When it Comes to Vinyl Decking, Does Thicker Mean Better?

If you are considering the reliable, low maintenance advantages of sheet vinyl for your deck waterproofing solution, you may be presented with the idea that a thicker vinyl is better waterproof protection for your deck; but that is not necessarily accurate.

With vinyl decking, it is best to refer to building code requirements as your guideline because thicker does not mean better.

When Duradek first started waterproofing decks and balconies, the thickness of the PVC membrane used was only 20 mil, and those decks lasted for several years. Today, the requirement for a vinyl sheet membrane for waterproofing decks and balconies is more than double that at 45 mil.

Pedestrian roof decks however, have a Building Code requirement of 60 mils. That is already 25% thicker than a large commercial grade roofing requirement (48 mils thick). Anything over and above the required 60 mil thickness on decks situated over rated or habitable space does not give you any further waterproof protection. The real difference lies in the installation. In fact, a thicker vinyl can come with disadvantages.

Sheet vinyl comes in rolls, typically between 60-72 inches wide. It is rolled out the length of the deck and installed by adhesion to the deck substrate and by heat-welding the seams where the edges of vinyl meet. The seams are usually ¾” to an inch wide, and it this area of overlap for heat-welding the vinyl seams that an increase in thickness can really be a disadvantage.

Installation of Duradek vinyl deck membrane.

Even a 10% difference can be noticeable and make your deck susceptible to things like trapped, ponding water which is something to be avoided with vinyl deck surfaces. Some commercial projects prefer to use an 80 mil vinyl, which is far above building code requirements, but does not give any real added advantage. In fact, that 20 mil difference doubled up at the seam makes a 40 mil difference which is quite noticeable visually as well as by unexpected disadvantages.

Trapped water on a thick 66 mil seam.

Some consideration should be paid to the disadvantages that come with a deck vinyl that exceeds building code thickness.

• Trapped, ponded water.
• Potential tripping hazard.
• Easier to catch seam on snow shovel.
• Difficulties at installation with the fine detailing and handling.

There are actually a number of existing vinyl installations on sundecks from over 30 years ago using 24-32 mil vinyl that are still performing the waterproofing function today. Just a couple of years ago, we pulled up the vinyl from a 32 year old deck that had 32 mil Duradek on it. The plywood, after 32 years, was in perfect shape and was used again as the substrate under a new Duradek vinyl membrane.


This deck in Halifax had 32 year old Duradek vinyl.

When the old Duradek vinyl was lifted,
the plywood underneath was in great shape.

The new Duradek was able to go down over the
existing plywood.

So remember for your project, if you want the advantages of a low-maintenance deck vinyl on an elevated deck, balcony or roof deck, remember that exceeding the building code requirements above 60 mil only provides a thicker seam and no additional waterproof protection.

The reliable protection of vinyl decking is due in large part to the skilled installation techniques of your contractor, and thicker vinyl makes it more difficult to perform the critical details for water-tight protection.

Since these installation skills are so critical, Duradek is available only through one of our trained and authorized Duradek dealers. To talk to an experienced Duradek expert near you, visit our Find A Dealer page or contact us directly for a referral at duradek@duradek.com.

Top 6 Deck Building Design Features of 2015

Deck building design demands for 2015 highlighted a consistent preference of features for new decks and deck remodels. The most noteworthy deck building products at the 2015 International Builders Show and Deck Expo included features to meet those demands and deck building professionals have no shortage of products to choose from.

In many cases, it takes 2 or 3 different products to meet these design objectives, but Duradek is proud to be able to meet these decking demands in one single product solution.

Colorful
A full range of color options is a desirable feature with many new deck building products releasing a selection of earth tones that harmoniously blend outdoor living space with the surrounding environment.

Duradek has over 26 colors with a range of natural hues from subtle neutral tones to sunset and seaside inspired shades. With a range of patterns, this slip-resistant deck surface brings style to virtually any exterior design scheme.

LIGHTness
Lightweight products have been recognized as environmentally advantageous at the latest builders shows, but not at the expense of durability.

Per square foot coverage of Duradek vinyl decking is a very light weight option, needing just the basic structural load bearing requirements (though extra load-bearing considerations should always be taken into account for deck add-ons like fire or water features, planters and hot tubs).

Duradek has an option to compliment virtually
any outdoor design scheme.

