Of course you want to maximize the use of your waterfront property. But have you
looked up?
Whether you have a classic boathouse or a busy waterfront restaurant, if you have a flat roof that you’re not using, you are missing out on some tremendous waterfront space, says Mike Vettese, owner of GBS Contracting Services.
But turning that overhead space into a room with a view involves more than stairs and railings. “It’s vital that we install the right product to handle foot traffic, tables, chairs, spills, and more,” explains Mike. If it’s a commercial space, the product needs to be extra tough to withstand thousands of pairs of feet, and possibly heavy industrial fridges. In residential and commercial uses, though, Mike recommends the same product: “This is where Dec-Tec takes the cake.”
He says the PVC membrane is the gold standard for multi-use flat roofs. Professionally installed Dec-Tec systems last from 25 to 30 years.
“It is the only membrane that is certified for roofing,” says Mike, whose company has many years of roofing experience. “It really is the only choice for rooftop patios, whether this is a restaurant, a boathouse, or even the top floor of your home or cottage.”
Naturally, the membrane is waterproof. But it’s also slip-resistant and fire-resistant, both useful attributes in any rooftop entertainment area.
The membrane comes in a wide array of colour and design options – from classic Muskoka looks that mimic granite, cedar planks or redwood, to modern options like ivory and oak.
“It’s also very low-maintenance and easy to clean,” says Mike. “Really, it’s a perfect fit for your outdoor entertaining spaces.”



What lies beneath
Before installing the membrane, though, Mike and his team will always ensure that the underlying structure is solid and sound. After all, there’s no sense installing a premium product over top of a wooden deck that is heading toward failure.
“It can be just a simple fix – a matter of replacing some areas that have weakened over the years,” says Mike. “It’s not hard to do, but replacing the weak spots and reinforcing the whole roof is important to ensure a safe patio area that still acts as a roof for the space below.”
This is why Mike and his expert team insist that proper installation is key to a high-performance, long-lasting roof. Regardless of whether the structure is insulated or not, heated or not, a quality roof will keep the building beneath it dry.
“A well-designed, professionally installed roof will have the snow and water running down the drains,” he explains. “This prevents snow and ice from building up, creating a heavy load and eventually causing leaks and damage.”
Expert team
Whenever you have any work done at your property, it’s vital to hire certified, insured, and experienced professionals, be it roofing or any other work.
In business since 1999, GBS Contracting Services is fully insured, fully trained, and dedicated to the business.
Mike says they happily provide references to their clients. He notes that they often get called back to do additional work because the client is so happy with the first project.
“Our team has built a stellar reputation for doing great work throughout Muskoka and the surrounding areas,” he says. “We know what our clients need because we work, live and play in the areas we service.”
TEXT CHRIS OCCHIUZZI
PHOTOS ANDREW FEARMAN