I opened my mail today to find the latest course offerings from the Society For Protective Coatings, most of which concern paint and other types of coatings, however this one caught my eye- "FLOOR COATING BASICS" which adheres to the SSPC Consensus standards titled "Procedures for Applyoing Thick Film Coatings and Surfacings Over Concrete Floors"
It's an intensive 2 day course that will make the concrete coatings contractors a higher level of expertise.
There's also a great course titled Concrete Coating Inspector Program that mirrors the Basics Couse and intensifies it with lab testing and 5 other high level areas for certification as an inspector.
The experts on pedestrian traffic coatings brings you the information you need on one website! We have information on all pedestrian traffic coatings manufacturer's, including Pli-Dek, West Coast Specialty Coating Systems, Desert Brand, Life Deck, Tufflex, Mer-Kote and Dex-O-Tex systems. Browse our website for articles, videos, news stories and more. We'll be updating and adding more pages soon so bookmark this site and come back and visit!
Monday, December 31, 2007
Friday, December 28, 2007
Waterproofdeckcoatingadvice.com's website see it's 26,000th visitor!
Surpassing our hopes of 25,000 visitors in our first 12 month calendar year, our website was visited by our 26,000th visitor sometime on December 26th!
Thank you to everyone who visited, your support and the fact that 42% of you added us to your favorites folders is testimony to the need for knowledge and one source for all
pertinent information on deck coatings.
Some interesting tidbits-
The were over 3400 different key phrases used to find us in web searches.
Google was the top search engine by far, leading Yahoo searches by a 3-1 margin. Everyone else was so far behind, it's not worth talking about...
Among the top twenty search terms used to find us were-deck waterproofing, waterproof deck coatings, Pebble deck, Desert Crete, Dex-O-Tex, Tufflex, Merkote and deck installation. With all modesty, waterproofdeckcoatingadvice.com was also a top twenty search phrase too!
Barely not making the top twenty was Westcoat...further down the line was Pli-Deck, All Deck and others.
The most odd search term that brought a visitor to us was
Others came to us with their problems, like the person who typed in
or to the other person who searched
We heard from a lot of you, so many that we had to institute a pay for my time and advice policy, I love helping out but time is money! Thanks for understanding and thanks to those of you who have received my email advice. Keep them coming in 2008!
We look forward to bringing out www.waterproofdeckcoatingadvice.com 2.0 in late 2008; it promises to be a better website-, faster, more user friendly, have more information and we hope will become destined to get us 100,000 visitors soon.
Thanks again for supporting us with your visits; we look forward to serving you in 2008.
Happy New Year,
Bill Leys
Thank you to everyone who visited, your support and the fact that 42% of you added us to your favorites folders is testimony to the need for knowledge and one source for all
pertinent information on deck coatings.
Some interesting tidbits-
The were over 3400 different key phrases used to find us in web searches.
Google was the top search engine by far, leading Yahoo searches by a 3-1 margin. Everyone else was so far behind, it's not worth talking about...
Among the top twenty search terms used to find us were-deck waterproofing, waterproof deck coatings, Pebble deck, Desert Crete, Dex-O-Tex, Tufflex, Merkote and deck installation. With all modesty, waterproofdeckcoatingadvice.com was also a top twenty search phrase too!
Barely not making the top twenty was Westcoat...further down the line was Pli-Deck, All Deck and others.
The most odd search term that brought a visitor to us was
105...I have no idea how that relates to us.
advantages of urethane concrete deck coating systemswas something that 2 folks wanted to know about...
Deck leaking into housewas another memorable search term, I hope the poor soul who typed that into his search engine didn't have to much water coming in...the other poor soul who sounded like they were in trouble wanted to know if they
Can waterproof deck in the rain.Sounds like a candidate for procrastinators anonymous to me...
Others came to us with their problems, like the person who typed in
westcoat finish problem
or to the other person who searched
who needs coating inspectionanswer-You Do! Give us a call today...805-801-2380
We heard from a lot of you, so many that we had to institute a pay for my time and advice policy, I love helping out but time is money! Thanks for understanding and thanks to those of you who have received my email advice. Keep them coming in 2008!
We look forward to bringing out www.waterproofdeckcoatingadvice.com 2.0 in late 2008; it promises to be a better website-, faster, more user friendly, have more information and we hope will become destined to get us 100,000 visitors soon.
Thanks again for supporting us with your visits; we look forward to serving you in 2008.
Happy New Year,
Bill Leys
Sunday, December 23, 2007
Compilation of significant construction defect cases
A 100K Special Assessment! From the Chicago Sun Times
Holy Toledo Batman! A special assessment of $100,000.00 for repairs...from the Chicago area comes these horror stories...
The perfect shock
Condo dreams turn into nightmares with $100,000 special assessments
February 16, 2007
BY SANDRA GUY Staff Reporter
Robert Kelter was watching a football game when he noticed water dripping from the ceiling into the living room. He figured he'd have to call a roofer for a quick repair of the upstairs deck.
Kelter, who had paid $405,000 for his 2-bedroom condo in 2001, had no idea the water drip would turn into a potential $100,000 expense because of alleged major structural problems in the building.
But it did. And he's not alone.
Condo board President Robert Kelter stands under a leaky roof at the Lincoln Theatre Lofts.
(John J. Kim/Sun-Times)
RELATED STORIES
• 'I don't know. Why are you bothering me?'
• Always read everything
• Ideas for deflecting defect shock
But it did. And he's not alone.
About 100 condo owners at two renovated buildings -- one where Kelter lives on the North Side and the other in the South Loop -- have faced special assessments as high as $100,000 apiece to pay for damage they say is caused by shoddy construction.
The two condominium buildings are undergoing a total of $7 million in repairs, and their boards have filed lawsuits asking the developers to take responsibility for alleged construction defects.
A legal expert says the jaw-dropping extra assessments result from a perfect storm of condo conversion circumstances: A lack of oversight by the city, buyers with stars in their eyes and little information and developers who claim they have no assets to correct defects after they sell the condos.
One condo building is the Lincoln Theatre Lofts at 3146-72 N. Lincoln Ave., near the busy intersection of Belmont, Lincoln and Ashland. The other is the East Side Lofts at 1601 S. Indiana Ave., which is about two blocks south of Mayor Daley's home.
About $4 million in repairs to the East Side Lofts are nearly complete and have been paid for by a special assessment imposed on the condo owners. Final repairs to the roof will start when the weather improves.
"We're going to have a tip-top building when it's all done," said one owner who asked to remain anonymous.
The East Side Lofts owner said he paid $77,000 in the first special assessment. He bought his 2-bedroom condo for $290,000 in August 2001, and owed less on his entire mortgage than the amount of the first special assessment.
He said he will pay another $4,000 to $5,000 for a new special assessment to cover lawyers' fees.
"The homeowners didn't deserve to be put in this situation," he said.
The first special assessment of $4 million was divided among 65 condo units of varying sizes. A couple owners of double units reportedly paid $120,000 each in the first special assessment.
The second special assessment for lawyers' fees totals $100,000.
The board recently approved a third special assessment totaling $150,000 to pay lawyers' fees through trial. A trial is scheduled for late this year.
sguy@suntimes.com
READ THE REST AT SUN TIMES
The perfect shock
Condo dreams turn into nightmares with $100,000 special assessments
February 16, 2007
BY SANDRA GUY Staff Reporter
Robert Kelter was watching a football game when he noticed water dripping from the ceiling into the living room. He figured he'd have to call a roofer for a quick repair of the upstairs deck.
Kelter, who had paid $405,000 for his 2-bedroom condo in 2001, had no idea the water drip would turn into a potential $100,000 expense because of alleged major structural problems in the building.
But it did. And he's not alone.
Condo board President Robert Kelter stands under a leaky roof at the Lincoln Theatre Lofts.
(John J. Kim/Sun-Times)
RELATED STORIES
• 'I don't know. Why are you bothering me?'
• Always read everything
• Ideas for deflecting defect shock
But it did. And he's not alone.
About 100 condo owners at two renovated buildings -- one where Kelter lives on the North Side and the other in the South Loop -- have faced special assessments as high as $100,000 apiece to pay for damage they say is caused by shoddy construction.
The two condominium buildings are undergoing a total of $7 million in repairs, and their boards have filed lawsuits asking the developers to take responsibility for alleged construction defects.
A legal expert says the jaw-dropping extra assessments result from a perfect storm of condo conversion circumstances: A lack of oversight by the city, buyers with stars in their eyes and little information and developers who claim they have no assets to correct defects after they sell the condos.
One condo building is the Lincoln Theatre Lofts at 3146-72 N. Lincoln Ave., near the busy intersection of Belmont, Lincoln and Ashland. The other is the East Side Lofts at 1601 S. Indiana Ave., which is about two blocks south of Mayor Daley's home.
About $4 million in repairs to the East Side Lofts are nearly complete and have been paid for by a special assessment imposed on the condo owners. Final repairs to the roof will start when the weather improves.
"We're going to have a tip-top building when it's all done," said one owner who asked to remain anonymous.
The East Side Lofts owner said he paid $77,000 in the first special assessment. He bought his 2-bedroom condo for $290,000 in August 2001, and owed less on his entire mortgage than the amount of the first special assessment.
He said he will pay another $4,000 to $5,000 for a new special assessment to cover lawyers' fees.
"The homeowners didn't deserve to be put in this situation," he said.
The first special assessment of $4 million was divided among 65 condo units of varying sizes. A couple owners of double units reportedly paid $120,000 each in the first special assessment.
The second special assessment for lawyers' fees totals $100,000.
The board recently approved a third special assessment totaling $150,000 to pay lawyers' fees through trial. A trial is scheduled for late this year.
sguy@suntimes.com
READ THE REST AT SUN TIMES
Friday, December 21, 2007
Sheet Metal Association Contractors (SMACNA) newlstter warns about deck coating and flashing problems
From a 2001 newsletter, still relevant today though...
Most Residential Construction Defect cases start as a result of actual leaks in roofs, walls, decks, doors or windows. Some cases get started as a result of a clever attorney convincing a homeowners’ association that they might have leaks later on. Regardless, if you did any exterior sheet metal work, they want you. Short of not doing that work, your best protection is to do it right and to document your work with photos and written correspondence concerning flashing details, including any and all suggestions you might make as to improving flashing, especially those buried in deck or hot-mop roof assemblies. If you see a bad detail in the plans, discuss it, document it, suggest your improvement and price it. Any documented rejections of this type of proposed improvement could be your ticket out of a lawsuit if that flashing is questioned later on. Also document with photos and correspondence any problems with the work of related trades that touch your work, i.e., roofing, siding, stucco, deck coating, windows and doors.
Most Residential Construction Defect cases start as a result of actual leaks in roofs, walls, decks, doors or windows. Some cases get started as a result of a clever attorney convincing a homeowners’ association that they might have leaks later on. Regardless, if you did any exterior sheet metal work, they want you. Short of not doing that work, your best protection is to do it right and to document your work with photos and written correspondence concerning flashing details, including any and all suggestions you might make as to improving flashing, especially those buried in deck or hot-mop roof assemblies. If you see a bad detail in the plans, discuss it, document it, suggest your improvement and price it. Any documented rejections of this type of proposed improvement could be your ticket out of a lawsuit if that flashing is questioned later on. Also document with photos and correspondence any problems with the work of related trades that touch your work, i.e., roofing, siding, stucco, deck coating, windows and doors.
Rumor-Dex-O-Tex coming out with metal lath decking system to compete with Mer-Kote's Shur Deck
Heard today that there's samples of a metal lath decking system from Dex-O-Tex around...
Hmm, is the deck coating market about to get more competitive as new construction slows?
More to follow when we hear more-got any tips?
Hmm, is the deck coating market about to get more competitive as new construction slows?
More to follow when we hear more-got any tips?
From www.contractorsfromhell.com comes this story about deck leaks and more
From a great website, named appropriately, contractors from hell comes this not so funny story...beware the idiots out there and do your homework first.
Late February, we got the scratch and brown coat. Shortly thereafter, it rained. We leaked just as before but now it was spreading itself out. We told this new supervisor that we needed to address this now - he says he'll talk to the contractor. He called back, and the contractor had just left out of town for the weekend and when he got back, he’d speak with him. He gets back in town and says he'll send the Pro Deck guy out. Deck guy doesn't show up-says it's not the deck, probably the drains. We ask the contractor to open a section of the wall/ceiling so we can do a water test to determine the source-he says we have to wait until drywall. We argue....