 

Keep it COOL
Thermally treated deck building products are making an appearance with new technologies promising higher fire resistance and temperature insulation; but with all new technologies the practical application has yet to be proven and cost may make some of those options a little prohibitive when compared to alternatives.

Deck surfaces that stay cool on the feet can be achieved with Duradek’s lighter color options. When used on 2nd level decks, Duradek provides roof grade protection and a shaded area below. Sun-lovers can enjoy the upper level deck to bask in the rays, while those less tolerant to UV exposure can enjoy the shaded lower level and still enjoy the outdoors, even in the peak of the afternoon sun.
 

NATURALLY Inspired
Subtle, earthy and aged looks are very popular with low-maintenance, decking products. Beyond simply color tones, the naturally inspired looks for manufactured deck building products imitate their natural counterparts in texture as well with faux wood and stone taking popularity polls.

Duradek was a trend setter early on in these faux-natural favorites with the popular 'Cork' pattern that takes on the texture of real cork, and the unique ‘Forest Floor’ pattern taking on the appearance of fossilized leaves. The latest introductions follow this trend with the ‘Legacy’ line that offers a dynamic aggregate pebble option “Pebble Beach”, or the wood grain looks of ‘Barnwood’ and ‘Driftwood’ that emulate the appearance of aged wood - but without any of the maintenance that real wood requires (see the Pebble Beach press release).

The LEGACY line of vinyl featuring: Pebble Beach,
Barnwood and Driftwood

 

MOISTURE Management
One of the most critical features of deck building is moisture management and there are a variety of options available to incorporate into your deck design. Drip-through deck boards can be enhanced with complex spacer-flange systems or trough systems that route water to gutters; and under deck systems can channel water to gutters, sometimes requiring special joists or underlayment. All of those options include many seams, joins or exposed deck elements that may encounter trapped water. This may provide a dry area below, but is not the best method of ensuring the building envelope or structure of the deck is protected from water infiltration and subsequent wood rot. (see Dry Below Decks Made Easy Part 1 - Trough vs Top | Part 2 - Below vs Above)

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

Duradek is primarily a waterproofing membrane and moisture management system. In fact, Duradek is a classified roofing membrane in addition to being a pedestrian surface. With 40 years of proven waterproofing details and techniques afforded by the quality pvc membrane and pioneering the vinyl decking industry, Duradek provides a dry area below the deck. It protects the critical junctions between deck and structure and eliminates trapped water, deflecting it away from the structure’s points of vulnerability. Duradek allows the water management and attractive walking surface to be addressed in one single product while many other options require 2 or 3 stages of installation.

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

 

On the down LOW MAINTENANCE
Homeowners want to do less maintenance on their decks, leaving more time to enjoy it; thus the popularity of manufactured deck building products like composite decking. While composite decking has come a long way in the last decade, it has not been without a myriad of growing pains. Builders and home owners have had to absorb the majority of the cost on failed products as they mature (see When Choosing a Building Product, "New" Does Not Always Mean Better).

Duradek forged the way for low-maintenance manufactured deck building products with its sheet vinyl for waterproofing decks and balconies over 40 years ago. The durable pvc never needs any maintenance or reapplication and will continue to perform its waterproofing function for decades. And unlike many composite products or other vinyl products, Duradek is the only vinyl manufacturer to offer a written appearance warranty to protect home owners from excessive discoloration. While UV exposure will always eventually cause fading over time, Duradek stands up to UV exposure exponentially better than other comparable products and its 5 year appearance warranty backs it up.
 

TRIED and TRUE
After more than 40 years leading the vinyl decking industry, Duradek knows waterproofing details. Because waterproofing details are so critical to the longevity of your deck, Duradek is available only through a network of trained and authorized dealers.

To request a free estimate on your decking project, contact a Duradek Installer in your area and trust the proven performance of Duradek vinyl decking for your deck building projects.

Vancouver Home & Design Show 2015 Starts Tomorrow

The much-anticipated annual Vancouver Home & Design Show begins tomorrow at a new home this year, leaving its former location of BC Place Stadium for the new location at the Vancouver Convention Center West from October 22 - 25, 2015.

Just in time for nesting season, the Vancouver Home & Design Show is packed full of ideas, inspiration and resources to make your home the perfect combination of comfort, style and functionality for whatever your lifestyle desires.

Transform your deck or patio with one of
Duradek's hot new colours like
Legacy Driftwood.

Many of us desire a really great deck or other outdoor living space that does not require a lot of work or expense to maintain, so that is why you should stop by the Duradek booth #122.

