Choosing Sustainable, Earth-Friendly Deck Components

We all have to take an active role in protecting the environment for future generations, and one way we can do that is by choosing sustainable vinyl roof decking products. An example is those used to replace roof decking or patio surfaces. Here are Tuff Industries top tips for choosing sustainable roof decking (and regular decking) products:

Tip One: Look at Vinyl Roof Decking Composition

When choosing vinyl roof decking materials, look at the composition. For one, is it a sustainable resource? Wood, for example, regrows (as long as it is not over-logged and is sustainably replanted). Other materials like bamboo can be grown even more quickly. However, natural products are not the only source of sustainable decking products. You can consider products that are made from recycled materials. This option reduces the amount of waste going to landfills and reduces overall CO2 emissions.

Did you know? PVC Roof Decking by Tufdek utilizes the latest technology to reduce the use of raw materials. In fact, 100% of production waste is recycled back into new materials.

Tip Two: Look at Vinyl Roof Decking Lifespan and Upkeep

It might not be enough to choose a sustainable initial decking product – you need to look at the complete picture. For example, how long will your deck surface last? If it has to be replaced in 10 years, even 15 or 20, then it’s not as sustainable as one that lasts longer. Likewise, if the upkeep of your deck surface requires the regular use of environmentally-damaging products (like stains or varnishes) then they might not be as sustainable as ones that require little to no upkeep.

Tufdek vinyl decking lasts upwards of 20 years, making it one of the longest-lasting deck membranes on the market, backed by one of the best product warranties in the business.

Tip Three: Look at Vinyl Decking Production and Installation

How a product is produced makes a big difference in its environmental impact. For example, wood-based products are logged in one location, then shipped to one (or more) locations for cutting and packaging, all which contributes to carbon-based emissions released into the atmosphere. Take a look at how much your decking products have to travel from harvesting to production as well as sales, installation, and endpoint (recycling or landfill).

Then, consider the installation process. Items like composite decking, when cut, can create hazardous dust that is released into the atmosphere. Wood products can often be recycled, but installers may not always take treated wood. Waterproof vinyl decking is also very versatile and can be utilized for waterproofing balcony flooring, sundecks, patios, and even flat roof decks. It can even be used to cover concrete!

Using water-based adhesives, Tufdek installers reduce the amount of VOCs (volatile organic compounds) that are released into the atmosphere.

Tip Four: Look at End of Life Vinyl Deck Membrane Options

What happens to your chosen decking product when its usefulness has ended? Can it be recycled, or will it end up in a landfill? Knowing what happens to deck surfaces when they are done is a key element to choosing a surface that will last and not negatively add to the environment. For example, composite decking is often hailed for its environmental properties (being that it is made from recycled plastic and waste wood), but being that it uses a combination of manmade and organic products it can neither be recycled or composted.

Besides being the best decking material for waterproofing, at the end of its lifespan, Tufdek vinyl decking products can be recycled via one of our manufacturing partners to divert waste from landfills.

Available in a range of colours, Tufdek offers low-environmental-impact, sustainable vinyl roof decking products that last and require minimal maintenance.

To learn more about Tufdek waterproof vinyl decking, call our deck experts toll-free at 1-877-860-9333.