How To Waterproof Under Your Deck With A Diy Deck Drainage System
Follow these installation basics for waterproofing the space under your deck using troughs that run between joists and empty into the systems downspouts. If your deck has unusual angles, oddly spaced joists, railing posts inside the framing or other special cases, youll need to modify the troughs and downspouts to fit the space, but the approach is pretty much the same: Install the troughs and downspouts so that water flows to the gutter, then completely cover all joints with butyl tape.
| Video Transcript Available |
This video provides instructions on how to install an under deck drainage system on a second story deck.
A deck drainage system is designed to direct water away from your deck and into a gutter system below the deck. In this video, we’re installing Trex® RainEscape®, which is an over-the-joist system. This type of deck drainage system covers and protects the entire wooden substructure. It can be installed on a new composite or wood deck during construction.
The Trex® RainEscape® deck drainage system includes four main components: downspouts, 12-foot or 16-foot trough material, 4-inch butyl tape, and caulk. The tools you’ll need to install the system are: a staple gun and regular staples, a caulk gun, and a utility knife.
Before you begin, there are four important factors to consider before you frame your deck:
Screw The Panels To The Purlins
Starting at one end, attach the first fiberglass panel to the purlin with the roofing screws. Place the screws in every other valley. Snug the screws enough to compress the washer slightly. Overlap the next panel onto the one you just installed and attach it the same way, this will make waterproof deck systems. When you get to the end, the last panel may be too long. You can just overlap it a bit more or cut it to fit. It’s simple to cut panels to length or width with a circular saw and a carbide blade.
Should I Put Plastic Under My Deck
Placing plastic beneath a deck is not a recommended practice since it might damage the deck.The use of plastic under the deck will prevent moisture from escaping, which will speed up the decay process and attract insects.The use of landscape fabric is preferable to other methods for preventing the growth of weeds beneath the deck while yet allowing water to flow away.
That sums up the response in a nutshell.
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How About Hardwood Decking
High density hardwood decking species such as Ipe, Garapa and Machiche hardwoods are an excellent consideration in this environment. There are many high-performance hardwood decking species to choose from. They will work as well as the deck layout allows. For example, the more clearance you have below the deck , the better. The spacing between the deck boards is also critical. This is very likely the only place your deck will ventilate.
Looking for the right decking material for your rooftop deck project?
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How Do You Make A Fiberglass Deck Waterproof
Attach the first fiberglass panel to the purlin using the roofing screws, beginning at one end of the structure. Put a screw in every other valley with the bolts. Put enough pressure on the screws so that the washer is slightly compressed. By overlapping the next panel over the one you just put and then attaching it in the same manner, you may create decking systems that are watertight.
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Advantages Of Underdeck Systems
Underdecking provides benefits that homeowners can enjoy for years to come. This space is no longer a messy eyesore.
The Superior Material
The best underdeck material is aluminum. It makes up 90 percent of the market. Heres why:
How To Build A Deck On A Flat Roof
- Written by Justin Stewart on Aug 25, 2009To ensure our content is always up-to-date with current information, best practices, and professional advice, articles are routinely reviewed by industry experts with years of hands-on experience.Reviewed by
Building a deck on a flat roof is neither difficult nor time-consuming. Two people can install a brand new deck in a weekend, with little or no previous construction experience. Before beginning, however, it is important to do two things: inspect the roof to make sure it is in good condition, and acquire any permits that may be required by the local zoning board.
Step 1 Simplify the Project
The joists of the deck, as with most flooring, will be set out on 16 inch centers. To simplify a construction project of this type, adjust the size of the project to be divisible by 16. For this project, the deck will be relatively small, but will be sized to use factory cut lumber, saving a tremendous amount of construction time. This deck will measure 16 feet by 12 feet. To build it, you will need four 16 foot 2×6, and 44 12 foot 2×6. Order one box of 16 diameter nails.
