Does your deck seem worn down? Cracks, loose boards, and spongy flooring are signs of a serious problem. Damage like this means you’ll need repairs, face poor performance, or even have a complete deck collapse.
No thanks, right? Well, we’ve got good news! You can spot these issues early, before they put your deck at risk. Here’s what to look for and how to care for your deck so you can prevent damage and lengthen its lifespan.
What Are the Early Signs of Deck Damage?
Before we talk upkeep, let’s look at how to inspect a deck and identify problem spots early. Regularly check for these issues and tend to them promptly:
Warped, Uneven Boards
The constant exposure to Chicago’s cold, wet, humid weather can be rough on your deck. Foot traffic, wear and tear, and aging take their toll too—and decking may warp or shift out of place.
Repair or replace? Warped boards are a tripping hazard that should be replaced. If you have several warped boards, it may be time for a new deck.
Visible Mold and Mildew
As moisture affects decking, mildew and mold grow. Yes, this buildup looks ugly—but that’s not all. Mold and mildew make your deck slippery. They smell unpleasant, trigger asthma, and make wood rot more likely.
Repair or replace? Small areas can be spot-treated. But if the issue has caused significant rot, no amount of mildew and mold remover will fix that—and you’ll need a new deck.
Springy, Weak Flooring
Pay attention to soft spots that feel spongy beneath your feet. This can mean your deck has moisture damage, or you may have termites or carpenter ants.
Repair or replace? If one board is spongy but the surrounding boards are in good shape, replace the weak board. If much of the deck is springy, the support system is likely rotten, meaning you need a new deck.
Cracks in Deck Materials
Authentic wood is porous, allowing moisture to sneak in and causing it to split. Cracked decking is unsafe to walk on and can result in splinters and cuts.
Repair or replace? If the problem is limited to one board (or two), repairing the area is a good approach. For widespread damage, replace your deck entirely.
Fading, Discoloration, or Peeling
Decking materials show their age with visible signs. Discoloration, fading, and peeling mean paint or stain is wearing out. Without that protective layer, deck boards are vulnerable to rain, snow, and UV rays.
Repair or replace? If you catch this issue early, simple repairs are straightforward. Sand the rough spots, treat the stains, seal the deck, and paint it.
Rotting Support Posts, Beams, and Joists
Many decks have wooden understructures. If this support rots, it makes your deck unsafe—to the point of possibly collapsing and injuring people. Anytime you notice other deck damage, have the structure checked too.
Repair or replace? Minor, isolated rot might be fixable with a repair. But usually, structural rot in support beams and posts makes the deck unsafe, and a full replacement is a smart choice.
Loose, Missing, or Rusted Fasteners
A small but important warning sign is the condition of the screws and nails that hold your deck together. When you notice fasteners are loose, corroded, or missing, check for other signs of rot.
Repair or replace? If a few screws are rusted or a nail or two is missing, replace them. But if rusted or missing fasteners are accompanied by other damage too, have a contractor do an inspection.
What Steps Can You Take to Maintain Your Deck and Avoid Damage?
Now that you know what to look for, what’s the next step? Honestly, it’s care and repair! Remember, the best way to lengthen your deck’s lifespan is proper upkeep—spotting and repairing problems before they grow worse and become costly to fix. Here’s what to do:
Inspect Your Deck Regularly
Wood decks last 15-20 years (composite decks 25-30 years), but that number can go dramatically down if problems go untended. To avoid that, regularly check your deck from top to bottom. Keep an eye out for all the signs mentioned above, which tell you repairs may be needed!
Wash Away Buildup and Debris
Dirt and leaves give mold, mildew, moisture, and rot a place to thrive. Sweep your deck often to remove debris and address stains with a deck-safe stain remover. Then, apply a deck cleaner, and rinse it away gently with a garden hose (or a pressure washer on a low setting).
Sand Rough Spots and Use Sealant
Sand down any rough spots so deck boards and railings are smooth and splinter-free. Apply water-repellant sealant to protect the wood, then paint or stain using a product appropriate for your deck.
Keep an Eye Out for Insects and Pests
Wood decks and wood support beams can attract termites, carpenter ants, and carpenter bees, while the space beneath the deck may welcome rodents. Treat your property regularly with a pest-resistant routine. If you spot an infestation, call an exterminator.
Winterize and Weather-Protect
Help your deck and its furnishings last longer by sealing the deck prior to the winter months. Remove items that could trap moisture and store them safely in a shed or garage. When spring arrives, inspect your deck and fix any broken boards, etc.
Say Hello to a Long-Lasting, Sturdy, Gorgeous Deck for Your Chicago Area Home
Let’s be realistic—Chicago’s cold, icy winters and humidity are hard on your deck. If you have wood rot, weakened boards, or other damage—or if you’re not enjoying your deck to its fullest—why not let your dream of a new deck come true?
Whether you need deck repairs or a full deck replacement that brings your home lifestyle up a notch, Siding & Windows Group is here for you. Our team strives to make our deck and porch installations a fun, positive experience. Reach out to us to get started!
