The first step in a repair job is an evaluation of the current state of your deck. A professional can help you gauge if repairs are cost-effective and will adequately prolong the life of your deck or if replacement would be more efficient in the long run.

Moisture, changing temperatures, and use can cause deterioration of wood over time. Checking the condition of your deck on a regular basis is essential. Visit Website to learn more.

If you see splintered boards on your deck, it’s probably time to call in the professionals. While these cracks aren’t necessarily dangerous, they can make walking on the deck uncomfortable for you and your guests. In addition, they can put your deck at risk for collapse. A trusted Maryland decking company can handle all the repairs you need to get your deck back in tip-top shape.

These cracks happen because of the constant exposure that deck boards face to moisture, heat, and the elements. They’re also the result of homeowner neglect, as most homeowners don’t seal or stain their decks regularly. If you have large cracks on your deck, it’s important to contact a Maryland decking company to ensure the safety of your guests and prevent further damage.

To avoid the cracks in your deck, you’ll want to regularly sand it down and apply a quality wood stain or waterproof sealer. This will keep water from getting into small checking cracks and causing further damage. You’ll also want to trim any plants and bushes near your deck to help prevent moisture build up from the surrounding grass or soil.

If your deck has already cracked to the point where it’s a hazard, you’ll need to replace those boards with new ones. Be sure to choose new boards that match the existing ones in color, thickness and grain pattern. This will help your deck look uniform and avoid an eyesore.

You should also consider resurfacing your deck to eliminate the cracks. This will take a bit more work than simply sanding it down and applying a stain, but it’ll be well worth the effort in the long run.

You’ll also need to regularly clean your deck, especially before you sand it. This will help your sander to work more effectively and will remove any sap from pine trees that may be on the deck that can clog up the sander and cause splinters. A good pressure wash will also prevent dirt, moss and other debris from becoming stuck in the pores of your deck.

Rotted Beams and Posts

Nothing threatens the integrity of a deck and post-frame building more than rot. If left unchecked, a rotting beam or post can weaken the structure and allow rainwater to channel in, further damaging the wood. If the damage is extensive, you may need to replace it completely. Fortunately, there are ways to restore these damaged areas without the cost and hassle of replacing an entire piece of wood.

Wood rot is typically caused by fungus that digests the parts of wood that give it strength and rigidity. Moisture is the catalyst that allows rot to begin. It usually starts in the ground where the wood is exposed to wet soil conditions for extended periods of time, allowing it to absorb and deteriorate more rapidly. When this occurs, a post or beam can become so weakened that it is no longer structurally sound and must be replaced.

A common method to repair a rotted beam is to add a block of new wood and splice it onto the original exterior beam, using fasteners. This approach works fine for some projects, but it does not address the root cause of the rot. It does not prevent the fungus from returning to feed on the new wood and it leaves an open line of water access for dry rot spores. This type of repair can leave the area with a gap that is difficult to fill, and it often looks ugly.

For a better solution, use a power planer to trim the new section of wood flush with the existing surface. Then apply a generous amount of construction adhesive to both surfaces and tap them together firmly, making sure there is no bare wood visible. Once the adhesive sets, use a putty knife to smooth the edges and shape the joint to fit the existing wood. Finally, stain or seal the joint to protect it from moisture.

Another option is to use a repair sleeve that transfer the load from the afflicted post to a steel rod embedded in the concrete, thus restoring the structural strength of a rotting post without the expense of replacing it. These sleeves are available in several lengths to accommodate varying post heights. Some are designed to be imbedded in concrete and others to be placed on top of a footing.

Water Damage

Water damage is a major problem for many types of wood structures, including decks. Over time, it can cause splintering, warping and even mold growth. If it is not repaired, it can result in costly structural problems for a home or business. Fortunately, it is relatively easy to spot and address. Whether caused by improper sealant, rain or poor drainage, the first step to fixing water damage is identifying it and taking action.

Often, the most obvious sign of moisture damage to a deck is that the boards are starting to sag or buckle. This can also be caused by nails or screws that have worked their way out of a board and left an empty space for water to penetrate. It is important to inspect a deck regularly for any signs of sagging, especially in high traffic areas. This can be a safety hazard for anyone using the deck.

In addition to sagging boards, another common indication of moisture damage is soft or spongy wood. This is a clear indication that the wood has rotted or become soft due to prolonged exposure to water. In this case, the best solution is to replace the affected wood panels.

Water damage can also be a sign of other more serious problems, like dry rot or mold, which may require more extensive repair work. A professional service will be able to assess the severity of the problem and recommend the appropriate repairs.

When it comes to preventing moisture damage, the best thing you can do is keep the deck clean and properly sealed. A good sealant will protect the wood from sun, wind and precipitation. It is important to reapply the sealant at regular intervals and after major weather events.

A good waterproofing service will be able to offer a warranty for their work, providing peace of mind that the deck is protected from potential future issues. They will also be able to access premium products that are not available to homeowners, ensuring that the deck is protected for as long as possible. If you are looking for a quality waterproofing service, consider getting quotes from multiple pros to ensure that you get the best possible results.

Insect Infestation

Insects can cause serious damage to your deck if left unchecked. Carpenter ants, for example, can drill tunnels into wood and create nests within the structure, which can weaken the deck’s structural integrity over time. They also leave behind piles of sawdust, and they are recognizable by their red and black coloring and winged appearance. Other wood-destroying insects like powderpost beetles and dermestid beetles attack hardwood, including that used for floor joists, wall studs, and other structural lumber as well as softwood used for interior trim and moldings. Their attack damages the timber, leaving behind a fine dust (known as frass) and hollow-sounding wood when tapped.

Rodents, including mice and rats, are another serious threat to decks. Their constant gnawing can chew through electrical wires and other materials in the area, which poses a safety hazard for occupants of your home. Other pests that can cause significant damage to your deck include raccoons, opossums, and squirrels.

To protect your deck from insect infestation, take preventive measures by keeping it clean and free of debris and vegetation. This includes regularly cleaning and sealing your deck, which will make it less attractive to insects. You can also use repellents containing citronella, lemon balm, and other bug-repelling herbs and oils to help keep bugs away from your outdoor space.

If you notice signs of insect infestation, a contractor can inspect your deck and determine the best course of action for repair. Our professional contractors will assess the extent of the termite infestation, then remove and replace any damaged boards. In addition, we’ll inspect and repair the support structures, such as posts and beams, to ensure that your deck remains structurally sound.

We’ll also recommend steps to protect your deck from future termite attacks, such as the application of wood preservatives or the use of wood-alternative composites that are known to resist the impact of termites. By following these tips, you can enjoy your deck without worrying about the potential hazards of a termite infestation or collapse.