Learn about Vinyl Decking

Vinyl decking is a sheet membrane that provides water, fade, and mildew resistance to a deck. It’s sold in rolls in various lengths with thicknesses between 45 millimeters and 60 millimeters. It can be used to extend the life of sundecks, balconies, run rooms, rooftops, and boats. While the material is often used for decking and adheres exceptionally well to plywood, it can be applied on metal, fiberglass, rubber, and concrete.

Look for products that offer traction when wet and mold, mildew, and UV protection. While the product is known for its durability, ensure the manufacturer warranty cover cracks and rock. Most popular manufacturers offer warranties between 10 and 15 years. Consult with the manufacturer around maintenance and cleaning. High-performance manufacturers incorporate mildew inhibitors to reduce the amount of cleaning or maintenance that may be required.

Most vinyl is 100% recyclable at the end of its useful life. You can also seek out manufacturers that use recycled vinyl during production.

PVC or Polyvinyl chloride was created in 1872 by German chemist Eugen Baumann, which was later patented by German, Friedrich Klatte, in 1913. Using sunlight, Klatte invented a new method of polymerization, the method of reacting monomer molecules in a chemical reaction to form polymer chains.