Duradek and its superior method of deck waterproofing by trained installers may be the most important exhibitor you visit if you've got a decking project in your future. Now is the perfect time to begin your research on your deck renovation. Duradek professional installers with their detailed waterproofing experience are in high demand, and many people who look for their expertise in the busy spring and summer months are disappointed with longer than anticipated wait times. Act now so that you can have your beautiful new deck built and ready for your enjoyment next spring...or even get that second level deck covered in Duradek this fall so through the rainy winter months you've got a dry, protected area below.

But there's a lot more to see at the Vancouver Home & Design Show than just finding your perfect decking solution...

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:

• Opening Night Soiree where you can win prizes and mingle with some of the top talent in Vancouver's design scene.
• HGTV Main Stage appearances with celebrity guests like W-Networks Jillian Harris & Todd Talbot.
• Junior Chef Challenge
• The BC Hydro Dream Home
• The Upcycling Challenge
• Ask a Designer
• ...and much more!

Show Hours

• Thursday, Oct. 22nd: 4:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
• Friday, Oct. 23rd: noon - 9:00 p.m.
• Saturday, Oct. 24th: 10:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.
• Sunday, Oct. 25th 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Did you Know...

• You can get a $3 discount if you purchase your ticket online.
• The Vancouver Home & Design Show offers 'Satisfaction Guaranteed' or your admission is free! (conditions apply)

Visit Duradek at Booth #122

You may not be focused 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 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 over 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!

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.

32 Barbecue Tips and 1 Great Deck Solution for your Holiday ‘Staycation’

A good old-fashioned barbecue is still an occasion that most draws people out to their decks. During the summer holidays is the perfect time to gather with friends and family on decks and patios for this favorite activity. Not only do you get to show off your gorgeous deck, but you can show off your superior grilling skills too.

Last week we talked about the popularity of outdoor kitchens, but whether you have an expansive outdoor kitchen or a very basic, simple barbecue grill, we’ve got some great tips to help you host the best barbecues ever during your national holiday, the rest of your summer…and with the right decking set-up, all year long!

Meaningful Marinade Facts

1.  Marinate your meat in advance. Marinades don’t just flavour the meat, it also tenderises.
2. While some experts recommend an overnight marinade, most cuts of meat only need 20 minutes to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Build your marinade with a combination of acid, oil and flavouring like a good salad dressing. A good guideline is a 1:3 ratio of acidity to oil.
4. The acidity tenderizes the food and contributes to tanginess while the oil provides moisture and richness.
5. Chose light olive oil or vegetable oil over extra-virgin olive oil (while that might be good for salads and sauces extra-virgin olive oil burns and smokes on contact).
6. Marinating more than 2 hours can over-soften some meats or give a tough texture from the acid from citrus or vinegar (never use lemon or lime in a marinade more than 2 hours).
7. Smaller, more delicate foods require a shorter soak.
8. Avoid using pineapple juice as it is destructive, breaking down meat and fish fibres.
9. Marinating meat does more than just tenderise and infuse the meat with flavor; it also inhibits the formation of potentially carcinogenic HCAs (heterocyclic amines) which form when grilling “muscle meats” like poultry, red meat and fish. According to the American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR), marinating can reduce HCA formation by as much as 92-99%.
10. Marinate in strong plastic bags or use non-reactive containers like stainless steel or glass.

