Saturday, June 29, 2013

Steaming Pile of Doo...Another Tile Deck Failed With Tufflex Underneath It

I'm not saying that the Tufflex is at fault, but when a deck is waterproofed with a rubber/water based urethane, I don't expect good things to happen over the long term.

Here's a deck in Paso Robles we inspected today that has Tufflex installed by a company that is gone outta biz....to leave the general contractor on the hook.

 
  All sand on the back of tile indicates waaay to much sand was broadcast on Tufflex coating and was broadcast in to late after material started setting. 


Rusted flashing, rusted lath underneath...water trapped under tile can't escape. 




Failing coating on the sunny side of a hot deck. Coating is very thin and applied over bright shiny flashing. 


All in all, another steaming pile of doo. I'm not saying I would never use Tufflex, I'm saying I WOULD NEVER USE TUFFLEX UNDER TILE!!!!

What should you do? Make sure any waterproofing system being applied for tile decking is ICC-ES evaluated, make sure it's installed as per Tile Council of North America spec's or pay the price. 


Bill Leys-The Deck Expert
NEW PAPERLESS FAX # 805-856-1528 (by Hello Fax)
805-545-8300 Central California
424-235-3196 S California
831-244-0874 N California
www.concretefloorstore.com  gallery of concrete flooring, installed by CCW
 Learn more about deck waterproofing at  www.deckexpert.com
 
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Friday, June 28, 2013

Deck Expert Bill Leys to Present for Third Time at The JLC Live Residential Show

Coming back for a third time to JLC Live (Long Beach CA in 2008 and Portland OR in 2011), I am excited to have been selected to present a three hour seminar on two subjects dear to me- pedestrian deck waterproofing and their best building practices as well as discussing best practices for waterproofing and building decks intended to receive tile. 

Look for more information to come from JLC on their web site soon at http://northwest.jlclive.com/.  

I'll be developing a slide presentation and the session information will be up on the website shortly. Your input on what you want to discuss and see is welcome, send me your questions and ideas. 

I'll also do some show and tell by bringing samples and mock-ups of decks, systems and assemblies. 

I look forward to seeing the best builders and contractors in Portland on Wednesday December 4th at 9:30 am! 


Bill Leys-The Deck Expert
NEW PAPERLESS FAX # 805-856-1528 (by Hello Fax)
805-545-8300 Central California
424-235-3196 S California
831-244-0874 N California
www.concretefloorstore.com  gallery of concrete flooring, installed by CCW
 Learn more about deck waterproofing at  www.deckexpert.com
 
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Tuesday, June 25, 2013

Press Release-Community Associations Institute Approves DeckExpert.com Class For CMCA's CEU Requirements

