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84 FAQs on Duradek Waterproof Roof Deck Membranes with Detailed Answers
Questions from Construction Professionals on Duradek PVC Membranes
When Duradek presented our live Demo-Cast webinar, “How to Waterproof Roof Decks with Confidence” to hundreds of professionals in the Construction industry, we received over 200 questions. We were impressed with the number of excellent questions from the professional group in attendance, and we took the time to answer every one of them.
Since we always value educational opportunities, we wanted to make this collection of questions and answers available to everyone who might need it. The hundreds of questions have been combined into a concise list of 84 FAQs on Duradek to help educate the building community on the application and advantages of Duradek sheet vinyl waterproofing.
If you specify or build decks, balconies, or flat roof decks, this article will be sure to include valuable information for you.
84 FAQs on Duradek PVC Membranes for Waterproofing Roof Decks – Answered by Duradek Sales Manager, Kevin MacMillan
Q1 – Will this Presentation (How to Waterproof Roof Decks with Confidence) be shared, and CE Units advised?
A – This presentation is available for replay – Watch Here. There are no CE units on this course, however, Duradek offers two AIA-registered online courses. One is hosted with AEC Daily and one is hosted with Hanley Wood University. Both are eligible for 1.0 CEU HSW.
Q2 – What about expansion and contraction?
A – The Duradek is very flexible as much as it is strong. It is fully adhered to the substrate surface and will move with the expansion and contraction of the substrate.
Duradek President John Ogilvie Talks Elasticity
Q3- I would like to know specifically how this compares to an EPDM membrane (in function & cost), and how it does with freeze/thaw climates.
A – EPDM is a single-ply sheet good that functions as a roofing membrane only, similarly to TPO and a torch down system. It would take another layer of product on top of these systems to convert them into a walking surface, and this would typically void any warranty. Duradek handles the roofing, waterproofing, and walking capabilities with its single-ply system. The cost of Duradek is about double that of the other systems. However, by the time a wear surface is added to the cost of these other systems the cost would be at least the same, but usually substantially more.
Q4 – You skipped the freeze/thaw question. Thanks
A – Duradek handles the freeze/thaw cycle exceptionally well. Our membrane has excellent elasticity and elongation properties. Since it is fully adhered to the substrate, it expands and contracts with the surface with no issues at all. No chance of cracking like with other deck surfaces.
Q5 – What is the average lifespan of the product assuming proper installation? How often would I expect to replace the Duradek membrane?
A – An average life expectancy of Duradek is around 20 years, but that can fluctuate depending on the intensity of UV exposure or chemical (pollution) exposure. We typically see Duradek being replaced between 20-30 years old. With 30-year-old Duradek we often find the plywood underneath is still in great shape and able to be re-used. With the cost of plywood these days, that is pretty significant. People sometimes replace sooner purely to freshen up the look.
Q6 – Any concern with not gapping plywood and potential expansion and seem upheaving?
A – It is important not to overtighten the tongue and groove portion of the plywood as that will cause that edge of the plywood (the 8′ edge) to swell and heave and telegraph through the Duradek. The butt joints can be tight.
Q7 – Can you speak about the puncture resistance of Duradek (i.e., dropping a knife tip first). What happens if it becomes punctured – is it self-healing, like Blueskin for example?
A – Dropping a knife tip first will puncture the vinyl and cutting something on top of the vinyl will cause a cut mark. A puncture would likely not be an issue, but if a cut in the vinyl occurs, we recommend calling an applicator come by to do the repair with the hot air welder.
Q8 – How do you repair a tear or puncture? Can it be repaired by the client, or does the repair require a competent or certified person to repair it?
A – Duradek is repairable, but it cannot typically be done by the homeowner. A repair would usually include a hot air welder and a patch…not items typically in a homeowner’s arsenal. It is best to contact the installation company to do the repair and maintain the warranty.
