Rain collection deck systems that also serve as flooring are an innovative way to maximize space and manage water, particularly useful in areas with water scarcity or where you want to reduce stormwater runoff. These systems essentially create a usable deck surface while simultaneously capturing rainwater from above.
Here's how they generally work and the types of flooring involved:
How Rain Collection Deck Systems (as Flooring) Work:
These systems typically involve a waterproof membrane or interlocking gutter system installed beneath the deck boards but above the support joists. The deck boards themselves are installed with small gaps, as usual, to allow water to pass through.
1. Water Passes Through Deck Boards: Rain falls onto the deck surface and passes through the gaps between the individual deck planks.
2. Captured by Under-Deck System: Instead of falling to the ground below, the water is caught by the sloped membrane or gutter system.
3. Directed to Gutter/Downspout: The sloped system directs the water to a perimeter gutter or an integrated downspout.
4. Collected in Storage: The downspout then channels the rainwater into a storage tank (rain barrel, cistern) for later use.
This creates a dry, usable space underneath the deck, while the deck surface above functions as the primary collection area.
Flooring for Rain Collection Deck Systems:
The "flooring" in this context refers to the actual deck planks you walk on. Almost any standard decking material can be used, as the collection system is installed beneath it. The key is that the deck boards are spaced to allow water to drain effectively.
Here are common flooring types used with these systems:
1. Wood Decking (Pressure-Treated, Cedar, Redwood, Ipe):
• Pros: Natural aesthetics, wide range of price points.
• Cons: Requires regular maintenance (staining, sealing) to protect the wood, can splinter over time.
• Consideration: Wood decks often have slightly larger gaps between boards, which can be beneficial for faster water drainage into the collection system.
2. Composite Decking:
• Pros: Low maintenance, durable, wide range of colors and styles, often made from recycled materials.
• Cons: Higher upfront cost, can retain heat.
• Consideration: Many composite decking systems offer hidden fastening clips that create consistent, small gaps, which are perfectly suitable for rain collection.
3. PVC Decking:
• Pros: Extremely low maintenance, highly resistant to moisture, rot, insects, and fading. Very lightweight.
• Cons: Can be more expensive than some composites, appearance might be less natural for some.
• Consideration: Similar to composite, PVC decking works very well with under-deck collection systems.
Key Features of the "Flooring" (Deck Boards):
• Spacing: Crucial for allowing water to pass through to the collection system below. Standard decking gaps are usually sufficient (1/8" to 1/4").
• Durability: Since the deck is exposed to the elements and foot traffic, the chosen material needs to be durable and weather-resistant.
• Aesthetics: The appearance of the deck planks will define the look of your outdoor living space.
Here's how they generally work and the types of flooring involved:
How Rain Collection Deck Systems (as Flooring) Work:
These systems typically involve a waterproof membrane or interlocking gutter system installed beneath the deck boards but above the support joists. The deck boards themselves are installed with small gaps, as usual, to allow water to pass through.
1. Water Passes Through Deck Boards: Rain falls onto the deck surface and passes through the gaps between the individual deck planks.
2. Captured by Under-Deck System: Instead of falling to the ground below, the water is caught by the sloped membrane or gutter system.
3. Directed to Gutter/Downspout: The sloped system directs the water to a perimeter gutter or an integrated downspout.
4. Collected in Storage: The downspout then channels the rainwater into a storage tank (rain barrel, cistern) for later use.
This creates a dry, usable space underneath the deck, while the deck surface above functions as the primary collection area.
Flooring for Rain Collection Deck Systems:
The "flooring" in this context refers to the actual deck planks you walk on. Almost any standard decking material can be used, as the collection system is installed beneath it. The key is that the deck boards are spaced to allow water to drain effectively.
Here are common flooring types used with these systems:
1. Wood Decking (Pressure-Treated, Cedar, Redwood, Ipe):
• Pros: Natural aesthetics, wide range of price points.
• Cons: Requires regular maintenance (staining, sealing) to protect the wood, can splinter over time.
• Consideration: Wood decks often have slightly larger gaps between boards, which can be beneficial for faster water drainage into the collection system.
2. Composite Decking:
• Pros: Low maintenance, durable, wide range of colors and styles, often made from recycled materials.
• Cons: Higher upfront cost, can retain heat.
• Consideration: Many composite decking systems offer hidden fastening clips that create consistent, small gaps, which are perfectly suitable for rain collection.
3. PVC Decking:
• Pros: Extremely low maintenance, highly resistant to moisture, rot, insects, and fading. Very lightweight.
• Cons: Can be more expensive than some composites, appearance might be less natural for some.
• Consideration: Similar to composite, PVC decking works very well with under-deck collection systems.
Key Features of the "Flooring" (Deck Boards):
• Spacing: Crucial for allowing water to pass through to the collection system below. Standard decking gaps are usually sufficient (1/8" to 1/4").
• Durability: Since the deck is exposed to the elements and foot traffic, the chosen material needs to be durable and weather-resistant.
• Aesthetics: The appearance of the deck planks will define the look of your outdoor living space.
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