Top 4 Ways Pool or Hot Tub Areas Benefit From Duradek Vinyl

Take your pool or hot tub area to the next level by adding a walking surface that is attractive, durable and easy to maintain. Duradek vinyl membranes provide a walking surface that elevates your outdoor recreation areas and it is the easiest way to add some individuality and style to complement your outdoor design scheme without any labour on your part for upkeep.

Outdoor pools or hot tubs can be one of the most valued and luxurious residential features to have on your property, especially during the hot summer months. Your pool area is meant to be enjoyed and you already have enough work to do to up-keep the actual pool...you deserve to have a pool deck or hot tub surround that serves only as a place of leisure and enjoyment - not another maintenance chore.

4 Reasons to Choose Duradek for Your Pool or Hut Tub Surround 

#1 - Duradek vinyl membranes provide a low maintenance, attractive surface.

Unlike wood plank surrounds that require regular multi-stage maintenance to keep up their appearance; concrete surfaces that require re-coating and will still inevitably crack; or outdoor carpet surrounds that hold onto moisture and other organic debris - Duradek is an attractive, low-maintenance finish that can be applied to the concrete surface around a pool area.* Duradek only needs to be installed once and requires no maintenance other than an occasional cleaning for its lifespan, which is often expected to be well over the 10 years it is warranted for.

#2 - Duradek vinyl membranes provide a comfortable, slip-resistant walking surface.

When wood plank surfaces have not been maintained and moisture is allowed to penetrate the wood, the resulting surface can become quite slippery. Alternately, a neglected wood deck when very dry can be a haven for splinters; and in an area where there are a lot of bare feet, splinters will not do! Concrete can be a little rough on tender feet and when you are coming out of a pool it can be a source of many skinned knees and stubbed toes. Outdoor carpet will just hold on to any water and can give you a wet, squishy surface that is very unpleasant for bare feet. Duradek vinyl, particularly in a pattern that has a heavily textured surface, gives a pool area an element of slip resistance and is a lot more comfortable on bare feet than rough concrete or slippery, splintery wood.

#3 - Duradek vinyl membranes bring a clean, contemporary style to your pool or hot tub areas.

While most pool areas all start with a concrete base, they do not have to stay that way. Concrete's cold, drab appearance around the poolside can be elevated to a stylish lounging area that compliments the rest of your outdoor design scheme. Your pool deck area is a favourite place for lounging, barbecuing and socializing and like many well used places, can be subject to spills. Unprotected wood or concrete can be easily stained and just trying to remove the marks left behind from a spilled cola or mustard on your concrete will be an extremely frustrating exercise. With Duradek's easy to clean surface, just a simple wipe to remove such spills is all it takes. If wiped up before allowing a stain to set-in, you'd never even know there had been a spill if you had a Duradek surface.

#4 - Duradek vinyl membranes meets building code requirements for chemical-resistance.

Duradek has been tested in accordance with ICC ES Acceptance Criteria for Walking Decks and meets the requirements of AC39 for chemical-resistance, making it suitable for use around pool or hut tub areas. When you are considering coating or surfacing products for your pool deck area, this is an important detail to look at to ensure your surface will not be weakened or discoloured from contact with the pool chemicals.

Whether you are able to enjoy your pool side area only a portion of the year or all year round, using Duradek as the pedestrian surface on your pool lounging area or hot tub surround provides an attractive surface that requires no maintenance and will last you for many years of pool-side pleasure.

Duradek makes an ideal pool deck surface.

• See what makes Duradek a better option than other traditional methods for your outdoor living space.

Indoor pool areas may require the added benefit
of Duradek's waterproofing performance.

Contact a Duradek Dealer near you to inquire about keeping your outdoor living space both protected and beautiful with Duradek vinyl membranes.

 * Quantitative Moisture Testing is recommended before applying any coating over concrete.

The Sun's UV Effects on Your Deck

By mid-May most of us are seeing an increased amount of sunshine and have started clearing, cleaning and preparing our decks for a much anticipated season of soaking up the sun and enjoying our outdoor living space. But does your deck love the sun as much as you do, or does the sun’s UV effects on your deck leave you resenting its rays?

