Which system is best for me?

The DRY-TOP Lite system is a single gutter system with the one gutter on the low side of the system.  The DRY-TOP Lite system uses the same ceiling panels as the DRY-TOP ceiling.  The primary differences are the guttering system, the appearance of the finished system and the system warranty.  The DRY-TOP system uses a gutter that surrounds the ceiling.  Gutters are attached to a gutter facia board. The DRY-TOP system's gutters appear as crown molding giving the under deck area the appearance of an outdoor room.  Because the DRY-TOP Lite only uses one gutter our no leak warranty applies only to the ceiling and not the junction of the ceiling and the house wall.  The DRY-TOP system warranty is a full NO LEAK lifetime warranty. The Concealed System uses aluminum channels between the joists and a single gutter.  The Concealed system must be installed before the deck floor is installed so it is limited to new deck construction.  Concealed systems do not hang below the joists so a ceiling material of your choice can be attached to the bottom of the joists.

Why do I need a Deck Drain System?

A Deck Drain Ceiling creates an attractive finished look instead of an unfinished rough appearance.  A Deck Drain Ceiling will discourage moisture on the patio from creating mold and mildew under the deck area.  Many homeowners use the space under the deck as an area where you can relax or entertain. A dry ceiling eliminates the need to remove cushions from furniture under the deck.  Your pets will have a dry area during inclement weather.

What are the systems made of?

DRY-TOP ceiling panels are roll formed aluminum panels, which will never rust. The ceiling panels are a heavy gauge .040 aluminum and are roll formed at our location in Chesterfield.  The panels are painted with a baked on polyester finish. Gutters used in the systems are also aluminum and are also formed at our location. Cocealed systems are also aluminum.  

What happens to the leaves and debris that fall through the cracks of the deck?

Although the systems are engineered to be maintenance free, some sedimentation may accumulate in the six-inch front gutter. This gutter can be accessed for occasional rinsing with a garden hose. The DRY-TOP systems will drain water freely but some debris may accumulate which may need to be flushed periodically. How often depends on the width of the space between deck boards and the amount of debris that falls on the deck.  Most never need to be flushed.

The DRY-TOP system is a free span system with an exclusive safety hanger that allows an adequate air space (ventilation) and no impediments to debris flowing out of the ceiling panel.  This is an important distinction of the DRY-TOP systems compared to others furring strip systems or other systems that attach to the side of the joists.  We can point out these differences in our showroom in Chesterfield.

Do the systems come with a warranty?

Yes. Each installed system provides the homeowner with a Limited Lifetime NO LEAK warranty which protects the ceiling against leaks for the life of the original deck. The DRY-TOP and DRY-TOP Lite warranty differences are noted above.  There is also a 5 year warranty on the ceiling's finish.

We get lots of ice and snow in the winter months. Can this system withstand heavy ice/snow loads and the melting/re-freezing of ice and snow?

Yes, the systems are carefully engineered to provide safe support of heavy ice/snow loads without sagging or distorting.

Where can I see a system in my area?

Our showroom in Chesterfield is open weekdays by appointment from 9:00 to 4:30. It is highly recommended you call before coming to make sure someone is available to answer your questions.