A waterproofing solution for decking by Trex Protect is now available in Ireland from TJ O’Mahony.
Today’s high-performance composite deck boards are warrantied to last for 25 years or longer. But what about the substructure material underneath?
If the joists and bearers that support the deck are made of wood, they are likely to deteriorate long before the decking warranty elapses. In fact, a survey of professional builders revealed that timber substructures typically begin to show signs of splitting, rotting or decay after just eight years.
Now, there is a simple and cost-effective solution to combatting the damaging effects of both nature and time. Launched in Ireland just in time for peak deck building season, Trex Protect Joist, Bearer & Rim Tape is a self-adhesive, non-skid butyl flashing tape designed to protect foundational joinery from moisture that can lead to rot and the loosening of deck screws and fasteners.
“If a homeowner is going to invest in a premium, wood-alternative deck warrantied to last several decades, it’s only logical that they would want the substructure to last just as long,” says Michael Donohoe, purchasing director for TJ O’Mahony in Dublin – Trex Protect’s exclusive Irish distribution partner.
“Unfortunately, that’s not always the case when working with wood, which naturally weakens over time – especially when subjected to continuous exposure to Ireland’s often wet and rainy climate.”
As any builder will tell you, moisture is timber’s worst enemy. When water penetrates wood, it can lead to rot, mildew and structural weakening over time. This natural deterioration can result in costly repairs or even complete deck failure if left unaddressed. Trex Protect was designed to mitigate this risk, creating a waterproof barrier that prevents moisture from penetrating timber and providing long-lasting protection against insects, fluctuating temperatures and other potentially damaging outdoor elements.
“Designed specifically for deck applications, Trex Protect effectively shields the tops of joists, rim joists, ledger boards and bearers from moisture,” Donohoe explains.
“It also acts as a barrier between wood and galvanised metal commonly used in construction hardware such as joist hangers. Additionally, Trex Protect seals deck fasteners and helps deck screws hold longer and stronger and defends against splitting that can result from seasonal freezing and thawing.”
Available in three widths – 50mm x 20m for joists, 100mm x 20m for double bearers and 279.4mm x 15.24m for rim joists, stairs and flat-blocked surfaces – Trex Protect deck tapes work on both horizontal and vertical surfaces and are applied as a “cap” (vs. wrapping), which allows wood to breathe. The butyl-based self-adhesive won’t bleed or dry out as quickly as many asphalt-based tapes and the edges won’t curl up and hold water.
The non-skid surface is safe for contractors to walk across during construction and all Trex Protect deck tapes are warrantied for 25 years against defects in materials or workmanship under normal and proper use.
“Whether a deck is built with wood, composite or another type of material, these products can enhance its performance, longevity and enjoyment by protecting the foundation and providing added peace of mind,” adds Donohoe.
Trex Protect is available in Ireland through TJ O’Mahony. For more information, visit trexprotect.com
