A deck coating is a long-term investment in the structure beneath it, and the warranty is one of the clearest ways to compare one proposal with another. Not every deck coating comes with a manufacturer warranty, and not every installer stands behind its own work in writing.
360 Surfaces is a Westcoat Qualified Contractor Applicator (QCA). Every ALX Pro deck we install is covered by two warranties: up to a 20-year Westcoat manufacturer warranty, depending on the build, and our own 5-year workmanship warranty. This article explains what each one is and why the combination matters.
Two Warranties, Two Different Roles
| Westcoat manufacturer warranty | 360 Surfaces workmanship warranty | |
|---|---|---|
| Issued by | Westcoat | 360 Surfaces |
| Term | Up to 20 years, depending on the system and the surface it is installed over | 5 years |
| Relates to | The Westcoat ALX Pro system | The quality of our installation |
| Provided through | A Westcoat Qualified Contractor Applicator (QCA) | 360 Surfaces, on every ALX Pro deck we install |
The Manufacturer Warranty
The manufacturer warranty comes from Westcoat, the company that makes the ALX Pro system. Because 360 Surfaces is a Westcoat QCA, the decks we install are backed by a Westcoat warranty of up to 20 years. The term depends on the system and the surface it is installed over, and we confirm the applicable term for your project in writing.
The Workmanship Warranty
A coating system is only as reliable as its installation. Our 5-year workmanship warranty is our own commitment to the quality of the work: the preparation, the flashing details, the reinforcement and every coat in the system.
Why the Build Affects the Warranty Term
A deck coating warranty reflects how the system was built and what it was built over. The ALX Pro specification sets clear requirements for the substrate, including exterior-grade or CDX plywood at least ⅝ inch thick, a maximum joist span of 16 inches, a minimum slope of ¼ inch per linear foot, sheet membrane on every plywood seam and bonderized metal flashing at the edges. Meeting those requirements is the foundation of a durable deck.
That is also why we inspect the structure before proposing a system. When framing or plywood is damaged, it is repaired first. For more on that process, read Signs Your Deck or Balcony Is Failing, and What to Do About It.
Protecting Your Investment
Westcoat's maintenance guidance for ALX Pro is straightforward:
- Sweep the surface with water and a broom. For heavier dirt or grease, use a diluted degreaser and a soft-bristle brush, then rinse well.
- Inspect the system for wear every 2 to 4 years.
- Reseal the system every 3 to 5 years, depending on foot traffic and UV exposure.
Your written warranty documents set out the specific terms that apply to your deck.
Questions to Ask Any Deck Coating Installer
- Is the coating a complete waterproof system, or a paint or sealer?
- Is a manufacturer warranty available, and is the installer qualified by the manufacturer to provide it?
- What is the warranty term for this specific deck, and will it be provided in writing?
- Does the installer provide its own workmanship warranty?
- Will the structure and plywood be inspected and repaired before the coating is applied?
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the warranty on a Westcoat ALX Pro deck?
Every ALX Pro deck we install is covered by up to a 20-year Westcoat manufacturer warranty. The term depends on the system and the surface it is installed over. It is paired with the 360 Surfaces 5-year workmanship warranty.
What is a Westcoat QCA?
A Qualified Contractor Applicator (QCA) is an installer that Westcoat has qualified to apply its systems. 360 Surfaces is a Westcoat QCA.
What is the difference between the two warranties?
The manufacturer warranty is issued by Westcoat and relates to its system. The workmanship warranty is issued by 360 Surfaces and covers the quality of our installation.
Why does the warranty term vary?
The term depends on the system and the surface it is installed over. We confirm the applicable term for your project in writing.
Does the deck need maintenance?
Westcoat recommends inspecting the system for wear every 2 to 4 years and resealing it every 3 to 5 years, depending on foot traffic and UV exposure. Your written warranty documents set out the specific terms that apply.
Request an Estimate
We will inspect your deck, recommend the right ALX Pro build and confirm the warranty coverage for your project in writing. Call or text (360) 685-7222, email info@360surfaces.com, or request an on-site estimate. Learn more about the system on our deck coating page.