Auckland Deck Builders Gain Waterproofing Advantage with Deck Masters New Zealand, LLC and Duradek

Kia Ora! Welcome to New Zealand’s answer to how to most enjoy residential outdoor leisure space. The luxury of low-maintenance waterproof deck surfaces has made its way to the ‘land of the long white cloud’. Kiwi's can now enjoy the advantages of Duradek vinyl deck membranes thanks to the deck waterproofing professionals at Deck Masters New Zealand, LLC.

Serving Greater Auckland, Northland and Waikato, Deck Masters New Zealand specializes in residential and commercial waterproofing and maintenance solutions for new and existing buildings. With an exceptional team of skilled professionals, Deck Masters NZ is led by Terry Hugill with a goal to surpass customer expectations with both project time and product performance.

View deck with Duradek Supreme Chip Granite vinyl at Red Beach.

It is Deck Master NZ’s dedication to using only the highest quality waterproofing products that led them to Duradek™ vinyl deck membranes which have been successfully used in North America for over 40 years. Originally conceived by two outdoor enthusiasts inspired by the marine vinyl in their fishing boat (read the Duradek Story for more details), Duradek is the original vinyl decking and essentially created a niche specialty trade.

Having pioneered the vinyl decking industry, Duradek president John Ogilvie was instrumental in establishing North American building codes for the use of Duradek as a roofing membrane, making Duradek the definitive authority on “walkable roofing membranes”. Duradek is also one of the only vinyl decking products that offers an appearance warranty in addition to guaranteeing waterproof performance.

Deck with Duradek Supreme Chip
Taupe vinyl in Chatswood.

Duradek vinyl recently took the initiative in some extensive product testing above building code requirements and went head to head with competing vinyl brands in accelerated weather testing to clearly demonstrate that Duradek vinyl decking stands up to UV exposure better than any other deck vinyl.

An additional feature that makes Duradek vinyl a superior choice for a deck, balcony or roof deck waterproofing is the fact that Duradek is not available as a retail product for do-it-yourself projects. The team at Duradek knows that no matter how superior a waterproofing product is manufactured; it is the installation details and techniques that ensure the waterproofing performs as intended. This is what made Deck Masters NZ such a perfect fit to become New Zealand’s source for Duradek vinyl decking.

Duradek training session with
Miles from Deck Master New Zealand

Deck Master NZ already had an existing team of professionals skilled in deck and roof waterproofing and they invested in sending their team representative, Miles Hugill, to Duradek’s headquarters. Located in Surrey, BC (part of the Greater Vancouver Regional District in western Canada), Duradek’s home base is one of the most beautiful, but rainiest climates in North America - a fitting place to perfect waterproofing details. While visiting Duradek headquarters, Miles was busy learning the specific techniques that Duradek has mastered to ensure reliable waterproof performance, which he took back to the team at Deck Master NZ.

The waterproofing specialists at Deck Masters NZ introduced Duradek at the Auckland Home Show in September and have been busy with installations in the Greater Auckland area throughout the summer.

Deck Master NZ at the Auckland Home Show 2015.

With shorelines and rolling countryside that is the envy of the whole world, New Zealanders already enjoy the best of outdoor living - and now they can bring that to their own homes. By offering Duradek vinyl membranes to New Zealanders, Deck Masters NZ is opening up opportunity for home owners to enjoy the most leisure time on the decks, balconies, patios and porches without the need for ongoing maintenance to ensure waterproof performance remains intact.

Roof Deck in Orewa with
Duradek Okanagan Flint vinyl.

This is a great advantage to architects and designers who want incorporate roof decks or multi-level decks into their designs to take advantage of the natural surroundings and maximize additional, usable living space. With warrantied, roof-grade waterproof protection, these designs can be incorporated worry-free.

So, kick back with an L&P or favourite local brew and enjoy a life of leisure with a maintenance-free, waterproof deck from Deck Masters New Zealand!

Contact Deck Masters New Zealand, LLC for a no-obligation estimate on your decking project in Greater Auckland.
Call 09 281 5830 or inquire online.

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.  

Busy Week for Coast-to-Coast Canadian Home & Garden Shows

This weekend (March 27 - 29th, 2015) marks one of the busiest weekends of the year for Home & Garden Shows.

Spring is officially here and while evidence of that may not be apparent in every area of the country, soon we will be basking in the golden rays of sunshine that have us happily enjoying our favourite places to be...our outdoor living spaces like our decks, patios and balconies. That makes this weekend the perfect time to check out your local Home & Garden Shows to help you with ideas, inspiration and the right tools you need for your home improvement plans this spring.