Preparedness is the Key to Successful Barbecue

1. Think ahead. Before you start grilling, make sure you have all you need all the way through to the dining table. Have all of your accompanying side dishes prepared in advance. Make sure you have plenty of gas or charcoal on hand before starting and be sure to start with a clean grill, your barbecue seasonings on hand, cooking tools and utensils, clean plates for removing the food from the grill and your serving plates all ready to go.
2. Remove your marinating meat from the refrigerator at least 15-20 minutes before grilling to bring to room temperature before placing on the grill. This helps to ensure you reach the right internal temperature and cook throughout without burning the surface to a crisp.
3. Pre-heat your grill15-25 minutes before you want to start cooking. A good pre-heat will help to kill any bacteria on the grilling racks. Use a wire brush to brush off any charred debris when the grill is hot (and scrape it again immediately after use).
4. A good pre-heated grill sears the food on contact, but keeps the insides moist and helps prevent sticking.
5. To start a charcoal grill, use of a Chimney Starter makes it a breeze. Simply crumple up a little paper, but it on the bottom, fill with charcoal and light the papers. In about 15-20 minutes you have coals ready to spread in the bottom of the grill with no need to use kindling or fluid which can cause unpleasant taste in your food.
6. To gauge grill temperature without a thermometer, place your open palm about 5 inches above the grill rack. If you have to move your hand in 2 seconds, the temperature is high. If you move your hand in 5 seconds, your temperature is medium and if you move your hand at 10 seconds, the temperature is low.
7. Oil your grill to further prevent sticking. Even on a clean grill, lean foods can stick when directly on a rack. By using a folded paper towel soaked in vegetable oil and held with a tong, you can rub it over the entire rack. Be sure NOT to use spray oil on a hot grill.
8. Food Safety Tip: avoid cross contamination by using separate cutting boards for raw and cooked foods, refrigerate foods while marinating, and NEVER baste with the marinating liquid (Make extra marinade just for basting).
9. Don’t cook cold meat. Bring it up to room temperature to help get the internal temperature on the grill without burning the surface. Using thinner steaks makes it easier to get the inside temperature right.

 Grilling it Right

1. Be sure to use lean cuts of meat or trim excess fat and remove poultry skin. This will reduce flare-ups which happen when fat drips onto the heat source and catches fire which reportedly causes carcinogenic PAHs (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons) and can accumulate on the food being grilled.
2. If flare ups do occur, some experts recommend keeping a squirt bottle on hand to squelch unexpected flare-ups, but others say avoid the use of water bottles as they can just spread the burning oil…instead just close the grill lid and cutting of the oxygen will not allow the flames to survive.
3. Before placing on the grill, be sure to pat the meat dry from the marinade to properly sear (still wet with marinade will steam the meat and you can lose that caramelized texture you are going for with the grill.
4. Foods that are small and finicky might fall through the grill rack or may be too cumbersome to turn over one-by-one ideally make use of a grill basket.
5. If you are using bamboo skewers, be sure to soak them in water before use.
6. Avoid over-turning your meat. To get the ideal, caramelized barbecue crust on your meat, only turn it once or twice.
7. Don’t squish down the meat and force the juices out. That just leaves you with an overly dry protein.
8. Don’t be afraid to expand your barbecue horizons…play with pre and post cooking marinades, dry rubs, skewers, cooking in parcels, slow cooking and smoking.
9. To add the ‘smoke’ flavour to your meat, wood chips can be placed directly on charcoal grill coals, or make a simple foil basket filled with wood chips to place on grates directly over the heat on a gas grill.
10. When roasting, place the meat over indirect heat (or flame-free area). If you need to create an in-direct cooking area, just turn one burner off on a gas grill or simply push coals to one side on a charcoal grill. Keep the lid of the grill closed and avoid opening repeatedly as it can take 10 minutes for the temperature to climb back up after opening the lid.
11. When cooking chicken, boneless cuts cook well over direct heat, but bone-in pieces require a longer cook time and should be placed over indirect head to avoid burning outside and getting a cook all the way through.
12. At the end of cooking time, season or add a glaze for extra flavor. Melted jam is the quickest and easiest glaze and should be brushed on at the end of cooking or immediately when removed from grill.
13. After cooking, let the meat rest on a clean platter for about 10 minutes. While some experts recommend covering with tented foil, others claim this can make your meat soggy with the steam so we recommend tenting your foil to keep the heat in while your meat in settling, letting the juices permeate back through the meat fibres, but cut a small venting hole in the foil to allow any steam to escape.

But My Deck Leaves Much to be Desired…. What do I do?

If you want to show off your barbecue expertise but are not thrilled at the idea of hosting a barbecue on an unattractive, neglected deck, how can you transform your high maintenance, unsightly deck into one you’d be proud of and could allow you to enjoy grilling throughout the year?...

1. Contact one of our skilled Duradek professionals to help transform your old deck into a gorgeous, low maintenance place of leisure. Act fast to reach a busy Duradek installer and you can potentially have a deck transformation before the Labor Day weekend!

There you have it! Everything you need to know to host the best barbecues on your beautiful Duradek deck this summer.

Enjoy your Holidays!

Building a Deck that Meets Code

While building a deck for your home may seem like a fun, do-it-yourself project, the truth of the matter is that deck construction is a specialty trade. Even general contractors with plenty of building experience may not have the specific knowledge and experience required to construct a structurally safe and attractive deck that meets building code.