Q9 – How are repairs (tears) typically completed? example image/process?
A – It is very rare for Duradek to tear since it is fully adhered, but if this does ever happen, it can typically be repaired by your local installer. See our Case History #154 for a repair example.
Q10 – Any limitation on tile thin set mortar performance (in Tiledek applications)?
A – We would have to defer questions on the thin set mortar to their manufacturer. As already noted, it would be up to the thin set manufacturer to disclose how it will perform. But our recommendation is to ensure that the thin set being used is intended for exterior applications.
Q11 – How does it perform, by “ballooning” at locational situations, against possible “Holidays” of adherence to substrate, and with high temperature gradients, possible entering of water molecules through prick holes, developing trapped water-vapor, many times in volume, to penetrated water molecules. Would Such “ballooning” of trapped water vapor, prone to progressive deboning of the membrane from the substrate?
A – The Duradek membrane will allow moisture transmission in the form of gas to permeate through the membrane, but not back the other way. So, any moisture that may be trapped between the substrate and the membrane will escape in a matter of several hour to 2 days. Once it’s gone there will not be any further moisture that will come in from the outside. Should there be any small holes in the membrane from damage, it will not be able to get under the vinyl as the vinyl is fully adhered to the substrate with glue.
Q12 – Does Duradek have a preferred or in-house compatible transition membrane that can be applied behind and onto the Duradek in Air/Vapor/Water Barrier applications. SBS and Butyl-based membranes have been observed to react with the off-gassing of the Duradek.
A – Duradek does not have a specific “transition” membrane for this scenario. However, we do have recommendations of isolation products that can be used to separate the vapor barrier from Duradek. this is only necessary when Duradek has an incompatible product coming into direct contact with it. Foil tape is a very common method to isolate Duradek from an incompatible product.
Q13 – I often see the PVC clip falling off the Duradek product, can these be welded or glued onto the perimeter edges?
A – Clip, when it is installed correctly, does not fall off. If it does fall off because it has been pried off or damaged, it can be put back on and glued into place.
Q14- The existing deck has been covered with Blueskin. Would the Blueskin have to be removed before the installation of Duradek?
A – Yes. All “bitumen” based products, of which Blueskin is one, are not compatible with Duradek or any other sheet PVC.
Q15 – I’ve read Duradek isn’t compatible with peel and stick (mod bitumen) membranes. What type of membrane is recommended at the termination of Duradek at a headwall?
A – Most urethane or butyl-based peel and sticks are suitable.
Q16 – I noticed self-adhered modified bituminous membrane at the post base detail. Are there compatibility issues with modified bituminous membrane such as SBS roofing membrane and self-adhered membrane?
A – Duradek membranes are not compatible with bitumen-based products.
Q17 – Fire rating?
A – Duradek has both Class A and Class C Fire Rated Assemblies. Class C is achieved over plywood and Class A requires the use of Cement Board in the substrate assembly. (View Duradek Evaluation Reports for Canada and the United States).
Q18 – What’s the best practice for replacing Duradek? Do we need to replace plywood if scraping the adhesive for a flat surface appears difficult?
A – When replacing Duradek, most times the plywood underneath is able to be re-used. If any delamination of the plywood occurs, filing and sanding is usually adequate.
Q19 – Can you touch on pros and cons and recommendations of different reinforcement?
A – With fabric-backed reinforced vinyl such as Duradek, and non-woven backed vinyl it is much easier to form to 90-degree transitions. At the same time, UV and Mold inhibitors are present throughout the entire thickness of the vinyl. Center reinforced vinyl typically does not form as well and only includes those inhibitors in the top layer of vinyl.
Q20 – Can the product resist in a weather like here in Saudi Arabia? How about the thermal insulation of the roof deck? As cost compared to modified bitumen membrane, how much percentage is the difference?