Community Associations Institute Approves DeckExpert.com Class For CMCA's CEU
Requirements
Source: Community Associations Institute & DeckExpert.com
Dated: Jun. 25, 2013
Hit the Deck: Inspecting, Maintaining and Replacing Waterproof Decks Available as On Demand Webinar
and Live Presentations
ARROYO GRANDE, Calif. -- http://DeckExpert.com is the web's best source for information on
waterproof decking systems, articles, videos and photograph's, How-to, finding contractors and
manufacturer's. For over eight years DeckExpert.com has provided breaking news, education, advice,
expert witness services and much more to tens of thousands of visitors from around the globe.
Now, DeckExpert.com has been approved by the Community Associations Institute (CAI),
headquartered in Virginia to present our educational seminar "Hit the Deck: Inspecting, Maintaining and
Replacing Waterproof Decks"
management firms and CAI Chapters for one hour of continuing education credit towards maintaining
CAI's CMCA certified manager designation.
"Decks are found on most Condominium's throughout the United States." says Bill Leys, founder of
DeckExpert.com. "Decks over living spaces must be kept waterproof and maintained just like roofs are.
When decks go bad, the financial repercussions can be huge. Dry-rot, mold, fungus and water leaks creates
thousands of dollars in hidden damages that must be fixed before re-waterproofing the deck. Our class is
designed to give managers the tools they need to recognize basic deck materials, inspect decks for obvious
problems and help them set maintenance and inspection schedules as well as giving guidance on funds
needed to be allocated in their reserve study"
With the thought in mind that it's cheaper to maintain the deck than replace the deck, the goal of our class is
to get managers to be pro-active on maintenance with their Associations who have decks, rather than be
reactive and needing to replace decks.
COURSE DESCRIPTIONBeloved
by homeowners as extra living space, decks are often despised by board members and community
managers because of the problems that always seem to come with them. Of the top ten building components
named defective in suits, waterproof decks are always high on the list.
Depending on their construction and care, decks can either boost property values or drain reserves. Whether
your community is looking to build new decks, replace older structures or maintain existing ones, this
seminar will teach you how to protect your investment.
TOPICS
Types of Decks
Conducting deck inspections
Maintenance of waterproof coatings
Calculating the total cost of deck ownership
Manufacturer warranties
Page 1/2
PRLog - Global Press Release Distribution
Best practices for repair projects
DeckExpert.com offers this seminar free to CAI chapters in California and asks for a nominal fee to cover
travel costs to those outside of California. Management firms with CMCA's who need continuing education
credits should inquire about our fees.
Bill Leys is a former Community Associations Institute CMCA credentialed manager who managed sixteen
Associations for Manderley Property Services in San Luis Obispo before becoming a waterproofing
contractor and consultant. His firm Central Coast Waterproofing provides deck waterproofing maintenance,
repalcment and inspection services to Community Associations throughout California.
Community Associations Institute (CAI), is an international organization dedicated to building better
communities, provides education and resources to community association homeowner leaders, professional
managers, association management companies and other businesses and professionals who provide
products and services to community associations.
With more than 31,000 members, we work in partnership with 60 chapters, including a chapter in South
Africa, as well as with housing leaders in a number of other countries, including Australia, Canada, the
United Arab Emirates and the United Kingdom.
Their mission is to inspire professionalism, effective leadership and responsible citizenship—ideals
reflected in communities that are preferred places to call home.
To schedule a class with us, contact us at 805-545-8300.
Read more about decks at www.deckexpert.com
Learn how Central Coast Waterproofing can save your Association money on decks at
Follow Bill on Twitter at @deck_expert
--- End ---
Email Click to contact author
Phone 805-545-8300
City/Town Arroyo Grande
State/Province California
Country United States
Industry Construction, Education
Tags waterproof deck, DeckExpert.com, Bill Leys, cai
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Bill Leys-The Deck Expert
NEW PAPERLESS FAX # 805-856-1528 (by Hello Fax)
805-545-8300 Central California
424-235-3196 S California
831-244-0874 N California
www.concretefloorstore.com  gallery of concrete flooring, installed by CCW
 Learn more about deck waterproofing at  www.deckexpert.com
 
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Sunday, June 16, 2013

California Fire Code Regulating Grills on Decks

STANDARDS FOR BARBEQUES ON BALCONIES, PATIOS, AND
DECKS OF MULTIPLE UNIT RESIDENCES


Authority Cited: California Fire Code (CFC)\

These requirements apply to the use and storage of barbeques on balconies, patios, and decks of residential structures having more than two dwelling units (i.e., apartments, condominiums, and townhouses other than townhouses located on individual parcels separated by recorded property lines).

