Case History #164: Roof Deck Repair in Houston

PROJECT:

Enclosed Roof Deck Repair - Houston, TX

PROBLEM:

In 2010, a young couple, both busy and successful professionals, purchased a $650,000 new townhome in an exclusive gated community from what appeared to be a reputable builder.

Within a couple of years, water began coming through the ceilings of both their Master Bedroom and Guest Bedrooms.

Repeated warranty calls did not solve the problem and finally the builder walked away, leaving them with no good solution. Numerous failed repair attempts were made by other contractors.

Several contractors ineffectively attempted repairing the leaks.

DURADEK SOLUTION:

The homeowners finally contacted Duradek Dealer Home Defect Analysis & Solutions in the summer of 2013. The company was able to determine that the existing decks, which consisted of a cement material applied directly over bare plywood, needed to be completely replaced.

As with many clients, these homeowners wanted a permanent solution with a solid warranty. It also had to be a product that was suitable for a home of that value and retain an appearance suitable to the upscale community. Duradek (Cork Macchiato) fit all of their needs and was used to replace both decks on the home.

Duradek was able to resolve the problem for good - no more leaks!

JOB NOTES:

The Duradek system of waterproofing is the most reliable system for roof decks, not just because of the superior quality of the vinyl membrane, but also because Duradek installers consider the water routing required for each project.

In this case, an enclosed roof deck required drains, overflow drains, adequate door clearance and perimeter details.

View or download the .pdf version of Case History #164 for the complete case history with installer details and before and after images.

If you are experiencing issues with leaks from your flat roof deck, save yourself some trial-and-error time by going straight to a Duradek Installer in your area for a free consultation.

Case History #163: 2nd Level Deck Renovation in Georgia

This deck renovation was all about give and take. What it gave was double the usable deck space by creating a protected lower patio area below; and what it took away was yearly labor on maintenance.

PROJECT:

Residential 2nd Level Deck Renovation - Alpharetta, Georgia

PROBLEM:

These homeowners have a beautiful residence overlooking an Alpharetta, Georgia lake in an upscale neighborhood. They decided to build a swimming pool between the home and the lake. Plans for this project included upgrading a worn out drip-through deck.

Traditional wood drip-through decks require a lot
of regular maintenance.

They were tired of the continual maintenance issues with the old deck including painting & fixing broken boards and dealing with the constant water dripping to the lower concrete deck. The lower deck had not been used to its potential, but once the new pool was installed, that lower deck would become a much desired entertainment area near the pool.

In their search for a waterproof solution, they found the perfect product to enhance the upper deck and keep the lower deck dry - Duradek vinyl decking

DURADEK SOLUTION:

The homeowner called Duradek of Georgia to provide a solution for their project. After a careful and thorough review of the current deck, Duradek provided the homeowner with an in-depth proposal.

Since the deck was older, an update to the deck structure was needed. That included the removal of the wood railing, removal of the old deck boards and sloping the deck for water run-off.

Untreated plywood on a 2% slope is the ideal surface
preparation for Duradek deck vinyl.

The existing joists were used and 2" x 6" boards were attached to achieve the necessary slope. New T&G 3/4" plywood was installed and the Duradek Ultra Heritage Agate was applied for low maintenance waterproof protection. In addition, the homeowners wanted a new, maintenance free powder-coated steel railing system.

After the Duradek installation was finished, the lower deck ceiling was painted a light color to achieve a finished look including electrical work for new ceiling fans.

With Duradek Heritage Agate vinyl, this deck was
transformed into a low maintenance place of leisure.

JOB NOTES:

Demolition for this project began in January, right after an unusual snow fall in Georgia. This highlights one of the advantages of the Duradek system - Duradek can be installed in virtually any climate all year round on dry, untreated plywood.

With its single application it can be used as soon as it is installed a requires no special conditions for drying and re-coating.

View or download the .pdf version of Case History #163 for the complete case history with installer details and before and after images.

If you have a decking project on the horizon and would like to know more about Duradek's reliable, low maintenance waterproofing solutions, browse through our website or contact a Duradek Installer in your area for a free consultation.

Case History #162: Leaking Roof Deck Renovation

Here's a brief look at a project that resolved the problem of ongoing leaks in a high-end home due to inadequate waterproofing on the roof deck...

PROJECT:

Leaky Roof Deck Renovation | Private Residence - Houston, Texas  

PROBLEM:

The rooftop deck on this 3-year old million dollar home had a hodgepodge of ugly patches over a failed cementitious coating. At only 3 years old, this was an incredible failure for an expensive property.

Water was continually leaking into the room below despite the repeated patching attempts which proved inadequate.

Patching is never a reliable solution on a poorly constructed roof deck.

The homeowner actually had to plan for house sitters to empty the buckets in the room below, just in case it rained while they were away on vacation! It was time to call for professional assistance, so the homeowners called authorized Duradek installers, Home Defect Analysis and Solutions.

DURADEK SOLUTION:

To start with, the unattractive original roof deck surface was not up to par for the prime entertaining space in a home of this quality.

