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How to Properly Inspect and Repair Your Deck

The 365 days a year your deck is exposed to the elements can take a toll. From water damage, salt and sun damage to general wear and tear, you’re going to need to have your deck repaired from time to time.

Some of the most common issues that require repair are rot, mildew, and uneven terrain. But before you can start the repair process, it’s important to perform a thorough inspection of your deck.

Taking the time to properly inspect your deck can help you avoid costly mistakes down the road. This includes looking for signs of rot, dry rot, and cracks in the wood. It also lets you know when it’s time to replace some of the more worn components of your deck.
Ledger Boards

If the ledger board--the long, pressure-treated piece that connects your home to your deck--is rotting or damaged, it could cause your entire deck to fall over. This is a major concern because it can make your deck unsafe for people to walk on. If you see any significant rot, consider replacing the entire ledger board, advises top deck repair lansing mi.
Stairs

If your stairs are wobbly or sagging, it’s a good idea to remove them from the deck and have them reinstalled. This is especially important if you have small children or elderly adults who need to access your deck. It will be safer for everyone to climb up the stairs again.
Replacement Materials

It’s easy to replace a single board on your deck, but it’s much more complex to replace multiple boards. For this project, you’ll need a saw, a screw gun or nail puller, and a drill with a screw extractor bit. After you’ve removed the old boards, cut new ones to the same measurements. Be sure to line up the risers and stringers with the new boards, and attach them with at least two screws on each side of the step. This page has more details on how to propely inspect your deck.

Then, apply a waterproof glue to fill in the gaps between the new board and the existing one. You can use either a powdered resin or a solid adhesive that won’t discolor the wood. It’s best to follow the instructions on the label and mix the glue with enough water to form a sticky substance that bonds well with your wood.
Cleanliness

If you have a bare wood deck, it’s a good idea to apply a coat of stain or sealant each year or so. This will protect the wood from UV rays, fungus, and other weather-related damage.

Whether you choose an oil-based or water-based stain, you’ll want to back-brush it with a stain brush or a paint sprayer. This helps the product penetrate deeply into the wood and ensures it covers all of the surface areas.
Mildew

If mildew starts to develop on your deck, it’s a sign that the wood has become damp. This is a common problem with decks that don’t have the proper sealing, and it can quickly degrade the wood if not addressed. Get a general overview of the topic here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deck_railing.

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