Answers to all your important deck & rail questions!

Q. Will laser etching affect the safety of the tempered glass?
A. No. Laser etching is the same technology used in Lasik eye surgery and does not affect the safety of the tempered glass.

Q. What kind of graphics can be etched into the glass?
A. Almost anything that can be scanned such as family member photos, pets, etc. The best results are high contrast graphics such as mountain scenes or vector graphics which utilize lines as opposed to dots. Geometric designs produce superior results, and almost anything is possible given the right amount of time to prepare the pictures/graphics for optimal etching results. We will consult with you every step of the way.

Q. What kind of graphics can be cut into iron using plasma cutting?
A. Imagine cutting out snowflake designs when you were a child. There needs to be a continuous closed outer edge to ensure the iron panel can be mounted securely into the railing. The fewer the “holes” thebetter. You also want to weigh that against being able to see through the panels into the yard, and choose your design accordingly.

Q. What kind of maintenance is required to keep our deck in top condition and ensure maximum longevity?
A. Vinyl Cleaning. Your Deckworx vinyl deck should be cleaned at least four times per year(more often if acid rain or airborne pollution is a problem in your area) Just spray with a garden hose. If deck is severely soiled, use warm water, a mild detergent and a broom or a brush. Then spray with a garden hose.

When barbecuing, make sure grease does not drip on the deck membrane. If it does, wipe it up as soon a possible. Always remove contaminates as soon as possible. When removing snow, use a plastic shovel.

CLEANING RECOMMENDATIONS FOR TOUGH STAINS:

• Stain 1-2-3- Steps
• Chewing Gum D-A-B
• Motor Oil B
• Mildew or Wet Leaves* C-A-B
• Yellow Mustard A-B-C
• Oil Based Paint (Dried) D-A-B
• Oil Based Paint (Fresh) D-B-E
• Tar/Asphalt D-A-B
• Latex Paint A-B-E
• Ketchup A-B
• Ballpoint Ink A-B-E
• Permanent Marker* B-C-E
• Eye Shadow B
• Spray Paint B-E
• Shoe Polish* D-B-E
• Suntan Lotion* A-B-E
• Lipstick A-B
• Crayon D-B
• Grease D-B-E
• Household Soil A-B
• Coffee, Tea, Chocolate B

A: Medium soft brush – warm soapy water/water rinse/dry.
B: Fantastik spray cleaner (only for a few minutes) water rinse/dry.
C: One (1) tablespoon to one (1) quart water/water rinse/dry.
D: Wipe or scrape off excess (chill gum with ice)
E: Follow instructions of staining agent manufacturer.
* Suntan lotions, wet leaves, permanent markers and some other products contain dyes that permanently stain.

Notes:

1. Always clean immediately. Test unseen area of membrane before cleaning stain.
2. All cleaning methods must be followed by a thorough rinse with water
3. Certain household cleaners, powdered abrasives, steel wool and industrial cleaners can cause damage and discoloration and are not recommended. Dry cleaning fluids and lacquer solvents should not be used as they will remove printed pattern. Waxes should be used with caution; many contain dyes and solvents that can permanently damage the protective coating

RAIL CLEANING

Congratulations on purchasing the superior Deckworx railing system. Here are a few tips on how to keep your railings clean and maintained for many years.

GENERAL CLEANING

a. Clean your new railings at least twice a year using a soft sponge with a mild, non-abrasive soap and water. If you live in climates where salt and pollutants are more prevalent (industrial areas or near the ocean), then be sure to clean them more frequently. Be sure to rinse with fresh water afterwards to remove any residual soap.
b. Remember to use a soft sponge, as a dry one may scratch the powder coating.
c. Glass can be cleaned using a regular glass cleaning product.
d. for minor scuffs and scratched, use another mild or non-abrasive product(eg: ‘Vim’ or ‘Soft Scrub’).
e. During the natural aging process of the powder coating, you may notice a white “chalk” or powder that forms on the surface. This is normal and can be cleaned and polished to bring back the sheen. Some recommended products are: ‘Vim’, ‘Soft Scrub’, a cut polish, or any other non-abrasive product.
f. In the event of paint or sealant spots, treat with Turpentine, Alcohol, Isopropanol, Mentholated Spirits or White Spirits.
g. Be sure to remove any environmental stains (sap, bugs, tree seeds) as soon as possible to prevent too much exposure to the sun which can make these more difficult to remove.
h. To avoid damaging or causing any discoloration to the railings avoid using: abrasive household cleaners, agents, harsh chemicals, strong solvents, acids, steel wool and industrial cleaners.
i. Before appling any product to your Home-Rail railing system test a small, inconspicuous are first.

FASTENERS

a. Over time, fasteners may loosen and need to be tightened down as necessary. It is the responsibility of the owner to inspect theses areas once a year.
b. We also recommend a light coat of floor or car wax to be applied to the tops of any exposed fasteners every 3 to 6 months to help prevent oxidation.
c. Surface rust is a normal part of the aging process, and will not affect the strength or integrity of the fastener’s strength.

Q. How long will these types of decks last?
A. 20 – 25 years