It’s now April and this started New Years Eve-actually, in mid-October when it first rained. With camera in hand to document, we cut out a 4 x 4 opening in the ceiling, exposing the drains and immediately see some mold. Then we performed the water test on the deck, expecting the drains to fail-nothing.
Ten-fifteen seconds pass and suddenly the ceiling begins to leak-we see it coming from the deck. So it was the deck that had failed. Yet we endured so much unnecessary water damage and stress because of his refusal to open the ceiling and do a simple water test.
The substrate put down was incompatible with the decking material that was applied over it. Now the Pro Deck guy knew it, but still went ahead with it. The contractor should have ordered plywood for the flooring system, not OSB, which is flake board and basically much more porous.
So we lost carpeting, ceilings and walls damaged as a result of both their negligence and shoddy workmanship. The workers report back to the contractor and now he and the ProDeck guy go at it.
We call the contractor and tell him that he needs to get over to the house today-no more putting us off. We demanded that he gets one of his workers over to open the ceiling to do a water test and get those damn French doors installed...
We were overwhelmed-how many more screw-ups does it take before it's over? I felt like I was smack in the middle of a Three Stooges movie. A worker showed up the next day to open the ceiling.
A few days go by, the Pro Deck guy shows up and inspects the deck and says, "I told him not to use that OSB board, it's cheap and not right for this application.. .there goes my reputation." Your reputation! What about all the damage we've sustained?? I asked him why he went ahead and put the material down even though he could clearly see it was the incorrect substrate? Just shakes his head and says something about contractors' insurance paying for the damages and gets on the phone. This is around the 12th of April 2000.
I talked to the contractor and he stated that the Pro Deck guy would be coming back when there was a break in the rains for at least several days. But he needed to get his workers over to the house first to tear out the floor and replace it with the correct substrate He promised that the plans for the exterior stairs were being done by the engineer as well as the footing issue (still from the previous year and unresolved) but will be ready for his supervisor to pick up at the City the following day.
Oh, and by the way, he's talking to me on his way to the airport for yet another vacation-two weeks. Gee, I'd like to take even a week's vacation but I have to run this project while the contractor either screws up, does a no-show or takes a vacation.
I drilled him on what he has and has not done-promises (yeah right) that he's given his supervisor very specific instructions on handling the engineer and getting the plans over to the City. How many times have I heard this now?
It had been nearly a month that any work has been performed with the exception of taking care of leaks. The contractor was lying on a sunny beach in Cabo and we were mopping up water in the house-and freezing...
READ THE WHOLE STORY AND FIND OUT HOW IT ALL ENDS AT
WWW.CONTRACTORSFROMHELL.COM
Late February, we got the scratch and brown coat. Shortly thereafter, it rained. We leaked just as before but now it was spreading itself out. We told this new supervisor that we needed to address this now - he says he'll talk to the contractor. He called back, and the contractor had just left out of town for the weekend and when he got back, he’d speak with him. He gets back in town and says he'll send the Pro Deck guy out. Deck guy doesn't show up-says it's not the deck, probably the drains. We ask the contractor to open a section of the wall/ceiling so we can do a water test to determine the source-he says we have to wait until drywall. We argue....
It’s now April and this started New Years Eve-actually, in mid-October when it first rained. With camera in hand to document, we cut out a 4 x 4 opening in the ceiling, exposing the drains and immediately see some mold. Then we performed the water test on the deck, expecting the drains to fail-nothing.
Ten-fifteen seconds pass and suddenly the ceiling begins to leak-we see it coming from the deck. So it was the deck that had failed. Yet we endured so much unnecessary water damage and stress because of his refusal to open the ceiling and do a simple water test.
The substrate put down was incompatible with the decking material that was applied over it. Now the Pro Deck guy knew it, but still went ahead with it. The contractor should have ordered plywood for the flooring system, not OSB, which is flake board and basically much more porous.
So we lost carpeting, ceilings and walls damaged as a result of both their negligence and shoddy workmanship. The workers report back to the contractor and now he and the ProDeck guy go at it.
We call the contractor and tell him that he needs to get over to the house today-no more putting us off. We demanded that he gets one of his workers over to open the ceiling to do a water test and get those damn French doors installed...
We were overwhelmed-how many more screw-ups does it take before it's over? I felt like I was smack in the middle of a Three Stooges movie. A worker showed up the next day to open the ceiling.
A few days go by, the Pro Deck guy shows up and inspects the deck and says, "I told him not to use that OSB board, it's cheap and not right for this application.. .there goes my reputation." Your reputation! What about all the damage we've sustained?? I asked him why he went ahead and put the material down even though he could clearly see it was the incorrect substrate? Just shakes his head and says something about contractors' insurance paying for the damages and gets on the phone. This is around the 12th of April 2000.
I talked to the contractor and he stated that the Pro Deck guy would be coming back when there was a break in the rains for at least several days. But he needed to get his workers over to the house first to tear out the floor and replace it with the correct substrate He promised that the plans for the exterior stairs were being done by the engineer as well as the footing issue (still from the previous year and unresolved) but will be ready for his supervisor to pick up at the City the following day.
Oh, and by the way, he's talking to me on his way to the airport for yet another vacation-two weeks. Gee, I'd like to take even a week's vacation but I have to run this project while the contractor either screws up, does a no-show or takes a vacation.
I drilled him on what he has and has not done-promises (yeah right) that he's given his supervisor very specific instructions on handling the engineer and getting the plans over to the City. How many times have I heard this now?
It had been nearly a month that any work has been performed with the exception of taking care of leaks. The contractor was lying on a sunny beach in Cabo and we were mopping up water in the house-and freezing...
READ THE WHOLE STORY AND FIND OUT HOW IT ALL ENDS AT
WWW.CONTRACTORSFROMHELL.COM
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
The Winner of Sikkens 2006 Ugly Deck Contest
One Ugly Deck. This Kentwood, Mich., deck may not look like your typical award-winner, but in the 2006 Ugliest Deck in America contest, it was a shoo-in for first place. Dale and Julie Owsinski, owners of the dilapidated example of 1970s backyard architecture, won a $10,000 makeover from Sikkens Decorative Coatings.
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
New Pocket Guide available for construction jobsite codes
New Guide Helps Builders Navigate Residential Code
Printer Friendly VersionPrinter Friendly
December 12, 2007 - A new pocket guide co-published by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and the International Code Council (ICC) provides critical answers to the most frequently asked residential construction jobsite code questions.
Available through BuilderBooks, NAHB’s publishing arm, Home Builders’ Jobsite Codes: A Pocket Guide to the 2006 International Residential Code, is a portable guide for home builders, contractors, inspectors, architects, engineers, and other construction professionals. The convenient field guide is a quick reference to the 2006 International Residential Code (IRC), and provides easy-to-read code requirements for every aspect of residential construction.
“The latest edition for Home Builders’ Jobsite Codes is an excellent resource for builders to navigate the 2006 International Residential Code,” said NAHB President Brian Catalde, a builder from Southern California. “With its compact size, it is an ideal reference tool that builders can consult easily while on the jobsite.”
The user-friendly guide helps building professionals better understand elements of the 2006 IRC including:
- Provisions addressing all aspects of conventional construction of dwellings and their accessory buildings.
- Safety requirements such as egress, emergency escape, fall protection, safe design criteria, fire protection and sage and healthy living environments.
- Code provisions for foundations, floors, walls, roofs, chimneys and fireplaces, mechanical, fuel gas, plumbing and electrical systems.
Written by Stephen A. Van Note, the guide features illustrations, tables and figures to help the reader understand specific code requirements, as well as a glossary that provides definitions of construction-related terms. A certified building official and plans examiner, Van Note has 15 years of experience in code administration and enforcement and more than 20 years of experience in the construction field, including project planning and management for residential, commercial and industrial buildings.
Home Builders’ Jobsite Codes is meant to be of practical use on the jobsite, not as a substitute for the complete codes.
To purchase the new Home Builders’ Jobsite Codes: A Pocket Guide to the 2006 International Residential Code, please visit www.BuilderBooks.com or call 1-800-223-2665. (ISBN 978-0-86718-625-3; Retail $26.95/NAHB Member $24.95). The Guide is also available from the International Code Council.
[EDITOR’S NOTE: Editors who are interested in receiving a complimentary copy of Home Builders’ Jobsite Codes to review for their publications should contact Patricia Potts at 202-266-8224 or ppotts@nahb.com.]
ABOUT THE INTERNATIONAL CODE COUNCIL: The International Code Council, a membership association dedicated to building safety and fire prevention, develops the codes used to construct residential and commercial buildings, including homes and schools. Most U.S. cities, counties and states that adopt codes choose the International Codes developed by the International Code Council.
Printer Friendly VersionPrinter Friendly
December 12, 2007 - A new pocket guide co-published by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and the International Code Council (ICC) provides critical answers to the most frequently asked residential construction jobsite code questions.
Available through BuilderBooks, NAHB’s publishing arm, Home Builders’ Jobsite Codes: A Pocket Guide to the 2006 International Residential Code, is a portable guide for home builders, contractors, inspectors, architects, engineers, and other construction professionals. The convenient field guide is a quick reference to the 2006 International Residential Code (IRC), and provides easy-to-read code requirements for every aspect of residential construction.
“The latest edition for Home Builders’ Jobsite Codes is an excellent resource for builders to navigate the 2006 International Residential Code,” said NAHB President Brian Catalde, a builder from Southern California. “With its compact size, it is an ideal reference tool that builders can consult easily while on the jobsite.”
The user-friendly guide helps building professionals better understand elements of the 2006 IRC including:
- Provisions addressing all aspects of conventional construction of dwellings and their accessory buildings.
- Safety requirements such as egress, emergency escape, fall protection, safe design criteria, fire protection and sage and healthy living environments.
- Code provisions for foundations, floors, walls, roofs, chimneys and fireplaces, mechanical, fuel gas, plumbing and electrical systems.
Written by Stephen A. Van Note, the guide features illustrations, tables and figures to help the reader understand specific code requirements, as well as a glossary that provides definitions of construction-related terms. A certified building official and plans examiner, Van Note has 15 years of experience in code administration and enforcement and more than 20 years of experience in the construction field, including project planning and management for residential, commercial and industrial buildings.
Home Builders’ Jobsite Codes is meant to be of practical use on the jobsite, not as a substitute for the complete codes.
To purchase the new Home Builders’ Jobsite Codes: A Pocket Guide to the 2006 International Residential Code, please visit www.BuilderBooks.com or call 1-800-223-2665. (ISBN 978-0-86718-625-3; Retail $26.95/NAHB Member $24.95). The Guide is also available from the International Code Council.
[EDITOR’S NOTE: Editors who are interested in receiving a complimentary copy of Home Builders’ Jobsite Codes to review for their publications should contact Patricia Potts at 202-266-8224 or ppotts@nahb.com.]
ABOUT THE INTERNATIONAL CODE COUNCIL: The International Code Council, a membership association dedicated to building safety and fire prevention, develops the codes used to construct residential and commercial buildings, including homes and schools. Most U.S. cities, counties and states that adopt codes choose the International Codes developed by the International Code Council.
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
From ICC News, the ICC Code Question of the Week
Here's agood question in the latest ICC newsletter; this would pertain to decks too.
Q: Section 1507.12 of the 2006 International Building Code requires a flat roof to have at least a 1/4":12" slope in order to have sufficient rain water run off. Is it the intent of this section that the 1/4":12" (2%) slope be measured at the valleys created by roof surfaces that are angled and adjacent to each other? Click here for the answer.
Q: Section 1507.12 of the 2006 International Building Code requires a flat roof to have at least a 1/4":12" slope in order to have sufficient rain water run off. Is it the intent of this section that the 1/4":12" (2%) slope be measured at the valleys created by roof surfaces that are angled and adjacent to each other? Click here for the answer.
Monday, December 10, 2007
A Warranty to Watch Out For...Click here to read the maintenance requirements!
Before buying Poly Coat deck coatings, you might want to read their "Mandatory Maintenance and Care" Manual, which outlines all the things one must do if one hopes to get their limited warranty coverage.
Their clauses written fine print is inexcusable, and in my opinion is unethical.