A. Fire Code Requirements
Charcoal burners and other open-flame cooking devices shall not be operated on combustible balconies or within ten (10) feet of combustible construction. [Exceptions: 1) Single- and two-family dwellings; and 2)
Where buildings, balconies, and decks are protected by an automatic sprinkler system.] [CFC §308.3.1]
Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) burners having an LPG container with a water capacity greater than two and one half (2.5) pounds (i.e., nominal 1 pound LPG capacity) shall not be located on combustible balconies or within ten (10) feet of combustible construction. [Exception: Single- and two-family dwellings.] [CFC §308.3.1.1]

B. Summary of Code Requirements
Open-Flame Cooking Devices: It is not acceptable to operate a charcoal barbeque unit on a combustible (e.g.,wood) balcony or within 10 feet of combustible construction, including the surrounding walls and overhang. It is acceptable to operate such a barbeque on a balcony if the balcony, deck, overhang, and adjacent walls are of non-combustible construction, or if the balcony is protected overhead by an automatic fire sprinkler system. It is okay to store a charcoal barbeque unit on a combustible balcony. LPG Fueled Cooking Devices: It is not acceptable to store or operate an LPG barbecue with a Propane fuel container size greater than 1 pound on a combustible balcony or within 10 feet of combustible construction,
including the surrounding walls and overhang. There is no exception for automatic fire sprinklers.

C. Frequently Asked Questions
When Did These New Requirements Become Effective?
January 1, 2008
Which Jurisdictions Have Adopted the Fire Code Regulations for Barbeques?
All jurisdictions in Santa Clara County have adopted the Fire Code regulations for barbeques. If you are located in another jurisdiction, check with your local Fire Department. Can Electric Barbeques be Used on Combustible Balconies and Decks Without Restriction?
Yes.
With What Size of Propane Tanks Are Barbeques Normally Equipped?
Most barbeques are designed to operate using standard 20 pound (5 gallon) cylinders.

Standards for Barbeques on Balconies, Patios, and Decks of Multiple Unit Residences – Page 2 of 2
UN-090 www.unidocs.org 2/2 - 08/25/08

Are Natural Gas Fueled Barbeques Subject to the Same Regulations as LPG Fueled Units? 
No. But they are still subject to the regulations of CFC Section (§) 308.3.1 for open flame cooking devices (see Section A, above). Note that a permit is required to plumb and connect natural gas to a barbeque.

Can I Convert My LPG Barbeque to Use Natural Gas?
Yes, if done in accordance with the barbeque device manufacturer's specifications. You must obtain a permit from your local Building Department prior to adding or making any changes to existing natural gas piping systems.

What Types of Materials are Considered Combustible Construction, and What Types are Considered Non-Combustible Construction?
Wood or vinyl siding, wood decking, and fabric awnings are examples of combustible construction. For the purpose of these regulations, stucco covered walls/ceilings, concrete or tiled floors, and wood railings facing the exterior (not between units) are considered to be non-combustible construction. Note that certain composite deck and railing materials may also be considered non-combustible for the purpose of these regulations. Check with your local Fire Department for approval.

Can I Store My Charcoal Barbeque on My Combustible Balcony as Long as I No Longer Use It?
Yes. But you should first check with your building manager/owner since the property may have more restrictive rules regarding barbeques.

Can I Store My LPG Barbeque on My Combustible Balcony as Long as I No Longer Use It?
Yes, but only if the fuel tank is removed. But you should first check with your building manager/owner since the property may have more restrictive rules regarding barbeques. Note that the removed fuel tank cannot be stored on the balcony, within 10 feet of combustible construction or inside any enclosed structure.
[Note: Tanks cannot be stored on the inside of a dwelling unit. ]

Can I Connect (Manifold) Multiple Small Camp Stove-Size LPG Containers to Use in Place of a Larger LPG Tank to Fuel My Barbeque?
No.

Are There Other Restrictions I Should be Aware of Regarding the Use of Propane Fuel?
Yes. If your building has more than one dwelling unit above the first floor, you must transport the LPG/Propane containers to your unit via an open exterior stairway. It is not acceptable to transport Propane containers greater than one-pound capacity inside the common building areas (i.e., enclosed interior stairways and elevators).
Whom Do I Call If I Want to Report Someone Using Their Barbeque in Non-Compliance With These Regulations?
Call your building manager/owner to report the incident or contact your local Fire Department's Fire Prevention office during normal business hours (Monday through Friday) to register a complaint.

