If you are building a deck, selecting sheet vinyl for your waterproofing solution is an excellent choice. For a smooth project from beginning to end be sure to consult with your Duradek installer for your specific project needs before you start construction. Below you will find some great tips to help you make your deck ready for a Duradek installation if you or a contractor is preparing th surface.
Slope
For the best product performance and enjoyment of your vinyl deck surface, the deck subsurface should be sloped (ideally 2%) to eliminate ponding water. If puddling were to occur, the area would require more regular cleaning due to the build-up of dirt and pollutants. Ponding water will not affect the waterproofing of the vinyl but may eventually cause premature discoloration in the vinyl.
Subsurface
The better the surface, the better finished outdoor flooring we can give you. A properly prepared surface like sanded (untreated) plywood or cement board will give the best-finished surface possible. As a rule, ¼” x 3/8″ plywood will warp due to absorption of moisture from the atmosphere. We recommend ⅝” T&G untreated plywood ( select fir ) on 16inch centers or ½” cement board for the flattest possible subsurface for your vinyl.
Plywood should be glued and screwed ( not nailed ) using adhesive like Pl premium or lumber lock with tight tongue and groove seems.
Penetrations
All penetrations (posts, pillars) must be sealed to prevent water from entering under the vinyl. All wood posts or pillars will eventually crack and give access for water to get under the vinyl covering and into the subsurface. Caulking and regular inspection are required. To completely waterproof a vinyl deck that has posts, either fasten the posts to the fascia of the building or completely cover surface mounted posts with a waterproof membrane and clad. When fastening metal rails or posts to a vinyl deck surface, all pilot holes should be filled with a sealant before screws are inserted.
Wrapping
On the house or wall sides ideally we want to wrap the duradek up the wall six inches and ideally under a door opening. The material on the wall should be untreated plywood or untreated wood 90 degrees of the plywood floor without any gaps between the too.
Outside edge
Once the final outside edge product is determined We recommend that a minimum of a 1 by 2 product of cedar or cape code product be install flush with the top of the facia This allows the vinyl to be installed over it and allows the water to drip away from the facia and typically not down it this also sets up a trough job a lot easier for that product if water collection was required.
