From yachts to balconies: a maritime-inspired decking solution

From the decks of Canadian pleasure craft to the balconies of Kiwis’ homes, this is a material that has been on a long journey. Transitioning from the marine industry into a widely accepted construction material was a logical step for the product, as it designed to withstand harsh conditions including UV rays, salt spray, and heavy abrasive objects being dragged across it including anchors and fishing rods.

Because of its maritime heritage, its waterproofing qualities were a core focus in its development, to the point that this membrane system has been frequently specified in the recladding of leaky buildings due to its simple yet effective technology.

Distributed in New Zealand by Viking Roofspec over the last 15 years, the product is known as Viking Dec-K-ing PVC Membrane. Essentially it’s an all-in-one waterproofing; aesthetic; and anti-slip decking solution that is installed and left as-is, rather than requiring additional products to complete the deck. “Traditional decks normally require a waterproofing membrane underneath timber decking or tiles,” Viking Roofspec’s Brendon Sutton says. “Traditional non-trafficable waterproofing systems such as torch-on or rubber membranes, all require the installation of floating decking above them. That’s the beauty of Viking Dec-K-ing; it’s a complete decking solution in one vinyl sheet.

“Approximately eight years ago, The Building Code outlawed tiles from being direct-fixed to waterproofing membranes due to the number of waterproofing failures. Building movement, alongside the fact that the membrane and tiles heat-up and cool-down at different rates, was causing the membrane to be torn; therefore leaking water in to the building below.”

With a robust, all-in-one solution like Viking Dec-K-ing, those concerns can be disregarded. The PVC membrane was designed to ensure absolute watertightness. In order to achieve that, all laps are heat welded together during installation at a temperature of 400 degrees Celsius. “Laps are always vulnerable points for leaks, but because the Viking Dec-K-ing membrane is heat welded, watertightness is maximised.” Brendon says.

When leaks occur from traditional membranes that are installed underneath floating decking, it is often a costly exercise to locate the issue and repair it because the decking needs to be lifted and removed in order to access the membrane beneath it. “Increasing numbers of home owners and architects are asking for and specifying this product not only because it’s a tasteful looking and cost-effective decking solution, but because it requires very little maintenance and is an all-in-one waterproofing; aesthetic and anti-slip surface that is instantly accessible seeing it’s not covered. 

And while Dec-K-ing is being increasingly favoured in the recladding of leaky buildings, it’s also being chosen for the refurbishment of decks of older homes with the variety of stone and concrete-like patterns and shades. “There are six patterns available that have quite earthy tones ranging from an aggregate concrete-look through to marble-like finishes; all of which tone beautifully with most forms of architecture.”

Childcare centres are also favouring the material because while it still heats up in the sun, it doesn’t become as hot as timber; tiles or concrete and cools down at a much faster rate than these materials, making it a safer option for toddlers. “It also has a very good underfoot grip due to its inherent embossed surface which makes it popular in the childcare and education sectors.”

Viking Dec-K-ing deck is only as effective as the quality of its installation. Only those application companies that have been through Viking Roofspec’s stringent three-staged Dec-K-ing licensing programme have access to these materials, so the network of Dec-K-ing installers throughout New Zealand is full of real craftsmen who take care with their work. “There’s no such thing as almost waterproof!”

Get in touch with Viking Roofspec on ArchiPro here to find out how you can incorporate this next generation decking solution in your project.