If I Install a Fire Sprinkler on My Balcony, Can I Use a Barbeque?
No. The entire building — not just the balcony area — requires a fire sprinkler system.


Bill Leys-The Deck Expert
NEW PAPERLESS FAX # 805-856-1528 (by Hello Fax)
805-545-8300 Central California
424-235-3196 S California
831-244-0874 N California
www.concretefloorstore.com  gallery of concrete flooring, installed by CCW
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Hot grill, gas fumes, blamed for Bretton Woods (Deck) fire

This is why we advise no grills on decks attached to Condos....

By PAT GROSSMITH
New Hampshire Union Leader

BRETTON WOODS - A three-unit condominium building was heavily damaged Monday night in a blaze that began on a deck when heat from a gas grill ignited fumes from a gas can next to it, according to a fire official.

Twin Mountain Fire Lt. Pat Bailey said the fire was reported just before 8:30 p.m. on Hartford Lane at the Mount Washington Place Condominiums.

When firefighters arrived, flames had traveled from the rear deck of the middle unit up the exterior of the building to the roof. It took about 35 firefighters from Twin Mountain and surrounding communities about 2 1/2 hours to extinguish the flames.

Read the rest here http://www.unionleader.com/article/20130430/NEWS07/130439920


Bill Leys-The Deck Expert
NEW PAPERLESS FAX # 805-856-1528 (by Hello Fax)
805-545-8300 Central California
424-235-3196 S California
831-244-0874 N California
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From Oak Ridge Today, in Oak Ridge TN-Deck fire apparently caused by charcoal ashes discarded in trash bag

Deck fire apparently caused by charcoal ashes discarded in trash bag

Charcoal ashes discarded in a trash bag on a deck apparently started a Wednesday afternoon fire on Golfcrest Lane, the Oak Ridge Fire Department said Thursday.

"After talking with the home owner and further investigation, it appears that the fire started in a trash bag that was on the deck that had been used to discard some old charcoal ashes from the night before," the press release said.

The Fire Department said it is not a good practice to use grills on wooden or composite decks, and it is against the local fire code in multi-family residences such as apartments and condominiums.

Read more here http://oakridgetoday.com/2013/06/13/deck-fire-apparently-caused-by-charcoal-ashes-discarded-in-trash-bag/



Bill Leys-The Deck Expert
NEW PAPERLESS FAX # 805-856-1528 (by Hello Fax)
805-545-8300 Central California
424-235-3196 S California
831-244-0874 N California
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Deck Collapse in Miami

From NBC Miami-

Thirty-three people were injured, two of them seriously, after the deck of a popular waterfront restaurant overlooking Biscayne Bay collapsed in North Bay Village Thursday night, authorities said.

About 100 people were on the deck at Shuckers Bar & Grill at at the time, Miami-Dade Fire Rescue Chief Dave Downey said. Many of them were watching the Miami Heat in Game 4 of the NBA Finals.

Read the rest here http://www.nbcmiami.com/news/local/Divers-on-Scene-After-Deck-of-Shuckers-Bar--Grill-Collapsed-Authorities-211500221.html

Bill Leys-The Deck Expert
NEW PAPERLESS FAX # 805-856-1528 (by Hello Fax)
805-545-8300 Central California
424-235-3196 S California
831-244-0874 N California
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Tuesday, June 11, 2013

A Post at HOA Talk on Roof deck patio drains and heavy downpours that the drains can't handle and results in flooding

Here's the start of a good discussion at HOATalk.com...

Hi, 
I have the only open patio in my complex with 4 roofs above that drained holy hell into my patio during a storm in Austin TX (some areas saw 4+ inches of rain that day) in April 2013 and filled my patio up with 4 inches of water before it found it's way under 2 sliding glass doors and through the wall of the closet in between. The 2 two inch drain pipes couldn't handle the volume of water that was in there. (It acted like a bathtub) The management company that reepresents the HOA says it's my problem and my liability for it's flooding and subsequent repairs. If it's inside the floor of the patio that is not sufficient how is that in my scope of liability? 