A – Although Saudi Arabia would be quite a harsh climate for PVC membranes because of the constant heat and UV exposure, Duradek would still perform for the 15 years that it is warranted. Duradek’ s cost comparison would be about double that of mod-bit.
Q21 – Is a T&G plywood substrate required?
A – The best substrate for Duradek is Untreated Exterior B-C grade T&G plywood. If the plywood is not T&G, then you will have to add blocking under the 8′ length of the plywood so that the edges of the individual sheets cannot move independently from each other. (See Techtalk #126 Plywood Sheathing and Deck Construction on our Substrate Requirements page)
Q22 – Can this go over existing concrete or a concrete slab? What happens if a slope to drain is needed?
A – Yes Duradek can go over existing concrete. If a slope has to be created a floor leveling compound would be used to create the slope. (See Techtalk #140 Duradek Application to Concrete on our Substrate Requirements page)
Q23 – Can you install Duradek on a concrete slab – do you use a different adhesive?
A – Duradek can be installed on concrete in specific conditions (not “slab-on-grade”). It uses the same adhesives.
Q24 – What’s the minimum slope in a flat deck?
A – Minimum slope is 2% or 1/4 inch per foot.
Q25 – So can the adhesive go on wood and concrete? Are the adhesives the same for concrete and plywood substrate?
A – Yes, Duradek solvent-based and water-based adhesives can go on wood and concrete. They can also go on some sealed or coated surfaces. See details on our Substrate Recommendation page at duradek.com/substrate.
Q26 – You mentioned installing Duradek over a plywood substrate. Do you also permit installation over cement board meeting ASTM C1325?
A – Yes, Duradek can be installed over certain cement boards, Durock being the brand we recommend.
Q27 – Do you have details for the scupper and drain details?
A – Yes, we have details for the scupper (Drawing DR-03) and drain details (Drawing DR-02). We have a collection of over 50 detail drawings on our BIM and CAD page.
Q28 – Approximate costs?
A – The price of Duradek will be different in different markets. However, for budget purposes, a ballpark cost of an installed job would be anywhere from $10 – $15 per square foot.
Q29 – For a typical residential roof deck that is not too large, let’s say 400 SF – what would the expected installed cost be per square foot? Is it similar to a Sarnafil PVC 60 mil roof?
A – A very rough budget price is $10-$15 per square foot installed. Sarnafil is likely going to be less expensive because it is only fulfilling the “roofing” portion of the job…not the walking portion.
Q30 – How do you deal with accessible door requirements?
A – See our Detail Drawing IS-04.
Q31 – What are the warranties? Does your warranty cover Labor and Material?
A – Our 60 mil Duradek Ultra product has a 15-year warranty that has 3-levels of protection. It includes a 15-year warranty for the waterproofing performance of the product, a 5-year appearance warranty, and workmanship warranty as designated by the applicator. Duradek is the only vinyl manufacturer that offers a transferable warranty. See details on duradek.com/duradek-warranty. See also our article on Evaluating a Vinyl Decking Warranty.
Q32 – Is the warranty pro-rated?
A – The Duradek warranty is not pro-rated. The warranty covers the vinyl for the entire 15 years. Should something happen under the vinyl warranty, Duradek covers the cost of replacement of the vinyl for the entire 15 years and also covers the labor to replace the vinyl for 10 years. We believe this to be excellent coverage as compared to other vinyl decking warranties out there that do not cover the labor at all or are pro-rated for material.
Q33 – Can you tell us more about attaching guards? Do they have to be fascia mounted?
A – Guard rail attachment is influenced more by local building code than Duradek requirements. With Duradek, we have good, better, and best practice recommendations for mounting guard rails. It is preferable to fascia mount railing to avoid puncturing the membrane. However, there are surface mounted guard rail installation techniques on to Duradek that perform successfully. Our recommendation is the have your Duradek installer also install your guard rails. This way you have a single source for your warranty protection, and you know for sure your guard railing will be installed with consideration to the vinyl membrane. See more on our Single Source Solution article for more information.
