If you’ve recently installed a new deck on your property or are planning to in the near future, there are few more important factors than ensuring proper waterproofing after construction is finished. Wood decks will last longer and provide significantly greater benefits with the right waterproofing solutions, which protect not only the wood itself but also any surfaces or areas below the deck in question.
At Summit Coatings, we’re proud to offer deck coating and waterproofing services at your convenience. We have years of experience helping Utah property owners keep their materials and structures protected from the Utah climate, with several different products and processes on hand depending on your precise needs. Today’s blog will go over a few of the common deck waterproofing methods that might be right for your next job.
Surface Coating
A very common format for deck waterproofing is covering the surface with a liquid rubber coating of some kind. This will be a water-resistant layer that works for all wood areas, though it should be noted that this does not cover gapped boards – meaning we will need to cover those boards with groove and tongue plywood that will be glued and screwed to the deck. In some cases, this process utilizes fiberglass resins and matting, or possibly cement-based liquids.
Locking Decking
In other cases, we may recommend utilizing extruded aluminum planks rather than wooden boards when it comes to waterproofing. These extrusions will lock together, stopping water from dripping down through any surface.
When installed properly, these locked decks will direct any water that hits the surface to the perimeter, where it can drain as needed. These solutions provide some of the longest-lasting decking options out there, and can be used for arid decks, dry joists and last decks.
Waterproof Membrane
We may also highlight a waterproof membrane, a flooring format made from solid material bonded down onto the deck directly. This technology was originally used in the boating world, where vinyl flooring formats are used to seal the boat from and leaking risks.
When performing this service on your decks, we will generally use a plywood substrate as the material. We may have to weld some surfaces here, a job you should not ever try on your own.
Under-Deck Waterproofing
Finally, for wood surfaces, we may utilize a physical catching system that’s placed under the deck to stop water from damaging anything underneath the area. This will include large panels that act as an eaves trough, channeling water runoff to the proper locations and eventually to a drainage downspout. This makes it possible to use the space under your deck for living or other needs.
For more on some of the deck waterproofing formats available, or to learn about any of our epoxy coatings or industrial flooring services, speak to the staff at Summit Coatings today.
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