Bill Leys-The Deck Expert
NEW PAPERLESS FAX # 805-856-1528 (by Hello Fax)
805-545-8300 Central California
424-235-3196 S California
831-244-0874 N California
www.concretefloorstore.com  gallery of concrete flooring, installed by CCW
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Sunday, June 9, 2013

CAI Approves Our Seminar for One Hour of Continuing Education Credit for CMCA's

 Attention Community Association Managers-Management Firms

CAI has just approved our seminar "Hit the Deck: Inspecting, Maintaining and Replacing Waterproof Decks" for one hour of credit for CMCA's needing recertification. 

California based CAI chapters and management firms-call now to book us for a seminar and you'll learn that- 

Depending on their construction and care, decks can either boost property values or drain reserves. Whether your community is looking to build new decks, replace older structures or maintain existing ones, this seminar will teach you how to protect your clients investments.

Beloved by homeowners as extra living space, decks are often despised by board members and community managers because of the problems that always seem to come with them. Of the top 10 building components named defective in suits, waterproof decks are high on the list. 

Topics
  • Types of decks
  • Conducting deck inspections
  • Maintenance of waterproof coatings
  • Calculating the total cost of deck ownership
  • Manufacturer warranties
  • Best practices for replacement projects

Speaker
Bill Leys is a former Certified Manager of Community Associations who is now a deck waterproofing contractor and consultant. He spent three years working for Manderley Property Services in San Luis Obispo, Calif., managing 16 associations. He is the author of "Deck Coatings and Their Care," which was published in a number of CAI chapter magazines, ECHOJournal and has also presented seminars and webinars for chapters, ECHO and APRA. 

Your CMCA designated managers can receive one hour of credit towards re-certification. 

For information and to schedule a seminar, contact me at 

Bill Leys-The Deck Expert
NEW PAPERLESS FAX # 805-856-1528 (by Hello Fax)
805-545-8300 Central California
424-235-3196 S California
831-244-0874 N California
www.concretefloorstore.com  gallery of concrete flooring, installed by CCW
 Learn more about deck waterproofing at  www.deckexpert.com
 
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Thursday, June 6, 2013

Cookout Season Brings Rash Of Deck Failures - Decks - JLC Online

Watch out for falling decks!
' In the Long Island, New York, community of Long Beach, five people cooking out on a balcony attached to a brick building were hurt when the balcony failed, NBC 4 New York reported ("5 Hurt When Balcony Collapses on Long Island"). The station repored, "Fire Commissioner Scott Kemins attributed the collapse to a 'mixture of structural failure as well as the live load on the balcony -- five people, a barbecue, it was probably too much for the elderly balcony.'"

Read the rest of this article at journal of light construction
http://www.jlconline.com/decks/cookout-season-brings-rash-of-deck-failures.aspx?utm_source=newsletter&utm_content=jump&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=JLCNL_060613&day=2013-06-06

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HOA That Failed to Maintain Hit With Notice of Violation by Building Inspector

Failing to maintain will get your HOA in hot water with the City as this one in Virginia learned. It's cheaper to maintain than replace...


The homeowners association of a Bon Air condominium complex has been charged in Chesterfield General District Court for failing to maintain its property as required by the county's building code.

The misdemeanor summons filed Jan. 17 against Edgehill Condominium Association Inc., stems from multiple building code violations identified last August by Joseph E. Moncrief, an inspector with the county's Department of Building Inspection.

According to Moncrief, the violations include exposed footings, holes under foundation walls, holes in exterior walls, a leaky roof and improperly installed support columns under a common walkway. 

