Decks and patios are the home’s outdoor living room and kitchen. Choosing the right outdoor flooring and an experienced installation company are the foundations for ensuring your outdoor sanctuary is not only beautiful but durable, functional, and adding value to your home. Whether you are constructing a new deck or patio, or trying to determine if it’s time to replace your existing flooring, our four pro tips will help you plan your budget, choose the right product for your type of outdoor flooring project, and help you choose the best company for the installation.

1. Setting a budget

Whether you are living in your forever home or planning to sell in the near future, the quality and craftsmanship of your patio flooring will impact your enjoyment or resale value. A pro tip for setting a budget for outdoor flooring is considering it as important of an investment as any other part of your home. Big-box companies carry a nice looking variety of products, but most of those deck tiles don’t look good after 3-4 years when they start cracking or warping, fade or collect stains. What it might cost you to replace the deck flooring twice within 10 years will add up to more than spending a little extra on high-quality products the first time.

The installation of the deck flooring is just as important as investing in a quality product. If you’re handy, installing a few deck tiles yourself may not seem too challenging of a task. However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind before you start, some or all of these may apply: building codes, strata approval, adding electrical or plumbing for accessories. Choosing a professional installation company will give you an expert guide through all those potential challenges and deliver a beautiful, solid finished product you’ll be sure to enjoy.

2. What’s your type?

Not all deck tiles are suitable for all condo balconies, patios, or rooftop terrace surfaces. Your deck structure and surface material will determine the kind of outdoor flooring you can choose. Whether the railing is attached to the side or top of the deck, how sloped or flat it is, if it has a membrane or concrete surface, open beneath the railings or has parapet walls – all these details dictate appropriate materials and specialized installation. Here is a short list to help you narrow your decision, or for more information, check out our 7 expert tips.

• Concrete decks with railings bolted down to the surface or outer edge of the patio suit all deck tiles, though structural porcelain pavers require a containment field that should be incorporated.
• Interlocking deck tiles require one complete flat surface.
• Membrane deck surfaces with parapet walls suit structural tiles.
• Wood frame decks with a vinyl surface suit all tiles.

3. The right product

Now that you know what type of deck surface you have, it’s easier to narrow your choices for the best kind of tiles you need for your project. You can start to decide between structural deck tiles or interlocking deck tiles, and choose the right product that will give you a wide variety of design options, are durable enough to withstand even extreme weather conditions, look great even after 10 years – and come with a warranty.

• Interlocking deck tiles have a plastic base with ‘sharp’ feet that are only suitable for hard, flat surfaced decks like high-rise condo balconies or ground-level patio flooring. The unique feet raise them to allow for drainage and debris to wash away underneath, and the interlocking system prevents them from moving or separating.
• Structural deck tiles can be placed over membrane surfaces on pedestals, protecting the membrane from damage and adding space for plumbing and electrical underneath, allowing for more design concepts and accessories like lighting, outdoor sinks, or gas pipes for barbecues.

Structural porcelain pavers can be laid right on top of crushed rock for an on-grade installation, or raised pedestals for membrane applications. Porcelain pavers are perfect for all patios, balconies, or rooftop terraces as they are engineered for heavy loads but are considerably thinner and lighter than standard pavers.

4. Who to hire

Your renovation experience starts when you first contact the outdoor flooring installation company of your choice. A good company should be an experienced professional who will oversee all aspects of the project, use good quality products, maintain good communication, and keep your satisfaction and comfort in mind.

Look for a company that has experience with all types of outdoor flooring and surfaces. There are many different factors to consider between installing a deck surface on a single-family home, a condo balcony, or rooftop terrace. A good contractor should have their own specialized equipment, give you a clear estimate and stick to it, and provide a warranty on the installation.

We can help

BC Outdoor Flooring is an outdoor flooring installation specialist.  We’re a fully equipped, full-service company that has been serving satisfied customers for many years. We can help you with design concepts and offer you the best flooring options for durability and style to suit your needs. We use only top-quality, weather-tested materials and back our finished products with a strong warranty. We have worked with many homeowners, strata corps, and management companies including their architects and designers. Most outdoor flooring installations can be completed in one or two days. Visit our Portfolio for project examples.

Professional service and installation by an outdoor flooring specialist always makes a difference in the quality of materials, warranty, and overall finished surface.  Visit our 7 Expert Tips page.