Q34 – What happens if there is a risk of moisture from below?
A – If there is a risk of moisture below, there must be adequate ventilation to avoid trapping the moisture below the membrane.
Q35 – What design/installation issues do you frequently encounter?
A – Appropriate substrate and ventilation are important. As are slope and tie-ins into the existing building envelope.
Q36 – Do you build in the slopes or does this need to be built into the decking?
A – Ideally there is adequate slope built into the deck of 1/4″ per linear foot away from the building. However, Duradek installers may be able to create slope by a variety of methods that would be project specific.
Q37 – Does Duradek still require only your own certified installers?
A – Yes – Duradek is not available for purchase to anyone who is not an authorized Duradek Dealer/Installer. It is not a DIY Product.
Q38 – Can you speak about how to go about engaging the right applicators?
A – All Duradek applicators are vetted and trained for Duradek installation methods. While we go to our best efforts to ensure Duradek applicators are performing to our high standards, we always encourage due diligence in selecting a contractor. To help select a contractor we have this helpful contractor checklist for your reference.
Q39 – Are installers certified by Duradek?
A – Duradek has a ‘certification’ program, but an installer would have to be in the trade for 1 year or more. All installers are trained and receive a basic training certificate. They also have access to ongoing technical support.
Q40 – Can Duradek be either fully adhered or perimeter adhered?
A – Duradek is fully adhered in the field of the deck and mechanically fastened around the perimeter of the deck.
Q41 – Can composite deck material be installed over the deck?
A – Yes – we would consider this application our Plazadek System which is a ‘protected’ membrane assembly with wear surface on top and Duradek below for roof grade waterproofing. See more on our Floating Deck Systems page and compare protected deck systems here.
Q42 – Can you put pavers directly on to of Duradek?
A – Pavers can be applied on top of Duradek, which we call the Plazadek system. The applied wear surface should not be “fastened” into the Duradek membrane because it will create holes in the waterproofing. See assembly details in our Concrete Paver Overlay Drawing.
Q43 – Is the water diverter flashing a proprietary accessory?
A – No, the water diverters we stock are standard in the construction industry. Occasionally a project may require a customer diverter which our applicators can fabricate in most cases.
Q44 – How careful do I need to be with heavy deck chairs (plastic muskoka chairs) being moved around on the surface – particularly when it’s in the sun?
A – The weight of the chairs is not much of an issue; it is more the edges of the chair feet that are a concern. Plastic deck chairs dragged across Duradek are very unlikely to cause any drag marks in the vinyl, but sharp-edged metal should never be dragged across Duradek.
Q45 – Is Duradek not slippery when wet?
A – Duradek has an embossed, textured surface so is quite slip-resistant in the rainy weather. However, when it freezes, ice on Duradek is just as slippery as ice anywhere else. On the plus side, Duradek can safely accept ice-melting chemicals. It is just important to give it a good rinse in the spring.
Q46 – Does Duradek meet the slip resistance requirements for wet surfaces?
A – Duradek meets requirements for Pedestrian Traffic Coatings in accordance with Acceptance Criteria for Walking Decks (AC39). There is no specific slip resistance testing included however our embossed surface makes in slip resistant it wet weather.
Q47 – What is your approach for exposed concrete balconies, eyebrows, canopy without any edge flashing over non-habitable areas?
A – The best way to secure Duradek around the edges of the situations mentioned is to have PVC coated flashings around the perimeter and welding to them.
Q48 – Can Duradek be used in non-combustible construction?
A – Yes, Duradek can be used in non-combustible construction.
Q49 – Is it scrim reinforced?
A – Yes. Polyester scrim backing embedded into the back of the vinyl is the reinforcement.
Q50 – How does it hold up around a kitchen hood – grease?
A – It is not appropriate as a kitchen flooring in a restaurant scenario, but it is great to use as flooring for outdoor kitchens or barbecue areas. It is very easy to clean.