What exactly does their fine print contain? The requirement to document with still pictures or video of their product applied as per the inspection requirements. But hold on-you have to perform inspections on a mandatory schedule, and you must send in the pictures of the inspections within 20 days. AND THIS IS IN THEIR FINE PRINT!
This is a total weasel clause and as a result, their warranty requirements puts this company on my personal list of "DO NOT BUY FROM" companies.
There is also the companies recommendation that you enter into a maintenance agreement with your installer...a steady source of residual income for him if they work it right. Reading through the maintenance instructions, there's so many don't do this and don't do that's where I wonder if I should even be walking on it at all...
C'mon Polycoat, you can do better that this...
Their clauses written fine print is inexcusable, and in my opinion is unethical.
What exactly does their fine print contain? The requirement to document with still pictures or video of their product applied as per the inspection requirements. But hold on-you have to perform inspections on a mandatory schedule, and you must send in the pictures of the inspections within 20 days. AND THIS IS IN THEIR FINE PRINT!
This is a total weasel clause and as a result, their warranty requirements puts this company on my personal list of "DO NOT BUY FROM" companies.
There is also the companies recommendation that you enter into a maintenance agreement with your installer...a steady source of residual income for him if they work it right. Reading through the maintenance instructions, there's so many don't do this and don't do that's where I wonder if I should even be walking on it at all...
C'mon Polycoat, you can do better that this...
Waterproofdeckcoatingadvice.com gets ready for it's 25,000 visitor this month!
As we near the end of our first full year on the web, we've watched with anticipation as each new month brought more and more visits to our website, www.waterproofdeckcoatingadvice.com. From 250 visitors per month back in September 2006, to a high of 2,833 visitors in July of this year, we're averaging 2200 visitors per month searching for information on deck coatings.
Now, as December heads to a close, we're anticipating our twenty five thousandth visitor sometime soon, in the next 6-10 days I predict, based on the number of average daily visits.
It is gratifying to see the traffic numbers up, indicating the demand for independent information from neutral sources is out there. I see the sales tactics and games played by some in the industry, and I hope that with the information and education I provide at Waterproofdeckcoatingadvice.com is helping our audience get the right information they need without a sales job attached to it.
A new year awaits and new opportunities too-
Our wish list for next year-
Installing only One Hour Fire Rated deck coatings becomes mandatory.
A Trade group comprised of manufacturer's and installers is formed to better the industry.
Bozo installers in the industry drop out...although without them, we might not get as much rehab work.
Westcoat stops competing against it's own installers/customers, hiding behind "Life Deck Coatings Installation".
Sometimes wishes come true.
Thanks for visiting and supporting our independent website.
We do not accept any advertising from manufacturer's, seeking to maintain an neutral as possible position!
Now, as December heads to a close, we're anticipating our twenty five thousandth visitor sometime soon, in the next 6-10 days I predict, based on the number of average daily visits.
It is gratifying to see the traffic numbers up, indicating the demand for independent information from neutral sources is out there. I see the sales tactics and games played by some in the industry, and I hope that with the information and education I provide at Waterproofdeckcoatingadvice.com is helping our audience get the right information they need without a sales job attached to it.
A new year awaits and new opportunities too-
Our wish list for next year-
Installing only One Hour Fire Rated deck coatings becomes mandatory.
A Trade group comprised of manufacturer's and installers is formed to better the industry.
Bozo installers in the industry drop out...although without them, we might not get as much rehab work.
Westcoat stops competing against it's own installers/customers, hiding behind "Life Deck Coatings Installation".
Sometimes wishes come true.
Thanks for visiting and supporting our independent website.
We do not accept any advertising from manufacturer's, seeking to maintain an neutral as possible position!
Saturday, December 8, 2007
Kool Deck falling out of favor?
Feeling hot, hot, hot'
New surfaces keep our backyards, patios cool
From AZCentral.com comes this article on Pool Decking and new choices for pool decks...read it all at their website.
Brian Anderson
At Home Week
Mar. 16, 2007 12:00 AM
Arizona backyards are getting hot, hot, hot. But it's not so much the sole responsibility of Kool Deck anymore to keep the heat at bay.
Homeowners around the Valley are sprucing up patios, pools and landscaping with resort-style amenities and materials that not long ago were considered exotic.
Flagstone, bricks and pavers are in style while Kool Deck - the textured topping invented by Tucson's Mortex Manufacturing Co. more than four decades ago, is slowly falling out of favor - at least at the upper end of the economic spectrum.
Big spenders
"No client that we deal with would consider installing Kool Deck," said Steven Rogers, a registered landscape architect with Sonoran Desert Designs in Cave Creek.
New surfaces keep our backyards, patios cool
From AZCentral.com comes this article on Pool Decking and new choices for pool decks...read it all at their website.
Brian Anderson
At Home Week
Mar. 16, 2007 12:00 AM
Arizona backyards are getting hot, hot, hot. But it's not so much the sole responsibility of Kool Deck anymore to keep the heat at bay.
Homeowners around the Valley are sprucing up patios, pools and landscaping with resort-style amenities and materials that not long ago were considered exotic.
Flagstone, bricks and pavers are in style while Kool Deck - the textured topping invented by Tucson's Mortex Manufacturing Co. more than four decades ago, is slowly falling out of favor - at least at the upper end of the economic spectrum.
Big spenders
"No client that we deal with would consider installing Kool Deck," said Steven Rogers, a registered landscape architect with Sonoran Desert Designs in Cave Creek.
Friday, December 7, 2007
Elite Crete Newsletter
Decorative Concrete & Custom Flooring Newsletter
Brought to you by Elite Crete Systems...
Products for: Decorative Concrete Finishes, Overlay Systems, Custom Seamless Flooring, Coloring Systems & Protective Surfaces... Volume 12 - Issue 11
November 2007
In This Issue
Upcoming Seminars
ConcreteLocator.com
World of Concrete
Photos of the Month
Upcoming Training Seminar Locations
U.S.
- Merrillville, IN.
- Boise, ID.
- Philadelphia, PA.
- Cambridge, MD.
- Charlotte, NC.
- Crestwood, IL.
- Dallas, TX.
- Detroit, MI.
- Hot Springs, AR.
- Kansas City, MO.
- Indianapolis, IN.
- Lexington, KY.
- Los Angeles, CA.
- Minneapolis, MN.
- New Orleans, LA.
- New York City, NY.
- Phoenix, AZ.
- Portland, OR.
- Sacramento, CA.
- San Diego, CA.
- Vero Beach, FL.
International
- Montreal, Canada
- Calgary, Canada
- Vancouver, Canada
- South Africa
- Puerto Rico
- India
- Australia
- Egypt
Have You Visited Yet?
Concretelocator.com
What started out as a small on-line discussion forum for Elite Crete Systems contractors to use to communicate with one another has turned into the busiest and most used interactive discussion forum community pertaining to decorative concrete, resurfacing, staining and more with over 4 million visits and more than 32,000 posts.
People from all types are using Concretelocator.com from seasoned contractors to architets, sharing ideas, asking questions, posting pictures of jobs and obtaining advice.
Want to check it out? Click here to see what all the buzz is about.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Our Sponsors
www.concretelocator.com
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Quick Links
Visit Our Website
Products
Sign up for one of our Training Seminars
Find a Distributor near you
Contact us for a free info pack
Visit our Interactive Discussion Forum
Toll Free: 888-323-4445
Tel: 219-945-0033
Fax: 219-945-1982
Email: info@elitecrete.com
Welcome to our November issue of our monthly newletter for the Decorative Concrete Industry. With over 44,000 subscribers from 49 countries, our subscriber base is growing every month. Hope you enjoy...
Are you ready for World of Concrete 2008?
The World of Concrete exposition is right around the corner and Elite Crete Systems will again be there in full force. Held from in Las Vegas, NV from January 22nd to 25th 2008, this year we will be exhibiting indoors and outdoors with one booth located in the South Hall at #S11731 and one being in the Silver Lot at #O49055.
Elite Crete Systems will be represented by factory technical staff and Authorized Distributors from all over the globe to answer questions, provide product information and help educate contractors on the benefits and proper use of our products.
To request your free World of Concrete passes, visit us at www.elitecrete.com and click on the request link located in the left hand colum.
Photos of the Month
For additional photos visit our website at www.elitecrete.com.
Elite Crete Systems Incorporated | PO Box 96 | www.elitecrete.com | Valparaiso | IN | 46384
Brought to you by Elite Crete Systems...
Products for: Decorative Concrete Finishes, Overlay Systems, Custom Seamless Flooring, Coloring Systems & Protective Surfaces... Volume 12 - Issue 11
November 2007
In This Issue
Upcoming Seminars
ConcreteLocator.com
World of Concrete
Photos of the Month
Upcoming Training Seminar Locations
U.S.
- Merrillville, IN.
- Boise, ID.
- Philadelphia, PA.
- Cambridge, MD.
- Charlotte, NC.
- Crestwood, IL.
- Dallas, TX.
- Detroit, MI.
- Hot Springs, AR.
- Kansas City, MO.
- Indianapolis, IN.
- Lexington, KY.
- Los Angeles, CA.
- Minneapolis, MN.
- New Orleans, LA.
- New York City, NY.
- Phoenix, AZ.
- Portland, OR.
- Sacramento, CA.
- San Diego, CA.
- Vero Beach, FL.
International
- Montreal, Canada
- Calgary, Canada
- Vancouver, Canada
- South Africa
- Puerto Rico
- India
- Australia
- Egypt
Have You Visited Yet?
Concretelocator.com
What started out as a small on-line discussion forum for Elite Crete Systems contractors to use to communicate with one another has turned into the busiest and most used interactive discussion forum community pertaining to decorative concrete, resurfacing, staining and more with over 4 million visits and more than 32,000 posts.
People from all types are using Concretelocator.com from seasoned contractors to architets, sharing ideas, asking questions, posting pictures of jobs and obtaining advice.
Want to check it out? Click here to see what all the buzz is about.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Our Sponsors
www.concretelocator.com
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Quick Links
Visit Our Website
Products
Sign up for one of our Training Seminars
Find a Distributor near you
Contact us for a free info pack
Visit our Interactive Discussion Forum
Toll Free: 888-323-4445
Tel: 219-945-0033
Fax: 219-945-1982
Email: info@elitecrete.com
Welcome to our November issue of our monthly newletter for the Decorative Concrete Industry. With over 44,000 subscribers from 49 countries, our subscriber base is growing every month. Hope you enjoy...
Are you ready for World of Concrete 2008?
The World of Concrete exposition is right around the corner and Elite Crete Systems will again be there in full force. Held from in Las Vegas, NV from January 22nd to 25th 2008, this year we will be exhibiting indoors and outdoors with one booth located in the South Hall at #S11731 and one being in the Silver Lot at #O49055.
Elite Crete Systems will be represented by factory technical staff and Authorized Distributors from all over the globe to answer questions, provide product information and help educate contractors on the benefits and proper use of our products.
To request your free World of Concrete passes, visit us at www.elitecrete.com and click on the request link located in the left hand colum.
Photos of the Month
For additional photos visit our website at www.elitecrete.com.
Elite Crete Systems Incorporated | PO Box 96 | www.elitecrete.com | Valparaiso | IN | 46384
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
JLC Live Invites Bill Leys to Present at Long Beach Show in May
Attention General Building Contractors, Remodeling Contractors
and Anyone in the Building Trades
JLC Live, Presented by Journal of Light Construction, A Hanley Wood Company, is the premier event for small building contractors and remodeling contractors.
JLC Live will be back in Long Beach from May 13 to May 16, 2008 for their annual show.
I'm pleased to announce that I have been asked (and I accepted) to be one of their presenters this year, doing a 75 minute session on deck coatings and waterproofing.
Topics will include understanding the differences in various coatings, reading ICC reports, sequencing the job properly and more! Handouts and valuable info provided.
Come see us (date time still tbd)at the show and make time to spend browsing the exhibits and exhibitors that will be there too!
Check out the website, and mark your calendar.
Saturday, December 1, 2007
Our First Video Clip On YouTube - Waterproof Decks-Keep Up or Pay Up.
With the miracle of Windows movie maker at my disposal, I was able to put together a little video clip to introduce you to our company. Here it is...
YouTube - Waterproof Decks-Keep Up or Pay Up.
YouTube - Waterproof Decks-Keep Up or Pay Up.
