I’ve owned my house in the desert for 1 year and my rooftop deck has developed some leaks. Please see attached pics.
Deck creates a covered patio at the rear of the house. It slopes towards the back into gutters. Deck boards are composite with drain grooves underneath. Plywood deck floor appears to have been sealed only with paint.
Here are my issues and questions:
1. All the deck boards I pulled off so far were almost totally clogged with shingle dust. Figure I need to pull all/most of the boards and clean. Is this normal? What can be done to minimize or fix? Do these need to be pulled up every so many years?
2. Joists are perpendicular to the ledger board. Deck boards installed parallel to joists and are screwed to plywood floor only. Is this correct? Seems nothing is sealing screw holes in plywood.
How do I seal the floor at my repair, plywood seams and all the screw holes?
Thank you.
I’ve owned my house in the desert for 1 year and my rooftop deck has developed some leaks. Please see attached pics.
Deck creates a covered patio at the rear of the house. It slopes towards the back into gutters. Deck boards are composite with drain grooves underneath. Plywood deck floor appears to have been sealed only with paint.
Here are my issues and questions:
1. All the deck boards I pulled off so far were almost totally clogged with shingle dust. Figure I need to pull all/most of the boards and clean. Is this normal? What can be done to minimize or fix? Do these need to be pulled up every so many years?
2. Joists are perpendicular to the ledger board. Deck boards installed parallel to joists and are screwed to plywood floor only. Is this correct? Seems nothing is sealing screw holes in plywood.
How do I seal the floor at my repair, plywood seams and all the screw holes?
Thank you.
I'd be happy to help When it comes to adequately reinstalling rooftop deck boards, there are a few key steps you'll want to follow. First, carefully remove the existing panels, making note of their condition. Clean the deck surface thoroughly and inspect for damage to the underlying structure. Replace any damaged joists or supports.
Next, start reattaching the deck boards from one edge and working your way across. Use appropriate stainless steel or galvanized screws to secure the panels to the joists, allowing for proper expansion and contraction due to temperature changes. Maintain consistent spacing between the boards to facilitate drainage and prevent water pooling.
Finally, consider applying a weather-resistant finish or sealant to protect the wood from the elements and extend its lifespan. Regular maintenance, like cleaning and resealing, will also help keep your rooftop deck looking great and functioning well for years. If you need more clarification, consulting with a professional can provide valuable insights tailored to your situation. Good luck with your deck reinstallation project
-
Shingle dust buildup on deck boards can occur, especially in desert areas. Regular cleaning and maintenance can help minimize it. Consider using a leaf blower or hose to remove debris. Deck boards may need occasional cleaning but not necessarily pulled up entirely.
-
Installing deck boards parallel to joists is common, but it's crucial to seal plywood seams and screw holes with a waterproofing product suitable for exterior use. Use a high-quality caulk or sealant to seal these areas and prevent water penetration.