While our love of the sun is pretty much universal with its mood elevating effects and increased dose of vitamin D, too much of a good thing can do us harm. The earth’s atmosphere blocks approximately 98-99% of the sun’s UV radiation, but that remaining 1-2% can have some undesirable effects. We are well aware of what sun exposure can do to our skin and we go to great efforts to protect it, but the truth is that the sun’s UV radiation will age anything that is exposed to it…and that includes our decks.

A common issue with any item that experiences permanent or prolonged exposure to the sun is fading or discoloration. We see this all the time with fabrics, paints or plastics on our outdoor items. There is simply no escaping those UV rays.

Our decks are no exception. If you’ve placed furniture or other large sun-blocking items on your deck then years later moved those items, the difference in color where the deck has been hidden from the UV rays can be evident.

With vinyl deck membranes you have the advantage of long-lasting waterproof protection without the need for maintenance, but it is important to remember that not all vinyl is created equal. To get the most out of your vinyl deck, chose a brand that has a proven performance history and has demonstrated that it stands up to the elements, including UV exposure.

Duradek vinyl deck membranes have demonstrated superior performance when compared to other vinyl brands in how well it ages from UV exposure. Certainly, like anything that is permanently outdoors, there will be some color fading over time but when tested against other vinyl brands, Duradek clearly stands out as one of the best vinyl options for maintaining its appearance from UV aging.

Accelerated Weather Testing (ASTM G-90) Results for Three Vinyl Options

The images below show the results of Accelerated Weather Testing (ASTM G-90) conducted by Atlas Material Testing Solutions on three different vinyl brands and shows the effects of 840 MJ UV which equates to about 2.5 years of Arizona sun exposure*. (These tests results are from the second round of tests conducted to corroborate the results of the first round of testing and have shown consistent results).

Vinyl-TD Results – Clear coat technologies are not yet advanced enough to
avoid discoloration from UV exposure. These images show the effects of 840 MJ UV.

 

The vinyl brand above is clearly showing signs of darkening and in the first sample even shows visible cracks in the surface. This particular brand of vinyl uses a clear vinyl coat to protect its surface from scuff marks; however the appearance of scuffs may be preferable to the degree of discoloration from the UV exposure.

Vinyl-DR Results – Products available at a much lower price than similar products can often indicate inferior performance. This image is at 840 MJ UV, but this vinyl brand showed failure at only 140 MJ UV.

 

These two samples above are produced off-shore and started failing at 140 MJUV. This vinyl brand is being marketed as a cost-effective alternative for the budget conscious home owner or developer, but clearly the savings are not worth the end result.

Duradek Results – Duradek stands up to UV exposure better than many vinyl options.
At 840 MJ UV there is very little change in appearance.

 

Duradek is the original vinyl membrane and has been installed on decks in all North American climates for 40 years. From the images above you can see that Duradek can handle the effects of UV exposure much, much better than the competition. There is almost no change in appearance after 840 MJ UV exposure, and even at 1820 MJ UV exposure the effects on the appearance are minimal.

Vinyl-TD and Duradek Results – This image compares the results of accelerated weathering tests at 1820 MJ UV. Duradek show very minimal appearance changes while vinyl-TD has changed drastically.

 

The image above shows vinyl-TD next to Duradek in comparing the effects of 1820 MJ UV next to a control sample. The difference is quite dramatic and a shocking example of why it is so important to choose a product you can rely on. It is certainly worth noting that Duradek offers an appearance warranty while many vinyl brands do not.

For a product you can rely on with professional installers who know deck waterproofing, contact a Duradek dealer in your area for a free, no-obligation estimate on your deck renovation.

To see results of previous tests, check out these articles:

July 10, 2013 - Nothing Last Forever But Duradek Outlast the Rest

May 15, 2013  – Choosing a Waterproof Membrane for Your Deck

May 8, 2013 -  When Choosing a Building Product, New Does Not Always Mean Better

April 30, 2013 – Duradek Confirms Superior Performance with Competitive Weather Testing


* source of UV exposure equating to annual sun exposure
http://www.gaf.ca/Commercial_Roofing_Systems/EverGuard_TPO/Correlating_Accelerated_Laboratory_Field_and_Thermal_Aging_TPO_Membranes.pdf
The Sun's UV Effects on Your Deck

Outdoor Living Top 10 Trends for 2014

More and more homeowners are taking their renovation plans to the great outdoors and instead of adding additions to their homes they are extending their everyday living space outside by adding or renovating their outdoor spaces. Renovating outdoor living space is not just for the ‘staycation’ but for an elevated quality of life every day, all year long.