There are a number of International Residential Code requirements that are specific to building a safe deck that are not required for most other areas of a home. Decks have two very distinctive and significant contributors to make them such a unique feature requiring special consideration:

1 – The density of occupants on a deck are often far greater than in any other part of the home.

2 – The deck is the only a load-bearing pedestrian surface of a home that is under constant exposure to the elements.

These two factors combined make building codes critical to ensuring the safety of a deck’s future occupants – not just in how the deck is constructed, but also in what materials are used. Whether you are motivated by protecting your family or by reducing potential liability, the following information is critical in building a deck.

The Two Most Important Code Resources for Deck Builders

1 – ICC Approved International Building Code Resource Book

2 – ICC Approved Product Evaluation Reports

International Residential Code (IRC) Reference Book for Deck Building

While the 2015 IRC is complete, many jurisdictions still rely on the 2009 IRC as their standard. Deck builders have the distinct advantage of the availability of a specific Deck Construction Code Book written by one of the industry’s key players, Glenn Mathewson. Glenn Mathewson is an active North America Deck & Railing Association (NADRA) member and is one of the most knowledgeable professionals in the decking industry. He produced the Deck Construction Code Book in partnership with the North America Deck & Railing Association (NADRA) and the International Code Council (ICC).



This specialty reference book takes all decking related code out of the cumbersome 2009 IRC (an 868 page book with decking references in multiple sections) and reduces it down to a concise 270 page decking reference that is much easier for decking professionals to understand. It includes photos and commentary from Mr. Mathewson as well as exact printed reference of the 2009 IRC codes.

International Code Council (ICC) Product Evaluation Reports

Using the right products for your deck building projects is just as important as the construction methods used to ensure a safe and reliable deck. When you are planning your projects and selecting the products to be used, be sure to review a copy of the product’s ICC-ES Report.

When a product has an ICC-ES Report you can see first-hand what specific use(s) for which the product has been evaluated, as well as any products it is used in conjunction with, its installation requirements and what kind of 3rd party testing was conducted to prove its suitability for a particular use.

It is important to note the distinction between an ICC-ES Listed product vs. an ICC-ES Evaluated product which goes through a much more rigorous testing procedure.

Duradek, another industry leader and proud NADRA member, has been around long enough to know the importance of having the performance based ICC-ES Evaluation Report. Duradek’s evaluation (ICC-ES ESR-2151) proves the effectiveness of Duradek’s performance as both a roofing membrane and a pedestrian traffic coating to give our customers the peace-of-mind to know the product will perform as it is intended.

To help our customers and future customers understand and use ICC-ES Reports to their full advantage, Duradek Technical Manager, Len Viegener has produced a couple of easy-to-follow pieces to educate even the most non-technical minded individuals on the value of these reports and how to read them. With a unique product like vinyl deck membranes that does not have its own specific evaluation criteria but instead relies on two distinctly separate evaluated features (in this case, traffic coating and roofing membrane) it is even more important to understand what to look for and why.

The latest document, “Why is an Evaluation Report so Important” breaks down what material standards apply, which building code authority has jurisdiction over those standards and how that leads to the final evaluation report.

Understanding Evaluation Reports from Duradek (PDFs):

CCMC on Membrane Roof Decks Evaluation Reports

• Why is an Evaluation Report so Important | in Canada/CCMC (2 page .pdf)
• Duradek’s CCMC Evaluation Report 13134-R (4 page .pdf)

ICC on Membrane Roof Decks Evaluation Reports

• Why is an Evaluation Report So Important | in U.S./ICC-ES (2 page .pdf)
• Duradek’s ICC-ES Evaluation Report ESR-2151 (3 page .pdf)

• The Anatomy of an ICC-ES Report (2 page .pdf/tri-fold style brochure)

Deck Building Code Resources from Glenn Mathewson, MCP:

• Deck Construction Based on the 2009 IRC
• Building Code College – Building Code for Building Decks (4 Courses)

Duradek Expert Talks Decks with Home Improvement Trailblazer Shell Busey

Celebrity builders like Mike Holmes, Bryan Baeumler and Scott MacGillivray offer their high-profile building advice on the airwaves to a very appreciative audience, but these cutting edge T.V. personality builders had the road to their home renovation audience paved by pioneer Shell Busey and his House Smart Network.

Shell is probably one of the most knowledgeable men in North America regarding building products and he knows the value of doing it right the first time.

