradek answers all of them for a risk-free waterproof, walkable flat roof deck and sundeck membrane surface.

1 – Is the Product Up To Code?

The first and most important question to ask is “Does the product meet local building code?” While it is highly recommended that you check with your local code official, you can investigate yourself by checking to see if there is an ICC-ES report on the product. You can access ICC-ES reports online to see what code requirements a product meets, along with its installation requirements and other key details. Code Inspectors rely on these evaluation reports and you can too.

The Duradek Answer – YES! Duradek is Up To Code

Duradek has been evaluated through ICC-ES for many years and the current report (ESR 2151) is valid until 2014. Duradek hopes that builders and home owners alike take advantage of the information available in these reports and provides current and potential customers with a little ‘tutorial’ on how to read, understand and compare products using ICC-ES reports.
From all available evidence, Duradek is the MOST tested single-ply vinyl membrane on the market today. All current testing reports and evaluations are available on the Duradek website’s Approvals pages, as well as this convenient checklist to refer to when comparing products.

2 – Is The Product Field Tested?

If the product has not been widely used in the industry and demonstrated successful performance, then you might want to inquire about field evaluation reports which are cooperative efforts between builders, manufacturers and testing agencies.

The Duradek Answer – YES! – Duradek is Proven in the Industry

Duradek has been protecting decks since 1974 (almost 40 years!) and has thousands of installations over the decades.  From coast-to-coast throughout all North American climates, Duradek has performed successful deck waterproofing on patios, balconies and roof decks. No matter what kind of residential deck project you are considering, chances are Duradek has done it. Check out some of Duradek’s Case Studies for examples.

3 – Will The Manufacturer Be There For Support?

It is very important to consider how much support the manufacturer is willing to provide.  Issues such as warranties, technical support and training, as well as support and guidance to the home owner are all things to consider before switching to a new product.

The Duradek Answer – Yes! Duradek Provides Excellent Support

In addition to an industry leading 10-year waterproofing warranty, Duradek provides all sorts of support to their customers. With Duradek, technical support begins with mandatory training on installation and waterproofing details. In fact, Duradek is not even available to contractors who have not completed Duradek’s training program and become authorized to install the product. The education does not stop after the initial training…Duradek keeps up on changes in the industry and supporting products to ensure product compatibility and installation techniques are always as current as possible. (Duradek also provides online education through Hanley Wood and AEC Daily).

4 – Does it Provide Marketing Benefits?

Are there any marketing advantages to making a product switch? Are any added costs balanced out by performance features? You want to be careful about the claims you make about the product, particularly with any Green claims. Be sure to comply with the Federal Trade Commission’s Green Guides.

The Duradek Answer – YES! – Duradek Has Marketing Benefits and YES – Duradek is Green

Besides the fact that Duradek is a strong, proven brand with excellent technical support, marketing support and a proven track record, Duradek is a Green product and qualifies for LEED points.  In addition, it is worthwhile to note that having a deck protected with Duradek vinyl is often considered a value-added feature of a home, and a highlighted feature in Real Estate Listings. 



Duradek is a building product considered a valuable feature in residential real estate.

5 – Is it Compatible with Your Other Products?

While it is encouraged to look for ways to improve your product offerings, you certainly want to avoid making changes that will have a domino effect that negatively affects your other product offerings.

The Duradek Answer – Yes! You Can Incorporate Duradek With Your Other Offerings

Duradek can be applied to plywood or concrete surfaces and you don’t have to worry about any of the adhesives or accessories needed since Duradek is sold as a ‘complete system’ and will provide all supporting products for the installation of their vinyl membranes. In addition, Duradek offers Durarail powder-coated aluminum railing systems, Tiledek waterproof membrane for use in exterior tile applications, and Plazadek waterproof membrane for use under paver systems. Unless you have existing exclusivity contracts with other membrane and railing suppliers, Duradek is easy to incorporate into your product offerings.

6 – Will Your Crew Be Able to Handle the Learning Curve?

With any new product offering there is likely to be a learning curve for your team to be familiar enough with the new product to be able to effectively sell and install it.  Many times, the cost associated with the training involved in a new offering is a significant consideration. Additionally, defective installation can effectively negate a manufacturer’s warranty.

The Duradek Answer – Yes! Duradek Will Train Your Installers

In fact…that is the only way you are authorized to purchase Duradek vinyl. Duradek offers new dealers a thorough 2-day training program. Duradek operates from the belief that when it comes to waterproofing, it is all in the details; and no matter how good a vinyl membrane is manufactured, the true performance is measured by how the product is installed.  Duradek is proud of their extensive network of trained and authorized installers and technical support for all installers is available indefinitely.



