
Performing your own deck repair can save you money and maintain the beauty of your outdoor space. The Home Depot app makes it easy to search for a product, view inventory, and find a contractor in your area. There are also tips from Deck Repair Charleston SC for repairing rotted or damaged boards. When hiring a deck repair professional, make sure they’re insured. Insurance is important to protect yourself in case of damage or liability, so you should always ask to see proof of coverage before allowing them to work on your deck.
To fix a damaged deck board, you need to cut it out cleanly and sand it smooth. Choose a location where you want to make the cuts to look natural. Make sure the replacement board doesn’t have end joints that line up with adjacent rows of decking. This creates a natural look. Also, make sure to prepare the joists before making the cut. Replace a damaged section of board, if possible.
Whether or not your deck can be saved is dependent on the condition of the framing and the type of material it’s made of. Untreated wood is often prone to decay, and if it’s twenty years old, it’s most likely that it’s beyond repair. In addition to rotting, water may have weakened the post and beam attachments. Eventually, if the rot continues to grow, you may have to replace the entire deck.
While the surface of your deck is the most visible part, it can be a major source of damage. Wood rot is caused by fungi that attack the wood and break it down. In nature, this process is natural and helps clear fallen trees and logs. However, it can cause a deck to fall over. Therefore, it’s important to repair your deck as soon as possible to avoid further damage. Once you notice any of these signs, it’s time to call in the professionals to repair it.
You should inspect your deck at least once a year to check for signs of damage. Regular inspection will catch problems early, preventing them from becoming larger. Remove obstructions from the deck and check the railing for loose boards or nails. Loose boards are a safety hazard. Replace any worn or loose hardware. If your railings are shaky, it may be time to hire a professional deck repair contractor.
Depending on the size of your deck, it may cost anywhere from $10 to $70 per square foot. You should also consider the type of deck you have, as metal can be a surprisingly costly option. Metal decks can be made of aluminum or steel. Although metal is durable and immune to insects, they can be scratched or dented, causing unsightly spots. To save money on the process, consider hiring a professional handyperson.
Before hiring a deck repair contractor, do a thorough inspection. Cleaning the surface of the deck will reveal hidden problems that may not be immediately obvious. The best time to address these problems is when you are able to identify them. Minor problems can be fixed with some tools. However, serious problems require professional attention. The best way to avoid major damage is to have your deck checked out by a professional. You can even do a small repair on your own, if you’re handy with tools.
In addition to the above-mentioned steps, you can also repair the joists and rotted planks by yourself. You can buy pressure-treated lumber or even refasten damaged joists with a saw. Make sure you support the deck on one side to avoid damaging it further. Using the proper tools will help you save money while making the repair. You should make sure to use pressure-treated lumber when doing your deck repair project.
Cracks in wood decks are normal. Small cracks can be filled with latex wood filler. Larger cracks, however, need a sealant to prevent further damage. If the crack is over 6 inches long, pry off the affected board and check for damage under the surface. If the underside of the board is clean, it can be reattached with deck screws. Otherwise, the affected board must be replaced.
Soil erosion can also affect wooden and concrete footings. Regularly checking your deck footings is especially important if you have an older home. This happens when snowmelt or rainwater wash away the soil that supports the posts. Once the soil erosion affects the footings of your deck, it could result in a weakened deck and even instability. A sign of erosion can be pooled water or a gradual change in the slope of your lawn. If you notice any of these problems, you should contact a professional for proper repair.