Spring is on its way, folks, and while that means warmer weather on the road ahead, it also means wetter days. That means plants will thrive, but your deck? Not so much … unless you’ve taken steps to protect against the wet season. When you apply proper deck waterproofing, you’re ensuring your deck is able to withstand these weather conditions and serve you well for years to come. There are plenty of ways to reach that goal—sealants and stains, waterproof membranes, epoxy, and more. In this blog, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about these methods so you can make an informed decision on how to achieve a truly waterproof deck.
Sealants and Stains
Sealants and stains are possibly the most popular deck waterproofing options out there, and for good reason. They create a reliable protective layer—assuming you use quality products—that repels moisture and laughs in the face of otherwise harmful UV rays.
Sealants don’t just protect the surface of your deck, either. They penetrate the wood, which prevents unwanted water from seeping in and causing interior rot. This contributes to both the health of the wood and its overall beauty—all while protecting your deck from ultraviolet light. Though these sealants and stains require reapplication every few years, it’s hardly a headache. Application is simple and straightforward!
So, to recap, the benefits of sealants and stains are:
- Easy application and cost-effectiveness
- Enhancement of natural beauty of the wood
- Protection against moisture and sun damage
Just be aware of a few potential drawbacks:
- Must be reapplied every few years
- Less effective in particularly humid or rainy climates
Waterproof Membranes
Want your deck to double as a roof for a space you have beneath it? There’s an option for such cases that provides superior protection compared to traditional sealants. Using materials like rubberized coating, vinyl, and PVC, waterproof membranes are applied over the surface of the deck before the decking boards are installed. With this method properly applied, water won’t have a chance of reaching the deck structure, meaning its lifespan is maximized and the space under the deck will stay nice and dry!
Under-Deck Drainage Systems
If you’re looking for an under deck waterproofing solution outside of a waterproof membrane, a drainage system will provide what you’re looking for. These systems are designed to divert water away from your deck structure in order to keep the area below dry and usable. Installed beneath the deck boards, they channel water away from vulnerable areas using a system of gutters. Like the aforementioned membrane, this is a great method for keeping water out of living spaces that are under a raised deck.
Liquid Coating and Epoxy Systems
Some homeowners desire deck waterproofing that offers a seamless protective barrier and enhanced durability. For such a case, liquid waterproof coatings are up to the task. Applied directly onto the surface of the deck, they form a sturdy waterproof layer that’s perfect for concrete, composite, and wood decks. Here are the key advantages:
- Seamless waterproof barrier
- Resistant to harsh weather, wear, and chemicals
- Applicable with a wide variety of deck materials
Like any decking solution, there are a few things to keep in mind, though:
- Some coatings can become slippery when wet, presenting a potential safety hazard. We recommend a non-slip finish for such circumstances.
- Liquid coating and epoxy systems might require resealing on occasion to maintain maximum effectiveness.
Vinyl and Composite Decking
For those of you on the lookout for a waterproof deck that offers low maintenance and water-resistant features, we’ve got the perfect solution. Vinyl and composite decking are naturally resistant to moisture, insect damage, and rot. On top of that, they come in a plethora of colors and textures that emulate real wood; get the look without the frequent maintenance requirements!
Though vinyl and composite decking have a higher up-front cost, the investment will be well worth it with the passage of time. This is thanks to their minimal upkeep and general longer lifespan. In short, the investment is one you’ll be happy with for years to come.
Choose the Deck Waterproofing That Works for You!
Choosing the best deck waterproofing method depends on several factors that largely boil down to your preferences. Do you want the authenticity of real wood or the low maintenance requirements of vinyl and composite decking? Or maybe you’re looking for an under deck waterproofing solution to keep your ground floor living space dry. Whatever your needs are, there are plenty of solutions available at Ladiesburg Lumber! Get in touch with us or visit our lumber yard for your first step towards a waterproof deck.