Contact us for more information or to start your free consultation today!

Trust BC’s outdoor flooring specialists to transform your next deck, patio, or terrace flooring project.

The post 4 Pro tips for planning your outdoor flooring installation appeared first on BC Outdoor Flooring - Vancouver - Deck, Patio and Terrace Outdoor Flooring & Tiles.

We love our great outdoors here in beautiful British Columbia, and our decks, patios, or rooftop terraces are popular gathering places. Regular maintenance can extend the life of your deck, but over time the wear and tear of use, weather, or simply the changes in design trends make it necessary to refresh or replace it.  In most cases, replacing the whole deck is unnecessary and it’s often more cost-effective to replace, or in some cases simply cover, your outdoor flooring.

Assessing the structural integrity of your deck and underlying flooring surface is an essential first step to ensure a solid surface for new deck tiles. Membrane deck surfaces need to be checked for tears, leaks or underlying rot. If a membrane needs fixing, often a roofer can repair or replace it with a torch-on solution. Concrete slab deck surfaces should be checked for cracks and treated as well. To determine what type of deck you have and what outdoor flooring is right for you, check out our 7 Expert Tips.

1. When to replace wood outdoor flooring

Deck flooring made from domestic wood is a beautiful and somewhat durable surface if a high-quality product is used and maintained well. Typical wood planks can last about 10-15 years, but over time, wood surfaces are prone to moisture, stains and moving objects, causing warping, cupping, and dents that can result in soft or spongy areas or splintering.

Replacing your outdoor flooring with new certified exotic Ipe wood products is a good choice. Ipe premium exotic hardwood deck tiles are the highest quality variety of wood products available, designed for durability, versatility and style. Before deciding to use another wood product,  check out the pros and cons of the top three outdoor flooring products for your deck, patio, or terrace.

2. When to replace vinyl outdoor flooring

Vinyl membrane flooring material is a popular deck flooring treatment. Depending on the thickness used, how well it was installed, how much direct sun it receives, and the slope of your deck, it can last for many years. Soiling from barbeques, tree sap or other chemicals can break down the vinyl faster, creating soft spots that start to crack, split or tear. Strong sun exposure and overall weathering eventually results in a brittle surface, and furniture can also catch and tear in places. Seals around railing posts or other fastened structures may leak, allowing moisture underneath, resulting in bubbling over soft spots indicating rot.

Consider replacing worn vinyl with a fresh torch-on or liquid membrane over the plywood base and finish with structural porcelain tiles.  Raising the tiles on pedestals opens options to add electrical or plumbing underneath for lighting or an enhanced outdoor kitchen area. Pedestals can be adjusted to level out the finished deck surface, allowing rain and debris to drain off the sloped surface underneath.

3. When to replace concrete pavers

Concrete pavers are the most commonly used for outdoor patios and condo balconies with a membrane deck surface. While somewhat practical and low-cost, they are heavy, susceptible to moisture and stain damage, and unsightly. When the pavers crack, break, or retain permanent stains, replacing a single paver is difficult and the new piece won’t colour match as the other pavers have aged it will always stick out from the others.

Replacing concrete slabs any time is an investment in style, comfort, and enjoyment. Porcelain paver tiles are lighter, yet far stronger and more durable, making them perfect for both residential and commercial applications.  By replacing concrete slabs with structural porcelain tiles, more than half the previous weight is removed from the supporting structure.  They come in a wide range of finishes to suit every project.

4. When to replace composite outdoor flooring

Composite tiles are a hybrid of recycled wood and plastic. The quality of these tiles can vary greatly; overall thickness and type of plastic and wood used in their production. Lower quality tiles have a shorter lifespan, becoming brittle and warping or fading more quickly. Watch for cracking, splitting, lifting or breaking away from the tile base.

Replace them with premium interlocking composite deck tiles that won’t crack or warp, are impervious to moisture and resist most stains and chemicals. They come in a variety of modern or classic colours with a wood grain pattern.

5. When to replace ceramic or natural stone outdoor flooring

Though attractive and versatile initially, all grouted ceramic or natural stone tile is susceptible to water, temperature, and heavy objects causing damage such as chips, cracks, and splitting, resulting in the tiles lifting and coming loose. This type of damage always warrants replacing, affecting the underlying deck surface causing mould build-up and rot. Ceramic tile and some porcelain tiles are also prone to wear spots, staining and fading over time.

