Coast to Coast Collapses Demonstrates Need For Deck Maintenance

Another deck collapse recently made the headlines; this time from a family gathering at a seaside vacation home at Emerald Isle, NC on July 4th, 2015. This instance took 26 family members down with the deck when it failed, sending 16 people to hospital with emergency responders and another 4-6 people from private transport. At least 5 of the injured parties were in critical condition. It was supposed to be a happy occasion intended to be captured by camera but instead became a nightmare its victims would like to forget.

According to the final report from Emerald Isle town manager (link to official press release below), 26 people were injured in the collapse. A building official concluded that corroded fasteners were the primary contributor that brought the 8-foot by 10-foot section of deck crashing 9 feet to the ground.

This follows last month’s horrific Berkley balcony collapse that claimed the lives of 6 of the 13 students that occupied the 4th floor balcony when it detached from the building. In this instance, the balcony reportedly detached from the building and swung down at a 90 degree angle sending all of its occupants to the ground below. A Berkley Building and Safety Division inspector said the deck’s severed joist ends looked “extensively rotted”. The outer beams of the balcony had sustained “significant rot and decay”. CNN succinctly summarizes this story and the findings in the official report.

It’s an all-too-familiar story of summer celebration turning tragic and why Duradek is an active supporter of the North America Deck and Railing Association’s Deck Safety Program. This deck safety initiative was created to increase public awareness on deck safety issues as well as provide some very useful tools for both consumers and professionals on deck evaluations and maintenance.

Deck maintenance is not just to keep your outdoor living space attractive. Deck waterproofing is critical in maintaining the structural integrity of your deck.


See page 31 in the online magazine for "Three
Common Deck Collapse Factors..."

From west coast to east coast, the contributing factors to deck collapse are often the same and Duradek addressed these issues in Landlord BC’s ‘The Key’ publication in the summer 2015 issue with “Three Common Deck Collapse Factors and How to Avoid Them” (.pdf).

In most deck collapse occurrences, the decks were originally built to code, but water infiltration and its resulting damage appear to be the primary contributors to the collapses. Weakened wood from dry rot and fasteners disintegrated by corrosion would leave any deck unable to support the load it was originally built to sustain.

It is important to remember that while a deck is a cherished part of the home, its maintenance requirements are very different from most other parts of the home as it is the only load bearing part of the home that is under constant exposure to the elements.

In the final Emerald Isle report, town manager Frank Rush wrote, “North Carolina General Statures do not currently grant authority to NC cities and counties to conduct periodic building code or deck inspections of vacation rental units. Routine inspections of vacation rental units / exiting homes are the responsibility of the property owner and / or property management company.”

See the Emerald Isle final press release on the incident that includes building official’s findings, as well as police and emergency responders’ official incident reports (http://www.emeraldisle-nc.org/pdfs/PressRelease07072015-DeckCollapseFinalReport.pdf), or an overview of the story on Emerald Isle Deck Collapse on the WNCN.

Duradek vinyl deck membranes have been waterproofing decks and balconies for over 40 years. With this experience we know that when it comes to waterproofing, it is all in the details which is why Duradek is not available as a do-it-yourself product. Deck waterproofing is a specialty trade and general contractors may not have a full understanding of the specific details and techniques required for long lasting deck waterproof integrity.

To speak to a Duradek professional installer about your decking project, look for a Duradek Dealer in your area for a no obligation estimate.

Duradek Recaps Deck Safety Month's Dangerous Decks

Deck safety awareness is an important topic for anyone that owns, resides in or visits properties that include the desirable feature of a deck or balcony; yet a topic that often gets a mere nod of acknowledgement but little focussed effort.

Decks are traditionally a favourite place to gather, particularly in the summer months, and each year we hear of people suffering needlessly from trauma and injuries resulting from deck collapse. Just within the last few weeks alone there were two reported deck collapse incidents.

On May 16, 2015 in Lithonia, GA there was a sudden deck collapse when friends and family were gathered after a wedding, injuring 9 people – 7 of whom were hospitalized. Officials say that old, dry-rotted wood that was only held up by nails and not proper fastening bolts were the main contributors.