Duradek technical manager, Len Viegener
conducting a Duradek training.

7 – How Will It Change How You Educate Home Owners on Maintenance?

Most professional builders and developers want to see their hard work demonstrate longevity, and part of that includes educating home owners on proper care and maintenance.

The Duradek Answer – Yes! It is Easy to Educate the End User on Care and Maintenance of Duradek

If a walkable, waterproof vinyl membrane is new to your offerings you will be pleased to know that the care and maintenance of the Duradek vinyl is a great selling feature. Duradek vinyl is a low maintenance decking material that requires only seasonal cleaning and annual inspections to keep looking great. Care and Cleaning instructions are provided to the home owner right along with their warranty.

Are You Considering Adding Duradek to Your Product Offerings?

If you can see the advantages that Duradek can bring to your product offerings with its time-proven, thoroughly tested, walkable, waterproof membrane, Duradek invites you to explore the potential business opportunity a little further.  We are confident that when you discover the Duradek difference, it will be your vinyl membrane of choice.

Business Opportunity for Builders to Make the Duradek Difference

Duradek, the leader in vinyl deck waterproofing, has nearly 40 years of experience protecting roof top decks, patios, balconies and more all over North America. While Duradek is certainly proud of their 3rd party tested and roofing approved vinyl products, it is the network of professionally trained waterproofing experts who install Duradek that make it the most reliable option for protecting your outdoor living space.

While Duradek is confident that their vinyl is simply the superior choice when compared to similar products on the market, Duradek president John Ogilvie will be the first to say that no matter how great a waterproofing product is - the true performance relies on the intricate details of its installation. That is why Duradek in only available through our network of approved, trained installers.

Duradek Opportunity for Your Own Business

If your background as a builder, roofer, remodeler or contractor has you searching for an opportunity to build a solid business foundation with a reliable product, you may want to give Duradek some consideration. We asked Duradek Sales Manager, Kevin MacMillan, a few key questions for those of you that might be interested in becoming a Duradek dealer.

1 – What makes a good Duradek Dealer?

A good Duradek is someone who recognises that there is more to a deck that just a landing area. When a potential dealer wraps his mind around the fact that a deck is an extension of your living space, he is better equipped to offer options on how to make that space as functional, cost effective and beautiful as possible. Typically a Duradek Dealer is someone who thinks outside of the box – an entrepreneurial person with strong conviction.

2 – What are the advantages of being a Duradek Dealer?

The advantages of being a Duradek dealer are that you are involved in a fun, fast-paced and innovative niche sector of the construction industry. That is all to say that the competition is not extreme and the market is good. Duradek HQ offers free training, marketing support, national trade show exposure, extensive technical support and prolific web presence/exposure.

3 – How much training and investment is required?

Duradek does not charge for training or for a dealership from our head office location. However it is up to the individual companies interested in Duradek to come to our training facility in Kansas City, MO or Vancouver, BC. There is also the possibility of training for a reasonable fee at one of our established Distributor areas. The training is a full 2 day experience with about 80% of the time with the tools in your hands. Once you have the basic training under your belt, you are ready to install Duradek. The Marketing department will then advise you on how to take advantage of our web-site, our literature and our people.

Considering a Business Opportunity with Duradek?

If these few considerations have intrigued you and you would like more information on Duradek Dealer opportunities, we invite you to look a little closer at what makes the Duradek difference. Call Corporate Development Manager, Kevin MacMillan at 1-866-591-5594 and he will be happy to answer any questions you might have.

Duradek Participates at National Trade Shows like IBS

If you are not looking for a business opportunity, but recognize that Duradek can beautifully protect your own deck, contact one of our specially trained dealers in your area for a no-obligation, free estimate and see first-hand what makes the Duradek difference.

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!

Opportunity to Excel as a Duradek Dealer

Duradek Dealers believe in excellence, and what better opportunity to promote excellence than to represent a product with a reputation of superior performance. 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 outdoor waterproof flooring, Duradek knows that when it comes to waterproofing, it's all about the details.

Duradek takes great pride in its professional network
of Dealers and installers from coast-to-coast

A great product like Duradek can perform for decades, however 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.
While Duradek has excellent representation nationally, there are some regions that have opportunity to add new Duradek dealers. Recently, on the 'At Home With Gary Sullivan' show, Duradek Sales Manager, Kevin MacMillan made mention of Dealer opportunities. If you are a builder or have a background in the building industry and are looking for a new business opportunity with a reliable product, you could potentially become an authorized Duradek dealer.

 Listen to Kevin's interview with home improvement expert Gary Sullivan 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 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!