Duradek, manufacturer of the Duradek vinyl deck waterproofing membrane, reaches the notable benchmark of 40 years in business.
Originally conceived by two contractors in British Columbia’s Okanagan region in 1974, Duradek was inspired by a marine vinyl used to cover the interior floor of small boats. These two boating enthusiasts recognized that the attractive, slip-resistant vinyl surface was tough enough for wear, waterproof and easy to clean. They thought it could be a perfect solution for the lake-view decks so popular in the region, and an industry was born.
The company initially offered franchise opportunities and Duradek’s current owners, John and Robert Ogilvie, started with a few franchises. The two sold the franchises in 1978 to purchase one-third of the Duradek parent company. They eventually purchased Duradek outright in the mid ’80s and have maintained ownership ever since.
During that time, the single biggest evolution within the company was to develop a product and installation techniques that would allow Duradek vinyl to meet building code approval in roofing applications. Ensuring these critical techniques were followed in practice was an important factor in the ability to guarantee roof-grade waterproofing and thus a business model developed that restricted the availability of Duradek to authorized contractors that were trained in Duradek’s unique application techniques.
Four decades after inception, there has been more than 125 million square feet of Duradek installed on balconies, decks, patios and roof decks in all North American climates.
To celebrate its 40 years in business, Duradek thanks the building community for its support and takes quiet satisfaction in having found a way to remain a reliable source of deck waterproofing in North America.