Friday, November 30, 2007
Excellent Article in Hanley Woods "Professional Deck Builder" for Contractors
I recently subscribed to Hanley Woods "Professional Deck Builders", a magazine geared more towards the cosntruction of wood and synthetic decks.
The November 2007 issue, has an excellent article that applies to all contracting trades, including the waterproof deck coating trade that I have to recommend as required reading for those contractors looking to improve your bottom line.
The article, "Are You a Tradesperson or a Businessperson?" by Anne W West, describes common mistakes contractors make as buisnessmen.
Understanding the true cost of labor, job costing, estimating tips and a discussion on understanding gross margin and net profit and projecting cash flow are discussed and sound advice dispensed.
Subscribe to Professional Deck Builder 888-269-8410 or email to prodeck@omeda.com.
Get an individual copy of Novembers issue for $8.00, not a bad investment for this article!
The November 2007 issue, has an excellent article that applies to all contracting trades, including the waterproof deck coating trade that I have to recommend as required reading for those contractors looking to improve your bottom line.
The article, "Are You a Tradesperson or a Businessperson?" by Anne W West, describes common mistakes contractors make as buisnessmen.
Understanding the true cost of labor, job costing, estimating tips and a discussion on understanding gross margin and net profit and projecting cash flow are discussed and sound advice dispensed.
Subscribe to Professional Deck Builder 888-269-8410 or email to prodeck@omeda.com.
Get an individual copy of Novembers issue for $8.00, not a bad investment for this article!
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
Deck Expert sumbits his idea for Assemblyman Sam Blakeslee's "There Ought to be A Law"
Got my local Assemblyman Sam Blakeslee's newsletter in my mail the other day. You may have heard the news around California, he's come up with a contest called "There Ought to Be a Law".
You go to his website at www.assembly.ca.gov/33 and follow the link to the contest page. Think there ought to be a law about something? Me too.
So my idea (I just went and submited it, so I'm looking forward to a phone call telling me how briliant I am to have though of it...) is this;
Require all waterproof deck coatings installed on decks and balconies on homes, condo's hotels and other buildings to have a "ONE HOUR" Fire rating through ICC. Nothing less. This would apply to all new construction and rehab work as well.
It would outlaw the sale and installation of non "One Hour" approved coatings for decks over living spaces.
Would this help save homes?
In my mind, undoubtably.
You go to his website at www.assembly.ca.gov/33 and follow the link to the contest page. Think there ought to be a law about something? Me too.
So my idea (I just went and submited it, so I'm looking forward to a phone call telling me how briliant I am to have though of it...) is this;
Require all waterproof deck coatings installed on decks and balconies on homes, condo's hotels and other buildings to have a "ONE HOUR" Fire rating through ICC. Nothing less. This would apply to all new construction and rehab work as well.
It would outlaw the sale and installation of non "One Hour" approved coatings for decks over living spaces.
Would this help save homes?
In my mind, undoubtably.
Deck Coating ICC#'s-a word of caution, they're not all the same
A deck coating with an ICC# is a must have in today's world of litigation on building defects.
ICC is in my opinion, kind of like the UL (Underwriters Laboratory)of building products. Putting on a building product with an ICC lets you know that the product has undergone lab testing in a series of standardized tests to establish that the product meets minimum standards for use as it was intended.
So can you switch up one ICC rated deck coating for another, without any other concerns? No-you cannot, without first doing your research. Especially when a particular product is specified for a job on a set of plans for new construction.
Even on rehab work, one must be cautious-is the old deck coating your tearing off a "One Hour" Fire Rated coating? If the answer is yes, and many times it will be a yes, one must read up on the various "One Hour" Fire rated coatings and see what the requirements are for framing and substrate to see if your current framing and substrate meets those minimum requirements.
One thing to be really cautious of is installing a Class A or B rated coating in place of a "One Hour" Fire Rated coating. A few of the ICC approved coatings on the web site only have a Class A roof coating rating, not the much more difficult to pass "One Hour" fire test.
Do not replace a "One Hour" System with a system with only a Class A rating. They are not the same thing, even though appearances may be deceiving. Do your research on your options and ask questions.
The way I see it, the product either has a "One Hour" rating on the report from ICC, or it doesn't and that's where I seperate the products from each other. Claims that"it meets ASTM standards" is not the same to me as it being printed on an ICC report.
I don't install anything without a "One Hour" fire rating for my clients.
I couldn't sleep at night of I didn't.
Email Bill@Waterproofdeckcoatingadvice.com for copies of manufacturer's specifications and installation instructions.
ICC is in my opinion, kind of like the UL (Underwriters Laboratory)of building products. Putting on a building product with an ICC lets you know that the product has undergone lab testing in a series of standardized tests to establish that the product meets minimum standards for use as it was intended.
So can you switch up one ICC rated deck coating for another, without any other concerns? No-you cannot, without first doing your research. Especially when a particular product is specified for a job on a set of plans for new construction.
Even on rehab work, one must be cautious-is the old deck coating your tearing off a "One Hour" Fire Rated coating? If the answer is yes, and many times it will be a yes, one must read up on the various "One Hour" Fire rated coatings and see what the requirements are for framing and substrate to see if your current framing and substrate meets those minimum requirements.
One thing to be really cautious of is installing a Class A or B rated coating in place of a "One Hour" Fire Rated coating. A few of the ICC approved coatings on the web site only have a Class A roof coating rating, not the much more difficult to pass "One Hour" fire test.
Do not replace a "One Hour" System with a system with only a Class A rating. They are not the same thing, even though appearances may be deceiving. Do your research on your options and ask questions.
The way I see it, the product either has a "One Hour" rating on the report from ICC, or it doesn't and that's where I seperate the products from each other. Claims that"it meets ASTM standards" is not the same to me as it being printed on an ICC report.
I don't install anything without a "One Hour" fire rating for my clients.
I couldn't sleep at night of I didn't.
Email Bill@Waterproofdeckcoatingadvice.com for copies of manufacturer's specifications and installation instructions.
Wednesday, November 7, 2007
American Concrete Institute Spec for Parking Garage Decks
"548.8-07: Specification for Type EM (Epoxy Multi-Layer) Polymer Overlay for Bridge and Parking Garage Decks This Specification covers epoxy multi-layer (EM) polymer overlays for bridge and parking garage decks. Type EM polymer overlays incorporate a low-modulus epoxy binder and selected aggregate to produce a flexible, skid-resistant, and waterproof overlay. The overlay may be used for both new construction and rehabilitation. The overlay is placed by applying the neat epoxy binder to the surface and broadcasting aggregate. This Specification includes requirements for chemical components, aggregates, storage and handling, surface preparation, surface profile, mixing, placement, and finishing. Available in hard copy or PDF format. To learn more or to order this document, go to 548.8-07: Specification for Type EM (Epoxy Multi-Layer) Polymer Overlay for Bridge and Parking Garage Decks. $27.50 (ACI members $17.00); Order Code 548807.EM. How to order: Phone: 248-848-3800, and mention order code 548807.EM Click: 548.8-07: Specification for Type EM (Epoxy Multi-Layer) Polymer Overlay for Bridge and Parking Garage Decks More from ACI on Polymer Concrete ACI has additional polym"
Friday, November 2, 2007
Building to protect your home against wildfires-case history
From Pacific Polymers website-a case study on preventing your home from burning, read and implement the building methods suggested.
Use only one hour fire rated deck coatings
ONLY ONE HOME SURVIVES DEVASTATING FIRE STORM
Studying the houses that survived the 1993 Laguna Beach fire storm yields lessons in building to withstand the heat
by John Underwood
Fire-Resistant Details
Imagine this: A brushfire, blistering and intense, breaks out on a dry, windy day and races up hills and down valleys, devouring trees, cars and houses. By the next morning the flames are gone, and the heavy clouds of black smoke have washed away to sea, leaving a clear view of charred trees and hundreds of seared foundations. Yet somehow, a few houses still stand, vivid against the backdrop of ruin.
That was the scene in October 1993 after a fire storm destroyed nearly 400 homes in Laguna Beach, California. The fires started several miles inland and swept to the sea at a brisk 2 mph to 4 mph, consuming increasingly thick vegetation along the way. Often, the course of the blaze forced the firefighters to make stands at what they considered to be the least defensible positions: the doorsteps of homes. Frequently, the flames boiled 50 ft. or 60 ft. into the air, and they reached temperatures of 2,000°F or greater. When the fire became that intense, the firefighters then were forced to abandon the structures, which in some instances burned to the ground in five minutes.
Now, more than a year and a half later, rebuilding efforts have begun to reclaim the blackened California hills and bare mountaintops where many houses once stood and where only a few houses remain.The most obvious question homeowners, builders, architects and code officials asked as they combed the rubble for clues was how did a precious few structures survive such an inferno while houses on all sides vanished in the fire? What they learned was a number of lessons that likely will work their way into local building codes and should help to reduce the damage of future fires.
Houses burn from inside out
At 400°F, curtains, wallpaper and bedding ignite. Wood studs spontaneously combust, or pyrolize, at about 450°F (steel studs melt and deform at only slightly higher temperatures). At that point, single-pane windows blow out from heat and ambient-pressure differences. Flame and heat rush in to meet interior combustion, thoroughly consuming structures. Whole houses can reach temperatures hot enough to weaken and spall concrete foundations. According to Laguna Beach Fire Chief Rich DuBerry, many if not most of the Laguna homes lost to fire burned from inside out.
Extreme heat -- with or without direct flame -- compromised the envelopes of houses and ignited material inside by entering houses through vents; poorly sealed doors or windows; and cracks in walls, subfloors or attics.
When such heat is present, destruction is a matter of time. The critical question is how much time is there? Any structures exposed to extreme temperatures and flame long enough will burn. For DuBerry Laguna's lessons are clear: "Keeping the envelope sealed can buy precious time."
Why did some survive in the midst of charred destruction?
The home of To Bui and Doris Bender was called a "miracle house" by the Los Angeles Times because of its dramatic survival in a neighborhood almost totally devastated by the fire. Why did this trilevel structure and a few others like it survive while neighbors' homes on all sides, sometimes no more than 10 ft. or 15 ft. away, burned to the ground?
Cement coatings protect the wooden structure
"It's in the details," Bui insists. He knows about such details. Originally from Vietnam, he lived and worked as a structural engineer in Germany for more than 10 years. There, the predominant building materials are concrete, stone, brick and steel. "In Germany, structures are designed to last hundreds of years," he said. "I built my house to last." He insists his Laguna home is not overbuilt. "It's just that whatever the minimum codes called for, I went a little further."
For example, exterior walls are 2x6 wood-frame construction, which allowed Bui to install R-19 foil-faced insulation (the code requires R-11, kraft-faced insulation). Exterior-wall stucco was as much as an inch thick (nominal thickness is 7/8 in.). Ordinarily, nominal thickness of stucco is 3/4 in.
Eliminate the eave overhang
To prevent heat buildup, this house was constructed without eave overhangs, which also eliminates soffit vents. Cornices are built up with 2x12s and 2x8s and covered with 1-in. stucco. The class-A fire-retardant roof tiles are plugged with metal bird stop. Where 1/2-in. wallboard is the minimal requirement on interior walls and ceilings, Bui opted for 5/8-in. wallboard and one-hour-rated exterior doors and jambs.
Where single-pane windows are acceptable in this mild climate, Bui installed dual-pane windows by International Window Corporation (310-928-6411; www.intlwindow.com) that contain an insulating air gap.
Roofs on the prevailing ranch-style or cottage-style homes in the area typically had 2-ft. or 3-ft. overhangs and undereave vents that trapped heat and flame and induced ignition. Bui eliminated eave overhangs altogether in his design and replaced them with double 2x fascia, which he then stuccoed over.
Ventilation, ordinarily found in soffits, on the ridges of roofs and in crawlspaces, was placed at the midpeak points of gable-end walls. Bui positioned horizontal, eyebrow-type roof vents on the class-A cement-tile roof at every peak, which allows the quick and efficient release of attic heat. That is a critical factor because attic insulation ignites at about 450°F. There are no crawlspace vents in Bui's house.
Minimal gable-end vents and dormer-type roof vents are adequate to ventilate the roof of this Pacific Coast house. Soffit vents are eliminated altogether. The reduced venting meets code for the area because of the greater concerns for fire safety. Behind the vents, 1/4-in. wire mesh was installed to cut the risk that cinders would be drawn into the attic space.