View deck collapse video coverage on CBS46 News

On May 16, 2015 in Noblesville, IN there were 12 people on a deck that collapsed sending 2 to hospital. This wide-spread, ongoing issue prompted the North America Deck & Railing Association (NADRA) to launch the Check Your Deck initiative and designate May as annual Deck Safety Month.

Duradek is proud to be a Deck Safety Ambassador to help further awareness of deck safety issues and to encourage both consumers and builders to use the excellent free resources for deck safety that NADRA offers on their website. Valuable tools like the Deck Evaluation Form and Consumer Checklist can help you to identify the trouble areas to ensure your deck is not at risk of collapse.

Using these tools and taking the steps necessary to check your deck goes a long way to ensure the safety of your family and friends.

Just ask consumer deck safety advocate Jeremy Wilt has been educating the public after he and his family experienced a traumatic deck collapse a year and a half ago. Jeremy has taken on the mission to spread the message of safety and prevention through a series of YouTube videos. The video from WMC Action News featured below shows shocking footage of the collapse that occurred at the clubhouse of Wilt’s New Albany subdivision during a Christmas Party.



Other recent deck collapse incidents include:

On April 30, 2015 in Cedarville, OH 8 people were victims of deck collapse.

On April 20, 2015 in Knoxville, TN a balcony collapsed at an apartment complex sending 1 woman to hospital and prompting an emergency repair work order on 100 other decks in the complex which were very old, wooden decks not well-maintained.

As Deck Safety Ambassadors, Duradek would like to remind you that maintaining a wooden deck by resealing each year is not just for aesthetic purposes…it is to keep the wood protected and reduce the chance of water infiltration and wood rot.

To reduce the time, effort and cost on deck waterproofing maintenance, consider the advantages of Duradek vinyl decks for your home. Duradek will protect the wood of your deck with a completely water-tight seal and Duradek’s professional installation techniques will help protect the entire home by considering the building envelope and preventing water intrusion at the critical areas where deck meets house.

If you’d like to speak to a decking professional about your deck, contact one of Duradek’s trained and authorized installers in your area.

 

Deck Collapse Concerns in Halifax – Inspection or Maintenance Issue?

A deck collapse in Halifax in September reignited the issue of deck safety, building standards and permits. While much study, analysis and debate can surround the issue of deck safety, a simple Google search on deck collapses and the images that come back in the results reveal a consistent common factor…

Most reported decks collapse stories are generated from traditional slotted wood decks that have not been properly waterproofed, built and maintained.

Screen Shot of images from Google search on 'Deck Collapse'.

Cut to the Chase: Reduce Liability with Less Maintenance Time and Cost

What’s Happening to Decks in Halifax?

According to CBC News show, statistics show that one in ten decks fails inspection in the Halifax Regional Municipality, but some experts say the percentage is likely much higher.

HRM's manager of building standards, Matt Covey said, "There's a lot of times we go out and somebody's not building something the way they said they were going to build it and it doesn't meet code.”

Darren Smith, who runs Halifax Home Inspections, says the percentage of faulty decks he sees in the city is considerably higher than the city's estimate.

"I'm saying more like 60 or 70 per cent [of decks are faulty] and I think I'm accurate on that just because it's what I do every day," he says. "Most of the decks built horrible are ones that someone has done themselves."

In September, a third-storey deck collapsed, landing on another deck below during a house party in Halifax's south end, sending six of the seven people occupying it to hospital.

Deck Collapse in Halifax - Image from CBC News



An interesting note is that the deck of the house was part of a controversial addition to the original home in 2002, according to court documents and an article by the now defunct Halifax Daily News.

This precedes the more stringent requirements for all recently build decks brought in by the HRM in 2008.

A newspaper clipping from 2002 shows the deck
of the house was part of a controversial
addition to the original home. (Daily News clipping)

Inspections – Deck Building or Maintenance…who is liable?

According to the Halifax Regional Municipality's bylaws, homeowners have to seek a permit when they construct a new deck or renovate an existing one. Inspectors examine it twice: once before the deck is built and again after the deck is complete.

"Those would be the only inspections unless there was a complaint about an issue on site, or if there was a further change to the existing structure," said Tiffany Chase, a spokesperson for the HRM.

"The ongoing maintenance of those structures and your property as well, really lies with the property owner," said Chase.

"We do say that people should make an annual inspection of their own deck on site, and if you're not sure what to look for then you can hire a professional to come in and do that for you."

