SIMPLE DECKING UPGRADES
THAT DELIVER ON RETURNS
Building a deck is unquestionably one of the best investments
a homeowner can make. In order to help homeowners and
contractors make the most of their outdoor space, Trex the
number one composite decking brand has offered some top tips
for building a deck that delivers maximum enjoyment and ROI.
PROTECT YOUR INVESTMENT
Homeowners today have access to high-performance deck boards
warranted to last for decades. But, unless the proper steps are
taken from the start, the deck’s foundation could begin decaying
within the first 10 years. This is because the vast majority of
substructures are built using wood, which is susceptible to
damage from the outdoor elements.
Easily one of wood’s worst enemies, moisture contributes to
mould growth and can accelerate structural deterioration.
1. Trex ® Protect™ Joist and Beam Tape is a self-adhesive butyl
tape designed to protect wooden joists and beams from moisture
that can lead to rot and the loosening of deck screws and
fasteners. Effectively shielding the top of joists, rim joists, ledger
boards and beams from moisture it also acts as a barrier between
the wood and galvanized metal commonly used in construction
hardware such as joist hangers. Additionally, Trex Protect seals
deck fasteners and helps deck screws hold longer and stronger
by preventing moisture penetration and defending against
splitting that can result from seasonal freezing and thawing. Trex
Protect works as a cap (vs wrapping), which allows the wood to
breathe. The butyl-based self-adhesive also won’t bleed, dry out
as quickly, or curl up and hold water like many asphalt-based
tapes.
2. Trex ® RainEscape ® - To protect an elevated deck from moisture,
consider installing an under-deck drainage system. Using a
network of troughs and downspouts, these systems capture and
divert water away from a deck. They also allow homeowners to
double their outdoor space and create a truly unique outdoor
living space, by protecting the area below the deck from rain,
sun and other elements, making it useable for storage or as an
additional living area.
All of these upgrades and decking materials add considerable
function and value to a deck project without adding a lot of time or
cost. For homeowners, this translates into greater satisfaction and
increased ROI. For builders, they are great ways to earn more profit
and over time.
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