The easiest way to get the best value for your home improvement investments is to know what's out there and talk to professionals to guide you to the best solutions for your projects; and the best place to get all the experts and ideas you'll need all in one place is at a Home & Garden Show.

Spring 2015 Home & Garden Shows from Coast to Coast in Canada

Look for your local Duradek installers at one of these great spring Home & Garden Shows to ask anything you need to know about the benefits of low maintenance deck waterproofing with Duradek vinyl membranes.

GVHBA Spring Home Renovation Show
March 28, 2015 at Van Dusen Botanical Gardens
Vancouver, BC
The Greater Vancouver Home Builders Association is hosting this one-day show with educational seminars and exhibition for home owners to find everything you need for your home renovation plans this spring. Find Duradek's Winston Conyers on site with authorized Duradek Dealer City Wide Sundecks to assist you with your decking questions.
www.citywidesundecks.com


Tri-City Spring Home Expo
March 27 - 29, 2015 at the Poirier Center
Coquitlam, BC

This show is great for Tri-City locals as it is a FREE for attendees to browse the exhibitors. Duradek Dealer Quality Vinyl Decking will be on location to discuss your deck building or renovating plans and help you create the ideal low maintenance outdoor living space. Just look for Lyle from Quality Vinyl Decking to get the straight up answers for any decking questions you might have. Quality Vinyl Decking will make sure you get the best outdoor living space for your budget and lifestyle.
www.qualityvinyldecking.ca  


Gardenscape - the Backyard Lifestyle Show
March 27 - 29, 2015 at Prairieland Park
Saskatoon, SK

Be sure to stop by to talk to decking experts from Saskatoon Deck Shop. These decking professionals like Desiree Hubbs and David LaBerge my be recognized from Saskatoon's 'Ask the Experts'consumer advice columns and are the source of all Duradek vinyl deck membranes in Saskatchewan. Saskatoon Deck Shop has a skilled group of Duradek installers who have all been trained in the intricate details of deck waterproofing to make sure your decking investment is going to last.
www.saskatoondeckshop.com



 Need a deck in Saskatchewan?...just ask the Experts from Saskatoon Deck Shop.

Regina Spring Home & Garden Show
March 26 - 29, 2015 at the Canada Center Building - Evraz Place
Regina, SK

Look for Duradek Dealer KM Burgess Agencies Ltd. at aisle K, booth 27. KM Burgess is your source for low maintenance, reliable Duradek vinyl deck membranes.  


Spring Ideal Home Show
March 27 - 29, 2015 at Exhibition Park
Halifax, NS

Duradek Dealer South Shore Custom Decks will be on location to answer any of your Decking questions. Just look for Shane or Misha who can give you great decking advice you can rely on and provide the expert installation you need for a reliable, low maintenance deck.
Visit South Shore Custom Decks on Facebook.   

South Shore Custom Decks helped create many
favourite outdoor living spaces around Halifax

Fredericton Home Show
March 27 -29, 2015 at the Capital Exhibit Center
Fredericton, NB

Look for Beaver Construction. authorized Duradek Dealers for Fredericton to get expert information on your decking projects. Beaver Construction's Blake Price will be appearing on the Seminar Stage at 6:00 pm on Friday, March 27 presenting "Decking Materials and How They Should Be Applied".

 Look for Blake from Beaver Construction at the
Fredericton Home Show for all of your decking needs.

If you can't make it out to one of these great sources of spring home improvement inspiration and advice, feel free to contact a Duradek installer in your area for a free estimate on your vinyl deck waterproofing project.      

Dry Below Decks Made Easy – Part 1: Trough vs. Top

They say there are two sides to every story, but when it comes to 2nd level decks acting as a roof for a patio below, you only need a one-sided solution – Duradek vinyl membranes. You don’t need the expense of an under deck drainage system if you have a deck surfaced with Duradek.

For an investment as large as residential properties, maximizing usable space is on the top of most home owners’ lists. It is certainly important to developers and designers who want to maximize the value of the homes for their clients. With the ever-growing demand for more outdoor living space it only makes sense to maximize space by turning an upper level deck into a roof for a lower level deck below.

Duradek vinyl deck membranes are the perfect solution as they serve as both the pedestrian deck surface and the roofing membrane in one single product application that completely considers protecting the building envelope. Under deck systems only serve as a water routing system (and sometimes a ceiling for the lower level deck) so you still have to consider the exposed surface(s) of the upper level deck separately.

