The Ultimate Guide on How to Coat Over a Duradek or Vinyl Deck with Liquid Rubber

The Ultimate Guide on How to Coat Over a Duradek or Vinyl Deck with Liquid Rubber

Can Liquid Rubber be used on a vinyl or Duradek surface to improve longevity and restore the deck? The short answer is: YES! 

To help you make an Informed decision on how to handle a weathered, vinyl sundeck -- rely on this Guide to make up your mind … 

And to learn the necessary steps you’ll need to take for the desired outcome of this popular DIY project. 

Understanding the Challenges of Painting a Vinyl Deck

One of the greatest benefits to having a vinyl deck is that, unlike wooden decks, you don't need to stain or paint it. But because of the PVC make-up of vinyl decking, paints and stains struggle to adhere to this surface long term if at all.

If you've ever owned a wooden deck, you know how fickle a coat of paint is, even on this rough, porous surface. A painted wooden deck requires a redo every couple of years at best.

Vinyl is about the most inhospitable surface that paint could encounter: smooth, horizontal, and non-porous. For this reason, painted vinyl has a short life expectancy; because the painted deck quickly flakes off in the high-traffic areas, it will leave your deck looking worse than before.

What's more, paint is not a waterproofer. If your vinyl deck is over living space or if you're relying on it in any way to keep water from penetrating to below, paint is going to disappoint you.

Exploring the Option of Coatings

Often confused with "paint," waterproof coatings are a viable option for changing the appearance of your vinyl deck. These two materials are similar in that they are liquid, pigmented, and applied with a roller, but that's about where the similarities end.

Coatings are multilayer waterproofing systems that rely on sophisticated chemistry to create effective adhesion and a reliable waterproof membrane. These properties are what make coatings like Liquid Rubber the most ideal solution for coating over Duradek or vinyl decking.

Ideal Conditions for Applying Liquid Deck Coatings

Make sure you plan out your application days. This is important because liquid deck coatings must be applied in ideal conditions. These consist of: dry, moderate temperatures without hot, direct sunlight. Poorly suited weather can cause a coating to fail, causing bubbling or peeling shortly after application. These inconsistencies (and any others in your deck that may not be obvious currently) will be visible even after reapplication.

Reliability of Your Waterproofing

Another thing you will want to consider is that your waterproofing is only as reliable as your substrate. A popped nail, failed seam, or structural failure won't be fixed by a coating. A liquid-applied membrane can extend the life of your vinyl deck membrane and improve aesthetics, but it shouldn't be relied on to fix a leak or larger issue that may be at play. 

When to Consider Coating Your Vinyl Deck

There are a few circumstances where a deck coating might be your best option. Let's take a look at a few common situations: 

  • When the cost to remove and replace a vinyl deck is prohibitively expensive or overly technical.
  • When you're simply looking to change up the color or design of your deck vinyl.
  • If you want to add some additional texture or stain resistance.
  • The vinyl sheet membrane breaks down over time.  
  • The seams where it's joined together come apart, resulting in  rips and tears which are  hard to patch and usually result in  replacing the whole vinyl sheet at a cost of $25 per sq. ft.

When it comes to removing and reinstalling a vinyl membrane, siding and exterior doors should be removed and replaced as well to ensure waterproofing. This isn't always an option. The good news is that a reliable liquid deck coating can solve a range of problems and only costs $3-4 per sq. ft.

Deciding Whether to Paint Your Vinyl Deck

Most home maintenance decisions can't be resolved with one simple article, but we're here to help. If you have more questions about updating your vinyl sundeck, please give us a call or use the Contact Us form. Our deck experts are committed to helping you make the best informed decision for your needs.

Understanding Liquid Decking

Liquid decking goes by many names: deck coating; roll-on membrane; liquid rubber; and liquid-applied membrane. While its title varies, its purpose and benefits are clear: Liquid decking seals your deck, creating a waterproof, safe, and easy to clean surface.

Composition of Liquid Decking

Generally, liquid decking is made of polyurethane, with optional pigment and texture added. Polyurethanes are naturally flexible, making them scratch resistant and accommodating to large temperature fluctuations. With natural UV inhibitors, this material stands up well to sunlight. Plus, some liquid decking products offer additional beneficial features, such as algae and mildew resistance.

How Liquid Decking Works

Liquid decking is typically applied to a smooth wood surface but can also be applied to Duradek and vinyl to restore the surface and enhance longevity. To use liquid decking, first, the surface of the deck must be cleaned and leveled. 

To ensure adhesion and flexibility, an epoxy primer is used under a polyurethane topcoat. Epoxy is much harder than polyurethane, but effectively seals and binds to various substrates and the polyurethane. 

The resulting combination is a durable, flexible, non-porous, well-bonded, waterproof membrane. And you can even choose to give your deck a colorful makeover by using a colored application that suits the style of your home. 

Comparing Liquid Decking to Other Types of Decking

Liquid decking is a smart option for homeowners looking to waterproof their deck and those who want a low-maintenance solution. It's easy to clean, and easy to repair - where vinyl decking often needs a noticeable patch over damaged areas, liquid decking can be spot applied with a top coat. Plus, liquid decks are seamless, reducing the risk of water leaks.

