Putting your Mind at Ease
Deck and Drive Solutions, LLC offers a 2-year workmanship labor warranty with the original purchaser. This warranty is in lieu of any other warranties, expressed or implied. Many of the materials we use are backed by their own warranties as well and a copy of the chosen material warranty and their owner’s care and cleaning recommendations can be found on the manufacturer’s own websites. Any implied warranties, including but not limited to, the implied warranty of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, habitability, and any UC warranties are waived. This warranty shall be null and void and Contractor shall not be liable for any damages or expenses, If the Owner does not first grant Contractor access to the premises and the opportunity of Contractor to inspect, correct, or replace alleged defective items, before Owner incurs expenses or has work done by a replacement contractor.
TERM OF WARRANTY – Labor (2 -7 Year) & Material (2-50 Year)
This Warranty, as well as the statue of limitations for any claim of damages for defective work or material, (timeframe is below) from substantial completion, defined as the earlier of: 1) the date of final acceptance by the building inspection department, or 2) the date owner and contractor does the final walk-through.
Limited 2-Year Craftsmanship Labor Warranty
Deck and Drive Solutions, LLC will replace or repair any deck issues that is related directly to craftsmanship and any structural items. Items that are related to material defects such as natural warping, shrinking, cracking, etc. will be at the homeowner’s expense. This includes decking, stairs, and railing.
Deck Lighting Low-Voltage Warranty
LED low voltage deck lighting is covered under the manufacturers warranty. We do not warranty the labor on lights and we would charge a small labor fee to replace in the event a claim needs to be made. Damage to low volage lines by animals, mowers, trimmers, or other acts not in our control are also not included in the warranty. Replacements can be purchased.
Timbertech/Azek Composite & PVC Decking/Railing
Deck and Drive Solutions, LLC is a Platinum Registered Contractor with Timbertech/Azek Company. With us being the higher end contractor with this company, your deck warranty is not just for the material, but they will also cover the labor.
-The Material Warranty is 25-Year, 30-Year, or 50-Year depending on the product. Warranty info is this weblink: https://www.timbertech.com/about-warranties/
-The Labor Warranty with Timbertech/Azek is 5-Years (Decking + Fasteners) or 7-Years (Decking + Railing + Fasteners). This Labor warranty is only for Registered Gold or Platinum Contractors.
Trex Composite Decking/Railing
Deck and Drive Solutions, LLC is a Trex Pro Registered Contractor. With us being a Trex Pro, your deck warranty is not just for material, but will also cover the labor.
-The Material Warranty is 25-Year, 35-Year, 50-Year depending on the Trex Products. Warranty info is this weblink: https://www.trex.com/customer-support/trex-owners/warranty/
-The Labor Warranty with Trex is 1-Year (Just Decking) or 2-Year (Decking + Railing). The Trex Labor Warranty excludes coverage for Enhance Basic Decking/Fascia and Trex Select and Enhance Railings.
Westbury / Digger Specialties Railing
Digger Specialties is proud to offer one of the strongest warranties in the industry. All aluminum products are covered by a Lifetime Limited Warranty. Warranty info is at this weblink: https://www.diggerspecialties.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/DSI-Aluminum-Warranty-July-2021-FINAL.pdf
Phantom Screens (Phantom Screens & Rolling Screen Doors)
Phantom Screens offer a Limited Lifetime Warranty covering the screen components (excluding the mesh). Warranty info is at this weblink: https://www.phantomscreens.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/warrantycards.pdf
Not all products we may use are on this page for warranty information
WHAT IS COVERED
Contractor warrants that the improvements constructed are reasonably free of defects and within customary tolerances of construction industry. “Customary tolerances of the construction industry” means tolerances common and expected in the construction industry and guaranteed to be performed by a skillful and professional contractor. This warranty also covers work under customary tolerances for all subcontractors and other trades people under contract with the Contractor, including the crew of the Contractor. Contractor further warrants and guarantees that the work reasonably conforms to the requirements of the contract documents, drawings, plans, and specifications.
This warranty does cover things such as loose connections, improper installation per manufacturer, missing hardware, missing screws, faulty cuts, defects caused during installation and any problems that you may have resulting from our craftsmanship.
D&D will cover all materials and labor required to correct any defect in craftsmanship that is covered under this warranty if the work was due to improper install. If wood has been stained and a warranty claim is to be requested, D&D does not do any staining of the new materials.
D&D will replace any deck components that are proven to be defective due to craftsmanship only. We do not guarantee any materials but can assist in helping with contacting manufacturers. The homeowner is responsible for making the claim with the manufacturer, and we can assist. We can also provide proof of purchase if required. D&D works very closely with the manufactures and will help out anytime for our clients. If the products do not have a labor warranty associated with them, then we may need to charge labor costs for product replacement.