Authorized Duradek installers at Home Defect Analysis and Solutions know roof deck waterproofing and suggested Duradek's Tiledek as the waterproofing solution with a Versailles patterned travertine surface on top.

The results are not only watertight, but the finished deck was spectacular in appearance...perfect for entertaining. The homeowners were so pleased, they ultimately had Home Defect Analysis and Solutions change out three other decks and a patio in the same house.



The new tiles are beautiful, but more importantly, underneath
them is a reliable, roof-grade waterproofing membrane.

JOB NOTES:

The original failed deck was doomed from the beginning. A metal lath was placed on bare wood decking and stapled at inch intervals. A cement based top coat was troweled directly onto the plywood surface at less than 1/4 inch thick.

Since the cement based top coat was applied directly to the plywood, it caused the wood to crack, and buckle at the joints. Once it started to leak, it was a total failure.

View or download the .pdf version of Case History #162 for the complete case history with installer details and before and after images.

If you have a decking project on the horizon and would like to know more about Duradek's reliable, low maintenance waterproofing solutions, browse through our website or contact a Duradek Installer in your area for a free consultation.

Case History #161: Elevated Tile Deck on New Estate Home

PROJECT

Providence Plantation Tile Deck -  Milton, GA

PROBLEM

This beautiful 6,000 sq. ft. estate home in prestigious "Providence Plantation" was being built by Highland Communities homes in a North Georgia neighborhood. The owner of Highland Communities had experienced past tile deck failures several years ago before finding Tiledek as a solution to prevent water infiltration.

He found that when building large, expensive homes, owners want the look and feel of tile as an exterior deck surface. Early in 2012, he called Duradek of Georgia to install his first Tiledek project on another exclusive home in Alpharetta, GA. Once he saw the results, he has used Tiledek exclusively on all of his exterior tile deck installations.  He said, "No more inferior installations, I am sold on Tiledek".



Successful waterproofing begins with a
properly prepared substrate.

Highland Communities has a mission to use only the finest materials and utilize proven and highly skilled craftsman, so true to their word, they called on Duradek of Georgia to perform this install.

DURADEK SOLUTION

As Duradek's relationship with Highland Communities has developed, we know what to expect from each other. Highland Communities knows how to build a deck to our specifications and how the deck assembly is to be installed using 3/4 inch T&G plywood and 1/2 inch Durock as the subsurface before we install Tiledek.


Tiles being laid on the newly installed Tiledek membrane.


Tildek's superior waterproofing performance when installed with the techniques and details that Duradek installers are specifically educated for provides a reliable, water-tight seal. The triple heat-welded seams and proper water deflection and drainage ensures the water is routed away from the building. New tiles were laid and even if some cracking was ever to occur on those surface tiles, the Tiledek membrane will prevent water from penetrating through to the structure of the deck and compromising the building envelope.


These beautiful new tiles look fantastic, but even if age causes
some cracking in the grout or tiles, the Tiledek membrane is
still doing its job of protecting the structure from water damage.

JOB NOTES

Duradek professional installers know that every stage of an exterior tile assembly must be considered together to ensure a successful project overall.

Duradek of Georgia advised the tile setters to use a waterproof mastik and waterproof grout for best long-term results. They also advised the builders of Highland Communities to educate the homeowners to clean their deck annually and re-seal the grout for the longest life for their deck.

View or download the .pdf version of Case History #161 for the complete case history with installer details and before and after images.

Case History #160: Lakeside Cabin Railing Replacement

PROJECT

Cabin Deck Renovation Railing Replacement, Hatheume Lake, BC.

PROBLEM

Summer was in full swing but with so little time to properly enjoy it, the last thing the owners of this cabin wanted to do was spend time sanding, painting and sealing under the heat of the summer sun.

But as natural aging wore down the protection on this wood railing system, the unsightly chipped and peeling paint was not the big concern. The painful splinters in fingers from the railing was not even the biggest concern.

What mattered most was safety and as the elements aged the wood railing more, its vulnerability increased and its stability decreased.


Wood railings need a lot of maintenance to stay protected
and structurally secure.

DURADEK SOLUTION

The safety of the deck was the most important issue, but with such a beautiful view, the owners wanted a deck that would make the most of their surroundings.

Durarail Panorama Post was the perfect solution to compliment their deck. This topless glass system allowed the cabin owners to maximize the view from the deck with a system that provides the important function of a guard rail without pickets or even a top rail.


Durarail Panorama Post Topless Glass Railing System Fascia Mounted.

Plus, unlike pickets, it has the desirable feature of a wind blocker for the heavy breeze that can come off of the lake. Around the barbecue area where extra wind protection was needed, it was provided by using higher glass inserts.


Extra wind blocking can be achieved where needed with higher glass inserts

JOB NOTES

In addition to the beautiful appearance the Panorama Post Topless Glass Railing System brings to this deck, its low maintenance waterproof durability was a real asset.

The powder coated aluminum posts stand up to the elements better than any other railing material available and requires no maintenance.

Additionally, the fascia mounted system allowed the railing to be installed without compromising the waterproof integrity of their recently installed vinyl deck membrane.

View or download the .pdf version of Case History #160 for the complete case history with installer details and before and images.


