Multi-functional outdoor spaces that can be used year-round are on the rise with today’s homeowners, according to a report by Fixr.com. The nationwide survey of home construction, design and architecture experts found that 78% cited indoor-outdoor coherent design as the biggest outdoor living trend this year with 48% noting that outdoor space has to be flexible for various gatherings and activities all year.
If you have an elevated, second-story deck, you can instantly double your functional outdoor area by installing Trex® RainEscape®. This innovative under-deck drainage system features an integrated network of troughs and downspouts that work together to capture rain, snow, and other precipitation and funnel it away from a deck. In addition to protecting the substructure from moisture damage and deterioration, it keeps the space beneath the deck dry so it can be used as additional living space.
Unlike other systems that install below the joists of a deck leaving wood and metal exposed to the elements, Trex RainEscape installs above the joists – between the framing and the deck boards – allowing it to protect the entire substructure and the space beneath the deck from water penetration. Once protected, the space beneath a deck can be outfitted with furnishings and accessories to create a fully functional outdoor patio or enclosed with windows or screens to serve as an all-seasons living area. Gas and electrical lines can be safely and discreetly run between the deck surface and a soffit ceiling to power lighting, ceiling fans, grills, appliances, electrical components, and more!
Installation is simple, requiring just three tools – a utility knife, staple gun and caulk gun. The system also comes with Trex® RainEscape® Clean-Edge Butyl Tape, a specially designed butyl tape for securing troughs and downspouts and creating a watertight seal around screws and fasteners. As its name implies, the Clean-Edge tape features a new design that prevents adhesive from oozing and getting tracked onto the decking or into the house.
Trex RainEscape is backed by a 25-year warranty. To learn more, go to TrexRainEscape.com or click here to see how to install the system.