Q51 – What is a typical square footage cost? I’ve been spec’ing out for over thirty years now, but I’m given a hard time constantly by homeowners and contractors.
A – Thank you for specifying Duradek. Duradek is certainly not the cheapest product to use, but for the lifespan and no maintenance requirements, it is one of the best value products overall. The cost is going to be dependent on construction conditions and location. Budgetary numbers should range from $10/$15/square foot.
Q52 – Is Duradek strictly a residential product? Could it be used in a restaurant application?
A – Duradek is primarily a residential product but can be used in light commercial applications. For high traffic restaurants, you would want to consider a more durable wear surface.
Q53 – Are you shooting for Florida Building Code product approval high velocity? We need this down on the beach.
A – We are a Florida Building Code approved product, just not Miami-Dade or Broward County.
Q54 – Can Duradek be applied in Florida HVHZ zones?
A – Currently, Duradek’s FBC approval does not include the HVHZ zones. This is only due to the fact that the testing criteria would insist upon the testing of each individual assembly. This could number in the 100’s. Duradek’s adhesion and wind uplift tolerances would have zero issues withstanding the wind uplift test, but the “assembly” may not fare as well.
Q55 – Do you plan to go for Florida Building Code HVHZ product approval?
A – There are no immediate plans to provide the testing required to comply with HVHZ specific zones. You may be able to incorporate our membrane tested properties into a HVHZ project specific design assembly. See our FBC report FL #20069 (currently meets 2017 and is in process of evaluation for 2020). Our adhered vinyl will withstand the wind uplift criteria, but the whole assembly may not. Therein lies the issue.
Q56 – In a flat roof with floor drains how do you direct the flow of water to a floor drain with a plywood substrate?
A – We would recommend a built-up system with plywood over shaped sleepers that will manage the water to the drains.
Q57 – Will heavy items up to 350 pounds dent the PVC and possibly put a tear in it?
A – Duradek will not dent, and a chair leg will not tear the vinyl if it has plastic feet on it.
Q58 – When you replace it, can you just add another layer on top or do you need to remove the original?
A – We always recommend not to layer waterproofing membranes. Not only is it to ensure no trapped moisture, but also to ensure the substrate below is in good condition. That being said, if removing the original membrane is not possible for some reason, we do have a technique to apply Duradek over top of existing Duradek, if the substrate is sound.
Q59 – Can future product changes (addition of a new color or texture layer) be laminated to the original Duradek installation, or does it have to be first removed?
A – Addition of a new vinyl color can be applied to the existing Duradek when the applicator follows our recommended “vinyl over vinyl” installation instructions. There is also the option of covering aged vinyl with the Application of Deck Coating using our recoating instructions. This can be done by the homeowner.
Q60 – Can a contractor buy direct from Duradek or do you have to go through a supplier?
A – Duradek is only available from an authorized dealer as an installed product. If you do a lot of projects with Duradek, you may wish to become an authorized installer yourself. There are no sign-up fees to become a Duradek installer. See our Business Opportunities page for more information.
Q61 – Are there trained installers in Chicago area? In Chattanooga, TN?
A – Yes, we have Duradek representation in Chicago and in Chattanooga. Duradek has trained installers from coast to coast in the United States and Canada. In most areas there is somebody local, but in a few areas without local representation, an installer may be a 1–2-hour drive away. To find a local applicator in your area, see our Find a Dealer page.
Q62 – Does the vinyl hold a lot of heat?
A – Like any deck surface, the amount of heat that the vinyl absorbs or reflects will depend on the color. Darker colors will hold more heat, lighter colors will reflect more heat. For projects where surface heat is a concern, Duradek has a Cool-Dek collection of our ‘coolest’ colors that have the highest SRI (Solar Reflectivity Index). See our Cool-Dek page for details.
