Deck Repair – How to Repair a Cracked Deck
A deck can be a great outdoor space for your family. But it needs to 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
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 will work on most cracks, and it can be a great way to fix small holes in deck boards. It is also much cheaper than replacing or resurfacing the board.
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.
To prevent cracks from forming again, protect the repair. There are many options available, including semi-transparent and clear stains. It is important to match your deck colors with the right product.
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 occurs when moisture pools in the spaces 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.
The fungus that causes this type of rot can damage the wood by secreting digestive enzymes that break down the carbohydrate structure. It will also cause the wood to swell and contract. When this happens, it will weaken the deck and cause cracks and 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.
Hydrogen peroxide, for example, can dissolve rust as well as loosen nuts and bolts to allow them to 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.
When iron or any other metal comes in contact with moisture and oxygen, rust begins. If the metal isn`t protected, it will eventually turn to rust. This can make your deck unattractive 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
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.
When it comes to your deck, you`ll want a contractor that understands your needs and knows their way around a toolbox. The best bet is to get a referral from the pros at your local building supply store. They`ll be able to recommend the right tools for the job, and help you choose from a wide range of options for your budget and preferences. 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.