Your Duradek Questions Answered
Have you ever gone to your neighbour’s house only to discover they have an amazingly comfortable and attractive deck, leaving you with a level of deck-envy? It might be time for an upgrade of your own!
If you’re considering vinyl decking for your next project, here is everything you need to know about Duradek™ – the leaders in vinyl decking.
What is Vinyl Decking?
Vinyl decking is a waterproof, low-maintenance, and long-lasting decking option made of PVC (polyvinyl chloride). Vinyl decking is available as sheet membranes that provide a water-tight seal for keeping surfaces below dry, and as boards that resemble traditional slotted wood decks and let water pass through to the area below.
What is Duradek?
Duradek™, established in 1974 and manufactured in North America, is the original brand of waterproof vinyl deck membranes. Considered the leader in the vinyl decking industry, Duradek is a brand name that is practically synonymous with the terms vinyl decking and PVC membrane.
What are the advantages of vinyl decking?
Duradek vinyl decking is waterproof, durable, easy to clean, long-lasting, and comes fully warrantied. It comes in a variety of textures and colours to best match your house’s design. Today’s modern prints resemble anything from quartz to the forest floor.
How long does Duradek last?
With routine cleaning and proper care, your Duradek deck should last anywhere from 15 to 25 years. Review Duradek’s Best Care Practices for Long-Term Enjoyment document for more information.
How much does Duradek Cost?
The cost of having Duradek installed varies considerably and is based on what thickness, pattern, and texture you choose. Other things that affect its price are the water routing accessories that might be required, as well as any prep work such as plywood underlay that our teams are hired to do.
Expect to pay anywhere from $12-$16 per square foot for installed Duradek. To get an estimate for your deck, request a quote from us online or call 1-866-934-2599. When we quote your project, we consider many factors such as re-sheeting, the correct slope of your deck, flashing, and door/post wraps.
Can I install Duradek on my own to save money?
No, installing your own Duradek is not recommended due to a special waterproofing technique and specialized heat welder machine being required. Instead, Duradek is best installed by a network of fully trained applicators and professional waterproofing specialists who are trained in waterproofing techniques and building codes to ensure you are completely satisfied with your purchase.
Installing your own Duradek could void its warranty, costing you money in the long run. Learn more about Modern’s Duradek installation services on Vancouver Island.
How do I clean my Duradek?
Cleaning of Duradek products should be done seasonally (at least four times a year) with warm soapy water, a soft-bristled brush, and a thorough rinse. The safest route is using a special cleaner specific to cleaning vinyl decking. See Duradek’s Care & Cleaning page for more information on what is involved.
Can Duradek be power washed?
Duradek can be pressure washed with 1200 psi or less, but pressure washing your deck is usually not required if you stay on top of a seasonal cleaning schedule. We actually suggest not making pressure washing a habit. Stick with your garden hose and soft bristled brush instead to play it safe and avoid any disputes over warranties.
How do I remove stains from my Duradek?
Most stains can be dealt with using soap and water, while most surface scuff marks can be removed with a white or rubber gum eraser. Do not rub cleaning products into the stain, simply dab the area. For tougher stains, products like Simple Green or Fantastik can be used, but remember to rinse thoroughly and don’t use chemical cleaners in the heat of the day.
Do not use undiluted bleach, acetone, turpentine, lacquer thinner, ketone, acid or multipurpose stain or paint remover as you may cause removal of the vinyl print.
See Duradek’s Care & Cleaning page for how to deal with specific stains, from rust and crayon to mildew and ballpoint pen.
How do I choose the best colour and texture of Duradek?
Use the Duradek colour selector tool to preview what your options are. Duradek comes in lighter colors, which provide a cooler surface and offer higher reflectivity, and darker colours, which provide a warmer surface and offer less reflectivity. Solid patterns have a higher resistance to visible UV aging over patterned decking but show more dirt and blemishes than higher contrast patterns.
Check out the following Duradek texture and colour options.
How long is the warranty on Duradek products?
Duradek comes with a 10-year material and waterproofing warranty and a 5-year appearance warranty. However, many decks last much longer than their warranties if they are properly cared for, regularly inspected, and routinely cleaned.
Can I use a BBQ or grill on a Duradek deck?
Yes, you can use your grill on your Duradek surface. A protective mat should be used under charcoal grills. In general, metal objects should not be left on the Duradek surface as rust can leave a permanent stain. Also avoid setting the hot lid of the grill on your Duradek.
My Duradek has faded. Is there anything I can do?
Yes. Freshen up the look of your Duradek using a specially formulated coating such as Ducan Vinyl Re-Fresh. Review Duradek’s Guide to Applying Deck Coatings.
Can my Duradek be painted?
Faded Duradek can be painted with an acrylic deck paint. Review Duradek’s Guide to Applying Deck Coatings.
Can my Duradek vinyl decking be patched?
Aging Duradek vinyl decking can be patched using a newer piece of vinyl, but the process is tricky and sometimes the effect is less than desirable. Visually, the patch is likely to stand out and be noticeable. In other situations, the welding process of melting the new piece of vinyl to older piece doesn’t fully take.
If you were thinking about wood, you might want to check out our post on Wood Decks vs Duradek Vinyl Decking.
When it comes to choosing the right Duradek product for you, the Duradek vinyl decking specialists at Modern are here to help. Learn more about the Duradek vinyl decking services we offer. We are your Duradek experts on Vancouver Island, serving Port Hardy to Victoria and anywhere in between. Contact us today to learn more, or request a free quote for your new deck.