WHAT IS NOT COVERED
This limited warranty does not cover the following items:
• Damages resulting from occurrences such as fire, freezing, hail, storm damage, flooding, electrical malfunction or surge, lightning, earthquake, pest damage, vandalism, animal, flying debris, acts of God, winds exceeding 60 MPH, or other unforeseen causes or accidents.
• Natural Defects: As a natural occurrence, wood (cedar or treated lumber) can naturally warp, split, crack, cup, fade, bow, twist, shrink, rot, discolor, and split over the drying period and time. Surface Boards such as wood decking or wood railing should be periodically sealed as preventive maintenance. It won’t last forever but should extend the life. Over the seasons, wood decking and some other areas may separate due to contraction and expansion of material. Wood shrinks and composite/pvc expands and contracts with the temperatures. Unfortunately, it is the nature of the products and we have no control over this.
o Over this warranty period, the lumberyard will not exchange the wood material and would be an extra cost for the homeowner, but at the contractor’s discretion and within the customary construction tolerances – we may repair or replace at no cost for composite or pvc decks. For treated (decking/railing) or cedar (decking/railing), or if it’s more cosmetic, we may charge the hourly rate of $75 per man per hour plus material.
• Treated Wood Posts tend to check (crack) and bow which is very normal and is not covered under the warranty. This does not jeopardize the structural integrity and is very common.
• Damages or defects from alterations, misuse, or abuse by any person; ordinary wear and tear; abnormal weight not specifically stated prior to the start of the project such as a hot tub; or problems caused by lack of maintenance.
• Damages resulting from your failure to observe any operation instructions furnished at the time of installation.
• Any item furnished, installed, modified, altered, repaired, or negligent maintenance by you or any other person other than Deck and Drive Solutions, LLC to the original project will result in cancellation of any guarantees or warranties.
• Do-It-Yourself options are not covered under any guarantee/warrantee policies. This includes but not limited to projects not started or not finished by Deck and Drive Solutions.
• Scratches or scuff marks on composite decking can happen, they will usually fade away or a heat gut can be used to remove surface scuffs
• With composite decking, waviness of decking can occur as the framing is still typically wood and the lumber dries out, which can cause decking to warp between joists due to extreme heat. These issues are not covered under warranty. There is a metal deck frame option if this is a major concern.
• Settling or heaving support posts are not covered under warranty if inspected by the building department. In the case this event happens, we can repair or replace, but there is an additional charge.
• Problems which arise in an attempt to match existing materials. There are limitations inherent in the matching of existing materials such as stucco, siding, drywall, paint, wood, tile, flooring, concrete, and the like. *Exact duplication in matching, texture, and color cannot be guaranteed. Variations within industry tolerances will be considered acceptable.
• Under Deck Drainage Systems are not 100% watertight. Under deck drainage systems are a water diversion system to help create a drier space below your deck. Major leaks are covered under warranty, but minimal drips are common.
• If a project has engineering/architectural plans, D&D is not responsible for any failures due to design or building techniques as the engineer/architect would be responsible for the design.
• If we are requested by the client to build in a manner that we do not recommend or is not to current code standards, that scope of work will not be covered.
• For deck resurface projects, we cannot warranty the existing framing or framing that was existing before we started the project.
• Warranty is only accepted for projects paid in full.
REMEDIES
In the case there is warranty work needed, the owner shall notify the contractor within a reasonable period after the first acknowledgement of an issue, not to exceed 60 days or before the two-year warranty expires. Claims must be submitted in writing form via email format to aaron@deckanddrivesolutions.com with 3-6 attached pictures of the problem area(s) – Close up and distant pictures will help. If any un-natural defects are found, we will come up with a solution and then it can be scheduled to be repaired or replaced.
Timeliness of any warranty work performed shall be at the discretion of the contractor. Typically, we like to address issues as soon as possible, but we do have to schedule the work around the current schedule, so we do ask for flexibility. Contractor shall have the option of repairing or replacing, at the contractor’s discretion. To be covered, the physical signs of the problem must be observable and have started to cause damage before the two-year period expires, as well as the email in writing with pictures.
MATERIALS / PRODUCTS
TRANSFER-ABILITY
This warranty applies to the original owner and may be transferred to any subsequent owner within the initial one year period after substantial completion.
CONCLUSION
It’s simple, but it means what it says; if we did something wrong, we will take care of it.
Also, if you did something to damage the deck and need a repair done, we’re still willing to work with you to get things corrected in a timely manner, and at a reasonable cost.
LIABILITIES
With respect to any claim asserted by owner, it is understood there is no right to recover or request compensation for: incidental, indirect, special, consequential, secondary, or punitive damages; loss of use; diminish in value; rental costs; moving costs; delay in occupancy; construction, mortgage, loan, or line of credit interest charges; mortgage interest rate increases; loss profits or income; medical costs; damages for mental distress, aggravation, personal injury; or pain and suffering.