Paul Pettipas, the CEO of the Nova Scotia Home Builders' Association, went to the site to see the damage for himself.

"This was a sad state of affairs,” he said. “In my opinion there was no maintenance done on this deck and the landlord's responsible."

The North America Deck and Railing Association (NADRA) is doing its best to reduce the number of deck collapse tragedies and has launched a Deck Safety program that includes a Deck Safety Consumer Checklist for homeowners and a Deck Evaluation Form to assist builders and inspectors in the deck evaluation process.

Reduce Liability with Less Maintenance Time and Cost

Once wood rot has begun, it will gradually grow
until the wood completely deteriorates.

No matter where you live or how carefully constructed your deck is, if it is made of wood, it is vulnerable to wood rot from exposure to moisture. Over time, unprotected wood that begins to rot will gradually deteriorate until it actually crumbles.

That is why waterproof protection is so vitally important to your deck.  It is not just an aesthetic detail…it is a major safety concern.

Six people sent to the hospital is a pretty significant price to pay for neglecting maintenance where an ‘oops, my bad’ simply does not compensate for injury or excuse negligent behavior.

Annual waterproof maintenance can require significant time and cost to maintain which is why Duradek vinyl membranes are such a huge advantage for your outdoor living space. Once a Duradek membrane is installed on your deck, it requires NO maintenance to continue to perform its waterproofing function…it simply does its job.

Last year, Duradek president John Ogilvie joined Duradek’s Atlantic Canada representative, Dennis Dann to visit the job site of a Duradek vinyl replacement when the homeowners wanted to update the look of their home. This particular deck was significant as it was the first deck in Atlantic Canada to have Duradek vinyl installed 30 years prior.

When the old vinyl was pulled off of the deck to make way for the new colour, even Duradek president John Ogilvie was amazed at the incredible condition of the plywood underneath.

The plywood substrate was so well protected that they were able to re-use the original plywood as the foundation for the new Duradek vinyl being installed. 30 years of waterproof protection from a one-time application with a product warrantied for 10 years is a pretty good return on investment for home maintenance.

Home owners and property managers in Halifax may want to reduce their maintenance tasks and risk of liability by discussing their deck waterproofing options with their local Duradek professionals.

Contact Duradek’s Atlantic Canada Representative, Dennis Dann for more information on one of the authorized Duradek installers in the Halifax area.

In all other areas, visit Duradek’s ‘Find A Dealer’ page to locate a Duradek professional near you.

Duradek and Durarail provide the best waterproof protection
for balconies and decks in Atlantic Canada.

Deck Collapse Disasters Strike Again

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

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

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

photo from CBS Baltimore

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

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

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

So What Then Caused the Decks to Collapse?

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

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

Waterproofing for Safety

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

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

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

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

For full deck collapse stories, see:

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

Water Absorption, Lateral Loads and Deck Collapse Risk

When deck collapse tragedies happen there is not always a clear-cut reason. It is mostly speculation of what caused the collapse, but here we look at two significant contributors and how you can prevent the chances of it happening to your deck.


Earlier this June there was a rather dramatic deck collapse in Pawleys Island, SC when a group of 25 – 30 people simultaneously gathered on a deck to take a photo in front of a rather impressive double rainbow. Although a rainbow is an innocent and inspiring motivation for a group selfie, this rainbow lured the unsuspecting group to a tragedy on an otherwise enjoyable day.



Read the full article, Water Absorption, Lateral Loads and Deck Collapse Risk

Deck Collapse Causes And Prevention

While the well-defined peak season for reported deck collapses has passed (June-August), in the last couple of weeks there have been a couple more deck collapse stories to hit the media with a too-familiar story of unsuspecting folks gathered on a balcony or deck and finding themselves suddenly plummeting to the ground amidst the debris of the failed deck.

In Dartmouth, NS 16 people were on a deck at a party when it collapsed with 2 people standing underneath the deck at the time. Four people were seriously injured. See full article on the Chronicle/Herald website.

In Boston, MA about a dozen fine art students gathered on a 3rd-floor balcony at an art opening were suddenly and unexpectedly crashing down to the 2nd-floor deck. Luckily, nobody was seriously injured. See full article on wcvb.com.

