Decks are in charge of extending homes into the great outdoors—and RAM Builders Stucco & Exteriors can make sure yours is safe. Whether it's a morning cup of coffee as the sun rises or a starlit dinner under the night sky, decks offer an unparalleled connection to nature. Yet, beneath their charm lies a vulnerability – the constant battle against the elements. Rain, sun, and snow, the very elements that make our world beautiful, can wreak havoc on a deck's integrity. That's where the art and science of deck waterproofing come into play, preserving our outdoor sanctuaries and ensuring they stand the test of time.
Deck waterproofing is not merely a functional necessity; it's a testament to human ingenuity. It's the craft of protecting our outdoor spaces from the relentless onslaught of moisture – the silent adversary that can lead to rot, decay, and structural damage. The process involves applying specialized coatings and sealants to create an impermeable barrier, shielding the deck from rainwater, snowmelt, and morning dew. It's a meticulous process that demands attention to detail and an understanding of the unique characteristics of the deck's material.
Wood, a popular choice for decks due to its natural beauty, is particularly vulnerable to moisture. When exposed to the elements, wood absorbs water, leading to swelling, warping, and eventual decay. Waterproofing wood decks involves the application of sealants that penetrate the wood's fibers, creating a shield against water intrusion. These sealants not only protect the wood but also enhance its natural color and texture, ensuring that the deck remains visually appealing for years to come.
Composite decks, crafted from a blend of wood fibers and plastic, offer durability and low maintenance. However, even composite materials are not entirely immune to moisture. Water can seep into the gaps between composite boards, leading to mold growth and structural issues. Deck waterproofing solutions for composite decks often involve specialized waterproofing membranes that are installed between the boards, creating a seamless barrier against moisture infiltration.
Beyond the functional aspects, deck waterproofing is an opportunity for creativity and customization. Waterproofing materials come in a variety of finishes, from clear sealants that preserve the deck's natural appearance to tinted coatings that add a touch of color. Homeowners can choose from matte, satin, or glossy finishes, tailoring the deck's aesthetic to complement the overall design of the home and the surrounding landscape. It's a chance to transform the deck into a visual masterpiece, enhancing its allure while ensuring its longevity.
In addition to protecting the deck's structural integrity, waterproofing also safeguards the investments made in outdoor furniture, grills, and other accessories. Moisture can seep into furniture cushions and upholstery, leading to mold and mildew growth. Waterproofed decks provide a dry environment, ensuring that outdoor furnishings remain comfortable and inviting. Moreover, a waterproofed deck is easier to clean and maintain, reducing the time and effort required for regular upkeep.
The benefits of deck waterproofing extend beyond immediate advantages. A well-maintained, waterproofed deck adds significant value to the property. In the real estate market, outdoor spaces are often a deal-breaker or a deal-maker. A meticulously waterproofed deck enhances the home's curb appeal, making it more enticing to potential buyers. It's an investment that not only pays off in the short term by ensuring the deck's longevity but also in the long term by increasing the property's market value.
Furthermore, deck waterproofing contributes to sustainable living. By preserving the deck and its accessories, homeowners reduce the need for replacements, minimizing the demand for new materials and the environmental impact associated with their production. Waterproofing also prevents water damage, which can lead to the growth of mold and mildew – environmental hazards that can affect indoor air quality. By protecting the deck, homeowners are indirectly safeguarding the well-being of their families and the environment.
In essence, deck waterproofing is a harmonious blend of artistry and functionality. It's a meticulous process that transforms vulnerable outdoor spaces into resilient sanctuaries. It's the fusion of science and creativity, ensuring that our decks not only endure the elements but also captivate the senses. The preserved deck becomes more than a mere extension of the home; it becomes a testament to human craftsmanship and a sanctuary where memories are made, and moments are cherished.
