Hello,

I live in central Florida in a 100 year old house (florida vernacular style).  The front porch has a 2nd story deck over it.  The deck is typical construction – with posts, a ledger attached to the house, and 5/4 PT decking.

This configuration causes big problems when it rains, as rain drops off the roof, hits the deck, pours through the gaps, and onto the front porch – not fun when you’re trying to dig your keys out of your pocket!

I am planning on installing gutters, but I’m looking for a good solution to waterproof the 2nd floor deck to create a dry porch underneath without rebuilding the whole deck.  Here’s what I’ve looked at so far:

1. Waterproof deck membrane (Duradek and others). Could be a good solution, but I can’t get the material to do it myself.

2. Tile – I’d be looking at stripping the decking, laying down 3/4″ PT plywood, cement board, then the tile.  I don’t have to worry about freezing in my area.  Any tips, problems with this method would be appreciated.

3. Interlocking metal decking – Would replace the existing decking with a metal interlocking decking.  Not a bad solution, easy to install, but expensive material.

4. Drainage system that hangs under the existing decking between the decking (www.dryspace.cc). I’m worried about creating an opportunity for increase rot to the joists with this method in my humid climate.

Any comments or suggestions would be greatly appreciated!

Andy