MoistureShield, a division of Oldcastle APG, a CRH Company, partnered with the North American Deck and Railing Association (NADRA) as a Deck Safety Ambassador during Deck Safety Month in May. As warm weather returns and COVID-19 restrictions are lifted, there is no better place to gather with friends and family than on a beautiful outdoor deck. Before the summer season, MoistureShield and NADRA recommend homeowners Check Your Deck to ensure safety.
“We know this year more than ever, everyone is excited to get outdoors and spend time with family and friends on their decks,” says Matthew Bruce, vice president of Sales, MoistureShield. “Be sure to safeguard them by taking the time to Check Your Deck.” He noted common problem areas include moisture damage to wood which may cause deck failure. “It’s always best to use deck materials that protect against moisture absorption wherever possible,” he adds.
MoistureShield’s composite deck boards are designed to offer contractors and homeowners moisture resistance and durability. With innovations, such as Solid Core manufacturing technology, all MoistureShield decking products are protected from damage from insects, warping, rotting and moisture. They can be installed directly on the ground, in the ground or even under water.
Michael Beaudry, executive vice president, NADRA, agrees that weather and the elements are a deck’s worst enemy. “Outdoor structures like decks are exposed to sun, rain, snow, salt, and extreme temperature changes over the years. The need to maintain and periodically inspect them is critical for keeping decks strong and safe,” he says.
According to NADRA, with more than 60 million decks in the United States, it is estimated that over 30 million decks are past their useful life and need to be replaced or repaired. Many decks were built before code requirements were established to protect consumers. NADRA suggests seeking out an ASHI-certified home inspector or knowledgeable contractor to ensure decks are safe and code-compliant. View NADRA’s free “10-Point Consumer Safety Checklist”.