Deck Repair – How to Repair a Cracked DeckDeck Repair – How to Repair a Cracked Deck
A deck can be a great outdoor space for your family. It must be maintained and repaired.
Inspect your entire deck, significant posts, and joists for cracks, loose boards, and rotting wood.
Typically, water damage or insects are the culprits. Sometimes, a small amount of rot may indicate structural problems.
Cracks
Some homeowners panic when they see small cracks in their wood deck. However, these aren`t always major problems. You should fix cracks in a deck as soon as they grow.
A good wood filler can fix most cracks and small holes in deck boards. It`s also a lot cheaper than replacing the board or resurfacing it.
Look for wood fillers that are water-resistant when you`re looking to buy one. This will ensure that the product doesn`t wash off or swell in the rain.
To prevent cracks from forming again, protect the repair. You can choose from a variety of products, including clear finishes and semi-transparent stains. The key is to find one that matches your current deck colors.
Rotted Spots
Rotted spots on a deck should be checked. Rotted spots can indicate wood age and need to be addressed before they cause safety problems.
Dry rot is caused by moisture pooling between deck boards. It can be caused by many factors including plumbing leaks and leaking gutters. Sprinkler system problems, as well as a lack ventilation under the deck.
This type of rot is caused by fungus secreting digestive enzymes which break down carbohydrate structures. It will also cause the wood to swell and contract. This will cause the deck to weaken and crack, as well as rusting.
Rusted Hardware
If your screws and bolts are rusty, you need to remove the rusted material before it can do any damage. You can try a few methods to help loosen and remove the rust.
Hydrogen peroxide, for example, can dissolve rust as well as loosen nuts and bolts to allow them to be removed. To protect fasteners from rusting, you can spray WD-40 Specialist(r), Spray Grease on them. This will create a thin coating which will help them last longer.
Rust begins when iron (or any other metal) comes into contact with oxygen and moisture. If the metal is not protected, it will eventually rust, which can make your deck look unsightly and even dangerous.
Black rust is the most common form of rust and can be easily identified as a reddish-brown crust that appears on the metal`s surface. This type of rust is most likely atmospheric and the result of water and oxygen interacting in a low oxygen environment.
Uneven Terrain
Uneven terrain doesn`t have to be an impediment when it comes to building a quality deck. The perks are endless, from improved outdoor living space to added home value. A deck built well is an investment in any property. It could be the most valuable money you spend on your dream house. Fortunately, there are plenty of deck repair companies to help you tackle the task.
When it comes to your deck, you`ll want a contractor that understands your needs and knows their way around a toolbox. Referring to a professional at your local building supply shop is a good idea. They will be able recommend the best tools for the job and can help you select from a variety of options that fit your needs and budget. They can also give you the low down on the latest and greatest materials, styles and innovations to help you make the best decision for your home improvement project.
