Composite Water-Shedding System Overview

Bolt-On-Balconies serve multiple functions for residential buildings. Not only do they provide a comfortable outdoor environment for occupants and add square footage to a living space, but they also affect the visual appeal of a building for prospective tenants. As one might expect, all this extra living space is a great opportunity for water to pool, drain, and wear on a building if not properly directed. With quick installation, a modern design, and a rugged, waterproof finish, a composite water-shedding system is an optimal deck for many balcony applications. 

What is a Composite Water-Shedding System?

A composite water-shedding system is a composite deck engineered to direct water away from the building without the installation of a secondary underdeck. Watertight interlocking planks easily direct water toward the sloping edge of choice while sheltering the living area below. With a wide variety of dimensionally realistic wood grain patterns and colors, this decking provides a quality design and durable waterproof finish.

Why a Composite Water-Shedding System?

Today, there are several deck systems used to prevent water damage. However, many of these present their own constraints, from design to longevity. A composite water-shedding system combines many of the strengths of other systems while minimizing the drawbacks. Here is a comparison of a few of the industry standards:

Composite Water-Shedding Decking VS Wood Decking

Unlike many wood-composite products, a composite water-shedding system achieves a wood-like finish without using any wood. Porous materials are often more easily degraded by extended exposure and the permeation of water. Made from a blend of polyethylene resins, rice hulls, and other quality components, this system’s minimal porosity reduces water absorption. Also, composite decks are not usually waterproof on their own. With a composite water-shedding system, however, water that would typically drain between planks is easily directed through the interlocking channels toward a chosen edge, no trough or gutter necessary. Without the use of an underdeck, the common issue of moisture buildup is no longer a problem.

Composite Water-Shedding Decking VS Concrete

Concrete-poured balconies are popular for good reasons. They are relatively inexpensive and provide a durable non-leak surface. Still, there are many drawbacks to concrete. For one, money saved on inexpensive materials is often spent in time and effort elsewhere. Coordinating one contractor to frame, another to pour the concrete, and then another to install the railing leaves plenty of room for delays and complications. A composite water-shedding system can minimize extraneous time on site by shipping preassembled to bolt-on balconies. While both products are water-tight, concrete itself is not waterproof. Exposed concrete absorbs moisture, expanding and contracting with humidity and temperature. A small failure can lead to expensive and hazardous repairs when cracks begin to form.

Composite Water-Shedding Decking VS Aluminum

Aluminum decks also utilize an interlocking system to direct water without the need for an underdeck. As with the limited porosity of a composite water-shedding system, a powder-coated aluminum finish prevents water from damaging the deck under freezing conditions. Importantly, in contrast to steel products, aluminum does not rust if the finish is scratched. Still, an aluminum extrusion process limits the effect of wood grain texture and can’t produce the same detail as a composite. Aluminum is often associated with industrial projects, and the sound of walking on an aluminum deck tends to be much louder than other finish options.

Conclusion

A composite water shedding system is a high-quality option for balcony Structures that combines some of the best features of many other products available. The non-porous composite allows for a quality wood look and feels, while the interlocking system allows for water to drain away from the building without a secondary deck. Because this product can be shipped preassembled, this minimizes coordination with contractors and time on site. The water-shedding system is a modern and durable product that saves time, coordination, and maintenance from water damage.

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