The Importance of Proper Deck Waterproofing

SEBASTOPOL — When installing a new deck, waterproofing is a crucial aspect of attaching it to your house. By taking thorough measures to properly waterproof your deck, you can expect it to have a longer lifespan and avoid rot issues with both the deck and your house.

One of the main components of deck waterproofing is the flashing, which consists of a couple different elements. First, there’s the Z bar, which is a piece of metal in the shape of a “Z” that fits over the wooden ledger to deflect rain and moisture. Another important component is membrane flashing, which is installed under the Z bar, behind the ledger and in any area where moisture is a concern.

Siding is also important when it comes to deck waterproofing. When attaching a deck to a house, cement siding works best because it provides a solid, waterproof barrier. Often, when a contractor replaces a deck, they’ll find the house has been infected with rot due to inappropriate siding installation.

When completed, both the deck and the home will be protected by several layers of waterproofing material that include various pieces of flashing and siding. All these components work together like shingles to repel water, which will keep your deck and home safe from rot.