Modular decks are a snap for replacement jobs

hncr rILES can be a cost-effective Lf way to revitalize outdoor spaces-or create new ones-an important selling point in a tough market.

The tiles can be installed on almost any level surface, such as an existing wood deck, an old concrete patio, or a new pressure treated frame. Smaller l2"xl2" tiles are snapped into place, while larger 2'x2' tiles can be mounted on adjustable pedestals. Both sizes can be removed for periodic cleaning or repair.

Snap-in tiles have a plastic grid on the back that allows water to drain and promotes air circulation. Side tabs on the grid allow tiles to be easily snapped together-and easily unsnapped if need be-so no special tools, nails, screws, or adhesives are needed.

"Contractors and homeowners can mix and match the tiles to create a variety of layouts for design flexibility," said Brent Gwatney, v.p. of sales and marketing at MoistureShield. The company manufactures EcoShield 12"x12" composite deck tiles-plus an array of composite decking, railing, and fencing products.

A homeowner in Long Island, N.Y., recently used EcoShield deck tiles and MoistureShield deck boards to revitalize a 432-sq. ft., pressure treated deck in just one weekend. The result was a unique design that looks good and can stand up to the elements.

"Deck tiles provide a simple and attractive upgrade that's easy on the wallet and the environment," said Gwatney. "The result is a durable, long-lasting outdoor surface that can withstand years of exposure in a variety of climates, as well as heavy foot traffic and direct ground and water contact."

HandyDeck's interlocking deck tiles also measure 12"x12", but they are constructed of either ip6 or bangkirai wood. The open structure of the plastic base enables air circulation and allows water to drain freely. Corrosionresistant screws attach the wood slats to the plastic grid from the underside, providing a smooth, splinter-free surface.

"The tiles are a quick and easy way to update a drab patio or rooftop area, avoiding expensive demolition or rebuilding," said Handy Deck president Malcom Kay. "They can be installed by homeowners with no particular skills, so they are the perfect d-i-y product."

In locations such as rooftops, he said, where the use of conventional building materials may be restricted, interlocking deck tiles are often the best way to build a deck. "Building owners often won't allow permanent construc- tion, especially on the roof," Kay said. "Deck tiles can be easily removed."

Bison Innovative Products' larger 2'x2' tiles are manufactured from ip6 and FSC-certified massaranduba. They carry Class A fire ratings and can be treated with oil or left untreated to develop a natural, aged finish. No mechanical fasteners are visible from the top, for a clean look.

Using the company's Level.It adjustable pedestals, the tiles can be installed over almost any substrate-even directly on roofing and watelproofing systems-with no insulation. The pedestals allow water drainage and help compensate for uneven surfaces, such as an old, brick patio.

"Our decking system is an ideal solution for retrofit pro- jects," said Lisa von Gunten, v.p. of operations at Bison. "A key feature is its quick and easy ability to install level decks over uneven or slope to drain surfaces."

With deck tiles, creating a custom outdoor living area can be easy. Beauty, durability, and ease of installationdeck tiles have it all.

By Carla Waldemar