Whether you’re trying to make a small change or completely replace your entire deck, you’ll need to do some Deck Repair if you want to maintain the beauty of your yard for years to come. Fortunately, there are several easy-to-use techniques for deck repair. This article will cover the basic steps of repairing your deck. First, determine the extent of the damage. If the damage is not weight-bearing, you should seek the help of a professional Deck Repair Charleston SC.
If you’ve noticed some wear and tear on your deck, there are some things you can do to repair it. But if the damage is extensive, you may need to call in the pros. Depending on the type of damage, repairs can be as simple as cleaning up or as complex as replacing parts of the structure. In either case, the cost of repairing your deck will vary.
The wood can expand and contract as a deck is exposed to moisture over time. Those changes can cause long cracks along the boards. These cracks are often not damaging or structurally harmful and are simply a natural part of the wood’s aging process. However, large cracks and splits can weaken the decking. To prevent these cracks, re-stain or seal your deck every two years to protect it from water and UV rays. A tinted deck sealant can also help keep graying at bay.
When a deck board loosens, it can pose a safety hazard. If you live where it gets wet or spend much time on your deck, boards will start loosening as they expand and contract with moisture.
You can fix this problem by reattaching the loose deck board to the deck frame using screws or nails. Screws are better because they have threads that act as pawls to lock the fastener in place, preventing it from backing out over time.
Another way to repair a loose deck board is by replacing it with a new piece of wood. This will not only look better but will also protect your existing deck from further damage.
When removing the old board, inspect it carefully for rot or other damage. If you find rot, remove it with a pry bar. If you can’t remove the rot, cut out the damaged section of the deck board and replace it with a new one. Ensure the new board is sized properly to flush with the joists on all sides.
If the railings on your deck are cracked, loose, or wobbly, it could be a safety issue. The railings are meant to hold the porch or deck in place and protect you from falling off the stairs, so they should be sturdy and solid.
Wood is often chosen for deck railings because it has a natural aesthetic and can be cheaper than other materials. However, it can deteriorate easily and requires consistent upkeep to maintain its appearance and durability.
The hardware affixing the posts to the deck and other railing parts can rust or break over time. Ensure the post bases are well-protected from moisture and the structural screws are high-quality steel. If any are broken or have dulled grooves, replace them with new ones to prevent the metal from coming loose.
Posts in a deck bear much of the weight, meaning they must be sturdy to prevent damage. Over time, posts can weaken or fail, which can cause the entire structure to collapse or worse.
Rotting wood is one of the most common reasons for this problem, but you can also get termites and carpenter ants. If these insects infest your wood posts, you will likely notice holes or splinters in the wood and wood dust on the ground below the posts.
Cracks in your deck are a normal part of aging. Fill smaller cracks with latex wood filler or a sealant, and pry off the affected boards if the crack is longer. If the underside of the board is not damaged, you can reattach it with deck screws. If the underside is damaged, you’ll need to replace the board. Here are some tips to help you make a successful deck repair.
Inspect your deck periodically for structural or cosmetic problems. If the wood is discolored or stained, it’s most likely just a matter of touch-ups. Cracks and splinters are not necessarily signs of structural damage, but they should be addressed as soon as possible. Minor cracks and stains should be repaired before they spread. Otherwise, you’ll need to replace your deck. To make sure you’re getting the highest quality of work from your deck repair professional, look for signs of experience and certifications.