Bui covered wood-deck surfaces with successive layers of a fire-resistant polyurethane and a sand-coating product manufactured by Pacific Polymers Inc. This is a three-part, trowel-applied material that cures to about a 50-mil thickness and carries a Los Angeles Fire Department class-A fire rating. Bui installed scuppered drains before he applied the coating to allow drainage at several points through the subfloor.
Extra layers of protection: Eliminate exposed wood
Wooden deck surfaces are troweled over with several layers of fire-resistant coating. Undersides of all decking are stuccoed over with a 1-in. layer of cement. The glassed-in deck rails are further protection against fire.
The owner of this Laguna Beach house stuccoed the undersides of all wooden deck surfaces to a maximum thickness of about 1 in., virtually eliminating any exposed wood.
Bui stuccoed the undersides of all exposed decking to the same thickness as exterior walls (photo above). The result is a house with virtually no exposed exterior wood.
Every house around Bui and Bender's house burned. But when firefighters broke into the house to search for occupants, the place was a "cool" 100°F, Bender said.
Photo courtesy of FINE HOMEBUILDING - HOUSES
Use only one hour fire rated deck coatings
ONLY ONE HOME SURVIVES DEVASTATING FIRE STORM
Studying the houses that survived the 1993 Laguna Beach fire storm yields lessons in building to withstand the heat
by John Underwood
Fire-Resistant Details
Imagine this: A brushfire, blistering and intense, breaks out on a dry, windy day and races up hills and down valleys, devouring trees, cars and houses. By the next morning the flames are gone, and the heavy clouds of black smoke have washed away to sea, leaving a clear view of charred trees and hundreds of seared foundations. Yet somehow, a few houses still stand, vivid against the backdrop of ruin.
That was the scene in October 1993 after a fire storm destroyed nearly 400 homes in Laguna Beach, California. The fires started several miles inland and swept to the sea at a brisk 2 mph to 4 mph, consuming increasingly thick vegetation along the way. Often, the course of the blaze forced the firefighters to make stands at what they considered to be the least defensible positions: the doorsteps of homes. Frequently, the flames boiled 50 ft. or 60 ft. into the air, and they reached temperatures of 2,000°F or greater. When the fire became that intense, the firefighters then were forced to abandon the structures, which in some instances burned to the ground in five minutes.
Now, more than a year and a half later, rebuilding efforts have begun to reclaim the blackened California hills and bare mountaintops where many houses once stood and where only a few houses remain.The most obvious question homeowners, builders, architects and code officials asked as they combed the rubble for clues was how did a precious few structures survive such an inferno while houses on all sides vanished in the fire? What they learned was a number of lessons that likely will work their way into local building codes and should help to reduce the damage of future fires.
Houses burn from inside out
At 400°F, curtains, wallpaper and bedding ignite. Wood studs spontaneously combust, or pyrolize, at about 450°F (steel studs melt and deform at only slightly higher temperatures). At that point, single-pane windows blow out from heat and ambient-pressure differences. Flame and heat rush in to meet interior combustion, thoroughly consuming structures. Whole houses can reach temperatures hot enough to weaken and spall concrete foundations. According to Laguna Beach Fire Chief Rich DuBerry, many if not most of the Laguna homes lost to fire burned from inside out.
Extreme heat -- with or without direct flame -- compromised the envelopes of houses and ignited material inside by entering houses through vents; poorly sealed doors or windows; and cracks in walls, subfloors or attics.
When such heat is present, destruction is a matter of time. The critical question is how much time is there? Any structures exposed to extreme temperatures and flame long enough will burn. For DuBerry Laguna's lessons are clear: "Keeping the envelope sealed can buy precious time."
Why did some survive in the midst of charred destruction?
The home of To Bui and Doris Bender was called a "miracle house" by the Los Angeles Times because of its dramatic survival in a neighborhood almost totally devastated by the fire. Why did this trilevel structure and a few others like it survive while neighbors' homes on all sides, sometimes no more than 10 ft. or 15 ft. away, burned to the ground?
Cement coatings protect the wooden structure
"It's in the details," Bui insists. He knows about such details. Originally from Vietnam, he lived and worked as a structural engineer in Germany for more than 10 years. There, the predominant building materials are concrete, stone, brick and steel. "In Germany, structures are designed to last hundreds of years," he said. "I built my house to last." He insists his Laguna home is not overbuilt. "It's just that whatever the minimum codes called for, I went a little further."
For example, exterior walls are 2x6 wood-frame construction, which allowed Bui to install R-19 foil-faced insulation (the code requires R-11, kraft-faced insulation). Exterior-wall stucco was as much as an inch thick (nominal thickness is 7/8 in.). Ordinarily, nominal thickness of stucco is 3/4 in.
Eliminate the eave overhang
To prevent heat buildup, this house was constructed without eave overhangs, which also eliminates soffit vents. Cornices are built up with 2x12s and 2x8s and covered with 1-in. stucco. The class-A fire-retardant roof tiles are plugged with metal bird stop. Where 1/2-in. wallboard is the minimal requirement on interior walls and ceilings, Bui opted for 5/8-in. wallboard and one-hour-rated exterior doors and jambs.
Where single-pane windows are acceptable in this mild climate, Bui installed dual-pane windows by International Window Corporation (310-928-6411; www.intlwindow.com) that contain an insulating air gap.
Roofs on the prevailing ranch-style or cottage-style homes in the area typically had 2-ft. or 3-ft. overhangs and undereave vents that trapped heat and flame and induced ignition. Bui eliminated eave overhangs altogether in his design and replaced them with double 2x fascia, which he then stuccoed over.
Ventilation, ordinarily found in soffits, on the ridges of roofs and in crawlspaces, was placed at the midpeak points of gable-end walls. Bui positioned horizontal, eyebrow-type roof vents on the class-A cement-tile roof at every peak, which allows the quick and efficient release of attic heat. That is a critical factor because attic insulation ignites at about 450°F. There are no crawlspace vents in Bui's house.
Minimal gable-end vents and dormer-type roof vents are adequate to ventilate the roof of this Pacific Coast house. Soffit vents are eliminated altogether. The reduced venting meets code for the area because of the greater concerns for fire safety. Behind the vents, 1/4-in. wire mesh was installed to cut the risk that cinders would be drawn into the attic space.
Bui covered wood-deck surfaces with successive layers of a fire-resistant polyurethane and a sand-coating product manufactured by Pacific Polymers Inc. This is a three-part, trowel-applied material that cures to about a 50-mil thickness and carries a Los Angeles Fire Department class-A fire rating. Bui installed scuppered drains before he applied the coating to allow drainage at several points through the subfloor.
Extra layers of protection: Eliminate exposed wood
Wooden deck surfaces are troweled over with several layers of fire-resistant coating. Undersides of all decking are stuccoed over with a 1-in. layer of cement. The glassed-in deck rails are further protection against fire.
The owner of this Laguna Beach house stuccoed the undersides of all wooden deck surfaces to a maximum thickness of about 1 in., virtually eliminating any exposed wood.
Bui stuccoed the undersides of all exposed decking to the same thickness as exterior walls (photo above). The result is a house with virtually no exposed exterior wood.
Every house around Bui and Bender's house burned. But when firefighters broke into the house to search for occupants, the place was a "cool" 100°F, Bender said.
Photo courtesy of FINE HOMEBUILDING - HOUSES
Thursday, November 1, 2007
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
Should it be Law that All Deck Coatings MUST Be ICC One Hour Fire Rated?
Should it be Code or Law that any deck coating applied to plywood decks be One Hour Fire Rated? Makes sense when we live in such a volatile area that is so subject to fire.
I've bid jobs that require a tear off the existing system (due usually to neglect and wear and tear)and replacement with a new coating. I found that sometimes that a bidder with a cheaper (read-non fire rated, non ICC approved)product got the job, based on price. When I try to tell the owner that they are losing their fire protection, often times they shrug and don't care.
I think it should be law/code that only ICC one Hour Rated coatings can be applied to plywood covered decks-houses may be saved or damage reduced. Readers, what do you think?
Post your comments!
I've bid jobs that require a tear off the existing system (due usually to neglect and wear and tear)and replacement with a new coating. I found that sometimes that a bidder with a cheaper (read-non fire rated, non ICC approved)product got the job, based on price. When I try to tell the owner that they are losing their fire protection, often times they shrug and don't care.
I think it should be law/code that only ICC one Hour Rated coatings can be applied to plywood covered decks-houses may be saved or damage reduced. Readers, what do you think?
Post your comments!
Friday, October 26, 2007
The answer to crack or not to crack-today's deck mystery
We got 2 emails commenting on the case of the cracked deck-kudo's to both respondors, they both said that the staple(s) were stapled over the seam, into 2 pieces of plywood, which when expansion/contraction occurs (as it normally does with any wood product), the staple is moving too, likely causing the deck to crack. Scroll down the page a bit to see the picture of the cracked deck.
Careful stapling would have avoided the seam being zippered together, preventing the cracking.
Careful stapling would have avoided the seam being zippered together, preventing the cracking.
Monday, October 15, 2007
Waterproofdeckcoatingadvice.com makes it's trade show debut at CAI Channel Island's
It was a beautiful day on Friday as the Board members and HOA managers who belong to the Channel Islands Chapter of CAI poured into the exhibit area at the Hyatt in Westlake Village.
Our debut was received warmly by the many managers and Board members who wanted to know what the heck it is we do...
and we showed them, with our hands on display of actual deck coating samples and a model of a deck showing the steps necessary to flash and waterproof a deck properly. (Thanks to West Coast Waterproofing of Paramount for loaning us their model).
Attendees also found out that we offer inspections, bid analysis, consulting and seminars as well.
Over 200 persons attended the show, the culmination of a year of planning by Channel Islands Executive Director(s) Krisi Davis and Leah Ross, who took over as Executive Director in August, with the support and help of the Annual Trade Show Committee.
Our debut was received warmly by the many managers and Board members who wanted to know what the heck it is we do...
and we showed them, with our hands on display of actual deck coating samples and a model of a deck showing the steps necessary to flash and waterproof a deck properly. (Thanks to West Coast Waterproofing of Paramount for loaning us their model).
Attendees also found out that we offer inspections, bid analysis, consulting and seminars as well.
Over 200 persons attended the show, the culmination of a year of planning by Channel Islands Executive Director(s) Krisi Davis and Leah Ross, who took over as Executive Director in August, with the support and help of the Annual Trade Show Committee.
Tuesday, October 9, 2007
Now see You Tube Video's Here
Check out our latest feature here at the Deck Blog-You Tube video's!
No, not video's of boring stuff, exciting video's featuring waterproofing and acid staining and concrete prep and more fun exciting stuff to keep your mind busy for hours on end...
Scroll down and you'll find this new feature on the right side column, hit the refresh button to see othe rchoices streamed in. My browser loads the video on the top of the page.
No, not video's of boring stuff, exciting video's featuring waterproofing and acid staining and concrete prep and more fun exciting stuff to keep your mind busy for hours on end...
Scroll down and you'll find this new feature on the right side column, hit the refresh button to see othe rchoices streamed in. My browser loads the video on the top of the page.
To Crack or Not to Crack-Today's Mystery Deck Problem
Today's mystery-the case of the cracked deck.
History, subject had a metal lath/polymer modified deck coating system installed over his OSB covered deck. Subject had a crack appear soon thereafter.
Flash forward-subject asks me to inspect his deck and give him a quote to fix.
Inspection reveals a crack in the deck, following what appears to be the seams of the OSB sheathing.
Here's some pictures, take a look and see what you think has caused this problem.
Email me at Bill@Waterproofdeckcoatingadvice.com and tell me what you think.
I'll post my thoughts in a couple of weeks...
Say Hello to our new blogger!
A warm welcome to our latest author to join us here at Waterproofdeckcoatingadvice.com's blog-Ron Webber of Procoat Systems/Statewide Coatings of Orange CA.
Ron's background includes years in the stucco/plastering trades. Many in the industry recognize his expertise in waterproofing buildings.
As owner of one of the largest waterproofing/deck coating/concrete coating installers in Southern California, we're sure that Ron will be able to bring you his stories and experiences to this blog.
We're glad to have Ron onboard!
Ron's background includes years in the stucco/plastering trades. Many in the industry recognize his expertise in waterproofing buildings.
As owner of one of the largest waterproofing/deck coating/concrete coating installers in Southern California, we're sure that Ron will be able to bring you his stories and experiences to this blog.
