A deck can make a wonderful outdoor space for you and your family. But it needs to be maintained and repaired.
Examine your entire deck and all posts. Also, inspect the joists and braces for cracks and loose boards.
Most often, insects or water damage are the culprits. Sometimes, a small amount of rot may indicate structural problems.
Cracks
Small cracks on a wood deck can cause some homeowners to panic, but they are not always a big deal. 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 help ensure that the product stays on the surface of your deck and doesn`t wash away or swell up in the rain.
Once your repair is complete, you can apply a protective finish to help prevent more cracks from appearing. 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. They can be a warning sign that the wood is getting old, and needs to be repaired before it causes any safety issues.
Dry rot is caused by moisture pooling between deck boards. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including plumbing leaks, leaking gutters, sprinkler system problems and a lack of ventilation beneath 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. There are a few ways to remove rust.
For example, hydrogen peroxide can dissolve rust and also loosen nuts and bolts so that they can be removed. You can also spray WD-40 Specialist(r) Spray Grease onto the fasteners to create a thin coating that will protect them from rusting and help them to last longer.
Rust begins when iron (or any other metal) comes into contact with oxygen and moisture. If the metal isn`t protected, it will eventually turn to rust. This can make your deck unattractive and even dangerous.
Black rust, the most common type of rust, can be identified by a reddish brown crust on the metal`s surfaces. This form of rust is most likely atmospheric. It`s caused by water and oxygen reacting in low oxygen environments.
Uneven Terrain
When it comes to building quality decks, uneven terrain does not have to be a problem. There are many benefits to deck building, including increased outdoor living space and an increase in 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. There are many deck repair companies that can help you with this task.
A contractor who understands your requirements and can use a variety of tools is the best choice for your deck. The best bet is to get a referral from the pros at your local building supply store. 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 will also be able to give you information about the latest styles, materials and innovations in order to help you make the right decision regarding your home improvement project.
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