Green Umbrella Care Instructions
Welcome to your New Deck.
On behalf of Deck and Drive Solutions, I would like to say Thank You for choosing us for your deck project. It has been a pleasure working with you and we extend our service for the future if you have any questions or comments while owning your deck, just contact us. Also, we hope you remember us for your next deck in the case you ever need us again.
Deck and Drive Solutions is committed to providing our clients with only the highest quality of service and the best materials available.
Low-Maintenance Decks
(such as Timbertech, Trex, Azek)
Introduction
Capped Composite and Full PVC decking looks nearly brand new every year and the manufacturers back the materials with a 20–50-year warranty. Low Maintenance Railing is the same and backed with their warranties as well (for warranty information, check the Blue Umbrella Handout or https://www.deckanddrivesolutions.com/contact-us/warranty). The deck framing is usually still made of Treated Lumber, but the longevity is still 20-50 years depending on situations and because it is a natural material, unfortunately there is no guarantee.
Do’s and Don’ts
• Do wipe food spills & grease as soon as they happen with soapy water and rinse. Don’t worry too much about staining if it doesn’t sit on the surface for more than a day or so.
• Do regularly clean pollen and dirt with a garden hose (soap and water as needed) to prevent mold from forming and keeping your deck looking good all year long
• Make sure you rinse soap residue off after cleaning. A leaf blower will help.
• Use a plastic shovel without a metal blade for Snow and Ice. You don’t have to shovel the snow off your deck if you don’t use it during the Winter season. The weight load of snow is factored in when we built it.
• Do be careful when using chemicals on the deck surfaces, make sure via the manufacture that it is a recommended product.
• Don’t use a Pressure Washer with pressure above 3100 psi as you can scar the surface.
• Don’t drag furniture, grills, or large objects across the floor as it could scratch the surface
• Do make sure all furniture and accessories have plastic (or like) feet on them.
Snow & Ice Removal
To remove snow off your deck, you can use a shovel with a plastic or rubber edge. NO METAL EDGES, as it can scrap and scratch the decking surface. Never use a snowblower on your deck!
To remove ice, check with the manufacturer for approved ice removers. Most decking manufacturers allow calcium-chloride ice melts. Never use sodium-chloride solutions!
Maintaining and Cleaning
(straight recommendation from the manufacturer)
Each brand of material recommends some different Care & Cleaning recommendations which the weblinks will be listed below for the most common products we build with.
Timbertech / Azek Company
https://www.timbertech.com/resources/care-cleaning/
Trex Company
https://www.trex.com/customer-support/trex-owners/care-and-cleaning/
Westbury / Digger Specialties Inc.
https://www.diggerspecialties.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/DSI-Aluminum-Products-Cleaning-Requirements-Final-Updated.pdf
Annual Cleaning Techniques (recommend at least once a year)
Low-Maintenance Decking is engineered to be durable and is easily cleaned by using everyday household items.
• Standard bottle of Dish Soap (Dawn is recommended)
• Nylon Broom or Brush of Medium Stiffness
• Cloth Rags
• Warm Water (mix for a solution of warm water and dish soap in a bucket)
• Outdoor Water from Hose
• Leaf Blower (not needed – but helps a lot)
• (No need for Pressure Washer, but if you really want to use it – just rinse on lowest setting. Normally the white tip)
Cleaning in 7 simple steps
1. Remove furniture and accessories off the deck or off to one side so nothing gets damaged in the cleaning process and much easier to have access to the complete floor.
2. Sweep or Leaf Blow the floor of any loose debris. Also get between the deck boards (you may need something to pick stuff out).
3. Hose off the Deck Surface and Railings. Use Broom if needed for some areas which may need more scrubbing.
4. Dunk a rag into the bucket and wipe off the deck railing, then rinse with hose.
5. Dunk the brush head into the bucket and start cleaning your deck. Scrub with the grain of the decking and start from the house and work your way out. Do a few boards at a time and don’t let the soap dry on the surface. You can periodically wet the area with your hose.
6. After scrubbing the decking, rinse away the remainder of the soap and any leftover dirt with your hose.
7. Take leaf blower to dry off the deck of any puddles. You won’t get all the water, but a big portion.
*For Stubborn Stains or Material not removed during the cleaning process. Decking manufacturers have an approved list of cleaners for their materials for stubborn stains (this list may change over time). Not following their approved list of cleaners can damage your decking or void the warranty, so it is critical to follow their approved list. Do NOT use chemical agents such as bleach.
