A water drainage system and perfect under-deck ceiling installation in unavoidable If you have a floating deck with a usable space below. An under-deck ceiling material should be brittle, lasting, and waterproof; Aluminum has it all. However, aluminum is an expensive investment. Therefore, if you are still skeptical about opting for aluminum over steel, take a look at the advantages of choosing it.
Aluminum is a strong alloy that doesn’t expand or contract in any weather. Hence, you won’t experience any gaps that can allow water seepage problems over things under your deck. The aluminum under-deck ceiling is waterproof, lightweight, durable and crack-free. Besides, it can also support electrical fixtures.
In this article, I will discuss the pros and cons of installing aluminum panels as your under-deck ceiling. I will also explain why aluminum is a superior product to its alternatives. By the end of this article, you’ll know all the benefits of an aluminum under-deck ceiling – making it the perfect choice for your next deck makeover!
What Are The Benefits Of Installing Aluminum Under Deck Ceiling?
Aluminum is the most widely used under-deck ceiling material. Vinyl is the second-best option, and most people are confused between these two options. However, it would help if you used aluminum over vinyl under the deck ceiling system. Here is why:
Durability Of Aluminum Panels:
Durability is aluminum’s greatest asset. It won’t bend, rust, flake, or crack. Systems made of vinyl get thinner and droop with time. They are resistant to moisture, snow, ice, and weather patterns, which can cause the vinyl and other panels to bend and disintegrate. Aluminum has a far higher ventilation efficiency than any other material, superior structural stability, and can withstand intense heat and heavy snowfall without harm.
Brittle But Difficult To Cut:
Cutting aluminum is more difficult than vinyl because it is tougher and more enduring. However, that’s not an issue because thinner aluminum columns are available in the market. Anyone can easily cut these panels using a tin sniper. Would you prefer a non-durable under-deck system solely because it is simpler to cut?
Aesthetic And Easy Upkeep:
Interior and exterior living environments need an aesthetic appearance. Aluminum is the most esthetic material to use for under deck ceilings. It has simple upkeep and maintenance and doesn’t need to be painted again. Unlike vinyl, several metal hues are available that do not fade with time. Most of the Aluminum under deck metal roofs are made to order to exactly suit your deck and satisfy all of your outdoor living requirements.
Also Read: Deck Nail Vs Screw, Which Is The Best? When And Where To Use It?
Water And Bird Proof:
Aluminum under deck ceiling panels does not have space to allow birds to make nests. It’s completely bird-proof. Additionally, aluminum panels nullify the possibility of water leakage because they are strong enough to hold water drainage and do not leak.
Electric Fixtures:
The biggest advantage of aluminum under the deck ceiling is that it allows light fixtures and electric settings. The vinyl ceiling is not strong enough to hold fans and lights while keeping the moisture away. On the other hand, aluminum can hold water drainage and electric fixtures separately without causing any problems.
Steel Vs. Aluminum Under Deck System:
Many homeowners are stuck choosing between metallic under-deck ceiling materials, aluminum and steel. However, both materials are entirely different from each other. Each has its pros and cons. An aluminum system is preferable to a steel one due to the following key factors:
The Ratio Of Strength To Weight
Aluminum has superior “durability to weight” ratio. In other words, although not as robust as steel, its lesser strength is compensated for by the fact that this weighs twice less than steel. The majority of airplanes are built of aluminum for this reason. Therefore, aluminum panels are better than steel because they will be strong and weightless simultaneously, regardless of the thickness you choose.
Also Read: Deck vs Interlock: Which One To Use And Where?
Rust Resistance:
Steel is more prone to rust and corrosion than aluminum. Aluminum doesn’t rust and corrode as it has high resistance to atmospheric moisture and heat.
Versatility
Aluminum is more versatile than steel; therefore, it is the perfect material to utilize in your home. Aluminum is easier to cut, saw bent, drill, and machine than steel.
Durability And Purpose
You frequently see homeowners’ steel systems, typically constructed of perforated steel roofing sheets. This steel sheeting often only lasts a year or two before failing since it is not meant to be an under-deck ceiling panel. The joints of steel sheets are easily permeable. On the other hand, aluminum panels easily last for a decade with minimal maintenance. You can even power-wash them with mild settings.
How To Maintain Aluminum Under Deck Ceiling?
An underdeck system is a great option if you want to make an outdoor space beneath your deck. An aluminum underdeck ceiling has the benefit of being simple to manage and keep clean. To maintain it, you need to do certain actions.
A Rapid Sweep
It’s not difficult to keep the ceiling above your deck clean. Most of the time, all that’s required to remove collected spider webs, filth, and dirt is a short sweep with a brush or extended mop.
Clean Panels
You can use a home detergent or stain remover to clean the ceiling panels. Water and dish soap together is a fantastic alternatives. To stop panels from being scratched, use a moist sponge or towel.
Power Wash Carefully
Although you must keep the settings of your power washer at the lowest, power cleaning the upper deck area or the aluminum sheets below won’t affect them. Once you start washing, don’t forget to take out any electrical fixtures and valuables. You will not want to get soaked!
Final Words:
Although there are so many under-deck ceiling materials, including vinyl and steel, aluminum is the strongest. It doesn’t crack, chip, scratch or rust over time and lasts for a decade with the least maintenance. The durability and strength of aluminum under deck ceiling panels outweigh the fact that it is expensive. Therefore, you should pick aluminum to install under the deck ceiling. Just make sure you clean your aluminum deck occasionally, following the steps mentioned above.
Also Read: Deck Armor vs Tiger Paw: Which One To Use And Where?