Tufdek: What It Is And What It's Used For

Did you know Tufdek vinyl decking can make your rooftop deck surface look like Carrara marble? Do you love Italy and want to create a beautiful outdoor experience on your roof terrace? Consider using Tufdek™, it looks appealing without the expense and weight of real marble. Whether you want to create a spot for your yoga mat on the balcony or sit around a bistro table with a cup of coffee, Tufdek vinyl decking has the design and color you want. But what is Tufdek, and what is it used for?

What Is Tufdek?   

Tufdek is a durable waterproofing outdoor flooring product made from PVC vinyl that requires minimal maintenance. The warranty is fifteen years if an Authorized Tufdek Dealer such as Bob Harvey Roofing installs the product. It is available in avariety of colors and textures and if a Carrara marble design is not to your taste, and you prefer a more nature-oriented look, you can install Walnut, Beachwood or Rustic Plank flooring. 

Since Utah winters are freezing with long periods of snowfall, you might wonder if Tufdek is durable enough to withstand the harsh weather. According to the manufacturer, Tufdek has been successfully tested at temperatures of -40°Fahrenheit/-40°Celsius. But what about the summer temperatures? Can Tufdek handle the heat? Rigorous outdoor weathering trials included testing at temperatures of 176°F/80°C, confirming Tufdek vinyl flooring can withstand high temperatures.

What Is Tufdek Used For?   

Now that we established what Tufdek is, in which outdoor spaces can one use the waterproof vinyl flooring? Tufdek is designed for residential applications only, and can be used to decorate and weatherproof roof decks, balcony decks, walkways, stairways and above grade courtyards. There are, however, a few places where Tufdek cannot be used. It is unsuitable for use on a ground level deck, pool decks, and around a hot tub. 

Why can Tufdek not be used for these purposes? Tufdek is an air and vapor barrier, and the area under the vinyl decking surface must be properly ventilated, which would be problematic with a ground-based deck. The chemicals used in pool and hot tub water can, through repeated exposure, lead to the discoloration or breakdown of Tufdek’s vinyl membrane.     

What Are Some Benefits Of Using Tufdek? 

One of the main benefits of using Tufdek is that it provides waterproof protection to the areas it covers. The printed surface of Tufdek outdoor vinyl decking is sealed with a hydrophobic finish that repels water, limiting its exposure to moisture. Because Tufdek is a product designed for outdoor use, it is exposed to natural elements, including the sun. Although all Tufdek products are ultraviolet (UV) protected, most of Tufdek’s Supreme Series are Cool-Step™ designs. They have a higher solar reflectivity, keeping decks, stairs, and walkways cool on the hottest days.

What Type Of Material Is Tufdek? 

Tufdek is made from high-density, durable polyvinyl chloride (PVC), also known as PVC vinyl. As Tufdek is a type of plastic, usingsustainable practices during manufacturing is important to the brand. 100% of all production waste is recycled back into other products and accessories produced by Tufdek’s manufacturing partners. The amount of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) used when installing Tufdek is being reduced by utilizing more water-based adhesives. The waterproofing nature of Tufdek outdoor vinyl flooring also protects structures such as decks from the elements, cutting down on the need for its repair or replacement.   

Bob Harvey Roofing is a professional roofing company based in Layton, Utah, and an Authorized Tufdek Dealer. After thirty years of working in Northern Utah and surrounding areas, we continue to believe in roofing and vinyl decking done right. Do you have a vision for your home and want to decorate the bedroom balconies with a practical but beautiful decking material? Consider Tufdek vinyl decking andcontact Bob Harvey Roofing today to discuss design ideas.