
How to Create a Dry Space Under Your Deck
- Determine the Correct Slope. DrySpace requires 1/8” of pitch per 12” of run. ...
- Mark the Slope with a Chalk Line. Using a helper, hold a combo bracket on a joist near the point where it attaches to the house. ...
- Install the Ledger Bracket. ...
- Cut the Combo Brackets. ...
- Install the Combo Brackets. ...
- Apply Butyl Rubber Tape. ...
- Cut the V-Panels. ...
- Install the V-Panels. ...
- Crimp. ...
How do you make a dry space under a deck?
How to Create a Dry Space Under Your Deck Step 1: Determine the Correct Slope. DrySpace requires 1/8” of pitch per 12” of run. Determine the distance (stopping 3”... Step 2: Mark the Slope with a Chalk Line. Using a helper, hold a combo bracket on a joist near the point where it... Step 3: Install ...
How do you waterproof under a wood deck?
3 Ways to Create Waterproof Dry Space Under a Deck 1 Deck Membranes and Downspouts. The dominant solution for waterproofing areas below decks is to drape plastic membranes within joist spaces below decking to form troughs. 2 Under-Deck Ceilings. ... 3 Waterproofing Decking Flanges. ...
Can you use space under a deck for storage?
But if you want to use the space beneath a deck for additional outdoor living or storage space, it’s better to install a barrier that prevents water from draining to the surface directly below. Recover useful space beneath a deck by utilizing a deck waterproofing system. Best Deck Storage Idea | SpreadRadio.com
How do you brighten up an under the deck area?
"This easy project brightened up an under-the-deck area and expanded the outdoor living space." TimberTech DrySpace is an easy-to-install system of channels and panels, which divert water from the area under a deck while offering a bright, finished look below.

How do I reduce moisture under my deck?
A layer of crushed gravel, with or without plastic or weed barrier cloth, is the best choice for using under a deck. It sheds moisture instead of absorbing it, keeps the area under the deck drier, and won't decay.
How can I waterproof my deck over living space?
A number of different waterproofing products work effectively to create decks of this type. Cementitious coatings, polyureas, and elastomeric coatings have all been used successfully. Depending on the size of the job and the product formulation, they can be spray-, roller-, or trowel-applied.
What do you put under a second story deck to keep it from dripping onto a patio below?
Vinyl. A vinyl under deck system provides an affordable option. The panels are snapped into place under the second story decking. The materials allows rainwater to collect and drain in an area away from the lower story.
How do I build a waterproof deck?
0:323:23Custom Deck Construction: How to Waterproof a Deck - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThe first step is to dig a trench from the downspouts to the low area in the yard in the trench youMoreThe first step is to dig a trench from the downspouts to the low area in the yard in the trench you will need to place a five inch black corrugated pipe to carry water from the downspout.
How do you seal the space between deck boards?
4) How to Fill Gaps in Decking After you clean the deck, cut a sufficient amount of natural fiber rope that will fit the length of each gap. Don't use synthetic rope because stain and paint won't adhere to the material. Make sure the rope is slightly wider than the gap so you'll have a tight fit.
How much does it cost to waterproof a deck?
Written by HomeAdvisor. Sealing a deck costs $909 or typically between $551 and $1,294. You'll pay $0.75 to $4 per square foot for both materials and labor.
How do you waterproof a 2nd story deck?
A Tufdek vinyl membrane can be installed on a new or existing 2nd story deck and creates a completely waterproof seal above and below your deck. Water slopes off the edge of your vinyl deck, rather than slipping through the cracks. Your deck is completely protected, and so is the space underneath.
Should you seal underside of deck?
It is not necessary to stain the underside of your deck for protection from the elements, especially if you use pressure-treated wood, which helps keep wood-boring insects out.
How do you waterproof a plywood deck?
0:002:08How to Waterproof a Plywood Roof Deck. - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipTape we're sealing. All the seams on the the roof or the roof deck. And then we're going to coat itMoreTape we're sealing. All the seams on the the roof or the roof deck. And then we're going to coat it with some Alaska barrier which is a dual rubber.
When should I waterproof my deck?
Summer is generally the best time to waterproof your deck because it gives you the opportunity to clean it thoroughly and seal it properly without worrying about rain. It takes about two to three days for a deck to completely dry out after sealing and you'll need up to six days for it to be fully functional again.