Step 2 Order Materials
Step 3 Prepare the Materials
Step 4 Assemble the Deck
Step 5 Add Handrails
A roof deck is almost certainly going to be required by law to have handrails. The specific requirements will vary from one location to another. When you know the requirements, use 2×2 lumber for the rail posts, and connect a 2×6 to their tops edgewise for the handrail.
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Diy Or Not Install An Underdeck Ceiling
To take advantage of the space beneath a second-floor deck, consider installing an underdeck. As a ceiling to the underside of the deck it also protects the area from rain and snow. The vinyl material acts as a ceiling drainage system and creates a ground level outdoor room or useful found space for storing bicycles and gardening equipment.
The ceiling and gutter system handle debris that slides down a panel and into the gutter so it drains itself, but if it gets stuck you can use a garden hose to flush it out. The material is sold at lumber yards and home centers. For more information go to www.raintightdecks.com.
To install an underdeck ceiling below a 14-by-20-foot deck, a contractor charges $2,622, which includes labor and material. A handy homeowner who has carpentry experience and tools can buy material for $1,750, do the job and save 33%.
To install the material, youll need a tape measure, chalk line and hammer or screw gun. Youll also need a stepladder, work gloves, safety glasses, downspout diverters, vinyl flashing, 1-inch or 1½-inch galvanized or stainless nails or screws, and silicone caulk.
To find more DIY project costs and to post comments and questions, visit www.diyornot.com and m.diyornot.com on smartphones.
Local journalism is essential.
What Can I Put Under My Deck To Stop Rain
It is ideal to waterproof the area beneath your whole deck by installing a deck drainage system while the deck is still being constructed.The joists and beams of a deck can be protected against water damage by installing a drainage system.The adoption of an over-the-joist deck drainage system like Trex RainEscape offers one hundred percent protection against the deterioration of the wood that can occur when it is frequently exposed to water.
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Refinishing Sealing Staining & Waterproofing Your Deck
What kind of treatment should you apply to your wood? The two most common types are stain and sealer. Both protect wood by repelling moisture while allowing the wood to breathe.
$550 to $1,000.
- Semi-transparent stain: This is the most commonly used, with some pigment for coloring so its grain stands out. Allows the grain of the wood to show
- Solid color stain: Solid has the most amount of pigment and the most protection. Its used for wood that is exposed to inclement weather often. It lasts for up to five years or more. However, it tends to show wear more quickly and will need touch-ups
This makes an excellent weekend project for many DIYers. Find out how to stain a deck to save some labor costs.
$550 to $1,200.
- Clear sealant: has no stain, protects against UV radiation, mold and mildew, and can last for up two years. Allows the full color and grain of the wood to show
- Tinted sealant: has some color, protects better against UV radiation, and helps bring back the original look of the wood. Allows the grain to show through. Great for darkening wood
Stains and sealants are sometimes interwoven because you can get stains that have sealant properties. You can sometimes use a non-sealing stain and cover it over later with a sealant. Both are used to protect the wood and composites against UV rays and inclement weather conditions, along with mold and mildew. Which you choose is just a matter of which fits your conditions better.
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Should I Cover My Deck In The Winter
Its important to cover your deck in the winter to protect it from harsh winter weather. You can choose between a permanent roof and a temporary tarp, but you may want to build a roof to invest in the long-term. If youre wondering how to put a roof over an existing deck, get in touch with your local roofing experts. They can either give you advice or complete the job for you.
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How To Build A Shed Roof Over My Existing Deck
Unless youre experienced in residential roofing construction, you probably dont want to build the roof yourself. However, you might want to know the process of how its done. Take a look at our step-by-step guide for building a shed roof over your existing deck:
No More Leaks Rough Edges And Exposed Nails
Installing a roof under your balcony or deck allows you to hide all the ugliness of the underside, it makes it feel more welcoming and homely. With the addition of a clean and crisp Colorbond finish, your new outdoor living and entertaining area will be the perfect place to BBQ or even just relax on an outdoor lounge.
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Learn More About Our Deck Repair And Installation Services
When its time to add a roof over your deck, Mr. Handyman can retrofit one for you thats safe, meets local building codes and gives you a professional-looking result. One call to Mr. Handyman really does take care of everything on your to-do list, including that roof-over-deck project!
