Last Updated on April 15, 2025 by Caesar
A newly installed deck usually lasts several years with regular maintenance but eventually succumbs to daily wear and tear. You can schedule deck repair to fix issues relating to safety, aesthetics, and functionality. Early repairs help to prevent major damages that may require complete deck replacement. Here are signs your deck needs repair:
If you notice any of these signs, it’s crucial to address them promptly to prevent further damage. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can extend the life of your deck and ensure safety for everyone using it. For those in the Osterville area, expert assistance is readily available. You can visit our Osterville location for professional advice and services tailored to your specific needs. Whether it’s a minor fix or a major overhaul, taking action now can save you time and money in the long run, ensuring your deck remains a safe and enjoyable space for years to come.
Rotten Wood
Wooden decks can rot due to moisture damage, which occurs when water enters the material. New decks often feature a protective coating that may wear out over time, leaving the wood exposed. Look for soft spots on the deck and poke them using a screwdriver or similar tool to assess the damage. If the screwdriver easily goes through the wood, schedule deck repair for the affected boards. You can also inspect the deck posts for moisture damage and replace them with the floorboards.
Loose or Wobbly Railings
Besides providing support for climbing stairs safely, railings prevent you from accidentally falling off the edge of the deck. Loose or wobbly railings may lead to falling accidents, especially if you can freely tumble off the sides. The risk increases if you have a highly elevated deck or young children and seniors who rely on the railings to climb up and down the stairs. Inspect the railings regularly for looseness and structural problems. While some issues can be fixed by fastening the deck, others, like rust and rot, require professional repairs and replacements.
Bowed or Loose Floorboards
Floorboards usually crack over time and eventually become damaged beyond repair. You can inspect your floorboards for splinters and cracks caused by continual exposure to weather changes, insect infestation, and foot traffic. The deck planks may also become loose or bowed when the area holding screws that secure them to the underlayment rot. Damaged floorboards are a trip hazard and require prompt repair or replacement. If the entire deck platform feels spongy or appears to sag, it is a good idea to get it replaced. You should also schedule repairs for wobbly planks to prevent them from weakening other deck components.
Unstable Footing
Issues with your deck’s foundation may cause the entire plank to collapse or sink over time. Decks are built on solid underlayment and footing to provide stability and a flat surface. If the deck appears to be sinking, the foundation is likely compromised and can no longer support the weight of the planks, furniture, and foot traffic. Inspect the deck regularly, especially after extreme temperature changes or heating, cooling, freezing, and thawing cycles. Repairing the foundation early can prevent further damage to your deck and restore stability.
Insect Damage
Termites, carpenter bees, and ants cause structural damage to the wood they infest. Carpenter bees and ants drill holes and tunnels into the wood to create nests, while termites feed on wood, outdoor carpets, and other products with cellulose. The tunnels drilled by insect infestation leave your wooden posts and deck planks structurally weak and at risk of collapsing. Holes also provide access to water, which may permeate the deck and framework, increasing the risk of rotting. Signs to look for include visible insects or wood shavings on the ground. Other signs of infestation include sunken deck planks, hollow wood sounds, and spongy deck boards.
Schedule Deck Repair Today
Old or damaged decks require intervention to reduce the risk of accidents and infestation. You can inspect your deck regularly to spot issues before they deteriorate beyond repair. Speak to a reputable home improvement company today to learn more about the deck repair, replacement, and maintenance services they offer.