What is the best product to seal a deck?
Here are some of the best deck sealers on the market:Thompsons Waterseal Advanced Natural Wood Protector.ECO-SAFE Wood Treatment – Stain & Preservation by Tall Earth.Rust-Oleum Coppercoat Wood Preservative.CabotStain Australian Timber Oil Penetrating Oil.Thompsons Waterseal – Transparent Stain.
How do you waterproof a deck floor?
Apply a thin, even coat of high-quality, mold- and mildew-resistant, waterproof sealant with UV protection, such as Woodsman® Water Repellent or Woodsman® Wood-Toned UV Wood Sealer and Protector, using a stain brush, in the direction of the boards.
Can you build a deck on top of a room?
However, you need to go well beyond code to build a reliable leak-proof deck over a living space. You can build the structural deck out of concrete, as it sounds like you are doing, or wood-frame construction. Either will work.
How do you waterproof a balcony deck?
For balcony floors without cracks or tenting, you can quickly and easily apply flooring-specific liquid membrane waterproofing to the finished floor with rollers or brushes. Following the manufacturer's instructions, the process should leave no gaps, creating a thickness of just a few millimeters.
What is a deck membrane?
Weatherdek PVC membranes are specifically designed for use as waterproof walking surfaces on decks, patios, roof decks or wherever an attractive durable waterproof surface is required. The fact that these products serve as waterproofing materials makes the installation extremely important.
How high should a drainage system be on a deck?
While drainage systems are most often added to decks 7 ft. or more above grade, Ciaraldi has added them to decks as low as low as 5 ft. high, creating valuable outdoor storage space—letting a client drive a lawn tractor underneath, for example.
Who draped EPDM membrane over joists before installing decking?
Site-Built Deck Drainage – Mike Geurtin demonstrates his methods for draping EPDM roofing membrane over joists before installing decking to create an affordable system for keeping the space under a deck dry.
What is undermount deck drainage?
The undermount type is usually an array of ceiling panels, which act as the drain system and create a ceiling finish at the same time. The big advantages of this type of system is its overall cost and its ability to be added to any type of deck, be it new construction or retrofit.
Why are stakes high on deck framing?
The stakes are high for making a wise choice. Trapped water and debris can cause damaging leaks that are hard to track down and cause the deck framing to rot and fail.
What is dead zone under a deck?
For regions of the country with multiple-story homes or hilly terrain, the dead zone under a tall deck can add valuable living space at far less cost than a traditional addition. The trick to transforming that dark, wet space into an area that’s dry and useful is a deck drainage system.
Is pressure treated lumber good for decking?
Contractors across the country agree that pressure-treated deck-framing lumber isn’t what it once was, thanks to faster-growing forests, lower grading standards, and less effective preservatives. At the same time, today’s decking is more durable than ever, lasting decades with minimal maintenance.
Is a drainage system good?
A well-chosen drainage system, on the other hand, installed correctly, will be reliable and easy to maintain, keeping the framing healthy and the space below it dry and comfortable for decades to come.
What is dry space?
DrySpace creates a ceiling for the patio below, keeps the patio dry, and enhances a home's outdoor living space. The white color of the DrySpace also brightens the area under the deck, much like a white-painted ceiling brightens an indoor room. DrySpace comes in convenient kits and works on decks of different sizes, ...
How much pitch does dryspace need?
DrySpace requires 1/8” of pitch per 12” of run. Determine the distance (stopping 3” short of the beam) and determine your pitch. DrySpace is not only installed with a slope, but the V-panels move water to the center, so standing water is not an issue.
How to make a joist a lower point?
Using a helper, hold a combo bracket on a joist near the point where it attaches to the house. Now mark your lower point at a distance of 3” from the beam. The 3” gap is an important component in keeping the space open to air movement, and should allow for necessary ventilation.
What is Timbertech Dryspace?
TimberTech DrySpace is an easy-to-install system of channels and panels, which divert water from the area under a deck while offering a bright, finished look below. We were joined on this project by Evan Schreurs, a representative for TimberTech. Evan was kind enough to offer some helpful tips (and an extra set of hands).
How to snap a line on joists?