Replace these with higher-quality porcelain pavers that can be raised on pedestals to add lighting and plumbing or simply laid right over top of the existing surface.  Structural porcelain pavers are engineered to be water-proof, nearly unbreakable, slip-resistant and fade-proof while offering a wide variety of styles and designs.

The solution: choosing the right outdoor flooring company and products for your needs

When it comes time to replace your outdoor flooring, choose a full-service professional company for your installation.  BC Outdoor Flooring has been serving satisfied customers for many years. We can help you with design concepts and offer you the best options for durability and style for your needs. We use only top-quality, weather-tested materials and back our finished products with a strong warranty. Most outdoor flooring installations can be completed in one or two days.  Visit our Portfolio for more project examples.

Professional service and installation by an outdoor flooring specialist always makes a difference in the quality of materials, warranty, and overall finished surface.  Visit our 7 Expert Tips page.

Contact us for more information or to start your free consultation today!

Trust BC’s outdoor flooring specialists to transform your next deck, patio, or terrace flooring project.

The post 5 Signs it’s time to replace your deck or patio flooring appeared first on BC Outdoor Flooring - Vancouver - Deck, Patio and Terrace Outdoor Flooring & Tiles.

Having an outdoor deck or patio can be a great enjoyment; however, seasonal weather patterns, accessories like potted plants and barbecues, or general wear, can coat or stain outdoor flooring surfaces with mould, algae, and other messes. Setting aside time to care for your balcony or terrace flooring regularly can refresh and extend the life of your decking surface. For wood deck tiles, plan to schedule a professional maintenance appointment to clean or resurface and seal the wood tiles semi-regularly to keep them looking fresh and weather resistant.

BC Outdoor Flooring has been installing and maintaining outdoor flooring for decks, balconies, and terraces for many years. We use only top-quality, weather-tested materials and back our finished product with a strong warranty. We recommend these maintenance tips for regular home upkeep to help your outdoor space stay beautiful and last longer.

Regular Outdoor Flooring Maintenance

For covered decks and balconies or open-space patios and rooftop terraces, here are a few top tips for keeping things looking good and lasting longer:

• Clean off all debris and stains regularly with a broom or hose and a gentle scrub with mild soapy water when needed. Never use a pressure washer on wood or composite deck tiles, as that can damage the finish.
• Regularly sweep up all debris, dust away cobwebs, pollen, and grit from furniture and accessories.
• Wipe down railings and panels, and don’t forget the outer edges of raised decks or balconies where grime builds up.
• Raise potted plants with holders so soil run-off can drain or be rinsed away easily.
• Protect surfaces under barbeques with a mat big enough to protect about 6-12” around the perimeter of your unit.

Winter Outdoor Flooring Maintenance

Winterizing your outdoor space will depend on the weather in your area and how much of your deck is covered. Here are a few tips on winter maintenance:

• Stack furniture and accessories under a covered area or in storage.
• Remove potted plants if possible and store them in a dry area over winter.
• Store soft accessories like furniture cushions and rugs in outdoor storage bins, or indoors – pulling them out only when needed to prevent moisture damage (mildew).
• Throughout the winter months – clear the area of debris regularly and check for water build-up or damage.
• Check for damage to underlying surfaces (punctured membranes) and malfunctioning plumbing or electrical.

Extended Outdoor Flooring Maintenance

Deck surfaces vary as to the amount of maintenance or replacement they require. When it comes time to replace your outdoor flooring, choose a full-service professional company to install your outdoor flooring. They will help you decide on the best products for your needs and can often install the flooring in one day. There are various options for outdoor flooring depending on the type of deck, patio or terrace you have. Here are a few resources to help choose the best product to keep your deck covered for years of enjoyment:

• Consider porcelain paver tiles as a versatile, low-maintenance decking material. A quick wash down with a hose and spot scrubbing is often all you need to do for upkeep. For heavy build-up, pressure washing won’t harm this impervious surface.
• Composite deck tiles are an eco-friendly, versatile material for patios or balconies. Regularly sweeping, mopping, or spot scrubbing is the way to keep these clean. Never pressure-wash composite deck tiles.
• Wood deck tiles are a classic choice and feel warm and soft underfoot. Sweeping, damp mopping and spot scrubbing with a cloth keeps things clean. Annually treating the surface with a sealant is recommended. Schedule professional maintenance appointments when they need to be resurfaced and freshened up.
• Covering an outdoor patio or terrace creates an all-weather outdoor room, extending usability or year-long enjoyment. Many companies offer a range of temporary, permanent and retractable covers (canopies, pergolas, aluminum, glass roofs).

