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.

Compare Cost of Maintenance Before You Renovate Your Deck

As soon as the first signs of spring appear, many of us begin to get out on our decks or balconies and often discover that the winter has not been kind to the appearance of our favourite outdoor spaces. But there is a big difference between having to clean your deck for appearance or re-treat it to maintain it's structural integrity.

The trick is to enjoy your deck more, but labour on it less. If you are considering building a new deck or renovating an existing deck, here are some things to keep in mind...

Easy Maintenance with Vinyl Decks

Decks finished with Duradek vinyl membranes make it easy to enjoy your outdoor living space all year round with virtually no maintenance. Simply call a Duradek dealer, request an estimate and arrange for installation on a substrate of untreated plywood. Then Duradek is installed in one single application and (in most cases) is completed in one day. Your deck is ready for use immediately and is waterproofed for decades*. No reapplication required….ever! Additionally, if your deck is elevated, the use of Duradek membranes provides roof-grade waterproof protection for dry, usable space below.

Continual Maintenance with Coatings

Wood decks finished with a coating are a completely different story.

Once wood rot has invaded, deterioration is inevitable.

While slotted wood decks are a traditional go-to style of deck, many home owners or property managers are surprised and unprepared for the amount of work required to maintain them. Besides becoming unsightly when not regularly maintained, it is the safety concerns of a neglected wood deck that is far more serious than the aesthetic implications.

Wood decks finishes are required in order to penetrate the wood to slow down its ability to absorb moisture, prolonging the life of the deck and maintaining appearance.

Moisture wreaks havoc on unprotected wood, even pressure-treated wood. Moisture from rain, snow or humidity causes problems like raised grain, cupping and splitting. If moisture has penetrated the wood to the point where it has developed wood rot, the affected portion should be replaced immediately before the rot spreads to the entire structure.

UV radiation breaks down the lignin that holds wood’s cellulose fibers together in a process called photochemical degradation. This is what causes wood’s natural color to gray, and while this does not affect the strength of the wood, it is sometimes an undesirable appearance. The longer unprotected wood sits in the sun, the more UV radiation damage is done to the lignin, and it no longer bonds the wood fibers. As the fibers loosen and detach, any color pigments like stains will also fall away.

The key factor in longevity of a wood deck’s surface finish is to seal the wood before sun hits its surface. There are several different options for wood finishes like sealers, coatings, protectors and stains; and all of them have different advantages and appearance features. Solid stains act almost like a paint and block the UV rays, clear sealers only protect from water and still allow the UV radiation to reach the surface, and there are different levels of semi-transparent stains in between.

One of the drawbacks is that once the wood is sealed, it requires resealing every 1 – 3 years to stay protected. And even worse, if a coating fails, the process to replace it is a very unpleasant, labor intensive process.

Labour Intensive Wood Deck Maintenance

For example, a Redwood Deck Restoration project that was featured on the Journal of Light Construction shows that a four-step process requires significant time and cost to complete, and once you have started the process; you are in it to the end. The four steps that are recommended include:

1 – Sample: to see how the deck will strip and re-finish, a preliminary sample is recommended with a minimum of sanding a deck board and applying finish samples to have a sense of the end result.

2 – Pressure Wash – Chemically Strip and Neutralize: this is a best-left-to-professionals stage. Scott Burt from Topcoat finishes says, “The chems are hot, or caustic, and can do immense damage to people and property if not understood and used with discretion.” It is a two-step process: stripping and neutralizing and if not done properly, the job will not go well. The process is a fairly radical chemical reaction and is not a quick process, often requiring many passes and reapplication of chemicals and a great deal of clean water rinsing.

3 – Let Deck Dry, Then Sand: At least a day or two of good drying weather is required before proceeding. If not fully allowed to dry before the necessary sanding, the grain of the wood can be torn up easily. Then the process of sanding requires time consuming, knee-torturing hand sanders if you do not have access to and upright floor style sander. Then of course, proper dust containment must be used to provide protection from breathing in the dust of organic matter.

4- Apply New Finish: Finish must be applied using the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Whew! Just thinking about all that is enough to make you tired! Wouldn't you rather just pull out your deck lounger, pour a drink and kick back for some R&R?

Leisure instead of Labour on a Duradek Vinyl Deck

Duradek requires only a seasonal cleaning to stay looking great. Easy.

However, if you are determined to have a deck that looks like wood, Duradek has even solved that - check our the new Legacy Wood Grain patterns.

Legacy Driftwood on a front porch. Photo by Home Defect
Analysis and Solutions in Houston, TX.

With over 20 colours to choose from, Duradek’s UV stabilizers and mold inhibitors delay the natural aging process due to continual environmental exposure and offer an attractive deck surface for most outdoor design schemes.

