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Real Estate Advertorial Asimple cleaning with soap and water keeps high-performance composite decks looking like new — no sanding, painting or staining required. Three ways to ensure your deck stays high and dry (NC) Because they are exposed to the ele- ments, decks and their supporting substruc- tures are highly susceptible to water penetra- tion. Without proper protection, rain, dew and snow melt can seep into screw holes and sit on boards, joists and beams causing them to rot, decay and deteriorate over time, posing serious safety issues. Here are three easy ways to protect your deck from moisture damage: 1. Seal the substructure One of the simplest ways to prevent prema- ture deterioration of a deck’s substructure is to apply protective tape to the joists and beams. of the foundation. Butyl-based tapes are best and are available in easy peel-and-stick op- tions that apply as a “cap” to the tops of wood joinery. This creates a moisture barrier and also helps hold deck screws and fasteners strongly in place for longer. And don't forget the ledger board. This key connection point where the deck attaches to a house is especially vulner- able to moisture, but it can be fully sealed with a wider flashing tape. 2. Consider composite decking over wood Made from a blend of plastic and wood fi- bres, composite decking won't absorb water like treated lumber. It also won't crack, warp or splinter in colder climates and will hold up to humidity and precipitation. High-perfor- mance composite decking is extremely du- rable and easy to maintain, so there’s no need to spend time and money every year sanding and painting or staining your deck. Instead, simply give it an occasional cleaning with warm soapy water and get back to enjoying your space. 3. Divert water with a deck drainage system For an elevated deck, consider adding a deck drainage system, such as the Trex RainEs- cape system, to protect your deck’s substruc- ture from moisture while also creating dry, us- able space beneath the deck. This innovative system installs over joists and beams to com- pletely shield foundational components from moisture. The added bonus is that homeown- ers can safely add furnishings as well as gas lines and electrical wiring to accommodate lighting, ceiling fans, appliances and enter- tainment centres to create an outdoor oasis under the deck. Find more information to protect and ex- tend the life of your deck at catrex.com. nko.realtor Anita Sullivan Broker )5-466-4900 Matt Sullivan Sales Representative Anthony Danko Sales Representative 289-772-8822 ilma Fournier Sales Representative Stacey Robinson Broker 905-464-7653 James Stanley, Sales Representative 905-464-2640 y 3B 2 z = i 2 Fa Fa 3 = & 2 x 8 x 8 8 8 i y: 3