Just as Duradek pioneered the use of PVC membranes for waterproof deck surfacing, Shell Busey forged the trail for the industry of home improvement experts that have become a new breed of the North American celebrity.

So what is it that makes these celebrity builders and home improvement experts attract our attention and earn our trust? It is their knowledge and experience with a topic common to the most of us...our homes. The home improvement experts take our basic need for shelter and show us how to maximize space, value and personal enjoyment from our homes which is one of the most important investments we make for both practical value and quality of life.
Check out this House Smart Coffee Break video clip featuring a recent interview with Shell and Duradek Sales Manager, Kevin MacMillan.

Shell Busey has been in the home improvement industry for more than 50 years and while his notoriety is mostly renowned in his home base of south western B.C., he has national recognition throughout Canada and is known in the Pacific Northwest of the U.S. as a reliable source of home improvement information. Everything from fundamental building products to the care and maintenance of specific features of your home, Shell Busey's website, www.askshell.com is a fantastic resource for your home

Shell has a long-standing relationship with Duradek and has been sharing the advantages of the Duradek waterproofing systems with homeowners for many years. Starting with our original Duradek waterproof, walkable membrane to our uniquely reliable Tiledek membrane for exterior tile projects, Shell knows a good product!

When your whole business is about referring people to the right resources for their home improvement projects, you must be very confident in the products you recommend and Shell has been recommending Duradek for decades!

Remember, if you need decking advice, call on a Duradek dealer in your area...and if you need other home improvement advice, you can ask Shell Busey at www.askshell.com.

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.

 

Duradek Cautions on Unproven Deck Building Products Technology

Duradek is very vocal about the truth that ‘new’ isn’t always better…especially when it comes to building products; and now Brad Pitt’s Make It Right Foundation has discovered that basic truth the hard way.

The group built 104 energy-efficient homes in the Hurricane Katrina-ravaged Lower 9th Ward of New Orleans. Dozens of those homes built from 2008 to 2010 included decks and stairs made from TimberSIL, a supposedly glass-infused wood that claimed to provide “an effective barrier in lumber to rot, decay and common wood problems” without using toxic ingredients.

New Product Failure Rates infographic

This ‘new’ product’s lack of chemicals appealed to the Make It Right foundation because of its dedication to “green” building features, but the product performance fell short when premature reports of rot and decay started appearing in 2013...nowhere near the 40 year product guarantee.

As expressed in the New Orleans Advocate, “some local home builders and other non-profit executives said they saw the episode as a cautionary example of the problems facing many in their industry in trying to balance new, cutting-edge technology with time-tested construction techniques.”

The professionals at Duradek couldn’t agree more! We are cautioning builders about a potential similar issue in the niche vinyl decking industry with some manufacturers releasing highly suspect, unproven products into the market. (See Vinyl Deck Membranes Appearance Promises vs. Appearance Warranty).

It is unfortunate that Brad Pitt’s Make It Right Foundation had not chosen the time proven Duradek vinyl deck membranes for these projects. Duradek has a proven 40 year history and has gone through several warranty cycles to be absolutely confident in the Duradek product and installation techniques.

Furthermore, Duradek is also a “green” product and is installed on untreated plywood to avoid the use of harmful chemicals.

Innovation is a great thing, but if you don’t want to gamble on your project and money invested, be sure to use a product that has a proven performance history. To speak to a Duradek professional in your area to bring Duradek’s 40 years of performance to your projects, contact a Duradek dealer in your area.

Useful Resources:

• Time, Tested and Approved (.pdf)
• Before You Buy, Consider This (.pdf)

Related Posts:

• When Choosing a Building Product, “New” Does Not Always Mean Better
• Vinyl Deck Membranes Appearance Promises vs. Appearance Warranty

 

Duradek Solves 2 Big Deck Remodel Problems on Cottage TV

Decks, Docks and Gazebos program on Cottage Life T.V. specializes in creating the ideal outdoor living space for cottage locations with amazing views. Host Jason Lake takes on cottage upgrades from rough planning to final construction and in a recent episode, "Rob and Nancy's Gazebo Sun Porch" (Season 2, episode 6), he demonstrates how two big problems are solved with one design solution by using Duradek vinyl deck membrane.

