A deck is a beautiful addition to any home, ramping up curb appeal, family fun, and property value. But the ravages of winter can wreak havoc on your deck, and that’ll not only ruin its great looks, but also increase the danger factor. With spring just around the corner, now is the perfect time to start showing your deck a little TLC in Vancouver, Coquitlam, and Burnaby. To make the most of your outdoor time, here are five common deck repairs you might need after winter.
Deck water damage
Vancouver, Coquitlam, and Burnaby—the Lower Mainland sure does get its fair share of the wet stuff in the winter. Over time, all that moisture can take a toll on decks, causing major water damage that can lead to mold and mildew problems.
To check if the sealant is still intact, spray water on your deck. If the water doesn’t bead, it might be time to reseal the deck.
Wood rot
Wood rot is a deck’s worst enemy. So, before spring time arrives, you’ll want to check for this common deck problem. Exposure to the elements can cause fungal growth, leaving wood weak and unattractive.
Using the tip of a screwdriver, check for signs of wood rot by pressing down on the surface of the boards. If you come across any soft or spongy spots, you’ll need to have those boards replaced, repaired, or resealed.
Fading deck colour
Is your deck’s paint starting to look a little faded? Dirt, debris, foot traffic, and exposure to the elements can cause the colour on your deck to fade.
To keep your deck looking like new all year long, you can use a wood brightener. If that hasn’t done the trick, contact a deck repair company to bring the original colour back to your decking.
Railing damage
Steady and secure railings are crucial for any deck. If your railings wiggle or wobble, you run the risk of injury to your family, friends, and visitors.
Inspect all components, ensuring everything is fastened properly. And if you come across any missing, damaged, or rusty fasteners, make sure to replace them as soon as possible.
Remember, deck safety should be a major concern for any homeowner. So, if you’re not sure how to fix loose, wobbly deck railings, get deck repairs from the pros.
Cracked boards
The frigid temperatures and icy conditions can do a serious number on your deck boards, leaving behind cracks and gaps. If you’ve noticed any cracking, you’ll want to fill them in. For the larger gaps, however, it’s probably best to replace the boards altogether.
Ask anyone living in Vancouver, Coquitlam, or Burnaby, winter is no friend to your deck. Knowing what deck-damage signs to look out for can go a long way to staying on top of deck repairs, giving you a head start on spring this year.