Can You DIY Liquid Decking?

While it has numerous benefits, liquid decking requires specific conditions for application. Direct sunlight, excessive moisture, and cold temperatures complicate adhesion and curing. By example, on the West Coast, liquid decking is best installed during summer months.

Many homeowners may choose to take the project on themselves and DYing will save you money upfront. And, there are dozens of products available at hardware stores for waterproofing your deck making it hard to pick and choose the right one for your application. This guide will help you make a well informed decision that enables you to harness your inner DIY spirit. 

Liquid Rubber Polyurethane Deck Coating

Liquid Rubber Polyurethane Deck Coating is designed to be 10 times stronger than a traditional deck coating. It delivers a hard waterproof surface to keep your property in pristine condition by providing a durable protective layer that helps you protect your surfaces and preserve your property for years to come.

Popular Uses of Polyurethane Deck Coating

Polyurethane Deck Coating provides a durable protective layer to deck surfaces. Here are other common uses for Polyurethane Deck Coating:

  • Decks
  • Concrete
  • Wood Walkways
  • Fences
  • Baseboards
  • Plywood Surfaces
  • Indoor/Outdoor Floors
  • And More

Applying Polyurethane Deck Coating

Apply minimum final thickness of 1 gallon per 50 sq ft (4.6 sq m). It should require around 3-4 heavy coats. High traffic areas and porous substrates require 1 gallon per 30 sq ft (2.8 sq m).

Liquid Rubber Cool Foot Deck Coating

Liquid Rubber Cool Foot Deck Coating is a high-performance, acrylic, elastomeric coating that reduces heat transfer by up to 35% compared to regular paint. The specialized formula cures into a durable, seamless, colored waterproof membrane. Contains no solvents, is non-toxic, VOC-free, and is non-flammable. The cured membrane has excellent solar reflectivity and UV stability.

This elastomeric coating uses glass bead technology to provide a coating that cools the surface better than the competition. Use on decks, railings and other contact surfaces for enhanced comfort and protection.

Popular Uses of Cool Foot Deck Coating

Cool Foot Deck Coating reduces heat and provides a protective coating to a variety of home surfaces. Here are some common uses for Cool Foot Deck Coating:

  • Decks
  • Handrails
  • Fences
  • Wood
  • Concrete
  • And More

Applying Cool Foot Deck Coating

Apply minimum final thickness of 1 gallon per 50 sq ft (4.6 sq m). It should require around 3-4 heavy coats. High traffic areas and porous substrates require 1 gallon per 30 sq ft (2.8 sq m).

Liquid Rubber Application Guide for Vinyl Deck

Liquid Rubber Deck Coatings offer an easy to DIY brush-on/roll-on, high-performance, solution for your Duradek/Vinyl Deck. Liquid Rubber Cool Foot Deck Coating will reduce heat transfer by up to 35% compared to regular paint and it also provides superior abrasion resistance and is available in both a smooth and a textured version (for added slip resistance). 

These deck Coatings cure into durable, seamless, attractive waterproof membranes that contain no solvents, and are non-toxic. Your cured membrane will have excellent solar reflectivity, UV stability and will remain color steadfast for years.

Preparation

Liquid Rubber Cool Foot and Polyurethane Deck Coatings are the ideal solution to preserve and protect your Dura Deck from rain, snow, salt, and intense sunlight.

Liquid Rubber Polyurethane Deck Coating offers the option of a smooth or textured finish and Liquid Rubber Cool Foot Deck Coating will provide a cooler surface that offers greater comfort for walking on (reduces heat transfer up to 35% compared to normal paint).

Both products are available in a variety of colors and can also be applied to sheet vinyl, fiberglass, and other decking materials.

Applying the Coating

You should apply the coating when the temperature is above 10˚C/50˚F (including overnight). Using a 3/8’’ (10mm) microfiber roller, apply Liquid Rubber Multi-Purpose Primer to the entire surface. For edges, corners and between wood boards, apply using a nylon/ polyester brush. 

Allow the primer to dry until dry to the touch (approx.1-2 hours). Apply your selected Liquid Rubber Deck Coating when air and surface temperatures are between 10-30°C (50-86˚F). Avoid applying in high humidity over 80% or direct, intense sunlight.

Inspect for pinholes, blisters, voids, thin spots, or other defects. Repair as necessary. Allow 72 hours after the last coat for light foot traffic. Allow 5-7 days after the last coat before placing furniture on the coating.

Clean Up

Remove tape while the coating is wet and close the container to secure the leftover product. If spillage occurs, soak up as much material as possible with rags. Clean immediately with soap and water. If the spill is dried, scrape off as much as possible with a razor or scraper. Use mineral spirits to weaken the product and an appropriate tool such as a wire brush or grinder to mechanically remove.

Conclusion

Coating over a Duradek or a vinyl deck is possible with the right products and preparation. Liquid Rubber offers a range of coatings designed to waterproof and protect your Duradek or vinyl deck surface. 

Now that you know you have options… dare to DIY differently with us! Shop now and save 15% off your next order using blog code BLOG15