Wow! What a transformation...now they can really enjoy their lake view!

Case History #159: Roof Deck Rescue in Atlanta, GA

PROJECT

Roof Deck Rescue - Leaky Roof Deck near Atlanta, GA.

When a deck is also a roof, reliable waterproofing is critical.

PROBLEM

The main advantage of roof decks is that you get double the livable space. Outdoor living space above and additional dry living space below...but without proper waterproofing all that real estate is at a disadvantage. This tile deck was leaking into the lower level of the home but the homeowner was not sure what to do to solve the problem. They had tried a variety of products to stop the leaking including sealers, caulk and finely tarps. It was when the homeowner found an area that was soft and spongy that he realized he needed a professional, so he called Duradek of Georgia.

It was evident that the leaking had caused damage to the subfloor and would potentially develop into rotting wood.


Tile is not waterproof and tile decks will always eventually
leak if the waterproofing has not been addressed.

After a detailed inspection of the existing deck, it was clear the tile was originally installed incorrectly with little or no underlayment for waterproofing. In addition, cracked grout lines allowed water to penetrate to the plywood surface finding its way to the seams and the underside of the deck.



Once water has made its way below the tiles,
the substrate is vulnerable to rot.

DURADEK SOLUTION

Duradek of Georgia knew exactly how to fix the problem. They gave the homeowners a full presentation of the Duradek / Tiledek options for them to consider. Still unsure which option was best for them and their home, they went to see an existing Duradek installation in a nearby suburb.

Once they saw the simplicity of Duradek vinyl membrane waterproofing the choice was easy. With the owners' experience with their current tile deck, they chose to go with the Duradek solution. They were impressed with the wide selection of colors and like the idea of a minimal maintenance deck that requires no ongoing maintenance...only occasional cleaning.

After removing the old deck materials and laying fresh untreated plywood, Duradek Ultra Cork Macchiato was installed. The homeowners are very happy with the way the new deck looks and the advantage of virtually no maintenance.



Duradek Ultra Cork Macchiato waterproof membrane now
allows this deck to function as the roof that it is.

JOB NOTES

Atlanta, Georgia had experienced an exceptionally cold winter that year with three days below freezing. It is that freeze / thaw cycle that can stress exterior tiles and cause cracking.

When the deck was demoed, it was revealed that the substructure was completely rotted out. New wood joists and 3/4" plywood were installed and sloped for better water management. Since  the entire deck was surrounded by a parapet, PVC coated metal was used to make custom scuppers for drainage.



Details like water routing, perimeter flashing, and door threshold
clearance are all important waterproofing considerations.



With roof grade waterproofing from Duradek,
the room below is now protected from further damage.

View or download the .pdf version of Case History #159  for the complete case history with installer details and before and images.

If you'd like to talk to a waterproofing professional about your deck, contact a Duradek Installer in your area for a free estimate.

Duradek Case History #158 - Urban Luxury With Roof Decks in Salt Lake City, UT

PROBLEM

These luxury downtown loft style condominiums' plans included roof decks but the project got off to a rocky start when it was put on hold for about 3 years due to financial issues after Phase 1.

The 1st Phase roof decks had been completed with a bad plan and poor installation of an underlayment below composite boards. They were already showing signs of waterproofing failure before the next Phase even started.

The first phase roof deck had disappointing results
from a poor membrane and composite boards.

With two Phases left to complete, the new developer had to be confident in the product and the installation techniques for these high-profile roof decks.

DURADEK SOLUTION

The project developer, Clearwater Homes, contacted Duradek of Utah who was able to provide the ideal solution for these new penthouse roof decks - Duradek Ultra Supreme Granite Chip.

Installed by trained and authorized professionals that are skilled in the specific details that roof deck waterproofing requires, Duradek provides long lasting waterproofing peace of mind with a 10-year waterproofing warranty.

The new condo owners get a beautiful. low maintenance roof deck that they can enjoy for years without the need for ongoing maintenance...and the project developer has some fast-selling, worry-free roof deck units.  



Duradek's single ply application serves as both a
roofing membrane and walking surface in one.

JOB NOTES

Roof Decks are a fantastic value added feature that developers can use to increase profit and demand.

The Broadway Park Loft towers' units that had roof decks sold out rapidly and the developer now has a long waiting list for the next project. Furthermore, the inclusion of roof decks on the top floor units provided additional profit of $133 per sq. ft. on a 300 sq. ft. roof deck!

On an architectural tour conducted by the Construction Specifications Institute - Salt Lake City Chapter, one architect exclaimed, "I expected to see a roof. What I saw was a floor."

Duradek provides attractive outdoor flooring while also
providing roof grade waterproofing.

Related Downloads

You can download this Case History #158 (1.12 MB pdf)
Or for a more detailed article on the project, "Changing the Landscape in Salt Lake City One Roof Deck at a Time - Increasing the Value and Profitability of Urban Residential Real Estate." (1.43 MB pdf).

"The value of having a roof top deck is
returned  in spades for the home owner."

If you'd like to know more about the advantages Duradek can bring to your roof deck project, contact a Duradek installer in your area for a free, no-obligation estimate.