Read the rest here http://www.chesterfieldobserver.com/news/2013-06-05/Front_Page/HOA_at_Edgehill_condo_complex_faces_suit_over_code.html


Bill Leys-The Deck Expert
NEW PAPERLESS FAX # 805-856-1528 (by Hello Fax)
805-545-8300 Central California
424-235-3196 S California
831-244-0874 N California
www.concretefloorstore.com  gallery of concrete flooring, installed by CCW
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Saturday, June 1, 2013

Neighborhood Firefighters Stress BBQ Safety; We Say Never Use an Open Flame Grill on a Deck on Multi-Family Housing

Neighborhood Firefighters Stress BBQ Safety

Sunday, May 26, 2013 |  Posted by LAFD Media and Public Relations

The seasonal migration to decks, balconies and backyards is underway, as Americans fire up gas and charcoal grills. With an increase in outdoor recreation comes a spike in barbecue fires. To keep your family safe, the Los Angeles Fire Department and U.S. Fire Administration offer simple tips for outside cooking safety.

Use All Barbecue Grills Safely:

  • Never leave a barbecue grill unattended.
  • Place the grill away from siding, deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.
  • Place the grill a safe distance from lawn games, play areas and foot traffic.
  • Keep children and pets away from the grill. Have a 3-foot "kid-free zone".
  • Use long-handled grilling tools to give yourself clearance from heat and flames.
  • Keep the grill clean. Periodically remove grease or fat buildup in trays below.
  • Keep a fire extinguisher nearby, and know how to use it.
  • Use only outdoors! Grills used indoors or in an enclosed space, such as a tent, poses an extreme risk for fire and carbon monoxide poisoning.

Charcoal Grills:

  • Purchase the proper starter fluid and store out of reach of children and away from heat sources.
  • Never add charcoal starter fluid when coals or kindling have already been ignited, and never use any flammable liquid other than charcoal starter fluid to get the fire going.
  • Dispose of charcoal coals only after they are cool. Empty the coals into a metal container with a tight-fitting lid that is used only to collect coals. Place the container away from anything that can burn. Never empty coals directly into a trash can.

Propane Grills:

  • Never store propane cylinders in buildings or garages.
  • Follow the manufacturers' instructions on how to set up and maintain the grill.
  • Check the propane cylinder hose for leaks before using it for the first time each year. A light soap and water solution applied to the hose will reveal escaping propane quickly by releasing bubbles.
  • If your grill has a gas leak by smell or soapy bubble test - and there is no flame:
    • Turn off the propane tank and grill.
    • If the leak stops, get the grill serviced by a professional before using it again.
    • If the leak does not stop, call the Fire Department.
    • If you smell gas while cooking, immediately get away from the grill and call the fire department. Do not attempt to move the grill.
  • Light a propane grill only with the cover open.

Watch What You Heat...

  • Lack of proper attention is the leading cause of cooking fires.
  • Keep potholders, oven mitts, wooden utensils, bags, food packaging and towels away.
  • Wear short, close-fitting or tightly rolled sleeves. Loose clothing can dangle and catch fire.
  • Do not cook if you are sleepy, drinking alcohol or taking medicine that makes you drowsy.


Bill Leys-The Deck Expert
NEW PAPERLESS FAX # 805-856-1528 (by Hello Fax)
805-545-8300 Central California
424-235-3196 S California
831-244-0874 N California
www.concretefloorstore.com  gallery of concrete flooring, installed by CCW
 Learn more about deck waterproofing at  www.deckexpert.com
 
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What The Hell? This HOA Needs a Policy That "Satellite Dishes Shall not Be Larger Than Your Deck"

All I can say is "Pal, get with the now, there's these new satellite dishes available that are only 18" in size."    

Bill Leys-The Deck Expert
NEW PAPERLESS FAX # 805-856-1528 (by Hello Fax)
805-545-8300 Central California
424-235-3196 S California
831-244-0874 N California
www.concretefloorstore.com  gallery of concrete flooring, installed by CCW
 Learn more about deck waterproofing at  www.deckexpert.com
 
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