Make sure to stay on top of all your household repairs, improvements and maintenance needs and request service in your area or give us a call at
Can I Put A Roof Under My Deck
It is possible to build a dry room underneath a deck using one of the several commercially available waterproof deck solutions but, the Rune strategy of adding a roof to a deck appears to be just as successful. In addition, it is simple, quick, and straightforward to construct utilizing components that can be purchased at any home improvement store.
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Get Started On Your Under
An under-deck drainage system that installs above the joists is the best option. It enables you to add overhead lights and ceiling fans in the space below the deck and doesnt endanger the structural integrity of the joists above because they never see water.
Click here to find a contractor who can install an under-deck drainage system on your elevated deck.
Staple And Cut The Trough To Length
3. Staple one edge of the trough panel over the top of a joist so that its flush with the joist edge. Keep the trough taut as you staple it. When you reach the downspout, fold the material back tightly to remove its roll memory. Then cut it to length, with the end falling near the center of the downspout hole.
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Zipup Deck Drainage System Protects Your Deck Frame From Moisture
ZipUP UnderDeck is good for you – but its also good for your deck. When you create a dry space underneath your deck and funnel away rainwater, you add years to the lifespan of your decks frame. That means less time inspecting your frame and replacing rotten deck joists, posts, or beams, and more time enjoying your amazing, two-level outdoor space.
Why You Should Install An Under
Some homeowners just want to cover up the exposed under-deck beams and boards when they choose to add an underdeck ceiling. But if youve properly installed a deck drainage system, there are so many other advantages. With an under-deck ceiling you can create:
Whatever your fun or functional plans for your new outdoor living space, youll enjoy these benefits with an under-deck ceiling:
- Make your backyard and home more attractive
- Increase your home value, with more dry, useable space
- Eliminate the rafter space where wasps and spiders love to breed
- Fight mold growth and make it easier to clean
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S Of Roofs Over Decks
Another great thing about installing a roof over your deck is that you can personalize it to match your style and tastes. The pictures were showing below are just a few of the ways you can build your decks roof. Some homeowners like to have an idea in mind before scheduling an appointment with a construction company while others like to listen to the recommendations of the experts before they begin any decision-making. Take a look at the pictures below to see which ones you like. Then, give us a call to schedule a consultation.
These homeowners are in the process of building a flat roof over their free-standing deck. We cant wait to see how it turns out!
This homeowner chose a short roof with lights underneath. The lights will not only add functionality for nighttime, but theyre also aesthetically pleasing.
This homeowner chose the best of both worlds by adding a roof to their deck that still allows light in.
Were loving the look of this gable roof over the patio in their backyard. Its perfect for hanging out night and day, rain or shine.
This flat roof acts as both a covering for a section of the first-floor deck as well as a balcony for the second floor of the home. Now, thats what we call efficient.
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How To Install An Under
Before setting up an under-deck ceiling, you must ensure the space above it the space between the deck boards and the ceiling is watertight. Some DIY websites recommend adding a deck roof to an existing two-story deck. This roof under the deck allows water to drip through the deck boards, over the wooden joists and beams, and get the wood wet repeatedly. Wet wood will eventually rot, especially in more humid climates.
And it doesnt take long. In just 8-10 years, your wooden substructure can be significantly damaged by moisture. See for yourself in this video.
Additionally, if theres any moisture trapped between your deck boards and the roof or ceiling you installed, then adding electrical wiring for ceiling fans, light fixtures, or utilities becomes quite dangerous. Not being able to add electricity will significantly impact how you use your outdoor living space.
With Trex RainEscape, you create a gutter and downspout system that will waterproof your substructure the joists and beams that support your decking and the area under your deck, creating dry useable space. The reason Trex RainEscape is so effective is that it is an over joist system, meaning it creates a barrier for water that prevents rain from even touching your wooden substructure. If youre building the deck yourself, choose an over-the-joist system like Trex RainEscape that offers easy installation.
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