We're glad to have Ron onboard!
Tuesday, October 2, 2007
RCI, Inc.
RCI, Inc.: "2007 Symposium on Building Envelope Technology - November 8-9 Designing, Detailing and Specifying the Building Envelope of Today and Tomorrow Symposium Dates: Thursday, November 8, 2007 Friday, November 9, 2007 Location: Seaport Hotel 1 Seaport Lane Boston, MA 02210 617-385-4000 Web site: www.seaportboston.com Technical Education for Building Envelope Professionals The Symposium on Building Envelope Technology is a two-day educational program offering cutting-edge information regarding design, construction, maintenance and repair of modern and/or aging older building envelopes. The event's open, inclusive environment encourages attendees to ask questions and stimulates dialogue. Speakers offer relevant solutions by referencing real-world examples and specific case histories. Each registrant will receive a comprehensive proceedings book detailing program information. Breakfast, lunch and breaks will be catered daily. There will be an informal social reception Thursday evening. Educational Programs Include * Using the Whole Building Approach to Design High-performance Buildings * Design Principles for Plaza Waterproofing Systems"
READ ALL ABOUT THIS IMPORTANT WATERPROOFING SYMPOSIUM by clicking the link above to go to RCI's page
READ ALL ABOUT THIS IMPORTANT WATERPROOFING SYMPOSIUM by clicking the link above to go to RCI's page
Sunday, September 23, 2007
Straight Issues | Leaky-condo legal battle rumbles on | Straight.com
Straight Issues | Leaky-condo legal battle rumbles on | Straight.com: "Straight Issues Leaky-condo legal battle rumbles on Straight Issues Publish Date: July 19, 2007 The struggle of leaky-condo buyers is far from over. Take the case of Strata Plan LMS 1725 , owners of units at the Governor's Tower and Villas condominiums in Yaletown. It took no less than a B.C. Supreme Court ruling to allow them to retain an engineering firm to rehabilitate the buildings that suffered from water-penetration problems following their construction in 1994. Property developer Pacific Place Holdings Ltd . had objected to their hiring of RDH Building Engineering Ltd. on the grounds that the same firm had previously provided expert advice to the builder. In a July 12 decision, the court noted that the developer's application to disqualify the engineering company will not only delay the repair and hike costs but also 'increase the difficulties' of owners. This won't end the legal fight. The condo owners earlier sued the builder. The trial will start in January 2008, the 245 owners' lawyer, Robert Lesperance , told the Straight . At least 65,000 homeowners in B.C. have been affected by the leaky-condo problem, according to estimates by the Consumer Advocacy and Support to Homeowners Society. Society cofounder John Grasty noted that building tarps are visible across the Low"
Coalition of Leaky Condo Owners Home Page
Coalition of Leaky Condo Owners Home Page
Our Canadian neighbors to the north aren't exempt from leaky condo's; here's a great Blog from the Great White North!
Our Canadian neighbors to the north aren't exempt from leaky condo's; here's a great Blog from the Great White North!
Tales from downunder-Waterproofing Expensive townhouses
April Showers Waterproofing Pty Ltd - Waterproofing expensive townhouses:
I found this to be an interesting story; it's nice to see that we're not the only ones with water intrusion problems...
"Waterproofing expensive townhouses 339 Edgecliff Rd consists of a number of large townhouses set up in a terraced layout - all with Sydney Harbour and Rose Bay views. The complex was built in the early 1970s and is on the lower side of Edgecliff Rd, Woollahra. The buildings have had water penetration problems for well over 10 years with water entering in through the roof, the balconies and cavity walls. The Body Corporate engaged a forensic architect who specialises in remedial work to advise them on the best way to solve the buildings problems. The architect developed a staged plan to bring the building up to scratch over a three-year period. Because of the high value of the townhouses and the fact that many previous waterproofing attempts had failed, the water leakage problems were among the first issues addressed. The architect recommended a PVC waterproofing system be used to waterproof the flat roofs, balconies and to replace the defective cavity flashings. PVC was chosen because of its total reliability and track record in waterproofing structures where other systems had failed. April Showers Waterproofing Pty Ltd, experienced sheet PVC applicators and licensed builders, was awarded the contract to carry out the waterproofing and associated works. After waterproofing the roof are"
I found this to be an interesting story; it's nice to see that we're not the only ones with water intrusion problems...
"Waterproofing expensive townhouses 339 Edgecliff Rd consists of a number of large townhouses set up in a terraced layout - all with Sydney Harbour and Rose Bay views. The complex was built in the early 1970s and is on the lower side of Edgecliff Rd, Woollahra. The buildings have had water penetration problems for well over 10 years with water entering in through the roof, the balconies and cavity walls. The Body Corporate engaged a forensic architect who specialises in remedial work to advise them on the best way to solve the buildings problems. The architect developed a staged plan to bring the building up to scratch over a three-year period. Because of the high value of the townhouses and the fact that many previous waterproofing attempts had failed, the water leakage problems were among the first issues addressed. The architect recommended a PVC waterproofing system be used to waterproof the flat roofs, balconies and to replace the defective cavity flashings. PVC was chosen because of its total reliability and track record in waterproofing structures where other systems had failed. April Showers Waterproofing Pty Ltd, experienced sheet PVC applicators and licensed builders, was awarded the contract to carry out the waterproofing and associated works. After waterproofing the roof are"
ArchitectureWeek - Building - SoCal Concrete - 2007.0516
ArchitectureWeek - Building - SoCal Concrete - 2007.0516: "SoCal Concrete by Michael Chusid The Rice Residence, on a hillside above Los Angeles, expresses an idyllic Southern California lifestyle with daylight saturating every room, a floor plan that encourages casual indoor-outdoor living, and spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean in the distance. While some buildings demand to be the center of attention, this structure defers to the natural beauty of the landscape and the activities of its occupants. It's not until the ebullient homeowner, Ed Rice, says, 'Come on, I want you to see the roof!' that a visitor realizes the structure of the building is as exciting as its architecture. There is no doubt about it — Edward K. Rice, FACI, is a concrete man. Not only has he been granted 19 patents in concrete and construction technology, but he also co-founded and served as president of T.Y. Lin & Associates — an engineering firm known for concrete innovation. Rice has also owned a concrete construction company and taught engineering and material science at the University of California, Los Angeles. He even has a fully equipped concrete laboratory in his basement, where he continues his quest for improved concrete. So in 1963, when it came time to build a home for his growing family, it was only natural for Rice to apply all-concrete construction "
Residential Contractor Magazine
Residential Contractor Magazine: "Waterproof Decks Waterproof decks and coatings demand careful selection by builders who want to avoid litigation."
Builder and Developer's Tips to Compelling Arbitration in Construction Defect Claims
Builder and Developer: "Tips to Compelling Arbitration in Construction Defect Claims By adding the appropriate language to contracts, homebuilders have the ability to compel arbitration in many construction defect claims, providing a valuable alternative to litigation. by John E. Bowerbank Often homebuilders are surprised to learn that under California law, a home purchaser can willingly and voluntarily enter into an agreement with the homebuilder for binding arbitration of construction defect claims, but later decide to avoid the arbitration provision and sue the homebuilder in California courts. Section 1298.7 of the Code of Civil Procedure specifically allows a home purchaser to opt out of arbitration and file suit in the courts. If California law applies to the arbitration provision, a builder cannot successfully compel binding arbitration after a homeowner files a lawsuit in the California courts. The million dollar question is whether there is a way to circumvent California’s law against compelling arbitration in construction defect lawsuits. The answer is “yes,” provided a builder can demonstrate that the real property purchase involved “interstate commerce.”"
READ THE REST OF THIS ARTICLE AT BUILDER & DEVELOPER MAGAZINE BY CLICKING THE LINK ABOVE
READ THE REST OF THIS ARTICLE AT BUILDER & DEVELOPER MAGAZINE BY CLICKING THE LINK ABOVE
Saturday, September 22, 2007
JLC Live Events
Hanley Wood - Ideas to build on.™: "As the established leader in live, hands-on construction education, JLC LIVE provides the perfect showcase for this high-growth residential construction market fueled by strong housing starts and aging baby boomers with more disposable income. * Timely conference programs, hundreds of action exhibits, hands-on technical demonstrations and how-to workshops attract thousands of industry pros who attend JLC LIVE's regional shows each year to learn how to use new materials, tools, and technologies—live on the Expo floor. * Delivering the most relevant information, education, and training in the industry, JLC LIVE features many new topics, speakers and demonstrations—all designed to provide owners, managers, and key personnel with vital information to increase productivity and profitability throughout your business. * Presented by: JOURNAL OF LIGHT CONSTRUCTION, TOOLS OF THE TRADE, and REMODELING magazines. JLC LIVE New England Exhibits: March 28-29, 2008 Conference: March 26-29, 2008 Rhode Island Convention Center Providence, R.I. JLC LIVE Southern California Exhibits: May 15-16, 2008 Conference: May 13-16, 2008 Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center Long Beach, Calif. JLC LIVE Midwest Exhibits: Oct. 9-10, 2008 Conference: Oct. 7-10, 2008 Minneapolis"
Deck Industry Association's Deck Expo 2008
Welcome to the Deck Industry Association Web Site: "DECK EXPO '08 UPDATES: Save the dates for DECKEXPO 2008 to be held at the Orange County Convention Center - March 5th & 6th."
ASTM standards for moisture testing concrete
ASTMstandards: "ASTM Standards & Practices for Calcium Chloride Testing The American Society for Testing & Materials is composed of a group of individuals from various professional backgrounds who collaborate to be the foremost developer and provider of voluntary consensus standards. In relationship to concrete floor slab testing, the ASTM has recently published two standards which are to be followed in order to obtain meaningful testing results for the purpose of floor covering and coating installation over concrete slabs. These Standards are property of ASTM and can be purchased for a nominal fee directly from their website using a major credit card. Documents or Standards can be mailed, faxed or downloaded in an Adobe PDF document format. E-1907-04 Standard Practices for Determining Moisture-Related Acceptability of Concrete Floors to Receive Moisture-Sensitive Finishes. F-1869-04 Standard Test Method for Measuring Moisture Vapor Emission Rate of Concrete Sub-floor Using Anhydrous Calcium Chloride. The E-1907-04 document describes all the major tests commonly used for concrete floor slab testing. This includes the calcium chloride test. The F-1869-04 document describes only the calcium chloride test. As of March, 2003 the two documents are being handled by one committee."
PCBC 2008
PCBC 2007: "PCBC® 2008 Pre-Conference: Tuesday, June 24 Main Conference: Wednesday-Friday, June 25-27 Exhibit Halls: Wednesday-Friday, June 25-27 Exhibit Hall Hours Wednesday, June 25 | 10:00am - 5:00pm Thursday, June 26 | 10:00am - 5:00pm Friday, June 27 | 9:00am - 3:00pm The Moscone Center (home of PCBC) 747 Howard Street San Francisco, CA 94103 Directions | Parking San Francisco Information Weather | Visitors Information | Dining Reservations"
World Of Concrete 2008
WOC 2008: "With more than 900,000 net sq. ft. of exhibits occupied by 1,739 exhibitors, and professional registrants of 91,628, World of Concrete 2007 was the largest show in its 33-year history! This year, WOC 2008 promises to bring you an even bigger and better show with all of the production equipment, handling tools, trucks, the latest technologies, 90-minute and 3-hour seminar programs, indoor & outdoor events & demonstrations, resources and valuable information for the concrete and masonry industry professionals."
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
Sound Home Resource Center-Topic
Sound Home Resource Center-Topic: "WATERPROOF DECKS When I drive up to a home with a waterproof deck I know that some very special attention will have to be payed to the parts of the house associated with that deck. Most roofing products are not intended for foot traffic and can be easily damaged by improper use. Over the last few years, a number of decking materials intended for foot traffic have been developed and successfully used to build decks that also act as a roof. Waterproof decks require the very best construction practices and the most careful attention to detail. 'B+' grade work is all too likely to fail and cause damage to the structure of the property."
Read more at Sound Home Consultant!
Read more at Sound Home Consultant!
CAI Law Reporter - September 2007
While this case involved a roof, it could easily be a deck over a living space...read on, I wrote in DECK in exchange for Roof...
