In most cases, signs of wood damage on your deck should be assessed immediately to reduce further damage, reduce repair costs and for any obvious safety concerns. You do NOT want a situation where people are walking or standing on a dangerous structure. This is especially true for second floors and raised wood decks. As with any timber structure, you should have it checked for integrity and safety every year, or at least every few years.
The image above shows what can happen if your ledger fails on your deck.
The ledger provides much of the power of a deck; it supports the beams at one end and provides rigidity to the frame.
Don’t let this happen to any of your properties!
Here are a few things to look out for that can seriously threaten the safety of your deck:
Termite damage
Termites are the catalyst for many of the most common wood-related problems we see here in San Diego. They damage wood from the inside out, creating a potentially disastrous scenario that is incredibly difficult to catch.
Water damage
If your deck is not treated properly, almost any water source can be harmful to your wood. On the other hand, properly sealed and treated wood can succumb to water damage over time from constant, chronic water sources such as: leaking gutters, pipes, or poor drainage. It is always important to keep an eye on the water sources around your timber structures.
Message rot
Decks are typically anchored by wooden posts cemented into the ground. These poles are exposed to soil and other natural processes, which eventually cause them to decay over time. If these messages start to rot, there are absolutely no excuses for choosing not to have them replaced.
Damage to beams
A beam is a piece of wood that runs along the bottom of a floor or patio. These beams support the weight of the structure and must be checked for softness. Damage to your patio beams can be difficult to repair if the damage is caused by rusty metal brackets, nails or screws that tend to affect all of the beams instead of just a small section.
Twisted, crooked or sagging frames
If the frame of your deck starts to twist, bend or become crooked; significant damage to the wood may occur. The frame is an important aspect of your patio and helps maintain its overall shape and structure. If you see any visible problems with your deck frame, have it inspected by a professional immediately.
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At Best-Rate-Repair we strive to provide honesty, good service and professionalism on every project we take on. Call us today at (619) 229-0116 for a proposal!
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