Q63 – Is the product FM Global approved and up to what wind uplift?
A – Duradek has not been tested for FM Global wind uplift, but it has been tested to ANSI/FM Wind Uplift and ANSI/SPRI ES-1 Pull-off Test for Edge Flashing. It also meets Florida Building Commission Requirements (excluding HVHZ) and the Texas Department of Insurance Requirements. See all evaluation reports for the US here.
Q64 – Do you have a mechanically fastened system or is it fully adhered only?
A – Duradek is a fully adhered system. Meaning that it is fully bonded to the substrate and mechanically fastened around the perimeter.
Q65 – Is welding problematic after 12-14 years?
A – As the plasticizers in the vinyl age, welding is more difficult but possible. It is all dependent on whether the vinyl has had intense UV exposure. If the vinyl has not seen much UV exposure it is very likely to be easily weldable.
Q66 – How does the adhesive bond with Styrofoam or asphalt board? Or is it only plywood and concrete?
A – Typically Styrofoam is not suitable to bond to directly and in those scenarios a separation layer (sheet metal coil stock) is adhered to the foam and then the vinyl is adhered to it.
Q67 – It was mentioned that the exterior deck should be 3″ lower than the door sill. If the deck is monosloping away from the door, would you still require 3″ or could it be less? If so, how little can it be?
A – The minimum requirement for standard house entrances would be depicted as “minimum 3”. However, in a handicap access scenario the clearance can be as little as a fraction of an inch or the thickness of the doorsill. Our requirement is to bring the vinyl into the door threshold prior to the door being installed. this ensures water will not be able to enter the building.
Q68 – What type of filler is used If there is a 1″ dip in the plywood on a balcony of an existing building or gaps in the plywood?
A – We use Mapei Planipatch, Ardex Feather Finish and autobody filler products.
Q69 – is the Duradek membrane use as an underlay membrane the same as that use as a walking surface? are they the same price?
A – The application and cost of Duradek is the same when used as a walking surface or when used as an underlay membrane. However, you may find your installer can offer a discounted price on the material when used as an underlay if you are not particular about mis-matched color and they are able to use roll ends or remnants of discontinued colors.
Q70 – Is Duradek good for northern cold climate?
A – Duradek is excellent in a northern cold climate. It handles the freeze/thaw cycle very well and you can use de-icers on the deck surface. It will never crack like other deck coatings.
Q71 – If an existing deck (wood frame) was previously coated with traffic coating, a multiple layer coating system, and the client wanted to upgrade to a single membrane walking surface, would Duradek go directly over the old system, or would they need to replace the plywood sheathing?
A – That is not a yes or no answer… it depends on several factors, starting with the type and condition of the existing coating. We would recommend having all the prior coating removed as best as possible. If the substrate needs too much prep work to make it suitable to install over then it would be recommended to replace the plywood. We would never recommend covering the existing coatings with a secondary sheet of plywood. Always contact your local installer to assess the deck first or contact Duradek’s technical team to consult in advance of planning the project.
Q72 – Seams are overlapped 3/4″ and welded – does the overlap leave a visible “bump” in the surface?
A – There are two ways to handle the heat-welded seams. A typical installation will have a visible “bump” at the seam. However, your installer can also provide a recessed channel for the seam to sit in making the overall overlap sit flush with the rest of the deck. While most people don’t seem to mind the seam, some people do find it more pleasing to have the recessed seam. It will just cost slightly more in labor.
Q73 – How does your detailing change when the space below is an occupiable space requiring insulation and venting area?
A – We are waterproofers and therefore there is not a lot of difference in our installation details when over habitable space. Where concerns arise is when there is insulated space with no airflow.
Q74 – Any reason Duradek does not manufacture (as an accessory) a prefabricated inside and outside corner?
A – Duradek has over 25 different colors and manufacturing that many “accessory details” in all those colors would be daunting. As well, the installers are trained to make these details on site with existing excess product. It is quite simple when you are trained.