An attractive upper deck CAN double as a roof
(see bottom image for lower level view).

Why Under Deck Drainage Systems May Not be the Best Roof Deck Solution for You

There are two basic types of under deck drainage systems.
1 – Trough systems
2 – Panel systems

Both of these systems function by allowing water to get through the upper level deck surface and then routing it between the joists to downspouts or gutters; neither system provides complete water-tight protection for the joists, fastening points, supporting beams or building envelope. Water is routed away, but moisture is still present and lack of air flow just traps that moisture between the surface of the upper deck and the roof of the lower deck. While some installation methods will rely on caulking or butyl tape to seal seams, you are unable to inspect if those seals remain intact as they are inaccessible once the deck is complete.

A Closer Look at Dry Below Deck Trough Systems

The under deck drainage trough systems are only a realistic option for a new build decks as the troughs must be installed between the joists before the deck surface is complete. It is not a good option for existing decks as the upper level deck surface would have to be removed for it to be installed.

When the trough systems are installed, the material is usually not run up the siding of the house which means the building envelope is not completely protected and it is possible for moisture to find its way through, risking wood rot where the deck meets the house.

Another issue with the trough systems is that it is dependent on the area between the joists to allow the proper slope to route the water away. With a ceiling on a lower level deck, most people will run some sort of piping or conduit for electrical purposes and the placement of those may form damming or tenting causing an interruption of water flow and trap moisture.



A trough style under deck drainage system can not be installed
on an existing deck without disassembling it.

The water flow of a trough system is routed to a downspout at each trough, but where the trough meets the downspout it is (again) not sealed. A simple, small cut where the trough terminates at the downspout is all that is performed to prevent wicking and keeping the water from getting below the trough. If the width of the water flow exceeds that of the cut, it can easily wick up below the trough.

A soffit system to serve as the ceiling on the lower level deck would have to be installed to conceal the troughs and joists. If any moisture has gotten past the trough it can become trapped within the joists and soffit system below with little airflow.

Finally, once a dry below trough system is completely finished, the upper level deck surface needs to be installed. At this point the fasteners puncture the trough membrane from above and may allow moisture into the joist area…but you will never know about it until you have a leak because it is completely buried between surface and soffit.

Why Duradek is the Best Choice to Keep it Dry Below

Duradek is a PVC membrane system and has been waterproofing decks since 1974. Duradek is CAN/CGSB, CCMC and ICC approved as a pedestrian traffic coating and a roofing membrane. It is installed in a single application providing warrantied waterproof protection for 10 years, while its traditional service life reportedly averages 20+ years.

Duradek’s installation methods consider the critical details required for secure waterproof protection of the building envelope. Since those waterproofing details are so important in protecting the home, Duradek is only installed by trained and authorized installers.

Duradek is adhered directly to the plywood or concrete deck surface and all seams are heat-welded to ensure no water can ever penetrate. The membrane is run up the inside perimeter of the deck (recommended 6 inches) against the exterior of the building before the flashing details are added.

The professional installers of Duradek vinyl deck membranes
are skilled in the details needed for reliable waterproofing.

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 to be completely sealed. The perimeter edges can be caulked as they are accessible for annual visual inspections. There is no room for water infiltration with a Duradek system.

Once installed, Duradek reliably provides you a roof for the lower deck below and the walking surface for the upper level deck. On the lower level, the joists are still exposed but with open air flow they are not vulnerable to static water and any moisture will naturally evaporate. If you would like an enclosed ceiling and lighting installed for your lower level deck, the area between joists is completely dry and clear of obstruction for the addition of conduits and a soffit system.

Of the many reasons you might want to create a dry area below your upper level deck, choosing one of Duradek’s beautiful designer finishes offers the best choice for low maintenance decking that doubles your usable outdoor living space.

The roof-grade waterproof protection of Duradek vinyl above
helps to double usable outdoor living space.

Check back next week when we take a close look at the second type of under-deck drainage systems – Panel Systems.

Free Roofing Expo in Hamilton, ON This Week!

AMA Roofing Supplies out of Hamilton, Ontario is hosting a FREE Roofing Expo on Friday, February 27th at their location on Hempstead Drive.

Building professionals, property managers and home owners with a roofing upgrade in their future can check out the latest and greatest in roofing products, siding, eaves troughs and more. Not just a dry supplier event, AMA Roofing Supplies is making it a party. The event will be catered and there are a variety of fantastic door prizes to be won.