Wood Deck Tiles Oiled and Sealed

Wood Deck Tiles Sanded

For the day-to-day upkeep, it’s easy enough to take care of the minor maintenance of your outdoor flooring. For upkeep of hardwood deck tiles, sign up with BC Outdoor Flooring for their customizable maintenance program. Together with these pro tips, your deck or patio will stay clean, beautiful, and ready to use for years to come.

Professional service and installation by an outdoor flooring specialist always makes a difference in the quality of materials, warranty, and overall finished surface.  Visit our 7 Expert Tips page.

Contact us for more information or to start your free consultation today!

Trust BC’s outdoor flooring specialists to transform your next deck, patio, or terrace flooring project.

The post Top tips for year-round maintenance of your deck, patio and balcony flooring appeared first on BC Outdoor Flooring - Vancouver - Deck, Patio and Terrace Outdoor Flooring & Tiles.

The Wellesley, a seniors residence in Victoria, British Columbia, managed by Pacific Reach Properties, needed new outdoor flooring for their sixth-floor rooftop terrace. Time and weather had taken a toll on the old cement pavers, so they called BC’s outdoor flooring installation specialists to help them transform the space.   

The project

This commercial-sized project required over 5,000 square feet of new flooring, so the quality of materials and professional installation were critical. Working with multiple stakeholders, including an architect and the management company, the BC Outdoor Flooring team provided expert guidance, samples, and pricing for the project.  

Quality materials

Structural porcelain pedestal pavers were strategically chosen for the terrace project as porcelain pavers are thinner, lighter, and stronger than traditional cement pavers, reducing the roof’s overall load. Porcelain deck tiles are uniquely engineered to withstand the heavy use that this rooftop terrace would need to support: pergolas, patio furniture, garden boxes and planters, and the residents themselves. The pedestals were used to raise the pavers off the roof surface, allowing for proper drainage, recessed electrical and plumbing, and allow the levelling or sloping of the pavers as needed.  

Fully equipped

Once the contract plans were finalized, the project timeline was established for completion in the winter of 2020. The team then prepared to transport their equipment and supplies from their Vancouver base to the Victoria location. 

Onsite, the team implemented a crane to hoist tools and the chosen structural pedestal pavers: 24” x 48” / 60cm x 120cm tiles from del Conca in Timeline Grey, up onto the rooftop. As installation specialists, BC Outdoor Flooring is a fully equipped company with everything needed to meet every job requirement. Being a full-service company saves on project costs and possible delays coordinating with outside companies, protects access areas from undue damage, and protects the clients from unnecessary nuisance. 

Challenges

The project was not without its challenges. A winter storm blew off a railing and interrupted work just after start-up, temporarily delaying progress due to safety policies. The existing wheelchair access ramp needed special fitting to connect the two levels seamlessly. 

Throughout the project and its challenges, the BC Outdoor Flooring team maintained their standard of attention to detail and worked diligently to collaborate with the residence management, the property management firm, and roofing repair crews to complete the contract to everyone’s satisfaction.

Professional services

For the most successful installation of outdoor flooring on a deck, patio or rooftop terrace project of any size, choose a specialist with a proven track record. BC Outdoor Flooring offers you the highest level of experience and professional services in the industry.  Fully equipped, able to coordinate with multiple stakeholders and solve any challenges along the way, we have your project covered from beginning to end.

Professional service and installation always make a difference in the quality of materials, warranty, and overall finished surface. Visit our 7 Expert Tips page.

Contact us for more information or to start your free consultation today! 

Trust BC’s outdoor flooring specialists to transform your next deck, patio, or terrace flooring project.   

The post Outdoor flooring transformation for rooftop terrace in Victoria, BC appeared first on BC Outdoor Flooring - Vancouver - Deck, Patio and Terrace Outdoor Flooring & Tiles.