Deck drainage systems: Everything you need to know

Building a deck remains one of the most popular home improvement projects, and it’s easy to see why. Not only does it extend living space and allow homeowners to make the most of their gardens, but it can also add significant value to a property. Whether a deck comprises traditional timber or Trex composite decking boards, it’s important to take steps to safeguard your deck from the elements to ensure it can be enjoyed for longer. The installation of a deck drainage system is a great way to protect your investment – read on for everything you need to know about this useful addition to your deck.

What is a deck drainage system?

Under-deck drainage systems offer an ideal solution for keeping water, moisture and leakage away from your deck and its substructure. This is an important consideration for any deck, as even composite decking will have a timber substructure, which is more susceptible to mildew and, ultimately, rot.

A deck drainage system using gutters, troughs, and downspouts diverts water from your deck and its substructure. A deck drainage system not only helps keep wetness away from whatever you may have underneath your deck, it will also preserve your timber and hold deck fasteners sturdily in place. What’s more, all of this is backed by a 25-year warranty for added peace of mind.

Components of the deck drainage system

Trex RainEscape is a revolutionary system of troughs specifically designed to drain water away from a deck, keeping the area dry and safe from the elements.

Its flexible yet durable membranes hang below your deck boards and above the deck joists. The trough catches water between the deck boards and channels down a system of downspouts and gutters, which filters wetness away from your deck and prevents mould, which can lead to rot. The Trex RainEscape system also stops moisture from seeping under your deck and ruining any furnishings or equipment stored below.

Installing the system above the deck joists keeps the area below the deck dry so you can install electrical sockets for utilities. Trex RainEscape is easy to install on any new deck, and it can also be retrofitted – so it’s never too late to protect your deck from water.

Joist tape complements Trex RainEscape and will help keep your joists and deck substructure dry. It will additionally hold deck screws and hardware in place, thus preventing any corrosion. Trex Protect butyl tape is easy to install and also boasts a 25-year warranty.

What does it do?

Here’s a quick summary of how the Trex RainEscape system works:

• When it rains, water flows between deck boards into specially-designed troughs
• The water is then funnelled towards downspouts or gutters
• This prevents water seeping into the substructure, keeping it dry

The system is a worthwhile investment, and offers fantastic value for money by helping to prolong the lifespan of a deck in wet and rainy climates like the UK.

Advantages of Trex RainEscape

Trex RainEscape offers a series of benefits, including guaranteeing that the underside of the deck will stay dry. The system also protects decking from other elements including the sun, so you can enjoy your deck for longer – whatever the weather.