How to Waterproof Under Deck Ceiling Systems DIY

The do-it-yourself or DIY bug is getting to you, and you have decided that you can waterproof your deck ceiling on your own, right? That may be good, especially if you consider the fact that hiring professional contractors to do this job may cost you a lot of money. Besides, this job ought to be a cinch especially if your under deck ceiling systems have already been installed for some time. However, to make this home improvement project easier, faster and (more importantly) safer to do, here are some tips on how you can waterproof this particular area of your home.

First, you need to make sure that your deck ceiling is structurally sound. It does not matter if you are installing waterproof vinyl, wood or faux wood panels for your under deck ceiling systems. You need to make sure though that the additional weight of the waterproofing materials plus external elements (like estimated rain fall, snow fall, leaves and other “normal” roof debris) will keep the roof from curving inward like a bowl. This is a very important yet overlooked step in the DIY process. And many homeowners who skip this step often find their deck ceilings sagging under the additional weight of the panels. The worst case scenario is: that the actual ceiling would break and collapse.

Reinforce your deck area as you see fit, and replace old ceiling and roofing materials especially if there are already visible problematic areas like termite infestation, rotting wood, loose nails, roof patches – and the works. Weigh your waterproof panels carefully, and decide if the existing architectural structure can actually hold up. Waterproof wood panels, for example, are wonderful choices but these are heavier than faux wood or vinyl panels. A little reinforcement on the deck poles (if your home has these) may solve this issue. This would also be the best time to clean out those roof gutters of leaves and other debris. Or, to make sure that the waterproofing project works well, you may want to install a more efficient roof gutter systems as well.

Second, carefully consider your waterproof materials. Aside from the weight of the panels, the style and color should also be factored in. Style means you can choose the panels with the interlocking pattern to make the installation process go faster. Or, you could choose the conventional installation with an additional coating of waterproof paint. Color is also essential. Dark colored panels would be great in areas where there is very little sunshine; while light colored panels may help deflect most of the heat during the day.

Lastly, never work on this home improvement project alone. When you are installing an under deck ceiling DIY, you will need some help. Although most DIY homeowners may prefer working by their lonesome, but this is neither wise nor safe on this project. More often than not, you will be working precariously on top of the ladder (e.g. cleaning out the roof gutters, checking on the roof structure, installing the waterproof materials on the ceiling, hooking up the gutter system with the waterproof panels, etc.) So unless you really want an excuse to be rushed to the hospital, having a buddy over to work with you would be a good idea. This will also make your work go faster too.