So if you are considering a deck renovation, be sure to contact a trained and authorized Duradek installer in your area for a free estimate on your project.

*Duradek Ultra comes with a 10-year waterproofing warranty however many homeowners in Duradek’s 40 year history have reported that after 20+ years, their Duradek is still performing. Aging of membrane and waterproofing performance will be affected by environmental conditions and installer technique.

Dry Below Decks Made Easy – Part 2: Below vs. Above

When a 2nd level deck needs to serve as a roof for a lower level deck or patio below, you can save time and money by using a SINGLE product that is approved as BOTH a traffic coating and roofing membrane in one. If you have an upper level deck surfaced with Duradek vinyl membranes, you don’t need the expense of an under deck drainage system to keep the area below it dry.

Whether for investment properties or your own residence, getting the most from your outdoor living space includes maximizing the usable space. By turning an upper level deck into a roof for a lower level deck below you gain the advantage of dry outdoor storage or a place to enjoy the outdoors even when the weather conditions are less than perfect.

Using a Duradek vinyl deck membrane is the ideal solution as it provides an attractive pedestrian deck surface while simultaneously acting as an approved roofing membrane with all of the waterproofing details that need to be considered with roof-grade waterproofing. Under deck systems only serve as a water routing system (and sometimes a ceiling for the lower level deck) but your exposed walking surface of the upper level deck would have to be addressed separately.

When you need it to stay dry below an upper level deck. a
walkable roofing membrane like Duradek is the best option.
View Case History #157 on YouTube

A Look at Under Deck Drainage Systems and Why They Might Not be the Best Water Management Solution

There are two basic types of under deck drainage systems; both of which function by allowing water to get through the upper level deck surface and route it between the joists to downspouts and gutters. Theoretically, both of these systems have advantages but realistically neither of these systems provides complete water-tight protection for the building envelope. Water is routed away from the structure, but moisture is still present and trapped with little to no air flow. In addition, since the water routing systems are enclosed, you are unable to visually inspect if all seams or seals remain intact, and only discover those points of vulnerability AFTER there is a leak.

Last week we took a closer look a Trough Systems, which manage the water by routing it between the joists and is completely enclosed by upper deck above and soffit system below. This week we will take a closer look at Panel Systems which routes water below the joists and also often serves as the finished ceiling for the lower deck.

A Closer Look at Dry Below Deck Panel Systems

While a dry below panel system acts as the water routing system and ceiling for a lower level deck simultaneously, it also has its own set of challenges. Advantage - It can be used on an existing deck. Disadvantage - It is labour intensive as it relies on a sloped sleeper system to provide the slope needed to route the water. An elaborate spacer system is attached to the underside of the joists to provide a pitch of ½ inch every 4 feet.

Installation of the actual system begins with attaching a wall trim around the perimeter to create a frame. This includes drilling into the outside of the house and any penetration is a point of vulnerability to be caulked and checked periodically to protect the building envelope.

Installation of a below deck panel system.

All of the other pieces of the system just snap into the frame. In most cases a supporting beam(s) would be used to provide strength for the system. Basic panels serve as the decorative surface and are installed side by side to enclose the joists above. The panels are often PVC and they are flexible enough to install in the frame, but rigid enough to crack or snap when cutting to the appropriate size. The panels snap into the frame system and provide multiple non-permanent seals as they snap into each other to enclose the ceiling.

A gutter is installed on the outside perimeter to catch the water from the slope provided by the panels on the spacers. Water wicking or splash back can occur here so careful installation of the gutter is very important.

Like the trough system, panel systems still require the upper deck surface to be treated or installed separately.

Why Duradek is the Best Choice to Keep it Dry Below

Duradek vinyl deck membranes have been waterproofing decks for over 40 years. Duradek is CAN/CGSB, CCMC and ICC approved as a pedestrian traffic coating and a roofing membrane. It includes warrantied waterproof protection for 10 years, while its traditional service life reportedly averages 20+ years. Unlike many other vinyl deck products, Duradek also offers a written appearance warranty.

Duradek vinyl deck membranes are installed in a single application with methods that consider the details required for secure waterproof protection of the building envelope. Since those critical waterproofing details are so important in protecting the home, Duradek is installed by authorized contractors that have been specifically trained in Duradek’s installation methods.

How Duradek Vinyl Deck Membranes Work

Duradek is adhered directly to the deck surface. The ideal substrate is ¾” T&G Untreated Plywood, however Duradek can also be applied to concrete surfaces. All seams are heat-welded to ensure no water can ever penetrate. The membrane is run up the inside perimeter of the deck against the exterior of the building before the flashing details are added. Particular attention is paid to any areas of vulnerability like door openings.