Throughout the day, a great selection of manufacturer representatives will be on hand conduction product demonstrations and information sessions so you can get a jump on the busy spring/summer building season by being well educated on the tools and products that are available for you to work with.

Meet Duradek Sales Manager Kevin MacMillan

Duradek's Kevin MacMillan will be at AMA Roofing Expo to answer any questions about Duradek vinyl membrane waterproofing. Kevin attends the largest building events in North America educating builders, architects, specifiers and home improvement experts on the advantages of waterproofing with one of Duradek's 3 distinct membrane systems:

1 - Duradek Ultra - the original walkable roofing membrane. The exposed vinyl surface acts as the waterproofing membrane and pedestrian surface in one single product. Textured for slip resistance and manufactured with UV inhibitors and mold inhibitors, Duradek is available in over 2 dozen colours so there is something for virtually every outdoor design scheme.

2 - Tiledek - the waterproofing membrane developed specifically for use under outdoor tiles. This protected vinyl membrane is manufactured with a fabric embedded top layer for best adhesion of thin-set mortar when installing a tile or stone assembly on flat roof decks.

3 - Plazadek - the waterproofing membrane for floating systems. This protected membrane is intended for use with sleeper systems or floating systems where a different pedestrian surface such as pavers or duck boards  is desired in addition to reliable membrane waterproofing on a flat roof deck.
Discover why a Duradek membrane is a much better choice than an EPDM roof deck for residential leisure space.

Meet Durarail/Excell Railing Systems Sales Manager Blair Holliday

Durarail's Sales Manager  is Blair Holiday from Excell Railing Systems and Blair is the authority on any railing information that you may need. Blair has a ton of experience with railing projects specifically related to roof decks and how to best incorporate railing design into an attractive, waterproof and low-maintenance outdoor living space.

Durarail's powder coated aluminum railing systems are designed to stay looking attractive by withstanding he elements with the advantages of no sanding, staining or recoating ever required. Available in picket, glass and cable systems, Durarail is proud to offer the exceptional Panorama Post topless glass system and is letting AMA Roofing Expo attendees get a sneak peak at the new Panorama Post Plus....a topless glass post that offers exceptional versatility and makes installation a breeze for even dynamically designed decking projects.

Meet local TV Personality from the Weather Network

You can also meet Kim MacDonald from the Weather Network who will be making an appearance at the event as MC and introducing you to the great selection of product representatives.
Visit the AMA event web page to reserve your free spot now!

AMA Roofing Supplies

 To learn more about AMA Roofing, check out: Duradek Distributor AMA Roofing Supplies Sells Service, Dec. 17, 2012

This is an exciting time of year for planning your home renovations and there's no better place to start than your local Home Renovation Shows or Home & Garden Shows. 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 on hand at a variety of home shows throughout the next several months to answer all of your decking questions and show you the latest Duradek colours and patterns that will complement your exterior design scheme and bring you the best low maintenance deck waterproofing system available.

Look For Duradek Installers at These Upcoming Shows

Feb 6 - 8, 2015
The Kansas City Remodel & Garden Show - American Royal Center | Kansas City, MO

Taking place February 6 - 8, 2015, the Kansas City Remodel & Garden Show features an appearance by home renovation celebrity, Kevin O'Connor from 'This Old House'. While you are there, be sure to visit booth #927 to talk to Duradek installers and experts in outdoor spaces, Essential Extras about your decking needs.

Feb 14 - 22, 2015
Seattle Home Show - Century Link Field Event Center | Seattle, WA

Taking place February 14 - 22, 2015, the Seattle Home Show is a one-stop wealth of information for anything to do with your home or garden remodeling plans. It is an ideal place to talk first hand with local contractors and suppliers that bring you the best new products and reliable tried-and-true products that make your home renovations a success. At this show you can talk to the local Duradek installers and Washington Duradek distributor Duradek Northwest about how Duradek can bring professional deck waterproofing performance to your outdoor living projects. Look for Duradek Northwest and area installers to find out why Duradek is the superior choice for waterproofing on decks over living space.



Look for Duradek at booth #1764 at the
 BC Home & Garden Show 2015!

Feb 18 - 22, 2015
BC Home & Garden Show - BC Place Stadium | Vancouver, BC

Taking place February 18 - 22, 2015 at BC Place Stadium, the BC Home & Garden Show is a much anticipated annual event for west-coasters looking for ideas and inspiration for their home renovation and remodeling plans. With appearances from celebrity guests like Bryan Baeumler presenting on the Main Stage offering a range of building and design advice, the BC Home & Garden Show offers visitors home and lifestyle ideas and a wealth of information direct from the specialists.