What Causes Decks to Collapse

Initial responses for inquiries on what causes a deck collapse are commonly quick to question if the deck was built to code with proper permits and inspections but it appears that most times there is no negligence in that area.

While there are several possible reasons for the deck failure, more often than not, the failure is attributed in some way to the ledger board that connects the deck to the building structure.

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

Waterproofing for Safety

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

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

When water invades a deck's substrate, it can literally
crumble under the surface.

For example, see Duradek Case History #151 where the inside perimeter waterproofing details were previously neglected and threatened the structural integrity of the deck. Luckily it was noticed and repaired in time to salvage some of the deck, and most importantly, avoided deck collapse and injury.

If you would like to have a Duradek waterproofing professional provide a free estimate on renovating your deck, contact a Duradek dealer in your area.

For further information on the topic and study of deck collapse, check out the Barrie Home Inspector website article “Deck Collapse Is Your Deck Safe?”.

Deck Autopsy: The Cause of the Collapse

Two weeks after the high profile deck collapse in Ocean Isle Beach, NC the speculation continues on what caused the sudden collapse that sent 21 family members to hospital after attempting a group photo on the deck of the ocean front vacation home. While 25 family members were gathered on the deck, it suddenly gave out and everyone from the infants to the elderly crashed down with the debris to the concrete patio below. Fortunately, there were no fatalities but several traumatic injuries left this family with far different vacation memories than they were hoping to create.

There are several theories on what may have caused the deck to collapse and while this is not a forensic report of the actual cause on this particular collapse, we are going to look at the possible contributors and what you can do to prevent this kind of tragedy on your deck.

WBTV 3 News, Weather, Sports, and Traffic for Charlotte, NC

Possible Causes of Deck Collapse

Not Built to Code – Not Likely
This deck was inspected when it was built in 2003 so it was built to state building code laws. Although further deck inspections are not a legal requirement unless requested, Ocean Isle Beach Mayor Debbie Smith says, “These oceanfront decks need to be held to a higher standard than North Carolina laws require.” This comment addresses the environmental contributors for decks in any coastal community such as high salt content in the air and heavy winds.

Overloading – Possible, But Unlikely
While the possibility of too much weight for the deck has been discussed, in the case of the Ocean Isle Beach collapse it is unlikely. North Carolina Building Inspectors Association President Glenn Batten says that the deck should have held that many people. State law requires a deck to be built to support 40 lbs per square foot, but to accommodate other features like hot tubs or heavy planters, decks are often built to accommodate 50 – 100 lbs per square foot.

Storm Damage – Possible
Glenn Batten goes on to say that the fact the deck collapsed tells him the deck may have suffered hurricane damage. Fasteners could have been pulled and stretched to their limits. While this is not necessarily the main contributing factor in this case, again it brings the environmental factors into the equation where heavy winds and salt air can age a deck much quicker than in inland areas and require more maintenance and commitment to regular annual inspections.

Wood Rot – Most Likely
The video footage of the resulting collapse of this deck seems to indicate that the ledger board and framing of the deck remained intact, but the central collapse of the deck boards indicates that supporting joists were the most vulnerable.

Contributing Editor for Professional Deck Builder Magazine, Kim Katwijk has been tracking deck collapses for 4 years and researching back a further 9 years. Kim says there are two main reasons for deck failures.

1 – The ledger: (the board that runs parallel to the side of the house and supports the edge of the deck, securing it to the house) is just nailed onto the house. Half the weight of the deck is on the ledger board and nails have a tendency to slide out over time.



All wood - even treated wood - will rot if not protected.
Wait too long to waterproof your wood deck, and
you will be rebuilding it.

2 – ROT!: Decks that have not been built correctly or have not been maintained are more susceptible to damage and weakening due to rot. Look for rot’s discoloration in the lumber or anything growing out of the wood. Test for rot by stabbing the wood with a sturdy knife point. If your knife goes in more than one quarter of an inch or you find spongy spots, that means the wood is decaying. If only a few boards are damaged, replace them. You cannot get away with leaving the rotten boards and putting a new board beside it. This will only accelerate the rot by providing fresh food for it. The rot will quickly invade the new board. If you find soft spots in the support posts or beams, you will need to rebuild the deck. (This requires a building permit.) To minimize future problems, hire a professional that specializes in decks. (see link at the bottom of post for helpful tips on selecting a decking contractor.)