Q75 – Will Duradek adhere to other materials like cement board and rigid insulation?
A – Duradek can be directly installed over Cement Board. It cannot be directly glued /installed to rigid insulation. A layer of acceptable plywood must be installed over the rigid insulation to adhere the Duradek. Rigid insulation is not designed to be walked on directly. When in doubt, it is always best to contact your local Duradek representative or Duradek head office for clarification. (See our substrate recommendations here).
Q76 – Does the Duradek material include interior Scrim reinforcing or is it only felt backed?
A – Duradek Ultra is polyester scrim reinforced on the back of the vinyl, not centrally reinforced. This provides the required reinforcement while also allowing the vinyl to be able to be formed into tight corners and detailed. While we do carry a few color options of felt-backed vinyl, the majority of our products are scrim-backed.
Q77 – Does the specific climate have significant impact on the performance (or longevity) of the Duradek product?
A – The climate does not have an effect on the waterproofing performance of the vinyl, but it may affect the appearance of the vinyl (extreme UV exposure or pollution will age the appearance of the vinyl quicker, typically with fading the color of the print). However, all the products will outperform their 15-year warranty.
Q78 – In a balcony over heated space, does your product can serve as air/roof barrier without installing another barrier system?
A – Duradek provides the waterproofing requirements, the roofing requirements, and the walking surface on all substrates it covers, including decks/areas over living space.
Q79 – How resistant is Duradek to direct heat source?
A – Duradek can withstand most any natural heat conditions that nature would inflict upon it, including boiling water. But it will not withstand open flame or super-heated conditions like a fire pit or barbeque sitting directly on the deck.
Q80 – How cold can your product be installed at?
A – When applied with Contact Adhesive, Duradek can be applied at a minimum of 4.5 degrees C / 40 degrees F. When applied with Water Based Adhesive, Duradek can be applied at 7 degrees C / 45 degrees F.
Q81 – Can you install over an existing porcelain tile roof deck in an effort to control moisture intrusion into grout joints? Generally creating a secondary coated walking surface.
A – No, this would not be possible. Duradek’s Tiledek membrane is for use as an underlayment only and Tile is not a possible subsurface.
Q82 – In very hot climates will the Duradek “bag up” due to expansion.
A – No, Duradek is fully adhered to the substrate so you will not have a “bag up” situation.
Q83 – Who manufacturers the welders?
A – Hot air welders are manufactured by various suppliers, but we recommend Leister or Bak-Rion.
Q84 – How do you keep up on education, qualification, experience with the guys who actually put it down? I get these questions from clients who are worn out from “brokers” in the construction industry who sell one job and deliver another–put together by unqualified, inexperienced laborers who make it look OK!
A – Excellent question and valid concern. Duradek places the utmost importance on the skills of trained installers. We are continually in communication with our applicator network with updates on technical information and our technical team is always at the ready to consult with. If an applicator is not able to install to Duradek standards, we do not allow them to continue to represent Duradek. Take a look at our comparison of recommended details vs unreliable details in our Deck Waterproofing Details article.
The FAQs on Duradek Answer Expert – Duradek Sales Manager, Kevin MacMillan
Kevin MacMillan is a PVC Roof Deck waterproofing expert specializing in installation, training, and education. With a background that combines carpentry, masonry, flooring, roofing, and railings, Kevin had the ideal combination of trade skills to excel with PVC roof deck membranes. He has been in his current role as Sales Manager/Product Specialist for Duradek since 2006, supporting Distributors and Dealers throughout North America and New Zealand.
Kevin’s wealth of knowledge and experience with PVC membrane waterproofing keeps actively providing architectural education and applicator training from coast to coast.
Questions Left Unanswered?
If there are any questions you have on Duradek that were not answered here or if you would like to be put in touch with your local Duradek distributor, please reach out any time to duradek@duradek.com.