It is no surprise then that a survey conducted by the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) showed a 97.7% popularity rating for terraces, patios and decks. The survey details cover a wide range of outdoor living trends but the common consensus was that people want low-maintenance design suited for entertainment and relaxation. People simply want more time to enjoy their outdoor living space and less time maintaining it.

It is relatively easy to adapt what add-ons you select for your outdoor living space as the latest trends or your personal preferences change, but it is imperative to start out with a solid foundation like you can get with a deck protected with a Duradek membrane. Professional Builder Magazine shows off Duradek’s latest color ‘Graphite’ from the ‘Ultra Cork’ line of waterproof vinyl. The beauty of Duradek is not just that it gives your deck an attractive surface, but it also provides warrantied, roof-grade waterproof protection.

Duradek 'Graphite' as seen in Professional Builder Magazine.

This is a fundamental and very important detail to remember…no matter what kind of details or features you want on your deck; it is the foundation that is critical to get right the first time. The First and most important part of moving your living space outdoors is to create a safe, waterproof outdoor surface, on which you can build your outdoor living area. A properly built structure that has reliable waterproof protection means that you will have a deck you can rely on for decades.

After reviewing a wide variety of design, architectural and landscaping opinions, we’ve compiled a list of the top trends in outdoor design for 2014.

Size and Shape is Right Out of the Box
The traditional 10 x 20 foot rectangular deck is giving way to expansive deck and patio areas in a variety of shapes and sizes. While the average size of decks seems to be increasing, the trend is towards multi-level structures with unique shapes that can flow and carry the design of the house out and into the landscaping.

Multi Level Deck with custom shape protected by Duradek.

Sustainability – Eco Friendly Design Practices
People want something cost effective, but they also want to act in environmentally conscious ways that minimizes the impact on the environment at both the point of installation and with maintenance and long-term sustainability.

Lighting
Outdoor lighting has a bright outlook for 2014, particularly with creative uses. Cleverly designed lighting systems worked into ornamental post caps, decorative balusters and outdoor furniture are making an appearance. Unique, simple lights strung above a deck have replaced the old patio lantern strings and are a simple way to update your outdoor design.

Seating and Dining Areas
Always popular for the central entertainment area of a deck, seating and dining areas are taking on new forms as built-in seating is incorporated into deck designs. Additionally, furniture elements are trending to ‘natural’ forms such as rough-wood or stone structures.

Customization
People’s outdoor living areas, like their homes’ interiors, are a unique expression of their character and preferences. Pergolas, walls, functional areas, planter boxes, storage and accessories are all ways in which homeowners will be expressing that individuality in 2014. Functional design is key!

Creative Outdoor Storage Space Waterproofed with Duradek.

Accessories
While neutral tones will always have a place in residential exteriors, they are being splashed up with accessories like pillows, rugs and other fabrics. Popular options for 2014 include bright, cheerful colors, geometric art deco-like patterns and ethnic, tribal themed patterns.

Outdoor Kitchens
Beyond the basic grill, complete outdoor kitchens with cooking surfaces, sinks, fridges and yes, grills are carrying on from 2013 trends and are an example of how home owners are extending their day-to-day living outdoors.



An outdoor kitchen with a good foundation of
Tiledek waterproofing membrane.

Fire Features
Whether it is a small, lantern style accent, set within a pond, or completely built into a full exterior wall; fire features are incredibly popular and with many options available, there is a fire feature in virtually an size and shape you desire.

Outdoor Recreation
This one is definitely not new, but there’s nothing like an old favourite to help you get the most out of your outdoor living space. Whether it is a swimming pool or a hot tub, a little liquid R&R is a time honored back yard favorite. What is new for 2014 is an increase in desire for outdoor saunas.