Duradek is one of those specialists and you will find Duradek at booth #1764 where we are proud to be celebrating our 40th spring of deck waterproofing. You will also find Duradek authorized installer Barefoot Sundecks at booth #1038 and Citywide Sundecks at booth #1741. If you have any specific questions about deck building and waterproofing, be sure to stop by either of these booths for advice from the Duradek waterproofing experts.



While the $15 price of admission is well-worth the ideas, inspiration and savings you can find at the BC Home & Garden Show, you can always register online for a $3 savings at any time. 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!  

Free Registration to Buildex Vancouver Before February 5th, 2015

Duradek is proud to be a participating exhibitor at Buildex Vancouver 2015, one of the largest trade shows in Western Canada for Design, Construction and Real Estate Management professionals, taking place at the Vancouver Trade and Convention Centre West on February 25th and 26th, 2015.

You can take advantage of free registration for the trade-show floor and discounted seminar prices if you register before February 5th (see link below).

With over 13,000 attendees expected to visit the 600+ exhibitors and over 100 speakers at more than 50 educational seminars, Buildex keeps professional builders, designers and property managers up-to-date on the latest in construction and design trends, and how it affects your place in the building industry.

Duradek, the suppliers of the original waterproof roofing membrane believe in being on the top of your game, no matter what your specialty may be. That is what makes the Buildex Vancouver 2015 show such an valuable opportunity. Offering the latest and greatest products and information for 3 distinct professional markets, Buildex covers the most relevant topics for Real Estate Design, Building and Management professionals over 2 days.

In addition to the excellent selection of seminars, you will find presentations throughout the show at the Passive House Pavilion on the show floor. There are also some excellent opportunities for networking as you wander through the exhibit hall or attend the networking reception on Wednesday, February 25th between 4 - 5 pm.

Duradek is a proud participating exhibitor and you can find us at booth#307 - near the Construct Café. We are excited to introduce you to our latest selection of PVC Waterproof membranes such as our 'Legacy' line which was recently introduced in honor of Duradek's landmark 40 years in business; and we couldn't be prouder to have pioneered the sheet vinyl method of waterproofing. This new line emulates the appearance of aged wood and provides an attractive outdoor design scheme while still providing the superior level of waterproof protection you've come to trust from Duradek.

Produced by the same manufacturer over our 40 year history and having gone through several warranty cycles we are very confident in our product and that it can provide the level of waterproof protection you need whether for a single family residence or a large multi-family development.

Buildex has the support of several sponsor associations, several of which Duradek is a current participating member. Associations like Greater Vancouver Home Builders Association (GVHBA), Canadian Home Builders Association of BC (CHBABC) Condominium Home Owners Association (CHOA), Landlord BC, and the BC Building Envelope Council (BCBEC) and its members help to share information to ensure best practices in residential construction, and you can access a lot of the information gathered by the professional Vancouver builders market while you explore Buildex 2015.

Duradek would like to invite you to come visit us at booth #307 and ask us anything you'd like to know about outdoor waterproofing projects and what makes Duradek the leader in waterproof roofing membranes you can walk on.

You can register online before February 5th for free admission to the show floor and lower seminar prices.

We hope to see you there, but if you can't make it down to Buildex or one of the other great construction industry shows or home shows, you can always contact a Duradek dealer in your area for more information on this most reliable method of waterproofing your outdoor living space.

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.

The People that Make Duradek a Successful Deck Waterproofing Option

Many building products go through 3rd party testing to ensure they meet the requirements of current building codes. While this is a very important thing to look at when selecting a product for your residential construction or remodeling projects, particularly when it involves waterproofing a roof deck, in many cases having a quality product is not enough. Some specialty trades like deck or roof deck waterproofing require a particular set of skills and knowledge in order to ensure that the product is installed correctly to guarantee its performance.

At Duradek, we know that no matter how well a waterproofing product is manufactured, what ratings it gets on laboratory test reports and what building code requirements it meets (which are all very important factors), if it is not installed with all of the required attention to waterproofing details and compatibility of substrate and other building envelope elements, it is pretty hard to guarantee that you will get the desired results of a completely waterproofed and aesthetically pleasing surface. This is of particular importance when the waterproofing is on a deck situated over living space and the integrity of the home of is on the line.

Duradek professionals are kept well informed on all
technical aspects of installing Duradek.

