HI, we had IB Deckshield installed over 3/4 TG plywood (AC grade, not pressure treated) by a certified installer in October, and its been leaking since the first rain in October. It also has bubbles at the plywood seams and edges that continue to grow. This deck is over a covered space (a finished sunroom). We’re trying to figure out next steps, and I noticed the flashing on the corners looks inconsistent. In the attached image, the flashing looks OK on the left corner, but the one on the right corner looks like its behind the siding trim instead of in front of it. Does this seem right? We’re guessing the vinyl boots were not installed correctly, the seams could be leaking, and/or the adhesive they use does not adhere to pressure-treated posts, in addition to suspected flashing issues. The installer admitted that adhesives were switched by the manufacturer to a pre-mixed product, rather than one that had to be mixed onsite. A factory tech was sent out, and told us the installation isn’t to blame, but we’re not surprised, of course he would say that. The posts have aluminum sleeves which slip over the vinyl post boot, with aluminum post caps. Would appreciate any advice/opinions!
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I know nothing about this particular system or the installation, however, the flashing/edging shown on the right side picture looks like it goes "uphill" and any water on the surface will run back rather than off.
It also butts on top of the trim on the side so that may be why it's "up" It should be at least be over that trim so any water runs down the trim board rather than into the end grain behind that trim.
my quick thought is to reach out to either someone up the chain of command at the manufacturer /suppller for another tech or supervisor to inspect the installation. Additionally, if a permit was pulled for the installation, have the local inspector (aka authority having jurisdiction ) come out and do an inspection.
good luck
Thank you, firedudec56. Appreciate your comments! We do have permits, and I'll look into what input the City might be able to provide.
We're also wondering if this type of aluminum post sleeve is susceptible to condensation, which soaks into the wood post under the sleeve, since there is no waterproofing where the post sleeve meets the deck surface (other than the vinyl boot, 6" high, which the post sleeve fits over). In other words, can water sitting on the waterproof deck surface condensate up the inside of the post sleeves? I've attached a picture of the post bases, where we have seen water.
Hey there, sorry to hear about your deck troubles! It sounds like you've got a bit of a mess on your hands with the leaks and those pesky bubbles. The flashing does seem off in the picture, especially on the right corner. If the adhesive switch-up is causing issues with the pressure-treated posts, that could be a big factor too.
It's frustrating when the manufacturer's tech doesn't give you the answers you're looking for. Maybe getting a second opinion from another pro could shed some light on the situation. Hang in there!
Thanks, AllenWalker26! We hope to have other installers take a look at it.