Gardens
It may have fallen down the priority list for a couple of generations, but today’s homeowners are gardening enthusiasts. With the increased desire for sustainability and healthy living, a place for growing fruits, vegetables and herbs is a top priority with homeowners. For those that want to garden for the sheer pleasure of the greenery, lush gardens rife with Native Plants is a top trend and these natural looking landscape are much more forgiving when behind on maintenance than their sculptured counterparts.

We hope this has inspired you with some ideas for your deck makeover plans. But remember to start with a good foundation...and a great way to start with that is to talk to your local Duradek expert.

The Most Popular Week for Home and Garden Shows to Find Duradek

Home & Garden Shows are the perfect place to get inspiration and ideas for planning your home renovations and there's no shortage of shows to chose from this week, one of the busiest weekends of the spring for this type of event.

If you've got deck renovations on your mind, you won't want to miss the chance to talk first hand with the deck waterproofing professionals of Duradek. Duradek installers know deck waterproofing and will be available at a variety of home shows throughout the season to answer all of your decking questions.

If you are going to attend a local Home & Garden show, be sure to look for your local Duradek dealer to see the latest Duradek colours and patterns that will complement your exterior design scheme and bring you the most reliable, low maintenance deck waterproofing system available.

Look For Duradek Installers at These Upcoming Shows Taking Place March 28 - 30, 2014.

The Fredericton Home Show - Fredericton, NB
Taking place at the Capital Exhibit Center, the Fredericton Home Show attracted over 13,000 visitors last year to view the region's best home building and renovating professionals. Look for Duradek dealers, Beaver Construction who are the local Duradek experts. You can talk to waterproofing professional Blake Price or one of his skilled installers for information on transforming your deck.

The Ideal Home Show - Halifax, NS
The Ideal Home Show is the largest home show in Atlantic Canada and this year it takes place at Exhibition Park in Halifax. Showcasing spring building, renovation and landscaping projects, this is the perfect show for you if you are considering adding or renovating a deck on your home. Talk to Duradek professionals South Shore Custom Decks while you are there for professional decking advice. Shane and Misha from South Shore are talented and skilled professionals that will bring you the deck of your dreams.

Gardenscapes - Saskatoon, SK
The 25th Annual Gardenscapes Show is held at Prairieland Park and is a traditional first sign of spring in Saskatoon. It has everything you need to create a backyard paradise and the outdoor living space of your dreams. For all the green-thumb enthusiasts who'd rather be working in the garden than on deck maintenance, be sure to talk to Saskatoon's deck experts Rene and Desiree from Saskatoon Deck Shop who can bring you the beautiful, low maintenance deck you desire with Duradek. For the last 20 years, Saskatoon Deck Shop has been making sure that when it comes to your deck, you do it right the first time!

Greater Kansas City Home & Garden Show - Kansas City, MO
Bartle Hall hosts the Greater Kansas City Home & Garden Show and this 66 year tradition is held in conjunction with the Flower, Lawn and Garden Show to bring attendees the best in spring home and garden tips and products. The show features a great selection of HGTV celebrity guests and experts like the professionals from Essential Extras who specialize in creating unique outdoor spaces like decks, patios and gazebos. These Duradek experts are professionals you can trust with a great reputation as seen through their 40+ years in business and excellent reviews on Home Advisor.com.

Cottage & Lakefront Living Show - Grand Rapids, MI
Taking place at DeVos Place, a state-of-the-art convention center in the heart of Grand Rapids, the Cottage and Lakefront Living Show brings ideas and instruction for all summer-fun activities to enjoy with a cottage lifestyle. From boat building to sandcastle building, to fine art and fine food...you can find it all at the Cottage & Lakefront Living Show. In particular, you can find the professional deck experts of Home Acres Building Supply who can help you with building or renovating the perfect, low maintenance deck. Whether for the summer cottage or your year-round home, Phil and his team from Home Acres Building Supply will make sure you have a well-protected deck with the reliable waterproof protection of Duradek.  



Chose Duradek for the best in low-maintenance decking.

We hope to see you at there! Or look for Duradek at any of the other Home & Garden Shows taking place this spring to help you create the ideal low-maintenance outdoor living space!