TREX
From a storage standpoint, there are endless possibilities for
making the most of the area beneath a deck no matter the size of
the area. Following are just a few of the ways that my clients use
the bonus storage space that I’ve integrated into their decks using
the Trex RainEscape system:
• Storing seasonal items such as pool equipment, patio furniture,
cushions, hammocks, camping essentials and yard games
• Tucking away outdoor toys like bicycles, scooters, water tables
and yard games
• Sheltering grills and smokers from moisture and corrosion
• Housing (and hiding) lawnmowers, garden tools and hoses,
along with leftover seed and fertilizer
• Keeping sports equipment handy, protected and ready for action
• Parking and protecting a boat, snowmobile or ATV from the
outdoor elements
• As a workshop for crafting and DIY projects
• As a playhouse for the kids (my favourite!)
PROLONG THE LIFE OF STUDWORK
The U.K. receives more than its fair share of precipitation, and
these wet, rainy days can wreak havoc on the substructure of a
deck. Easily one of timber’s worst enemies, moisture contributes
to mould growth and can accelerate structural deterioration.
When joists and beams are exposed, water seeps into screw
holes and sits on the wood causing it to rot and the screws to rust.
Additionally, the natural expansion and contraction of wood due
to seasonal freezing and thawing can cause beams to split and
weaken over time, posing serious safety concerns.
This is especially important if a homeowner is investing in
premium, composite decking, such as Trex, which is engineered
and warrantied to last for several decades. It’s only logical that
a customer will expect the substructure to last just as long.
Unfortunately, that’s not always the case when working with
timber. In fact, a recent survey of builders revealed that nearly all
timber substructures show signs of splitting, rotting or decaying
after just eight years.
If a complete drainage system is not viable for a deck project, it is
still important to protect the studwork from moisture penetration
that can lead to rot and deterioration over time. Deck flashing tape
is designed to shield the tops of timber joists, rim joists, bearers
and ledger boards from water damage. It also acts as a moisture
barrier between wood and galvanized metal and helps deck screws
and fasteners hold longer and stronger for enhanced structural
integrity.
My go-to product is Trex® Protect™ Joist and Bearer Tape. I use
it on every deck I build – no matter the size or design – because I
want my decks to last.
Trex Protect is a self-adhesive butyl tape available in two widths –
40mm x 20m for joists and 100mm x 20m for bearers. Designed
specifically for use on decks, it works on horizontal and vertical
surfaces and is applied as a “cap” (vs. wrapping), which allows the
timber to breathe. The peel-and-stick application is simple and
requires almost no trimming. The tape lies directly on the boards
and requires minimal cuts and little overlap making installation a
breeze.
Furthermore, the butyl adhesive is super sticky, yet pliable, which
allows it to create a tight seal around fasteners to prevent water
from infiltrating screw holes. It doesn’t dry out or curl up like other
construction tapes and performs extremely well in a wide range of
temperatures. Trex Protect tape also features a non-skid surface,
making it easier and safer to walk across during construction. This
non-slip coating helps to prevent falls which are one of the most
common potential hazards of deck construction.
DRIVE CUSTOMER SATISFACTION AND REFERRALS
Sometimes it’s what clients don’t see that makes all the
difference. Trex RainEscape and Trex Protect are products that
sell themselves by adding considerable function, protection
and value to a deck without adding a lot of time or cost. For
homeowners, this translates into increased satisfaction and return
on investment. For builders, they are great ways to boost revenue
and referrals. I recommend one or the other to all of my customers
and can tell you from my own experience, these minor add-ons
can have a major impact on your bottom line.
Trex RainEscape creates dry space for storage beneath a deck
For more information, visit www.trexrainescape.com and
www.trexprotect.com/uk
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