Remove the bracket and stretch a chalk line between the two marked points and snap the line, leaving a temporary slanted line of chalk which will line up the top of the combo brackets. Snap a line on both sides of all the joists.
What is the run of a deck?
The run is the distance of the deck joists as they continue away from the house toward the beam that holds them up.
How to break fins off brackets?
When cutting fins off of brackets (which may or may not apply to your space), score the plastic with a sharp knife and then bend back and forth to break it apart along the scored line.
What is a leisure deck?
However, decks can be used for more than barbecues, entertainment, and relaxing in the sun. With the right strategies, the space beneath your leisure deck can be used as a storage space for your sports gear, tools, and important belongings that don’t have a place in your living area. Here are 3 ways to keep your deck space dry, protect your stored items, and use a reputable deck repair Orange County service.
What is a downspout on a deck?
A deck membrane is a plastic tarp-like mechanism that collects water as it falls through the deck boards. A downspout funnels the water out of the tarp and away from your storage space. This keeps the area beneath your deck dry through all types of wet weather conditions.
Why do you need an underdeck ceiling?
Installing an underdeck ceiling allows homeowners to use their outdoor space much more efficiently than a deck can on its own. As a dry area under your deck, it maximizes the usable space of what you already have. Not only can an underdeck system expand your living space, but it also offers a shaded, waterproof area to protect your belongings from rain and snow.
Can you store under decking in winter?
If you’ve got an elevated deck, there is a solution for you to store your items just in time for winter: underdecking. Nothing will get wet with an underdeck ceiling protecting it. It would be challenging to have storage space that is constantly exposed to leaking water and moisture.
Does underdecking help with moisture?
Underdecking will maintain its look and functionality for many years. Moisture and mildew can destroy a wooden shed because moisture is absorbed easily. An aluminum underdecking system does not absorb water, instead, it collects the moisture to keep your valuables underneath dry and protected. 5. Pest-free.
Does aluminum underdecking hold up to snow?
Stands Up to Severe Weather. Underdecking systems made of aluminum, like those offered by RainTight, are strong enough to hold up to snow and ice. The aluminum is non-absorbent, and the structure can withstand extreme temperature changes without harming the system.
Does Raintight have underdecking?
Ready to turn your unsightly lower patio into a spectacular entertaining outdoor space or storage area? RainTight has been assisting homeowners with underdecking installation for years. If you’re inclined to take on a DIY project, we also offer underdecking kits for your convenience.
How Do I Know Whether My Deck is Dry Enough to Stain?
Before testing your deck, inspect the lumber visually to see if your deck is dry enough on the surface. The lumber shouldn’t contain any puffiness or swelling. You should not see any softness on the deck surface.
Can You Put 2 Coats of Stains on a Deck?
The secret is applying only as much stain as your deck can absorb. It can be two coats in most cases unless you’re dealing with dense balconies that can only soak up one coat of paint.
Can You Pressure Wash & Stain a Deck on the Same Day?
Finishing the staining job immediately after power washing the deck will cause problems. For instance, the stain will find it challenging to adhere to the wood.
What is dry space?
Designed with second-story decks in mind, DrySpace collects and channels moisture from the spaces between boards with a hidden under-deck drainage system.
How long is DrySpace warranty?
We back your DrySpace with a 25–Year Limited Warranty. We promise protection from cracking, peeling, and more. See full warranty details.
Can you install DrySpace with two people?
Yes. Complete, easy-to-follow instructions come with your DrySpace purchase or you can refer to our Installation Help guide. Installation is easiest with two people. The everyday tools and materials you will need are readily available, and easy to find at your local hardware store. See All FAQs.

Protecting Today’S Vulnerable Deck Framing
Two Main Approaches to Deck Drainage
- With one outlying exception, there are two main groupings of deck drainage systems: those installed above the framing and those that attach below it. The undermount type is usually an array of ceiling panels, which act as the drain system and create a ceiling finish at the same time. The big advantages of this type of system is its overall cost and...
More About Building Water-Shedding Decks
- Site-Built Deck Drainage– Mike Geurtin demonstrates his methods for draping EPDM roofing membrane over joists before installing decking to create an affordable system for keeping the space under a deck dry. Webinar: Site-Built Under-Deck Drainage System– Mike discusses his article on this topic and answers questions about how to make dry living space under a deck. De…