Wood Decks
(such as Treated or Cedar)
Introduction
Annual deck maintenance will forestall repairs, protect your investment, and boost your enjoyment of your outdoor space.
Deck and Drive Solutions, does not Wash, Stain, or Seal wood decks, but we do have recommendations for other contractors if you do not want to take on the task yourself.
Recommended Deck Maintenance
• We recommend sealing your deck with a deep penetrating tinted sealer such as Penofin Red Label or similar product within the 1st year. It is great if it can be done within the first 3 months (each product recommends different times to seal, but with Penofin they recommend to seal right away).
• Your deck should be washed at least twice a year (Fall and Spring). It can be done with a deck cleaning solution, sprayer, push broom, and a garden hose. If your deck is in a shaded or shrubbery area, sometimes a pressure washer could be used at the lowest pressure setting.
• Throughout the year, you should routinely remove leaves, sticks, and dirt off the surface. They hold moisture on the deck and does not allow the surface to properly dry. Make sure you get between the boards. Also some use just a garden hose and does a quick rinse multiple times throughout the seasons.
• Usually every other year, another coat of sealer may possibly required on the horizontal surfaces (decking and top of railing). Some of the railing could be touched up if needed.
• About every 3-4 years, the decking and railing should be resealed to keep the protection and visual appearance of the deck. You will visibly be able to notice when another coat is needed.
Helpful Tips
• We don't recommend sanding your deck if possible. You can't sand cedar and have the appearance stay the same. If you sand cedar, it will stick out like a sore thumb, so make sure sanding is what you want to do before you do it.
• If you stain a deck with a solid stain or paint, it is very hard to come out of the wood (mostly the knots), and most likely, the future years will have to be solid stain or paint again.
• Cedar wood will often turn gray within the first year. When sealing, make sure you have something with some pigment to protect the wood from the sun's UV rays.
• Cedar is a soft wood and tends to need more maintenance, be careful if using a pressure washer (Lowest Pressure Setting and keep your distance), clean the debris off often, and do a routine wash.
• Pressure-Treated wood is harder than cedar and is shipped still wet. Check out the directions on your sealer/stain to see when they recommend the first stain/seal to be applied. (Penofin is 2 weeks).
• One problem for decks is ultra violet rays (UV rays). Sun exposure causes deck-sealing products to degrade at a higher rate.
• It's best to stick with the same type of product when staining/sealing your deck. Some products adhere better to the same type and there is less chance of flaking or pealing from one year to the next.
• Your outdoor deck needs to be maintained on a regular basis for year round enjoyment and to prolong it's life.
• Wood naturally cracks and splits throughout its life. As long as you keep it sealed it should stay fine. The thicker the wood (such as 4x4's and 6x6's) more often crack due to the areas of the wood drying at different rates and it usually does not affect it's structural strength.
Long Term Wood Maintenance Schedule
Deck stains claim to last 2,3,5, and even 7 years. That rarely happens in the real world. Rain, snow and sun begin to take it's toll from the very beginning. Don't wait until the deck is severely weathered and requires lots of attention.
- Clean the deck with a mild solution of deck cleaner and brightener on at least an annual basis. No need for backbreaking wash. If you use a pressure washer set it to 1500 psi or less. Follow the directions on the product you choose. Just remove the dirt and algae that has colonized on the wood.
- If the finish is in good shape you can wait another year before needing to re-stain. Areas where the finish has worn off, need to be re-stained. Typically floors and stairs will show the most wear.
- The best wood deck maintenance schedule is doing a thorough cleaning to the deck twice a year and apply a coat of stain every two years. Throughout the year, clean up twigs and leaves and rinse off the surface with a garden hose throughout the seasons.
Things to be careful with your deck.
• Bird Feeders: Birds have a nasty habit of doing things you really don't want to see or be near (Bird Droppings). The best bird feeder is away from the deck.
• Grills: most deck owners have at least one grill. Be careful about the placement of your gill to your house and how close you put it next to your deck railing. Also be cautious of the grease stains on your deck surface. A grill mat is nice, but should be moved sometimes so the deck doesn't fade too much at that location and also needs to be cleaned under the mat.
• Plant Containers: Plant containers are nice, but you want to make sure they sit on small blocks of wood (or another material), so there is ventilation underneath. Also move the plants when washing your deck. If moisture gets trapped, you are going to have a stain on your deck and even rotting in some instances. (for large plants, consider about putting it on wheels.
• Rugs: They look nice on the floor, but could discolor the decking. Move them around and clean under them throughout the year so your deck is not holding moisture and being faded from the sun in spots.
• Furniture: Your deck is made of natural wood and could scratch from moving deck furniture, grills, etc. We recommend plastic or other footings on the legs of furniture. Cedar is a very soft wood that scratches more than treated wood, so be careful when moving items on the deck surface.