That is why Duradek is available ONLY by trained and authorized waterproofing professionals who have received instruction from Duradek on the best techniques, tools and compatible products to get the most attractive, longest lasting deck surfaces for your projects. And after 40 years, Duradek really understands deck waterproofing. We are very proud of that accomplishment. One thing we are even more proud of is the relationship we've developed with our network of Dealer and Distributors that have been with us for nearly as long.

At Duradek's 40th Anniversary Convention in Kelowna earlier this month, there was a gathering of Duradek professionals from all across North America. These Duradek professionals came into deck waterproofing from a variety of trades...some from the remodeling industry, some from the decking industry, some from the roofing industry and some from the flooring industry; and each brings their own set of specialized skills to help make the Duradek network of authorized dealers some of the most well-rounded waterproofing flooring professionals out there. Significantly, this year's convention included a new generation within the dealer network as several family businesses welcomed their junior family members into their roles and pass along decades of knowledge to carry on the tradition of excellence within their specialties.

Duradek owners, Bob and John Ogilvie

It was with great pride, respect and appreciation that Duradek honored the following people for being a part of the Duradek family. In some cases, their businesses have been involved with Duradek much longer than the individual team members, but we truly believe it is the people that make a business successful and we wanted to recognize these people for the important part they play by recognizing their individual contributions in years of support to Duradek.

Years with Duradek		Accepting the Award
Over 10 Years with Duradek...
Duradek MidAtlantic		Jaime Kotanko and John Harlow
Duradek North		Bruce and Karen Fockler
Duradek of Virginia		Bill Shank and Chip Hampton
North Country Distributors		Mike Moore
Railing Pro Inc.		Steve McTaggart

from left: Bob Ogilvie - Duradek, Jaime Kotanko and
John Harlow - Duradek MidAtlantic, Karen and Bruce Fochler
- Duradek North, Mike Moore - North Country Distributors,
Chip Hampton and Bill Shank - Duradek of Virginia,
Steve McTaggart - Railing Pro Inc., John Ogilvie - Duradek

 

 

Over 15 Years with Duradek
Barefoot Sundecks		Terry Billey
Carpet Master		Ron and Peggy Preston
Duradek Southeast		Ted Allen (also representing) Don Allen
 from left: Bob Ogilvie - Duradek Terry Billey - Barefoot Sundecks Peggy and Ron Preston - Carpet Master John Ogilvie - Duradek

 

Over 20 Years with Duradek
Classic Decking		Roger Galenza
Duradek Northwest		Matt Whale
Duradek West		Dave Richey
Dura-Seal		Leeland Ross
Kelowna Duradek		Brian Radke
Okoboji Duradek		Tony Weber
Saskatoon Deck Shop		Rene Laberge
Specialty Building Systems		Bob Fouse and Leann Germanoski
The Duval Group		Ned Wood
Victoria Deck Ltd.		Gail Penner and Brian Nursey
Windeck Ltd.		Mel and Judy Dueck
 The "Over 20 Years with Duradek" Gorup   from left: Mel and Judy Dueck - Windek, Bob Ogilvie - Duradek, Rene Laberge - Saskatoon Deck Shop, Roger Galenza - Classic Decking

 from left: Matt Whale - Duradek Northwest, Dave Richey Sr. and Dave Richey Jr. - Duradek West, Leland Ross - Dura - Seal, Jen with Brian Radke - Kelowna Duradek    from left: Tony Weber - Okoboji Duradek, Bob Fouse and Leann Germanoski - Specialty Building Systems, Brian Nursey and Gail Penner - Victoria Deck Ltd., Ned Wood - The Duval Group, John Ogilvie - Duradek Over 25 Years with Duradek
Raildek Distribution James Simpson
  from left: Bob Ogilvie - Duradek, James Simpson - Raildek Distribution John Ogilvie - Duradek

 

Over 30 Years with Duradek
ABCO Waterproofing and Sundecks		Don Thomas
Hanson Decking		Garth Hanson
Nufloors Creston		Randy and Ellen Samuelson
Waterproof Products Inc.		Bob and Dominic Ellern
 from left: Bob Ogilvie - Duradek , Bob Ellern - Waterproof Products Inc., Garth Hanson - Hanson Decking, Ellen and Randy Samuelson - Nufloors, Dominic Ellern - Waterproof Products Inc., John Ogilvie - Duradek

Thank you to all of the amazing professionals that help to make Duradek the brand it is today. We look forward to celebrating our next milestone with you all and to all of the beautiful decks we will waterproof along the way!

To find a Duradek professional in your area, check out our Dealer Locator.