Water is managed by a 1” in 12” surface slope to the outside edge. Depending on the type of deck, waterproofing details such as edge flashing, drains, scuppers and a gutter system is included if required. All of these waterproofing details are heat-welded or caulked to be completely sealed. The seals are accessible for annual visual inspections. There is less of a chance of surprising leaks with Duradek.

Duradek 'Cork Natural' vinyl is a low maintenance deck surface
as well as a roofing membrane to keep it dry below.

Get the Upper Hand on Your Upper Level Deck

There are several advantages with designing your second level deck to provide cover in order to create dry, usable space below. Sometimes you need dry outdoor storage space for bikes, lawnmowers, sporting equipment or other seasonal items. Maybe you like to spend time outdoors all year round and that protected area provides shelter from the rainy days, or alternately in peak summer season you can get a little shade when you just have to get out of the sun for a while.

Whatever motivates you for creating a dry area below your upper level deck, choosing Duradek and one of its 24 attractive colour options is the best choice for low maintenance decking that doubles your usable outdoor living space.

Duradek vinyl deck membranes provide roof-grade waterproof
protection for a lower patio and dry storage for outdoor items.

You can contact an authorized Duradek Installer in your area for a free estimate on your next decking project or to answer any questions you might have on deck waterproofing.

Check out last week’s article where we compare Duradek to the Trough style of under-deck drainage systems in “Dry Below Decks Made Easy – part 1”.

Best Spring Deck Maintenance Advice - Part 2: Maintenance

The cost and time required for deck maintenance can vary widely depending on the type of decking and deck waterproofing that you have chosen.

A deck protected with a vinyl membrane might take only minutes for a simple cleaning and visual inspection while a wood or concrete deck can require several hours labour spread across several days.

Regardless the type of deck, the time required for maintenance is certainly worth the investment as compared to ‘letting it slide’ for a year only to find out that a simple maintenance chore has now become an expensive retrofit or renovation.

Maintenance Checklist for Decks and Balconies

Perform your annual spring deck maintenance with this easy-to-follow checklist:
Regular Maintenance Tasks

• Remove piles of wood, stone or other debris from around the building to avoid rodent, insect, termite or spider infestation.
• Prune shrubs, trees and other vegetation (recommend a minimum of 12 inches from the roof/deck) to avoid insect infestation, hard-to-clean sap and potential storm damage.
• Clean leaves and debris from gutters and downspouts to avoid drainage problems.
• Clean off any debris from the deck surface as soon as possible. The tannin in leaves can stain a deck horribly regardless of the type of surface, but if allowed to sit for an extended period on unprotected wood or concrete, the stain may never come out. On vinyl decks you may have some success with diluted ammonia or outdoor bleach to remove organic stains resulting from leaves, growth of algae, moss or mold spores but this will usually involve a lot of elbow work to be effective.
• Clean with a cleaning agent made specifically for the type of surface. Most manufacturers will offer a cleaner specific to their product that will leave less harmful residue than typical household cleaners. If that is not available to you, choose a mild, eco-friendly cleaning agent. Use a stiff bristled brush, scrubbing in circular motions. It is very important to always flush thoroughly with clean water. Any remaining residue can damage your deck’s appearance when sun exposure will ‘bake’ the chemicals into the surface.



Cleaning a Duradek vinyl deck is easy, just be sure
to flush very thoroughly when done.

• Certain household and industrial cleaners can cause damage and discoloration and are not recommended. Avoid the use of:
  • Powered Abrasives
  • Steel Wool
  • Dry Cleaning Fluids
  • Lacquer Thinner Solvents
• You may choose to pressure wash your decks, ledger boards and facades. Be sure to use no more than 150 psi and do not point nozzle directly towards building interior or on any seams or attachments on the deck itself.

For more details on cleaning tough stains from your vinyl deck, see Duradek's Care and Cleaning recommendations.
Waterproofing Maintenance Tasks
Aesthetics aside, depending on the type of deck(s) you have, there may be further maintenance to ensure the waterproofing will continue to perform:

• Wood Decks: paint or water-seal all exterior wood including deck surface, overhangs and railings; and apply anti-skid coating to any exterior steps. You may have to perform some sanding to prepare the deck for the new paint or sealant. For best protection, this should be done annually.
• Concrete Decks: fill or patch any cracks or chipping sections of concrete; and apply anti-skid coating to any exterior steps. Apply sealant as needed – approximately every 1 - 2 years.
• Vinyl Membrane Decks: No waterproofing maintenance is required as the vinyl membrane is intrinsically waterproof and is textured for slip resistance. The recommended annual cleaning will keep the anti-slip texture clear of organic growth.