Visit Cottage Life T.V. to view full episode (22:06 minutes)

The Scenario - Deck to Dock
Rob and Nancy's cottage has a gorgeous waterfront location with the front corner of the house only 10 ft. from the waterline. When looking out the window, they look at lake. It is a perfect place for entertaining and since so many people enjoy going down to the dock regularly, most times people gather on the lower patio instead of the upper level deck. Like most people with cottage properties, they just want a hassle-free getaway.

A high maintenance drip-through deck was too much
work and not enough protection.

Problem #1 - Tired of Maintenance
Although the 10 x 40 ft. deck provides excellent lounging area with the fantastic lake view, Rob and Nancy are tired of the maintenance the typical drip-through deck requires. The staining and sanding every two years is too much work when they would much rather be enjoying the leisure time on their deck. As they put it, "The less staining we have to do, the better".

This high maintenance wood deck required re-staining every 2 years.

Problem #2 - Need Protection from the Elements
Rob and Nancy like to spend most of their time on the shaded, lower level deck but it is still open to the elements which can cause discomfort. They have to deal with the insects on the very hot days and on the days where there is rain, the drip through deck above does nothing to protect them and keep them dry when they would prefer to still be outside enjoying the view.

The lower level deck was ideal for lounging...unless it rained.

Host Jason Lake (who gained his celebrity builder experience with 'The Builder Boss - Jim Caruck') knew that he could solve both problems with one easy design solution using Duradek Vinyl Decking.

Deck Remodel Solution with Duradek

The solution was an easy one if you know the right products to work with and Jason Lake knew Duradek was the answer. He was ready to solve 2 big problems with 1 design.

He could easily provide Rob and Nancy everything they wanted by incorporating a lower level sunroom into the design which is made possible with Duradek which has been tested and evaluated to meet building code for use as a both a pedestrian coating AND a roofing membrane.




Jason called on the expertise of John Kellett from Kellett Sales
and Contracting.

The First Phase of the Deck Remodel

Solution Step #1 - Create a Waterproof Ceiling for the Sun Porch

Duradek, a brand of vinyl deck surfaces so trusted that it has become synonymous with vinyl decking is actually also a classified roofing membrane and provides a completely watertight seal. Authorized Duradek dealer, John Kellett from Kellett Sales and Contracting was on location to lend his vinyl deck installation expertise and to ensure the deck had the proper slope and that the substrate was prepared correctly for the application of the Duradek vinyl membrane.

Substrate preparation is the first step of a
successful Duradek application.

Rob and Nancy selected Duradek Forest Floor Alder (one of 24 Duradek colour options)and John Kellett and his assistant laid the Duradek with best installation practices to guarantee roof-grade protection for their new sun room below.

Duradek Forest Floor Alder was a perfect choice for the
deck surface to blend harmoniously with the
home and its surroundings.

Duradek installers ensure all perimeter details are handled
with waterproofing best practices.

Solution Step #2 - Provide a Maintenance Free Surface for the Upper Level Deck

See Solution Step #1.

The installation of the Duradek Membrane also solved the problem of ever having to re-stain the deck again. This was very important to Rob and Nancy as they found the labour required to re-stain the deck every couple of years was just too much for them.

Voila! Duradek provides a deck surface that NEVER requires
re-staining or re-coating of any kind.

With Duradek, they will never have to sand, stain or seal their deck again and they can just relax and enjoy it. The only maintenance Duradek vinyl deck surfaces require is the occasion cleaning which can be easily done with a scrub brush or power washer.

The attractive, slip-resistant surface requires only
occasional cleaning to stay looking great.

The Second Phase of the Deck Remodel
The addition of a gazebo sun room allows Nancy to get the feeling of being outdoors while still being protected from the elements, and this is made possible with the roof grade protection of Duradek above.

The lower deck before the addition of the sunroom gazebo.

Once the challenging task of framing the sunroom utilizing the existing posts was completed with consideration for the screen door, the team was able to install the ceiling. Since the Duradek membrane on the upper deck provided the warrantied waterproof roofing, the ceiling below in the sunroom was purely to make it look good and cover the joists and the wiring. Rob and Nancy chose a tongue and groove pine with a white wash and Jason installed directionally away from the house, which requires a little more material and more labour but provides a clean, seamless look.

Once the framing and ceiling were complete, the last step was to install the screening and door to keep the gazebo sun room shaded and bug-free.

Duradek above allowed them to keep it dry below.

Homeowners Happy with Duradek and their Sun Porch Deck Remodel

With their two most important criteria met on their new deck, Rob and Nancy couldn't be happier and are certain to use their new sun porch gazebo room very frequently...particularly since they have all that extra time with an upper level deck that no longer needs maintenance.

