How A Deck Is Prepared For Duradek

Getting ready for a beautiful Duradek deck involves meticulous preparation of the underlying structure. Here's a breakdown of the key steps our professional installers take to ensure a perfect foundation for your new outdoor oasis:

1. Temporary Railing Removal:

First, our team will temporarily remove any existing deck railings. These will, of course, be reinstalled once the Duradek membrane is secured, or replaced with long-lasting aluminum railings depending on your budget and preferences.

2. Removing Existing Vinyl / Surface (if applicable):

If your deck currently features vinyl decking, our team will carefully remove it to ensure a solid foundation. From there, we assess and (with your approval) repair any rot or plywood delamination that may have occurred.

3. Sloping for Drainage:

Proper water drainage is crucial for the longevity of your deck. Our installers achieve this by strategically placing wood slope strips across the joists. These strips create a 1/4 inch per foot slope, ensuring water flows freely and doesn't pool on the deck surface. They're typically spaced  16 inches apart  and placed directly over the existing deck boards.

4. Plywood Subdeck Installation:

For a smooth and stable base for the Duradek membrane, our team installs a layer of 3/4 inch thick Select Fir Tongue and Groove (T&G) plywood. This creates a clean, even surface and provides a strong foundation for the Duradek system.

5. Smoothing and Sealing the Plywood:

Once the plywood subdeck is installed, our meticulous installers fill any gaps or imperfections with  special deck mud. This creates a seamless surface for optimal Duradek adhesion. The mudded surface is then sanded smooth to ensure a perfect finish.

6. Water Management Details:

To prevent water intrusion, our team installs a PVC-coated drip edge around the outer perimeter of the deck. This diverts water away from the structure. Additionally, the first few inches of your home's siding be removed to allow the Duradek membrane to extend behind the home's vapor barrier, creating a complete water

Ready for the Duradek Touch!

With these thorough preparation steps complete, your deck is now ready for the Duradek membrane installation, the next crucial stage in the process. Our certified installers will ensure the membrane is flawlessly applied, creating a beautiful, waterproof, and long-lasting deck surface you can enjoy for years to come.

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