Low Maintenance Deck Waterproofing

For over 40 years, Duradek PVC membranes have provided home owners reliable waterproof protection without the need for ongoing maintenance, allowing more time for leisure and less on the labour!

Duradek's roofing approved traffic membrane is the ideal solution for all of your outdoor living space walking surfaces. From roof decks to pool areas, Duradek is attractive, slip resistant and is available in a variety of colours and textures to c0mpliment any outdoor design schemes. Duradek is also proud to offer a written appearance warranty protecting you from excessive discoloration beyond normal wear and aging in addition to its 10-year waterproofing warranty.

If you want to learn more about the advantages of Duradek™ vinyl membranes and Durarail™ aluminum railings, talk to a trained and authorized Duradek installer for a free estimate.
www.duradek.com

Missed our last post? Check out "Best Spring Deck Maintenance Advice - Part 1: Inspections"

Best Spring Deck Maintenance Advice - Part 1: Inspections

Ah, spring time! Already here for some parts of the country...just around the corner for others, early spring is the time to start preparing our outdoor leisure areas for a satisfying season of sun and fun. For those of us with sundecks or balconies, that means spring deck maintenance time and crossing our fingers hoping we don’t hear that ugly 4-letter word – “LEAK”.

The first priority....finding out how hard winter actually was on our decks and balconies. The single most influential factor in reducing high maintenance costs is to be sure the waterproofing is intact and the building envelope is still protected to avoid unexpected water infiltration and resulting damage. Whether you have a small balcony or expansive roof deck, significant and costly repairs due to leaks and water intrusion can often be avoided with simple annual maintenance and inspections.

Inspection Checklist for Decks and Balconies

It is important to check all deck perimeter details
are securely in place and repair if needed.

Perform your annual spring deck inspection with this easy-to-follow checklist:

• Inspect for ice or wind damage: gutters that have pulled away from the building, separation of the gutter seams, etc. Fix or replace as needed.
• Check flashing where the deck and the house meet and along the deck perimeter to ensure it is still securely in place without any damage or deterioration and fix as needed.
• Check doorways and other entryways to ensure all sealing or caulking is still in place.
• Check any caulk at perimeters or posts and re-caulk where it is missing or worn away.
• Look for loose or cracked trim, signs of decay or insect damage.
• Check the deck slope. Over time, the main building or the deck structure may settle, shrink or shift causing cracks or points of vulnerability. Be sure the deck slopes away from the building to avoid pooling water adjacent to the building or entryways.
• Check the stability of the wood in several different areas where applicable, including deck boards, stairs, support posts and joists under the deck and ledger board (where the deck attaches to the house). Look for small holes in the wood that may indicate insect damage is present.
• When checking wood, pay special attention to areas that tend to remain damp, are regularly exposed to water or are in contact with fasteners. If you are uncertain of the condition of the wood, use a tool like an ice pick or screwdriver to attempt to penetrate the wood surface. If you can break off a sliver of wood without splinters, easily penetrate to ¼- ½ inch or find that the wood is soft or spongy, decay may be present.
• Check exterior outlets and faucets for cracks or leaks and repair as needed.
• Inspect any vents for openings to prevent rodent intrusion.
• Check curbs or retaining walls for shifting or damage.
• Inspect all railings for rot, loose bolts or caulking and fix as needed. Railing maintenance can be significantly reduced by choosing aluminum over wood.

Check the area around any posts...a common
spot for water infiltration which can lead to rot.

Areas of Concern? Call a Professional

Of course, general stability of the deck structure and a protected building envelope are the most important concerns. If during your deck inspection you have noticed any structural issues or suspect there may be water damage, you will be best served by contacting a professional to assess the situation. It is to your advantage to gain the peace of mind that your home is protected and your family is safe, happy and will continue to enjoy your outdoor leisure space.

It is critical that you properly waterproof to protect the building from eventually being compromised by water damage. (See more about maintenance and waterproofing on our next post, "Best Spring Deck Maintenance Advice - Part 2: Maintenance").



Inspect your deck in the spring to have a leisurely, worry-free summer.

Professional Deck Waterproofing

For over 40 years, Duradek PVC membranes and installation techniques have provided reliable waterproof protection to protect the integrity of the deck and building envelope. Duradek is a CAN/CGSB and ICC approved pedestrian traffic roofing membrane and is installed only by trained professionals for warrantied waterproof protection.

If you want to learn more about the advantages of Duradek™ vinyl membranes and Durarail™ aluminum railings, talk to a trained and authorized Duradek installer for a free estimate.

3 Key Tips for Deck Care in Winter

Keep your vinyl deck safe and attractive throughout winter and beyond with these 3 important tips:

While we are inching our way through winter, many regions with heavier than normal snowfall are dealing with digging their way out of the white stuff more than most years. Dreams of barbecues on the deck have taken a back seat to the realities of ice and snow, but snow management on your deck is a breeze with a Duradek vinyl deck.

