{"id":13243,"date":"2023-02-17T08:17:18","date_gmt":"2023-02-17T08:17:18","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/designbuybuild.co.uk\/?p=13243"},"modified":"2023-02-22T14:32:09","modified_gmt":"2023-02-22T14:32:09","slug":"two-deck-upgrades-that-optimize-project-potential-performance-and-profits","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/designbuybuild.co.uk\/two-deck-upgrades-that-optimize-project-potential-performance-and-profits\/","title":{"rendered":"TWO DECK UPGRADES THAT OPTIMIZE PROJECT POTENTIAL, PERFORMANCE AND PROFITS"},"content":{"rendered":"
As Brits continue to revamp and renovate, space is at a premium, inspiring homeowners to look outside for an escape and some extra elbow room.\u00a0 Here are two easy and cost-effective add-ons that I suggest to all of my clients:<\/p>\n
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Today\u2019s homeowners have access to high-performance garden decking<\/a> warrantied to last for decades. But research* has shown that most decking substructures begin to show signs of decay within the first 8-10 years. This is because the majority of substructures are built using timber, which is susceptible to damage from moisture and exposure to outdoor elements.<\/p>\n Easily one of wood\u2019s worst enemies, moisture contributes to mould growth and can accelerate structural deterioration. This is particularly common in the U.K. given our perennially damp and rainy climate.<\/p>\n Deck flashing tape is a simple and inexpensive way to protect wood from the damaging effects of weather and time. My go-to product is Trex\u00ae<\/sup> Protect\u2122<\/sup> Joist and Bearer Tape.<\/a> I use it on every deck I build \u2013 no matter the size, design or decking material I use \u2013 because I want my work to last. It\u2019s a self-adhesive butyl tape engineered specifically for use on decks. It works on both horizontal and vertical surfaces and is applied as a \u201ccap\u201d (vs. wrapping) to allow the timber to breathe. The peel-and-stick tape lies directly on the boards and requires minimal cuts and little overlap making application a breeze.<\/p>\n 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\u2019t 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 easy and safe to walk across during construction.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Another way to fully optimize a deck project is by installing an under-deck drainage system. When protected from the elements, the often-overlooked area beneath an elevated deck can become a perfect spot for underdeck storage or addition outdoor living space.<\/p>\n There are two main types of drainage systems \u2013 those that install above<\/u> or below<\/u> the joists of the substructure. For optimal protection and aesthetics, I prefer an \u201cabove-the-joist\u201d system, like Trex\u00ae RainEscape\u00ae<\/a>. The main advantage to this type of system is that it protects the entire<\/em> foundation and the area beneath the deck. It also allows homeowners to put any kind of decorative ceiling on the underside of the joists, making it a good option for customers seeking a finished look. Additionally, this application allows for gas and electrical lines to be run above a soffit ceiling to power lights and ceiling fans, as well as cooking and entertainment components.<\/p>\n\n