Business Judgment Rule is not Defense in Breach of Contract Claim
Anderson v. Nottingham Village Homeowner’s Association, Inc., 37 A.D. 3d 1195, 830 N.Y.S.2d 882 (2007)
Powers of the Association: The business judgment rule neither constitutes a defense to a breach of contract claim nor protects an association from liability where an association is contractually obligated to maintain property, even though individual unit owners are responsible for interior damage.
Mary Ann Anderson and her mother owned a townhouse in a cooperative managed by Nottingham Village Homeowners’ Association (“association”). A leak in the DECK roof above the Andersons’ townhouse caused mold growth in the interior of their townhouse, which caused damage to the property and health problems for the Andersons. Mary Anderson sued the association for its failure to repair the unit’s DECK properly. The association’s Maintenance Responsibility Policy placed responsibility for DECK maintenance on the association but also provided that individual unit owners would be responsible for interior water damage.
After Mary Anderson asked the court to add her mother as an additional plaintiff and seek damages for property damage and health problems arising from mold growth in the apartment, the association moved for summary judgment, arguing that the business judgment rule insulated the association from liability for failure to repair the DECK properly. The trial court denied Anderson’s motion and granted the association’s cross motion. Anderson appealed.
The business judgment rule bars judicial review of the reasonableness of decisions made by the managing board of condominiums or co-ops if the board acts within its authority, its action has a legitimate relationship with the purposes of the association, and there is no showing of bad faith, self-dealing, fraud, or other misconduct. However, as in this case, where the issue was breach of contract, the court determined that the business judgment rule did not apply and did not protect the association from liability for its alleged breach of contract.
The court affirmed that Anderson had contractually assumed responsibility for interior water damage resulting from a leaky DECK but concluded that the trial court abused its discretion in denying Anderson’s motion and her mother as an additional plaintiff. Stating that leave to amend a pleading should be freely granted if the amendment was not lacking in merit and there was no prejudice to the nonmoving party, the court ruled that the proposed amended complaint sufficiently alleged the breach of a duty of reasonable care independent of the association’s contractual duties and resulting non-economic damages to set forth a separate tort claim.
However, the court denied Anderson’s motion to recover punitive damages because the association’s conduct did not rise to the level of a high degree of moral culpability manifesting a conscious disregard of others’ rights or constituting willful or wanton negligence or recklessness.
Business Judgment Rule is not Defense in Breach of Contract Claim
Anderson v. Nottingham Village Homeowner’s Association, Inc., 37 A.D. 3d 1195, 830 N.Y.S.2d 882 (2007)
Powers of the Association: The business judgment rule neither constitutes a defense to a breach of contract claim nor protects an association from liability where an association is contractually obligated to maintain property, even though individual unit owners are responsible for interior damage.
Mary Ann Anderson and her mother owned a townhouse in a cooperative managed by Nottingham Village Homeowners’ Association (“association”). A leak in the DECK roof above the Andersons’ townhouse caused mold growth in the interior of their townhouse, which caused damage to the property and health problems for the Andersons. Mary Anderson sued the association for its failure to repair the unit’s DECK properly. The association’s Maintenance Responsibility Policy placed responsibility for DECK maintenance on the association but also provided that individual unit owners would be responsible for interior water damage.
After Mary Anderson asked the court to add her mother as an additional plaintiff and seek damages for property damage and health problems arising from mold growth in the apartment, the association moved for summary judgment, arguing that the business judgment rule insulated the association from liability for failure to repair the DECK properly. The trial court denied Anderson’s motion and granted the association’s cross motion. Anderson appealed.
The business judgment rule bars judicial review of the reasonableness of decisions made by the managing board of condominiums or co-ops if the board acts within its authority, its action has a legitimate relationship with the purposes of the association, and there is no showing of bad faith, self-dealing, fraud, or other misconduct. However, as in this case, where the issue was breach of contract, the court determined that the business judgment rule did not apply and did not protect the association from liability for its alleged breach of contract.
The court affirmed that Anderson had contractually assumed responsibility for interior water damage resulting from a leaky DECK but concluded that the trial court abused its discretion in denying Anderson’s motion and her mother as an additional plaintiff. Stating that leave to amend a pleading should be freely granted if the amendment was not lacking in merit and there was no prejudice to the nonmoving party, the court ruled that the proposed amended complaint sufficiently alleged the breach of a duty of reasonable care independent of the association’s contractual duties and resulting non-economic damages to set forth a separate tort claim.
However, the court denied Anderson’s motion to recover punitive damages because the association’s conduct did not rise to the level of a high degree of moral culpability manifesting a conscious disregard of others’ rights or constituting willful or wanton negligence or recklessness.
WESTCON Annual Symposium -Plaza and Deck Waterproofing
A Must Attend Event for those in the trade!
Western Construction Consultants
Plaza and Deck Waterproofing
A look at all aspects of plaza, walkway, and balcony waterproofing.
For: Architects, Engineers, Consultants, Waterproofing and Roofing Contractors, Specifiers,
General Contractors, Attorneys, Building Officials,
Project Managers
to register online click here
or
download pdf
DETAILS
DATE:
Thursday, November 1, 2007
Golden Gate Fields, Turf Club
1100 Eastshore Highway, Berkeley, CA 94710
(866) 928-7223
TIME:
Registration is from 7:30 to 8:00am.
The program will begin at 8:00am and end at 5:00pm.
Complimentary lunch provided
between 12:00 and 1:00pm
TUITION:
$250 for first registrant
$235 each additional registrant of the same company
$230 Westcon Members -additional registrant: $215
After October 25th:
$280 for first registrant and
$265 each additional registrant
Pre-register:
By Mail: 405 Phillips Drive
Penngrove, CA 94951
By Phone: (707) 792-1323
By Fax: (707) 792-1323
By Email: info@westcon.org
On Line: www.westcon.org
Walk-in:
You may register at the door if space is available. If you have not pre-registered, please call the day before the seminar to confirm there have been no location or schedule changes and space is available.
Refund Policy:
Refunds are available up to 5 business days prior to the event. Call (707) 792-1323. NO REFUNDS WILL BE GIVEN AFTER OCTOBER 24TH.
HIGHLIGHTS
* History of Horizontal Waterproofing.
* Types and Compositions of Waterproofing Products.
* Regulations and Codes relating to waterproofing.
* Surface Preparation and Detailing.
* Waterproofing flashing detailing.
* Balcony flashing detailing.
* Drains and Scuppers.
* Flood tests and why testing is required.
* Comparison of benefits and limitations of waterproofing and balcony coatings.
Format:
Live lecture format with mock-ups, PowerPoint graphics, text, and photographs. An outline of the seminar will be provided to the attendees for note-taking convenience.
Continuing Education Credit:
This seminar is a valuable opportunity to get the knowledge critical to keeping you up to date in your profession.
AIF Self Reporting Forms will be available at the check in table. Attendance certificates will be issured upon completion of the seminar.
SPEAKERS
MANFRED (Fred) HONECK: Is a Principal of Aquatech Consultancy, a pioneer in construction waterproofing material development as well as applications of liquid applied membranes systems and advanced industrial coatings. He is a registered professional engineer and construction consultant. Mr. Honeck has degrees in Coating & Resin Technology and Business Administration. He holds California state contracting licenses in “General Contracting”, Roofing and Waterproofing, Painting and Decorating and Flooring.
JIM STRONG: Consultant with Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates with over two decades of extensive experience investigating and solving water leakage problems for a range of building components including roofing, plaza and parking deck waterproofing systems, facades, windows and below-grade walls.
RICK NORRIS: Principal of Norris Consulting Services, Mr. Norris specializes in roof coverings, wall waterproofing, elevated deck and window and door flashing systems and is an expert in the biological deterioration of wood in service.
PAUL GOETZ: Principal/Senior Consultant, with over 25 years of practical and diverse waterproofing and construction experiences in the areas of project management, contracting, specification preparation, estimating, and forensic consulting. He is an experienced forensic investigator and a licensed Roofing and Waterproofing Contractor in the State of California. He is a member of the Roof Consultants Institute (RCI), Construction Specification Institute (CSI), International Concrete Repair Institute (ICRI) and is recently Past President of the Western Construction Consultants Association (WESTCON).
CHRIS NELSON: Senior Consultant with Technical Roof Services, Inc., has 28 years experience with roofing, waterproofing, wall weather proofing of all types as a workman, general contractor, and as a consultant. Responsibilities are investigating problematic leakage and devising repair solutions of buildings of all type and systems.
TOM BUTT: President and Principle-In-Charge of Interactive Resources, a 30-year full-service architecture–engineering firm. He is a licensed architect and general contractor with extensive forensic architectural experience and more than 35 years of experience with the design of institutional, residential, commercial and public buildings.
MYLES F. CORCORAN: CEO of Myles F. Corcoran Construction Consulting, Inc. (MFC), a construction litigation, dispute resolution, construction design and management firm founded in 1990. He has been involved with the analysis of water intrusion issues as well as designing custom waterproofing details for commercial, residential and public buildings since 1982. Mr. Corcoran is a licensed general contractor, expert witness, certified building Inspector, arbitrator, and mediator.
Western Construction Consultants
Plaza and Deck Waterproofing
A look at all aspects of plaza, walkway, and balcony waterproofing.
For: Architects, Engineers, Consultants, Waterproofing and Roofing Contractors, Specifiers,
General Contractors, Attorneys, Building Officials,
Project Managers
to register online click here
or
download pdf
DETAILS
DATE:
Thursday, November 1, 2007
Golden Gate Fields, Turf Club
1100 Eastshore Highway, Berkeley, CA 94710
(866) 928-7223
TIME:
Registration is from 7:30 to 8:00am.
The program will begin at 8:00am and end at 5:00pm.
Complimentary lunch provided
between 12:00 and 1:00pm
TUITION:
$250 for first registrant
$235 each additional registrant of the same company
$230 Westcon Members -additional registrant: $215
After October 25th:
$280 for first registrant and
$265 each additional registrant
Pre-register:
By Mail: 405 Phillips Drive
Penngrove, CA 94951
By Phone: (707) 792-1323
By Fax: (707) 792-1323
By Email: info@westcon.org
On Line: www.westcon.org
Walk-in:
You may register at the door if space is available. If you have not pre-registered, please call the day before the seminar to confirm there have been no location or schedule changes and space is available.
Refund Policy:
Refunds are available up to 5 business days prior to the event. Call (707) 792-1323. NO REFUNDS WILL BE GIVEN AFTER OCTOBER 24TH.
HIGHLIGHTS
* History of Horizontal Waterproofing.
* Types and Compositions of Waterproofing Products.
* Regulations and Codes relating to waterproofing.
* Surface Preparation and Detailing.
* Waterproofing flashing detailing.
* Balcony flashing detailing.
* Drains and Scuppers.
* Flood tests and why testing is required.
* Comparison of benefits and limitations of waterproofing and balcony coatings.
Format:
Live lecture format with mock-ups, PowerPoint graphics, text, and photographs. An outline of the seminar will be provided to the attendees for note-taking convenience.
Continuing Education Credit:
This seminar is a valuable opportunity to get the knowledge critical to keeping you up to date in your profession.
AIF Self Reporting Forms will be available at the check in table. Attendance certificates will be issured upon completion of the seminar.
SPEAKERS
MANFRED (Fred) HONECK: Is a Principal of Aquatech Consultancy, a pioneer in construction waterproofing material development as well as applications of liquid applied membranes systems and advanced industrial coatings. He is a registered professional engineer and construction consultant. Mr. Honeck has degrees in Coating & Resin Technology and Business Administration. He holds California state contracting licenses in “General Contracting”, Roofing and Waterproofing, Painting and Decorating and Flooring.
JIM STRONG: Consultant with Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates with over two decades of extensive experience investigating and solving water leakage problems for a range of building components including roofing, plaza and parking deck waterproofing systems, facades, windows and below-grade walls.
RICK NORRIS: Principal of Norris Consulting Services, Mr. Norris specializes in roof coverings, wall waterproofing, elevated deck and window and door flashing systems and is an expert in the biological deterioration of wood in service.
PAUL GOETZ: Principal/Senior Consultant, with over 25 years of practical and diverse waterproofing and construction experiences in the areas of project management, contracting, specification preparation, estimating, and forensic consulting. He is an experienced forensic investigator and a licensed Roofing and Waterproofing Contractor in the State of California. He is a member of the Roof Consultants Institute (RCI), Construction Specification Institute (CSI), International Concrete Repair Institute (ICRI) and is recently Past President of the Western Construction Consultants Association (WESTCON).