Snow on a Duradek is easy to manage.

Winter Vinyl Deck Tip #1 - Use Only a Plastic Snow Shovel

It's no problem at all to shovel snow off of your deck and the textured surface can easily withstand contact with a plastic shovel, but just be sure to avoid snow shovels with metal edges that allow the risk of puncturing your vinyl membrane. Duradek vinyl is an extremely reliable waterproofing solution, but if it is compromised with a puncture or tear moisture can penetrate through to the structure. While repairs are possible, if a puncture has gone unnoticed for an extended time, it may lead to a larger repair.

Always use a plastic edged snow shovel on a vinyl deck.

Winter Vinyl Deck Tip #2 - Use De-Icing Agents

Duradek vinyl is textured for slip-resistance, but with a layer of ice on top, it can be as slippery as any other pedestrian surface. We want you to safely enjoy your deck all year, so rest assured you can use a variety of snow and ice melting solutions on it without concern. Rock salt, snow melting chemicals and even kitty litter for non-slip traction is perfectly safe to use (just be sure to use traditional, course kitty litter for non-slip traction, because if you mistakenly use the fine-sand clumping cat litter, you will wind up with a heavy, muddy mess to clean up).

De-icers are safe to use on Duradek.

Winter Vinyl Deck Tip #3 - Rinse Well When the Season Changes

To get the most longevity in your deck's appearance, be sure to give it a wash with soap and water after winter, including a very thorough rinse to be sure to remove any chemical residue from de-icers or soap. While the chemicals from de-icers do not damage the vinyl surface when applied, if a chemical film is left on the surface from de-icers or cleaning agents, direct sun can bake those chemicals into the vinyl which is harmful and will affect your deck’s appearance.

That’s all there is to it! Now you can be confident in taking all precautions available to keep your deck clear of ice and snow through the remaining winter months and look forward to the return of the warm weather to get back to really enjoying your deck again.

The area below a Duradek deck has the advantage of roof
grade waterproof protection to keep it dry below your deck.

The Advantages of Duradek Walkable Rooftop Deck and Waterproofing Vinyl in the Winter

Those of you who have a deck protected with Duradek vinyl membranes have an attractive and low maintenance decking solution throughout the year and winter is no exception. Duradek vinyl allows for easy and worry-free winter deck care. PLUS - if your Duradek vinyl is on a second level deck....you've got a protected, dry area underneath. Even with a heavy snow, Duradek keeps the lower decks clear for use and you can still enjoy a little outdoor living space when the snow has covered everything else.

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.

Maintenance Considerations For Your Deck Renovation

It’s no secret that North Americans love our outdoor living space and with the availability of outdoor fireplaces and heaters, deck renovation projects more frequently consider the ability to enjoy a deck throughout the whole year. 

Easy Maintenance with Vinyl Membranes

Decks finished with Duradek vinyl membranes make it easy to enjoy your outdoor living space all year round with virtually no maintenance. Simply call a Duradek dealer, request an estimate and arrange for installation on a substrate of untreated plywood. Then Duradek is installed in one single application and (in most cases) is completed in one day.

Your deck is ready for use immediately and is waterproofed for decades*. No reapplication required….ever! Additionally, if your deck is elevated, the use of Duradek membranes provides roof-grade waterproof protection for dry, usable space below.

Continual Maintenance with Coatings

Wood decks finished with a coating are a completely different story.

Once wood rot has invaded, deterioration is inevitable.

While wood decks are very traditional, many home owners or property managers are surprised and unprepared for the amount of work required to maintain them. Besides becoming unsightly when not regularly maintained, it is the safety concerns of a neglected wood deck that is far more serious than the aesthetic implications.

Wood decks finishes are required in order to penetrate the wood to slow down its ability to absorb moisture, prolonging the life of the deck and maintaining appearance. 

Moisture wreaks havoc on unprotected wood, even pressure-treated wood. Moisture from rain, snow or humidity causes problems like raised grain, cupping and splitting. If moisture has penetrated the wood to the point where it has developed wood rot, the affected portion should be replaced immediately before the rot spreads to the entire structure.

UV radiation breaks down the lignin that holds wood’s cellulose fibers together in a process called photochemical degradation. This is what causes wood’s natural color to gray, and while this does not affect the strength of the wood, it is sometimes an undesirable appearance. The longer unprotected wood sits in the sun, the more UV radiation damage is done to the lignin, and it no longer bonds the wood fibers. As the fibers loosen and detach, any color pigments like stains will also fall away.