Kim Katwijk also advises, “Assess whether the structure is solid. When you walk on the deck, you should not feel it move. It should not tilt. The railing should be firm and not moveable. The fasteners should not be loose or corroded. If you own a wood deck, you should clean and seal the boards every year.”

If annual maintenance like sanding and sealing your wood deck is not something you can realistically commit to performing, you may want to consider an alternate option that has proven successful waterproofing results to keep your deck safe from wood rot.

Keep Your Deck Safe From Wood Rot With Duradek

The waterproof protection of Duradek vinyl membranes
allow you to enjoy a maintenance free deck without
the worry of water damage or wood rot.

Duradek, the original vinyl waterproof membrane has been protecting decks, balconies and roof decks in all North American climates for nearly 40 years. Whether your deck is over living space or over a patio below, Duradek is building code approved as a walkable roofing membrane. Using a Duradek professionally installed waterproof membrane means that not only is the area under your deck completely protected, but water is kept out of the entire deck structure, which Prevents Rot from being able to occur!

Duradek Ultra vinyl membranes provide an attractive walking surface and superior waterproofing performance in a one-time application. It is warrantied to last for 10 years and is known for a life expectancy that can double that, with no sanding, staining or re-coating required. The only thing you need to do to keep your Duradek looking great is a seasonal cleaning (in addition to the annual inspection you should be performing no matter what type of deck waterproofing you use).

Additionally, Duradek is available only through a network of trained and authorized installers that are well-versed in the intricacies of professional deck waterproofing. If you would like to get a free estimate on protecting your outdoor living space and keeping your deck safe, contact a Duradek dealer near you.

Useful Resource: Checklist for Selecting Your Decking Contractor (downloadable pdf)

Party on the Patio Safely - Do it With Duradek

Summer is officially here! And one of the best parts of summer is enjoying your balconies, decks and patios in the fantastic summer weather. It doesn't seem to matter if you prefer a quite lounge with a good book or if you enjoy a lively social barbecue; your outdoor living space is the ideal place to be for the next few months. Duradek wants to make sure all the memories you create on your deck are good ones.



Coastal decks constantly exposed
to moisture are most vulnerable
to weakening due to improper
waterproofing. With Duradek,
protection is guaranteed.

With the growing trend of your outdoor living space being an extension of your home, at any time of year balconies and decks are the most popular places for people to congregate, but particularly during the summer months. Can your deck handle the load?

This is particularly important to consider if you live in a coastal region where moisture can deteriorate your deck's integrity if not properly waterproofed. One of the most tragic elements of deck collapse stories is that usually they can be avoided by proper deck maintenance and common sense, but in some instances, neither is present and the price is paid with person injury (and sometimes resulting litigation).

Take for example, a spring-break celebration where several college students suffered from injuries resulting from a deck collapse at a beach house party. A combination of aging and deteriorating wood and over-loaded weight was likely the main contributors to the collapse.

But a group of crazy college kids partying on a balcony is not the only time a deck is at risk of collapsing. In Birmingham, a church luncheon on a residential deck also resulted in a collapse and personal injury.

If you are aware of deck safety concerns, you have probably already performed your annual deck inspection as recommended by the North America Deck and Rail Association (NADRA). If deck safety is something you haven't considered, think about this...according to NADRA there are approximately 40 million decks in North America that are over 20 years old. Most of those decks aren't built to today's building code standards, and combined with aging factors and possible water damage weakening the structure, deck safety may be a topic you want to consider.

If you are questioning the safety or stability of your deck, have a qualified decking professional like a Duradek trained waterproofing specialist come take a look at your deck. You can request a free estimate on ensuring your deck is stable and protected with Duradek, the original vinyl deck waterproofing membrane.

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.

Deck Collapse Dangers Can Be Avoided

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

Both of these common scenarios are very dangerous and costly.

Avoid Deck Collapse Danger With Professionals

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

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



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

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

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

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

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

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

A two-level deck waterproof protected by Duradek

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

Duradek Offers Discount on Deck Rebuilds After Sandy

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

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

Duradek Discount Offer for Hurricane Victims

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

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

Roof Deck Waterproofed by Duradek Vinyl Membrane

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

Duradek brings the best in waterproof protection for your home.

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

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

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

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