The use of ceramic tile & natural stone on exterior decks has become increasingly popular for both residential and commercial projects. Despite the proliferation of waterproofing and tile installation products and systems, this type of installation is still subject to installation challenges which can result in failure and expensive remediation. This presentation examines legacy installation shortcomings, current industry best practices, and innovative product development which address some of the concerns that heretofore have contributed to exterior deck failures. At the end of the presentation, you will be armed with the knowledge needed to move forward and identify the means and methods needed to ensure your exterior deck project is successful.”

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

• Examine the history of exterior deck installation techniques & challenges.

• Review the nature of exterior deck failures and the role legacy means & methods play in evolution of best practices.

• Highlight misinformation, misperceptions, and ineffective installation practices which are fueling the increase in shortened life cycles of exterior deck installations.

• The presentation culminates with supportive documentation and collaborative information from independent forensic and waterproofing consultants, strengthening the assertions and issues raised, and maps out a critical path of proactive specification language and installation techniques designed to minimize the incident of exterior deck failures, as well as promoting evolving best practices. By elevating materials, methods, and best practices, the risk of remediation associated with poorly installed exterior decks can be greatly reduced.