The key factor in longevity of a wood deck’s surface finish is to seal the wood before sun hits its surface. There are several different options for wood finishes like sealers, coatings, protectors and stains; and all of them have different advantages and appearance features. Solid stains act almost like a paint and block the UV rays, clear sealers only protect from water and still allow the UV radiation to reach the surface, and there are different levels of semi-transparent stains in between.

One of the drawbacks is that once the wood is sealed, it requires resealing every 1 – 3 years to stay protected. And even worse, if a coating fails, the process to replace it is a very unpleasant, labor intensive process.

Labour Intensive Wood Deck Maintenance

Why Labour on Your Place of Leisure?

For example, a Redwood Deck Restoration project that was featured on the Journal of Light Construction shows that a four-step process requires significant time and cost to complete, and once you have started the process; you are in it to the end. The four steps that are recommended include:

1 – Sample: to see how the deck will strip and re-finish, a preliminary sample is recommended with a minimum of sanding a deck board and applying finish samples to have a sense of the end result.

2 – Pressure Wash – Chemically Strip and Neutralize: this is a best-left-to-professionals stage. Scott Burt from Topcoat finishes says, “The chems are hot, or caustic, and can do immense damage to people and property if not understood and used with discretion.” It is a two-step process: stripping and neutralizing and if not done properly, the job will not go well. The process is a fairly radical chemical reaction and is not a quick process, often requiring many passes and reapplication of chemicals and a great deal of clean water rinsing.

3 – Let Deck Dry, Then Sand: At least a day or two of good drying weather is required before proceeding. If not fully allowed to dry before the necessary sanding, the grain of the wood can be torn up easily. Then the process of sanding requires time consuming, knee-torturing hand sanders if you do not have access to and upright floor style sander. Then of course, proper dust containment must be used to provide protection from breathing in the dust of organic matter.

4- Apply New Finish: Finish must be applied using the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Leisure over Labour on a Duradek Deck

Duradek requires only a seasonal cleaning to stay looking great. Easy.

However, if you are determined to have a deck that looks like wood, Duradek has even solved that - check our the new Legacy Wood Grain patterns.

With over 20 colours to choose from, Duradek’s UV stabilizers and mold inhibitors delay the natural aging process due to continual environmental exposure and offer an attractive deck surface for most outdoor design schemes.

Duradek's Cork Graphite - perfect for popular grey color trends.

* Duradek Ultra comes with a 10-year waterproofing warranty however many homeowners in Duradek’s 40 year history have reported that after 20+ years, their Duradek is still performing. Aging of membrane and waterproofing performance will be affected by environmental conditions and installer technique.

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.

Clean Your Deck Before Winter for Best Appearance in Spring

Now that winter is nearly upon us and we are spending more time indoors, you might not have your sundeck on your mind...but now is the time to be sure to give your deck a little TLC to ensure it stays in its best condition.

While some people use their decks and balconies all year round, many of us don't spend much time on our decks when the cold weather hits so be sure to consider your deck before it is out of sight, out of mind. When you are doing your annual winterizing, make sure your deck is on the list. Most people will put away the lawnmower, outdoor furniture and summer sporting equipment. Those with a boat or RV will tend to take the time to store it in a garage or at least tarp it up for the winter; but many times people will neglect their decks.

Remember, even your low maintenance deck needs a little attention. Anything that is permanently outside exposed to the elements 24 hours a day, 7 days a week is going to accumulate some dirt. You can make your spring cleaning job a whole lot easier if you take the time to clean your deck before winter too.

At Duradek, we love that our vinyl deck membranes are such a low maintenance deck surface that they never needing re-coating to keep doing its waterproofing job, but to keep it looking great, we recommend that you give it a cleaning 4 times a year. The change of seasons is a good reminder that it might be time to clean your deck. Here are some quick tips to keep your deck looking great....

The 3-C's of Deck TLC

• Clear
• Clean
• Consider

Clear Your Duradek Deck

First thing to do when winterizing your deck is to clear away any seasonal items that need to be protected or will not be needed through the winter. Take away metal furniture or planters that can encourage the development of rust on your deck's surface. Remove any organic debris as soon as possible. Rust, leaves and other organic matter can stain your deck surface and the longer it remains and is allowed to settle into the membrane, the harder it will be to clean off.

Cleaning Your Duradek Deck

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

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

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

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

Consider Your Duradek Vinyl Deck

Deck inspections are an important part of your home maintenance and should be completed at least once a year. Before the really heavy rain or snow takes over for the chilly winter months is a good time to inspect the details around your deck, particularly at the critical inside perimeters that protects your building envelope. By ensuring your perimeter details are still securely in place will provide peace of mind that your Duradek vinyl deck is still performing as expected and will protect your home from potential water damage. When inspecting your deck, remember to:

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

Check the perimeter of your deck along the houseto ensure it remains sealed securely.