Before Duradek, this deck was a high maintenance chore.

After Duradek, this deck is a low maintenance pleasure!

Home Improvement Experts Trust Duradek

This is all thanks to host Jason Lake who was familiar with Duradek as the product to solve both of their problems. This is Jason's first year hosting Decks, Docks & Gazebos but he is no stranger to home improvement television. For three years, Jason worked as a sidekick to Jim Caruk on HGTVs Real Renos.

Duradek is also no stranger to home improvement television as several celebrity builders have turned to Duradek over the years to solve the specific problems of roof deck waterproofing.

• Scott McGillivray - Income Property: Episode Nick and Karen (HGTV)
• Jim Caruk - Builder Boss: The Bunker (episode 6) | Porch and Garden (episode 7) (HGTV)
• Ty Pennington - Extreme Makeover: Home Edition: 100th Episode, Swenson-Lee Family, Minneapolis, MN (ABC)
• Mike Holmes - Holmes on Homes: Rocky Reno, AB (HGTV Canada/USA)

For YOUR Decking Needs

To find a Duradek Dealer in your area for a free consultation on your decking project, visit our 'Find a Dealer' locator or contact Duradek directly to be referred to an authorized installer near you.  

All of us at Duradek are thrilled to help you create more time for leisure on your decks!

Do-it-Yourself Deck Projects Not Recommended by Duradek

Deck waterproofing is a very important detail in protecting the home. When if comes to the superior performance of vinyl membranes as your long lasting waterproof solution, you could unknowingly create future issues for yourself if you attempt to do-it-yourself.

PVC membrane waterproofing is possibly THE most reliable method of roof deck waterproofing available today, but only if it is done correctly, using proven installation details. Duradek professionals care much more about successful waterproofing for their customers' long-term happiness than just making a 'quick sale'.

Here we share an actual inquiry about a project in the Pacific Northwest; and the verbatim response provided by Duradek Northwest's Matt Whale whose 20+ years specializing in roof waterproofing provides advice to be taken seriously.

Customer Duradek Inquiry

I am a property manager with a deck to re-do, approximately 100 sq. ft. Would like to have my very experienced handyman do the install if we can buy the materials. Plenty of installers down here, but I cannot find online a source in the Portland, OR area. Can you assist?

Duradek Northwest Response

I am sorry that I am unable to fulfil your material purchase desire, but due to statistical failure rates of waterproofing products and the untrained worker, coupled third party product compatibility issues, improper design and/or detailing associated with Do It Yourself (DIY) products and projects, Duradek has elected not provide a DIY product. It is sold only through the authorized installer networks.

Because success and deck failure exists in the Northwest and since Duradek has a forty year local history, it is this history and experience that confirms that less than one percent of all deck vinyl problems are material related and as such, the issues fall clearly on a combination of lack of education, non-existent installation repetitive skill and detail design choice experience. Therefore a onetime user can never get or be proficient in heat welding, the proven and code compliant method of seam sealing, or the one time designer can never arrive fully up to speed on proper detail choice or material compatibility, nor does a “do it yourself” product offer any warranty protection other than a “warrant it yourself, you installed it”.

This gamble, you personally maybe embarking on, is in an industry or situation where the bulk of all building related litigation resides. The American Institute of Architects “Architect” publication**, in of June 2011, put it “Water intrusion makes up more than 70 percent of construction litigation”. Thus, Duradek’s lack of “Do It Yourself” products, though not your preference, is a prudent decision on Duradek’s part and subsequently, a major contributing factor to their unequaled, unparalleled or unsurpassed forty year success in the vinyl deck waterproofing industry.

If I can provide you an installing company who would be willing to team up with your handyman, to save you money, then I can be of service. I attached two articles for your consideration. (links below) **

http://www.architectmagazine.com/roofing/when-it-leaks-it-pours.aspx

(or download .pdf version of When it Leaks it Pours ARCHITECT June 2011.pdf (295 KB)

Matthew Whale - Duradek Northwest

• Why Does Duradek Train (808 KB .pdf)
• Seaming Vinyl Decks (177 KB .pdf)

If your are a builder, designer or property manager that would like to stay up to date on issues related to deck and roof deck waterproofing, sign up for our e-news where you will get the latest and greatest articles and white papers delivered to your in box 2-6 times a year.  

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.