CHRIS NELSON: Senior Consultant with Technical Roof Services, Inc., has 28 years experience with roofing, waterproofing, wall weather proofing of all types as a workman, general contractor, and as a consultant. Responsibilities are investigating problematic leakage and devising repair solutions of buildings of all type and systems.
TOM BUTT: President and Principle-In-Charge of Interactive Resources, a 30-year full-service architecture–engineering firm. He is a licensed architect and general contractor with extensive forensic architectural experience and more than 35 years of experience with the design of institutional, residential, commercial and public buildings.
MYLES F. CORCORAN: CEO of Myles F. Corcoran Construction Consulting, Inc. (MFC), a construction litigation, dispute resolution, construction design and management firm founded in 1990. He has been involved with the analysis of water intrusion issues as well as designing custom waterproofing details for commercial, residential and public buildings since 1982. Mr. Corcoran is a licensed general contractor, expert witness, certified building Inspector, arbitrator, and mediator.
Water destroy's deck's framing
So, I'm at a job inspection in Camarillo at this estate home. A General Contractor had called us in for estimating the costs of waterproofing the deck, after the framing was rebuilt.
Here are some pictures documenting the damage that can be caused by water intrusion into a buildings framing. Total estimate of damage-over 100k to fix. Pay a little now to inspect and repair or spend a lot to replace what could have been saved with due diligence!
TCNA - TCA Publications
If you waterproof decks for tile applications, you'd better have this in your library! Buy it today from Tile Council of America! No, sorry, we don't get any referral fees or commissions. We bought this book and simply suggest you do to!
TCNA - TCA Publications: "The 2007 version of the TCA Handbook for Ceramic Tile Installation provides specification writers, architects, contractors and installers industry-consensus detailed drawings and installation specification guidelines for 101 installation methods. The specification guidelines for each method include recommended uses, limitations, requirements, materials, preparation by other trades, movement joints and installation specifications. It references American National Standards Institute (ANSI) standards and American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) test methods. The 2007 Handbook features: + More than 300 updates + Significant changes in deflection language + All changes are marked with an '07' graphic + Includes Floor Covering Cost Comparison"
TCNA - TCA Publications: "The 2007 version of the TCA Handbook for Ceramic Tile Installation provides specification writers, architects, contractors and installers industry-consensus detailed drawings and installation specification guidelines for 101 installation methods. The specification guidelines for each method include recommended uses, limitations, requirements, materials, preparation by other trades, movement joints and installation specifications. It references American National Standards Institute (ANSI) standards and American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) test methods. The 2007 Handbook features: + More than 300 updates + Significant changes in deflection language + All changes are marked with an '07' graphic + Includes Floor Covering Cost Comparison"
Monday, September 17, 2007
RCI, Inc.
RCI, Inc.: "2007 Symposium on Building Envelope Technology - November 8-9 Designing, Detailing and Specifying the Building Envelope of Today and Tomorrow Symposium Dates: Thursday, November 8, 2007 Friday, November 9, 2007 Location: Seaport Hotel 200 Seaport Boulevard, Suite 304 Boston, MA 02210 617-385-4000 Web site: www.seaportboston.com Technical Education for Building Envelope Professionals The Symposium on Building Envelope Technology is a two-day educational program offering cutting-edge information regarding design, construction, maintenance and repair of modern and/or aging older building envelopes. The event's open, inclusive environment encourages attendees to ask questions and stimulates dialogue. Speakers offer relevant solutions by referencing real-world examples and specific case histories. Each registrant will receive a comprehensive proceedings book detailing program information. Breakfast, lunch and breaks will be catered daily. There will be an informal social reception Thursday evening. Educational Programs Include * Using the Whole Building Approach to Design High-performance Buildings * Design Principles for Plaza Waterproofing Systems * Corrosion Assessment of an Office Building’s Aluminum Curtain Wall Components * Slate Roof Evaluation and Design Considerations * Wall Claddin"
Pacific Polymers
Pacific Polymers: "75 Million Dollar Home employs Pacific Polymers' ELASTO-DECK 5000X2 SYSTEM PORTABELLO ESTATE: On the cliffs near Arch Rock in Corona Del Mar, it’s up for sale for a cool $75 million – the second highest asking price in the nation. The roof is over 22,000 sq. ft. and due to the unique design, the architect specified their Elasto-Deck 5000 X2 system, which carries a Class 'A' fire rating."
Mer-Krete Systems/ Mer-Ko Materials a ParexLahabra company
Mer-Krete Systems/ Mer-Ko Materials a ParexLahabra company: "May 21, 2007 - We are pleased to announce that on May 31, 2007, Mer-Kote Products, Inc. will merge into it’s new parent company ParexLahabra, Inc. The merger is a further integration step following the recent acquisition of our business by ParexLahabra. - (Click Here for the full Press release) January 1, 2007 - ParexLahabra, Inc. Acquires Mer-Krete Systems/ Mer-Ko Materials ParexLahabra, Inc. is proud to announce the acquisition of Mer-Krete Systems/ Mer-Ko Materials a Torrance, California-based manufacturer of the Mer-Krete Systems™ line of waterproofing and crack isolation membranes, thin-set mortars, grouts, underlayments, and decking products. (Click Here for the full Press release)"
Friday, September 14, 2007
SB-800 & Decks has been published in Residental Contractor Magazine
Our article, SB-800 & Decks has been just published in the Summer Issue of Residential Contractor Magazine, a nationally distributed trade journal geared towards small and medium sized building contractors!
The article has been edited a bit from it's original length to reflect the audience reading the magazine-honing in on what builders and contractors need to be aware of in the deck waterproofing world.
While written for the California market, the basis for the article discusses the warranty's written by a manufacturer or installer, which except for state specific warranty laws, will generally apply in every state.
Free subscritions to Residential Contractor magazine can be had by following their links on their website-we recommend that you take advantage of a free subscription today.
Follow the link provided to read the article and start your free subscription.
Waterproofdeckcoatingadvice.com launches pay for advice web page.
I am getting so many requests for advice from all over the US, searching for help with their projects. Our web site is a resounding success, receiving thousands of hits per month and averaging over 2000 visitors per month. An average of 40-55% of our visitors are adding us to their "Favorites" bar to find us again easily.
With so many vistors, the questions seeking advice, information and help is increasing as well. I like helping you out, hearing the different issues and while it's fun to write back with answers and advice, it also takes a lot of time.
With some research and then time spent formulating an answer, it usually takes about 20-30 minutes time. As someone once said, "Time is Money". Well the Deck Expert needs to eat to folks and so we've launched a new page where readers who need advice can write to us with their questions and email us pictures so we can dispense advice.
I'm only charging $25.00 for email opinions, pretty inexpensive compared to making a costly mistake that becomes a leak or needing to be torn out and redone.
Save yourself some headaches and make a small investment for some good advice. It might be the best $25.00 you spent.
With so many vistors, the questions seeking advice, information and help is increasing as well. I like helping you out, hearing the different issues and while it's fun to write back with answers and advice, it also takes a lot of time.
With some research and then time spent formulating an answer, it usually takes about 20-30 minutes time. As someone once said, "Time is Money". Well the Deck Expert needs to eat to folks and so we've launched a new page where readers who need advice can write to us with their questions and email us pictures so we can dispense advice.
I'm only charging $25.00 for email opinions, pretty inexpensive compared to making a costly mistake that becomes a leak or needing to be torn out and redone.
Save yourself some headaches and make a small investment for some good advice. It might be the best $25.00 you spent.
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
We were pleasantly surprised to see...
That our article on SB-800 and it's effects on deck coating warranties, is the feature article for ECHOJournal's September 2007 issue.
Kudo's to Oliver Burford for the fantastic cover picture and the lead in for the article! It's so perfectly an illustration of what Associations have (and other properties too!) laying on their decks-MONEY!
Spend a little maintaining them, or spend a lot replacing them.
Subscribe to ECHOJournal today, even if you are not in Nor Cal; ECHO's magazine brings it to the HOA community...Call them today at 408-297-3246 for your subscription. Tell Dorothy I sent you.
Check your CC&R's, see if you need to do inspections and documentation, call us if we can help-805-801-2380. We can help you write rules/regs for deck use, care and maintenance guidelines, inspections, we will save you money.
Wednesday, September 5, 2007
Should all deck coating systems installed in California be required to be "One Hour Fire Rated"?
Homes built in California today have many ways to resist fire-tile roofs, stucco exteriors, steel railings instead of wood, etc.
With the massive wild fires fires that California is experiencing, shouldn't our deck's be protected with coatings that have "One Hour" Fire ratings too? Fires are everywhere-Griffith Park in Los Angeles, the Zaca Fire, last years San Diego wildfires, Tahoe, the list goes on...
It's my philosphy that decks over living spaces are essentially roofs first, and decks to walk on second. Roofs are required to be fire rated and newly installed replacement roofs must be too.
However, in the case of decks, many decks that are being coated/waterproofed on new and rehab work are not receiving fire rated coatings-despite call outs on plans and specifications.
Should California pass a law requiring the installation of only one hour fire rated deck coatings? It would seem to make sense.
Your comments?
With the massive wild fires fires that California is experiencing, shouldn't our deck's be protected with coatings that have "One Hour" Fire ratings too? Fires are everywhere-Griffith Park in Los Angeles, the Zaca Fire, last years San Diego wildfires, Tahoe, the list goes on...
It's my philosphy that decks over living spaces are essentially roofs first, and decks to walk on second. Roofs are required to be fire rated and newly installed replacement roofs must be too.
However, in the case of decks, many decks that are being coated/waterproofed on new and rehab work are not receiving fire rated coatings-despite call outs on plans and specifications.
Should California pass a law requiring the installation of only one hour fire rated deck coatings? It would seem to make sense.
Your comments?
Tuesday, September 4, 2007
A Big Welcome to our new author!
Waterproofdeckcoatingadvice.com's blog is pleased to announce the addition of David DiBaggio of Masterseal, Inc. as one of our authors who will be contributing to our Blog from time to time.
Dave is a certified Crossfield/Dex-O-Tex applicator. Dave has been a sales representative for Crossfield, as well as Excellent Coatings of Vista CA and most recently as the Southern California area representative for Hill Brothers Chemical Companies Desert Brand Flooring & Decking division.
Dave's expertise in the field of waterproof decking has helped countless contractors (including myself!) solve their clients problems in the past. Now as President of Masterseal, Dave brings unparalled experience to his clients in the Orange County area for waterproof decking, stamping, epoxies and more.
We look forward to bringing you Dave's observations and thoughts as one of our authors!
Dave is a certified Crossfield/Dex-O-Tex applicator. Dave has been a sales representative for Crossfield, as well as Excellent Coatings of Vista CA and most recently as the Southern California area representative for Hill Brothers Chemical Companies Desert Brand Flooring & Decking division.
Dave's expertise in the field of waterproof decking has helped countless contractors (including myself!) solve their clients problems in the past. Now as President of Masterseal, Dave brings unparalled experience to his clients in the Orange County area for waterproof decking, stamping, epoxies and more.
We look forward to bringing you Dave's observations and thoughts as one of our authors!
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
What's on your mind?
Have an opinion on deck coatings? A problem with a deck? A complaint? Whatever, we want to hear from you on what you'd like discussed as subjects on this blog.
Make your comments and we'll address them as fast as we can...
Thanks, Bill
aka The Deck Expert
Make your comments and we'll address them as fast as we can...
Thanks, Bill
aka The Deck Expert
Mer-Kote Weather Deck
Waterproofdeckcoatingadvice.com is searching for a copy of the "Ten Year Warranty" issued by Mer-Kote. Do you have a Ten Year warranty? We'd love to have a copy, send one to us today via fax at 805-438-3182 or email to Bill@Waterproofdeckcoatingadvice.com.
We want to hear your comments on Mer-Kote-so feel free to post below.
We want to hear your comments on Mer-Kote-so feel free to post below.
Welcome to our new Blog
Into the blog world we go, intrigued by the chance to post up news and information on the web on all things waterproof deck coating related.
I hope you'll come back and read us again and again, we'll be posting up news and information soon!
Thanks for coming by.
Bill Leys
I hope you'll come back and read us again and again, we'll be posting up news and information soon!
Thanks for coming by.
Bill Leys
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