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

Be sure to check seals around posts and pillars and that the flashing on the edges is securely in place. Over time, your home may shift and settle and these annual deck inspections will uncover any potential problems with broken seals. If you discover some caulking has pulled away from the wood or a seal has cracked, contact your Duradek dealer who will recommend the proper sealant to correct it. It is much better to check for these little details before the heavy rains come and you find out water has found a way to get through to your home.

Cleaned and Cared For…Now Enjoy!

Though no exterior surface is completely impervious to the elements, by taking the small amount of time required to properly clean your deck at the change of the seasons, you will help to ensure that your deck appearance lasts as long as the guaranteed waterproofing performance of your Duradek vinyl deck. No matter what the season, Duradek protects your outdoor living space all year, every year. To find a local Duradek Dealer, visit the Duradek website’s Dealer Locator.

Duradek at the Vancouver Home & Design Show 2014 Starts Today

Duradek, the leader in PVC waterproof membranes for all varieties of decks invites you to stop by and visit us at booth #1755 this week at the Vancouver Home & Design Show.

The show takes place at BC Place Stadium from Thursday October 16th to Sunday October 19th. This annual Home Show offers something for everyone with a diverse selection of exhibitors covering everything from building your home to decorating and entertaining in it.  

The HGTV Main Stage Presents Celebrity Guests

Bryan Baeumler, Master Contractor – the Gemini-award winning host of HGTV’s ‘Leave it to Bryan’ and ‘House of Bryan’ takes the HGTV Main Stage on Friday October 17th, at 7:00 p.m. and on Saturday at 1:00 p.m. Popular for his no-nonsense approach, Bryan started his first handyman business at the age of 14. As heard on Vancouver's ROCK 101 radio this morning, Bryan loves taking questions from the audience at his live appearances, so if you've got something you want to ask this master builder, now is your chance.

Colin McAllister and Justin Ryan of Cabin Life TV's 'Colin and Justin's Cabin Pressure' also make appearances on the main stage this year on Saturday at 3:00 p.m. and 7 p.m. Vancouverites can take opportunity to get first hand advice from the two who have a regular featured column in the Vancouver Sun. These celebrity guests and several more will be taking the Metrie Main Stage throughout the show.

Highlights at the 2014 Vancouver Home & Design Show

In addition to visiting Duradek at the Home and Design Show, here are some of the highlights you might want to include in your visit:

• HGTV Main Stage appearances
• The Urban Barn's Next Top Designer: Reloaded
• The BC Hydro Power Smart Pad
• Samsung Cooking Challenge: Tag Team Kitchen
• Portobello West

Visit Duradek at Booth #1755

You may not be focussed on your decks and balconies as rainy season descends on the Greater Vancouver region, but now is the time you will start to discover if you've got any water leak issues.

Don't let avoiding your deck waterproofing turn into larger, more expensive renovations down the road. If you’ve got any issues with your deck or balcony or if you have any questions about deck waterproofing, this could be the most important stop you make at the Vancouver Home &Design Show.

Duradek has been waterproofing decks, balconies and roof top decks for 40 years and is proud to bring you the waterproofing expertise needed for your outdoor living space. Take a moment to discuss Duradek’s excellent warranty with one of our specially trained and authorized installers. We hope to see you there!

Avoid Wood Deck Maintenance by Finishing with Duradek Vinyl

Deck Building is a specialty trade and most deck builders will go to great lengths to ensure they have built the best designed and engineered decks possible. Often though, deck builders may overlook the aesthetic details and maintenance requirements of the deck as part of the initial project.

When you are planning on building a new deck or renovating an existing deck for your residential outdoor living space, the maintenance it will require is an important, practical consideration. While that may seem to directly contradict the emotional satisfaction and immediate gratification of your new deck purchase, it is the best way to ensure you enjoy it for as many years as possible.

While the look of a deck protected with a vinyl membrane is very different than that of a deck constructed of wood plank, there are many advantages to choosing a vinyl membrane as your deck finishing material.

Duradek Cork and Durarail Panorama Post

For starters, Duradek is applied on untreated plywood, which is much cheaper than the cost of both the material and the labour involved in wood or composite board installation (and it is also aGreen Option with no chance of chemical of treated wood ever leaching into the environment).

Additionally, when choosing Duradek there is no drying or curing time required. You can use the deck as soon as the membrane is installed. But even more importantly, there is no reapplication required. Once a Duradek vinyl membrane has been installed on your deck, you do not have any additional maintenance (besides cleaning) throughout the product’s lifetime. Duradek is warranted for 10 years but has a life expectancy that far exceeds that (actual life span will vary by environment).

