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FAQs

Answers to the most frequently asked questions about UnderCover Systems.

UnderCover Systems®, Inc. has the only patented (Patent number: 6,226,941), engineered underdeck ceiling that is a structural ceiling. Our ceiling attaches to the support posts of the deck and to your home and DOES NOT ATTACH TO THE JOIST OF THE DECK.

What is the primary purpose for your system, and how is it being used?

Most homeowners utilize UnderCover Systems® to maximize their outdoor home space year round. Our underdecking system keeps all water and debris from falling through your deck onto your outdoor décor, hot tubs, etc. The superior finish provides a dry and very comfortable area for dining, entertaining, play areas for kids and grandkids, and overall outdoor enjoyment of your home rain or shine. A typical deck size and system installation increases your livable home space. This is also beneficial for the value of your home should you ever sell your home. Our system dramatically improves the exterior views of your home. Some homeowners elect to completely close-in the space underneath their deck once the waterproof finished ceiling is installed.
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Can your under deck roof system be installed on existing decks?

Yes, our roof system is easily installed on virtually any existing OR new deck. Since product installation takes place entirely underneath the existing deck, no deck boards or any existing deck structure needs to be changed.
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How does your underdecking system differ from others?

UnderCover Systems®, Inc. has the only patented (Patent number: 6,226,941), engineered, structural under deck ceiling. Our system attaches to the support posts of the deck and to your home. It DOES NOT ATTACH TO THE JOISTS OF THE DECK. Integrated in our Clearspan design, is a clear airspace between the bottom of your deck and the top of our ceiling across the entire system. We maintain a void of between 4 to 7 inches between the bottom of the joists and the top of our system, which allows air to circulate and dry out the entire area. If we were attached to the joists, this would not be possible. We firmly believe that attaching metal, plastic, or any other material that catches water and debris to wood, even if the wood is pressure treated, will eventually cause dry rot and premature aging.

Special Note: ACQ & MCQ PRESSURE TREATED WOOD AND COMPATABILITY WITH ALUMINUM over the last few years has exponentially increased general contractors to install under decking systems. Prepainted Aluminum is usually their material of choice, which is readily available from Gutter Supply Houses, giving those companies a ready source for material. Prior to December 31, 2004, the use of aluminum in an underdeck ceiling was acceptable; however, after that date, the Federal Government mandated that Pressure Treated Lumber no longer be treated with Arsenic as the preservative and instead Copper was to be used as the preservative agent. Those changes were made effective January 1, 2005 and all lumber was replaced at that time. The new specification for Pressure Treated is ACQ, which stands for Alkaline Copper Quaternary. This new treatment is much safer for workers and others that may come into contact with Pressure Treated Wood. Unfortunately, there was a downside to this change. Most metals, with the exception of Hot Dipped Galvanized Stainless Steel and Copper will be destroyed when they come into contact with ACQ wood. All fasteners had to be changed as well as any other metal products that are used with ACQ treated wood. We believe that it is not a question of whether or not aluminum will be undermined by ACQ treated wood, but rather when it will happen.
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What is your UnderCover Systems warranty?

We will cover your UnderCover Systems® against leaks and paint failure for as long as you own your home (learn more here: Warranty). Our UnderCover Systems roof is beautiful, strong, and unique. No other under deck roof system is like it. We patented the system to prevent imitations. Our materials and processes are superior. Our installers receive extensive training and are employees, not sub-contractors. Our warranty guarantees you years of satisfaction while you own your home.
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What under deck ceiling color options do you offer?

We offer white, colonial white, black tan, bronze, gray. All of our colors are low gloss Polyester finishes.

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Can I install the under deck ceiling panels myself?

No – USI warranties the product for life, and therefore must have our certified installers perform the installation. The value of the product is really in the product itself, as typical installations are usually 1 to 2 working days. Our installers complete a rigorous training procedure and are certified prior to being allowed to install our Clearspan System. All of our installers are employees of UnderCover Systems®. We do not use sub-contractors.
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How long does an UnderCover Systems installation take?

Usually, one to two workdays. This is made possible because we prefabricate our deck ceilings in our factory to the dimensions of your under deck area. The value of our underdecking product is in the product itself – not the labor. Final inspection and homeowner approval is required by USI prior to final payment.
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Can I clean my underdeck system and what happens to the debris?

Our ceiling and gutter system are extremely low maintenance; however, it is still very accessible to the homeowner when cleaning is needed. Due to our Clearspan design, most debris will collect in the front gutter and wash out of the downspouts. If you see or think there is a clog, the first notice of this will be debris in the gutter opening to the downspout. Simply push up the panel over the downspout and check the opening. If it is clear, lower the panel and check again in a few months. If the opening is clogged, clear the debris from each downspout opening and place a garden hose in the center of the gutter to flush any remaining debris. Also, you can contact USI directly and we will have a Certified Installer come to your home and inspect your system. Click here for cleaning instructions.
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Can the Clearspan System ceiling be removed?

Yes, and this is an important feature. We have removed our ceiling so that decks can be repaired or changed structurally and reinstalled without any loss of material. The homeowner simply removes the panels themselves, or asks USI to remove and reinstall the system. We have seen other products that have to be removed and scrapped because they cannot be reinstalled. Note: Other systems install on the joists of the deck with screws or nails, which renders them worthless if they have to be removed.
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Consumers' Choice Award For Excellence 2005 thru 2026

Recognized as America's best under deck system for over 17 continuous years!