Continued exposure to the elements can place a lot of stress on the waterproof
coatings on decks, stairs, and balconies. This is particularly true for
decks of the oceanfront cities like San Luis Obispo and Pismo Beach, where
oceanic moisture and marine layer can supercharge the wear and tear placed
on these features of your home. Unless proper waterproofing and sealing
procedures are used, moisture damage to your deck could lead to large
repair expenses, particularly in the need of a full structural rebuild
due to rotted wood and framing.
When you have a roof deck or other balcony feature attached to your home,
it’s important to make sure your deck is waterproofed in order to
keep it safe for use and prevent any further damage to your home. By following
these procedures, trusted San Luis Obispo deck contractor can help make
sure your deck stays in optimal condition and your maintenance bills remain
as low as possible.
Use a Solid Design
The design of your roof deck is one of the most important aspects of the
entire system. Your deck should be designed to allow water to roll off
of it or towards a drain in the middle of it, not stand stagnant. Standing
water can leak through waterproofing layers, causing damage to the exposed
wood beneath. If your deck has a hot tub or other feature on it, how will
that affect your design and the ability for water to escape?
Use Above-Code Materials When Possible
While the state of California does have minimum standards of quality for
materials that go into decking systems, spending a little more money on
stronger, thicker, and better quality materials, particularly framing
wood, can help your deck last longer be more resistant to the elements,
and be capable of supporting more weight.
Nothing is worse than feeling the surface of your deck start to shift underfoot.
When you add in the weight of the
waterproofing material (which depending on your choice could be substantial), thinner
materials could be placed under more stress just by general use. Spending
a little more to build your deck stronger right from the start can ensure
it lasts longer and is stronger for its entire lifetime.
Select a Quality Waterproof Coating
It’s strongly advised that you employ the services of a professional
to do so. A factory-trained applicator will have stronger, higher-quality
options available for you to choose from, many of which will not be available
from a regular hardware store.
Whether you choose a vinyl or a cementitious coating is up to you, as each
has a certain look, process for application, and amount of required maintenance.
However, if you are unsure, it’s strongly advised you speak with
a contractor regarding what you want out of your deck and your hopes for
the project.
DeckTech, Inc.
is a San Luis Obispo deck contractor who specializes in the construction,
maintenance, and waterproofing of rooftop decks, balconies, and outdoor
staircases. If the deck on your home has sustained serious water damage,
call us today to schedule a deck inspection and to receive a quote regarding
our waterproofing and resurfacing services.
Call DeckTech, Inc. at (805) 250-4498 or
contact us online today.