Do you love outdoor entertaining? I know you’ve likely heard the reports that homes with outdoor spaces are in high demand. This is even more true now in the time of COVID. It allows more room in a cool and natural environment to hang out with friends and family for grilling, lounging, lawn games, etc. We know that you know all of that.
When it comes to wood decks it can be hard to know exactly what should be done to maintain them. Do you just replace the few rotten pieces and throw another coat of stain or paint on it? Or do you have some structural issues and perhaps design changes that could be considered. We listed a few things below to help your deck remain in top shape and continue giving you wonderful memories.
Check these 7 signs to help you determine if your deck needs to be repaired or replaced:
Age
No home building material will last forever, especially exterior materials. Weather and climate will take its toll on your deck. A wood deck in Florida can last anywhere from 10 to 25 years. I know that is a big spread, but it depends on the quality of wood used, how you maintained it, how much physical wear it gets (like foot traffic) as well as the amount of sun or other weather exposure. So, as you can see age is not the only determining factor to consider.
Missing or rusted hardware
The hardware be on the underside of your deck. You should take the time to assess the base of your deck to make sure none of the hangers are loose, missing, or covered in rust and deteriorating. The older your deck, the more likely this is to occur. However, this can happen to decks of all ages without proper care or material installation. The screw or nail holes should be caulked if deep, so they do not hold water and allow for rot to set in.
Structural Support Post
The posts are what hold up your deck. They carry a great deal of weight, which makes their integrity vital to the support of your deck. If you notice large cracks or rot damage in the posts, you may have a problem. If you notice water pooling around the base of the posts, seek the advice of a professional on the best method for diverting water away from their base.
Deteriorating Ledger Board
The ledger board is what connects the deck to the side of your house and holds it in place. If your ledger board becomes compromised, your entire deck becomes compromised. If you notice loose bolts or rot appearing on your ledger board, solicit the advice of a professional immediately. You should also ensure that the flashing around your ledger board is securely in place as this helps prevent water damage and rot from ruining the board and getting into your house.
Wood Rot
Rotting wood in your deck is a serious issue. Wood rot moves quickly and spreads from one area to another. It weakens the structure of your deck and causes it to deteriorate over time. High amounts of rot indicate it’s time for a deck replacement. And even a little wood rot that goes unchecked will eventually require you to invest in an entirely new deck. If you notice wood rot, take immediate action to see how far the rot has spread. If it is localized, remove the affected wood and replace it. Then thoroughly clean the deck and seal its surface with a high-quality wood deck sealer. If the wood rot has significantly spread, you will be better off rebuilding the entire deck and starting fresh. Ask your contractor for tips on caring for your deck to prevent future wood rot.
Loose Railings
Loose railings are not always an indicator that your deck needs to be completely replaced. However, they are a serious safety risk that requires attention. And if loose railings are coupled with other issues, it could mean it’s time for a replacement deck. If your railings are loose, you should have them secured as quickly as possible
Unsecure or Bowing Boards
Lifted or unsecured deck boards can become safety hazards that cause people to trip, and as the homeowner, liability can fall to you. If you notice wobbly boards when walking across your deck, you may need a replacement. Joists can become detached from the ledger board as time passes. This can cause boards to become loose and move around. The decking itself can also weaken from water damage, rot, or pest damage, which can cause the boards to begin bowing.
Every form of building material will experience wear and tear. From cracks to missing screws, some deck issues will lead to a simple repair while other damage will require a full replacement. If you notice significant damage, such as large holes, split boards, signs of termites, and many other issues, you know you need a new deck.
Ashley Cook
Assistant Property Manager