Trex RainEscape is an “under-deck drainage system that uses a network of troughs and gutters to keep rain, spills and snowmelt from dripping through elevated deck boards creating a dry space below the deck.” Once installed, you can rest assured that your outdoor living space including ceiling fans, an outdoor kitchen, an entertainment center and ceiling fans will be protected from the elements. Use this flexible membrane between the deck joists to create a water run-off system that keeps everything underneath it dry. Homeowners can double their useable space by protecting the precious square footage underneath for yet another living area. Many homeowners opt to create a paver patio area, outdoor bar or outdoor kitchen underneath their elevated deck, and Trex RainEscape helps keep all of it dry. Get twice the benefit out of the same structure! Many people may not know much about this under-deck drainage system, so we’ll go over some of the key benefits and answer frequently asked questions.
Trex RainEscape Protects your Wood Framing
Because Trex RainEscapes goes over all of your wood framing, you essentially have an extra layer of protection against the elements, much like the purpose that shingles serve for a roof. All of your wood is protected indefinitely, because the rain just funnels right off the roof where you want it to go.
It Can Be Dressed up with Siding and Accessories
Trex RainEscapes is an unfinished product, so if people have a vision of how they want their outdoor living space to look- the possibilities are really endless. Once the drainage system is set up, you are able to cover it with tongue and groove siding or a vinyl soffit ceiling in addition to adding elegant touches like lighting and ceiling fans. Homeowners are extremely satisfied with how sleek their deck looks, all while knowing that there is a system in place to protect all of the elements of their outdoor living area.
Trex RainEscapes Has Double Benefits
Trex RainEscapes is a more beneficial system because it is a two part system, whereas many competitors only offer a 1 part system. The way this system is designed makes it so your wood framing never sees water, all the while making sure the area underneath stays dry as well.
Let’s cover some ‘Frequently Asked Questions’ that are found on the website for Trex RainEscapes:
Q: Can the RainEscape system be installed by the homeowner, or must it be installed by a professional?
A: Trex has made it easy for people of any skill level to install the RainEscape system. All you need is a pair of scissors, utility knife, staple gun, and caulking gun. Most decks are done within 2 hours. For more information, visit their Installation page and view their installation videos on our YouTube channel.
Q: Can I install this on top of an existing deck?
- Yes, but you will need to remove the existing deck boards to lay the system down.
Q: How does the price compare to other similar systems?
A: Although Trex RainEscape is a unique under-deck drainage system with 2 parts (protecting the wood and keeping the lower level dry) it costs less than their competitors.
Q: What makes the RainEscape System durable?
A: Its strong plastic and ultraviolet inhibitors make the system extremely durable.
Q: Debris is inevitable- How do you clean it out?
A: Generally, there is a very small amount of debris that enters the gutter system because it has to be small enough to fit through the decking. You will find that small debris passes through the system with water. If you have a lot of leaves on your deck, there could be some build up. If that is the case, just flush the system once a year with water.
Q: How does the system hold up to freezing temperatures?
A: If your drainage system is installed correctly, there will never be any sitting water. Any water that is caught should immediately drain out through the downspout. No leftover water remaining in the system, means that freezing is not an issue.
- Does this system come with a warranty?
A: Trex RainEscape is warranted to last for 20 years from the date of purchase.
To recap, let’s summarize the 4 key benefits of using Trex RainEscape:
- It protects the space underneath your second-story deck dry and protected from any type of climate
- It protects the wood framing of your deck from moisture that can lead to rot and decay
- It assists in holding screws in place longer
- It is easy to install- anyone can do it!
Hopefully this short guide has been helpful in understanding the benefit of using the Trex under-deck drainage system. Feel free to browse Trex’s website for more information or call us today to talk to a deck specialist!