Another consideration is the added amount of usable living space. When you build a deck, the square footage is added outdoor living space. When you chose a vinyl membrane versus drip-through deck systems on a second level deck, you not only protect your deck, but you provide additional dry, usable space below.

 Let’s look at why those are important points to weigh when considering deck options.

Home owners that are eager to start enjoying their new deck are sometimes told by deck builders to leave their wood deck untreated so it can be ‘weathered’ for a year first. That advice is a little antiquate in many instances with the majority of today’s deck building products and would require a more costly finishing project than if it were done at the time of the initial deck construction.

Not to mention, the new wood plank deck looks great when the project is first complete, but with use by the home owner and exposure to the elements, the deck quickly loses its ‘newness’ and begins to take on a less than ideal appearance with stains from spills and general greyness from weathering in as little as a few weeks. Even expensive hardwoods like ipe that are naturally resistant to rot will still loose appearance appeal if not treated.

There are some companies that specialize in maintenance of wood finishings and will provide the service of application of finishes on new decks or restoration of an older deck. An article by finishing specialist Scott Burt, “Deck Maintenance Programs” on Professional Deck Builder online discussed this issue in great detail and explained that he frequently gets calls for new, unfinished decks.

Whether it is for a relatively new deck or a very old deck, the steps required in wood finishing are virtually the same. First the deck must be cleaned which usually involves a light pressure washing with some gentle cleaning products and sometimes a mild sanding. Then the deck would be cordoned off to dry for a few days.

The second step would require the application of a finish which would also require the deck to be shut down for a few more days of cure time. All together, the best case scenario for a mini restoration would cost 1 ½ weeks of time on the deck, or more if weather conditions impeded progress.

According to Scott, the cost for the first restoration would be about $2,500 and maintenance every 6 or 12 months would cost about $1,200. The length of time between deck finishing maintenance would depend on climate, exposure and wear patterns; but the bottom line is that if you want to keep your wood deck looking good, it WILL require maintenance.

What Decking Considerations are Most Important to You? If the look of a wood board deck is something you cannot live without, you may feel tempted to go with a traditional, high maintenance wood deck or risk a potentially disappointing composite deck.

But Duradek vinyl membranes may be your deck finish of choice if you:

• Want to enjoy your deck without the losing the leisure time required for maintenance.
• Want to enjoy an attractive deck without the need to continually invest money in annual or semi-annual maintenance.
• Want to enjoy an attractive deck surface that can blend well with your exterior design scheme (Duradek comes in over 20 colours/patterns).
• Want to take advantage of a deck surface that brings complete waterproof protection providing a dry area below for living space or a covered patio for dry outdoor living space.
• Want to feel comfortable that your decking product has a reliable history and will perform as intended.

If any of the above points resonate with what you desire for your outdoor living space, be sure to talk to a Duradek installer in your area for a free, no-obligation estimate on your decking project. Duradek has been protecting decks, balconies and patios for 40 years, and with over 125 million square feet of Duradek vinyl installed we are confident we can bring an attractive and functional contribution to your residential outdoor living space that you will enjoy for many years!

5 Ways to Enjoy the Simple Pleasures of Summer on Your Deck by Duradek

Hellooo Summer!

The first week in July is one of the most anticipated weeks of the year in North America when patriotic holidays and vacation time have us enjoying the simple pleasures of life.

Whether you are heading out of town to a vacation property or simply staying home on your vacation days, chances are if you have a deck - you are going to be on it this week! On busy holidays, home owners that have great outdoor living space often prefer avoiding the crowds and celebrating with friends and family in their own back yard.

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

Enjoy Your Deck By:

1 - Basking in the Sun

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

 This image compares the results of accelerated weathering tests at 1820 MJ UV. Duradek shows very minimal
appearance changes while the other vinyl brand has changed drastically.

2 - Lounging in the Shade:

If you have a more delicate constitution than your sun-worshipping counter parts, an elevated deck protected with Duradek vinyl provides a great covered area for a lower level deck that allows you to enjoy the summer weather without being exposed to the direct sunlight. (The beauty of this type of deck is that even if a little rain dampens your backyard plans, you can still have that outdoor time with a dry, covered area). 

3 - Fun with the Kids: 

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

4 - Cooling off in the Pool:

If you are fortunate enough to have a pool in your yard, Duradek makes a great surface for pool surrounds. The textured surface provides some slip resistance, and the low maintenance longevity of Duradek vinyl allows you to spend more time in the pool and less time maintaining the pool deck. If you are looking to refresh your pool surround, check out "4 Ways Pool or Hot Tub Areas Benefit From Duradek". 

5 - Barbecues: 

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

All of us at Duradek hope you have a fantastic summer on your decks...and if you are going to party on the patio, do it safely.