As we revel in the splendor of our outdoor havens, let’s not forget the silent guardians – the waterproofing coatings and sealants that work tirelessly beneath the surface. They are the unsung heroes, preserving paradise against the whims of weather and time. Deck waterproofing is more than a practical necessity; it's a celebration of the enduring bond between humans and nature, ensuring that our outdoor spaces remain vibrant, inviting, and resilient, standing as testaments to the artistry of preservation in the face of the elements. Contact RAM Builders Stucco & Exteriors to schedule your consultation and quote.
A deck is a practical and beautiful way to provide extra entertainment space for your home. A deck can serve many purposes, from a quiet relaxation spot to all-night parties to a play area for the kids. To keep this space usable, it’ll need a little TLC. Utah’s weather extremes can damage decks, but with the right protection, you can enjoy your investment for years. Here are some reasons to waterproof your deck:
If offers protection from elements: Waterproofing your deck provides a layer of protection from rain and hail in spring and fall, the beating sun in summer, and heavy snow and freezing temperatures in the winter.
It helps keep the framework solid: Water on decks can turn to mold and rot the wood. Over time, this will erode the deck. If this happens on support beams or joists, the entire integrity of the deck becomes compromised. Not only will you have more maintenance requirements, but you’ll also likely need to replace much of it to make it safe again. It’s not a matter of if your deck will be problematic, it’s when.
It reduces maintenance needs: All decks will need some maintenance over the years, but an uncoated deck will need much more. Sanding, repainting, or structural repairs are costly and time consuming. Waterproofing a deck minimizes these needs.
It looks good and saves you money: A properly waterproofed deck looks great. It provides a finished look that says, “we take good care of our property.” Waterproofing will help prevent fading or discoloration of the wood as well. A run-down wooden deck that is full of splinter hazards and soft spots is not only unsightly but unsafe. It takes a good deal of time and money to bring a dilapidated deck back to life. Stay ahead of the game by waterproof sealing your deck every year.
It ensures a longer lifespan: A deck with waterproofing applied each year will last much longer than an uncoated deck. A little annual investment will bring many years of enjoyment.
To check if your deck needs a new coat of waterproofing, pour a little water onto the wood. If the water beads up, the deck is protected. If you see the water soak into the wood, it’s time for a new coat. Decks should receive two coats of sealant, applied in thin coats one at a time with a stain brush, being mindful to stain in the same direction of the wood grain and plank. Allow for the deck to fully dry, at least 48 hours, before walking on it or putting furniture back out there.
Water will find its way through a flat surface at some point, which is why we use a special application technique that creates a small slope so water can’t puddle and sit on the wood. Our waterproofing skills provide a quality end product that ensures your deck stays protected better and longer. To ensure your deck is properly sealed, trust RAM Builders Stucco & Exteriors to handle the task.
Ironically, waterproof decks are where we find the worst dry rot in the shortest amount of time. There is a huge variety of waterproof decks offered by manufacturers and contractors. In Utah, every tile exterior deck that we run into has failed. Water gets in through the grout joints and into the grout bed under the tile. With Utah’s freeze thaw cycles, major failure can happen very quickly. Other waterproof deck systems that we see fail regularly are pre-manufactured sheet products that are installed directly over the deck substrate. These types of products have a seem in them every 4′ and the joints usually fail within a couple of years. The best waterproof decking systems are wet applied products that are mixed and applied on site and no joints are created. Unfortunately, even good decking systems fail when the product is not properly tied into the adjacent exterior cladding.
The reason for failure- Its not the way the deck product was installed, or bad material, its the failure to properly tie into the adjacent exterior cladding on the home or building. All exterior cladding products have a moisture barrier behind it. If the waterproof deck coating does not tie into the moisture barrier correctly, water will get under the deck coating. The waterproof qualities of the deck will keep it from drying out, water is trapped, and the wood framing will rot.
These pictures are a example from a job we did in June 2014 on a home that is 5 years old. For more information and examples of waterproof deck, go to this page of our website- https://rambuilders.com/services/remodeling-and-home-improvement/exterior-decking/
