All About Vinyl Decking. (Duradek)
A deck is a perfect place to entertain friends, enjoy a cup of tea or relax after a tiring day. However, if you are one of the homeowners who struggle to pick the best deck from the variety of decks available. You should go for Vinyl Decking.
Vinyl Decks have a lot of benefits over wood or any other type of decking. Plus, it comes in multiple colors, textures and prices. Along with being affordable, it is also easy to manage and maintain.
In this article, we will understand what exactly is vinyl decking, and what are its advantages. Along with some key points about this decking that may help you take the final call.
What Is Vinyl Decking?
Vinyl decks are waterproof membranes made up of 100% PVC (Poly Vinyl Chloride) commonly known as vinyl. These decks are used on balconies, floors and on roofs to provide a clean, waterproof and elegant looking covering.
A brand named dura deck is the original vinyl decking manufacturer that started way back in 1974. This type of decking is known for its low maintenance and high-quality decking.
Vinyl styles used in decking have a thickness of 45 to 60 mil along with a backing of woven polyester. The woven polyester prevents leaks and makes your roof deck more cost-efficient. There are brands like Duradek in the industry that provide woven polyester backing.
Why Should You Get Vinyl Decking? (Benefits Of Vinyl Decking)
Though traditional wood can also be used for decking. Vinyl decking remains the better option for various reasons. Let’s take a look at why you should get vinyl decking for your roof!
Waterproof And Durable.
Vinyl decks have a waterproof coating that protects your roof from leaks. Having a waterproof layer also means that there won’t be a growth of molds or any other fungus. These waterproof coatings are slip-resistant, which means the chances of you slipping on the roof deck are negligible. As it provides a smooth walkable surface.
Vinyl decks are known for their high durability of around 15-20 years. They expand and shrink according to the temperature, hence they are suitable for extreme weather conditions. Also, the vinyl decking membranes unlike wood don’t rot and are less likely to get damaged or crack. This makes it a long-lasting and better alternative to regular wood.
Minimum Maintenance.
We know, Vinyl decking is made of PVC. This material requires less to no maintenance. It does not deteriorate and is less prone to damage. The only time it might require maintenance is when affected by UV light. Constant UV light exposure over years can cause the decking membrane to decay.
However, this type of decaying will take years and is easily replaceable.
Aesthetically Appealing.
Appealing appearance is something that has made Vinyl decking stand out from other decking options like composite or wooden decking. The wood-like decking is the most popular one as it adds an expensive and aesthetic look to your home!
The color of Vinyl decks doesn’t fade easily, thus it does not require repainting. The appearance of vinyl decking is preferred by most homeowners over wooden or composite decking as it looks fresh even after years of installation.
Easy Installation.
The process of installing a vinyl deck is pretty easy and gets completed in minimum time. All you need is a smooth, crack-less surface for its installation. Therefore it is best installed by professionals who are experienced in installing it. As the authorized and certified installers will prepare the surface to lay down the decking beforehand. Making the further process easy.
Is Vinyl Decking Temperature Sensitive?
Temperature sensitivity is something that depends on the climate of the region you live in. And also, on the color of your decks. With increasing temperature and heat, any type of vinyl decking is bound to heat up. Which leads to the constant expansion and contraction of a vinyl deck.
Moreover, if your decking is in a darker color, it will absorb more heat than its lighter counterpart. Hence, if you live in a region with harsh summers, make sure you choose a lighter shade for decking.
However, some brands manufacture vinyl decking that is above this issue. These high-quality decking companies like Duradek and Tufdek create decking that is mostly temperature insensitive. Therefore, their decking lasts longer than other brands.
What’s The Maintenance Process Of Vinyl Decking?
Vinyl decks require very less maintenance and can be maintained by homeowners themselves for most of the part. As there is hardly any need for professional inspection or help.
To take good care of vinyl decking, the following tips are suggested:
Sweep: Take a broom and start sweeping the deck. Get rid of the accumulated debris.
Pour and Scrub: Once the dry dirt has been removed, take a garden hose and start sprinkling water. Scrub the decking surface with liquid soap or other cleaners. Remove any kind of stain and wash it with plain water thoroughly.
Inspect: Look out for cracks or any kind of damage in the deck. Fix the damages yourself or get professional help if required.
The inspection process does not take too long and it is recommended to be performed once or twice a year.
Is Vinyl Decking Long Lasting?
Yes! Vinyl decking is known for its durability. Depending upon the thickness of your deck, it may last up to 15 to 20 years on average. If the skins of your deck are short then its life expectancy may decrease. Decks with thick skins last for as long as 30 years.
Is Vinyl Decking Available In Multiple Colors?
Yes! Vinyl decks are available in multiple colors. They come in lighter and darker shades with different textures. You can also paint vinyl decking with the acrylic paint of your choice.
Does Vinyl Decking Have A Warranty?
Yes! Vinyl decking does come off with a warranty. If you have installed your vinyl decks from a professional installer then you get a warranty of around 5-10 years.
For 45 mil decks, the warranty period is less than 5 years. While 60 mil decks get up to 10 years of warranty.
Some brands of vinyl decking also offer a transferable warranty. That is if you sell your house to someone else, the new homeowner can enjoy the benefits of the warranty too.
Conclusion.
I hope this article gives you an insight into what it’s like to have vinyl decking installed. Also, if you have any questions feel free to ask them in the comment section. In case you need a quote on the installation of a vinyl deck contact us at 1 866 777 0084 TODAY!
Leak-Stop is a one-stop destination to meet your roofing-related requirements. We offer roof repair, replacement, maintenance and inspection services all over GVRD (Greater Vancouver Regional District). We offer a free inspection to first-time clients.