Decks are a great addition to any home, allowing homeowners to enjoy the outdoors while entertaining friends and family. However, like all other structures in your house, they can experience wear and tear over time, requiring repair or replacement.
While some minor repairs can be made by DIYers, major issues should be addressed by the best deck repair lansing mi professional. It’s important to consider the age of the deck and the materials it’s made from. If the deck is 10 years or older, it’s likely a candidate for replacement.
Rot is one of the biggest dangers to a wooden deck and can cause it to weaken. It can also lead to fatal accidents if it gets inside the wood and spreads. Check all the joists in your deck for soft spots where rot may be occurring.
If you notice a problem with any of your joists, it is best to replace them before they cause a larger issue or cause you to get hurt on the deck. Using a chisel or saw, cut away any of the rotted wood and then remove it entirely.
Alternatively, you can use a filler to sand out the rotted portion and replace it with new lumber, but this is unlikely to match the look of the original joists. If you do decide to fill it in, you’ll need to brush on a copper naphthenate paint to the new board to help protect against future rot.
Mildew and mold are another common problem that can occur on wooden decks. These can occur due to a number of factors, including humid climates and weather patterns. To avoid the buildup of mildew and mold, wash down your deck regularly.
It’s possible that your deck may need a full power washing once in a while. This is especially true if you have a lot of caked-on dirt or stains, which can make the surface rough and uneven. Visit this homepage and get more enlightened on the best deck repair services.
You can also give your deck a fresh coat of stain and sealant to protect it from moisture damage. Both types of products can be applied to woods of all colors, and can be reapplied every year or two, depending on your needs.
If your deck is made from a composite material, you won’t need to stain or seal it, but if it’s made from natural wood, you should consider resealing the area periodically to protect against water and UV damage.
When you apply a stain or sealant to your deck, you’ll need to test it to see whether it’s the right color for you. If you’re unsure, consult with the manufacturer of your composite or wood-based deck for tips on selecting the right product for you.
Stains and sealants protect wood from the sun’s damaging rays, but they also alter its color. This is a good opportunity to change the look of your deck by painting it or using other decorative elements.
Before you start any work, be sure to secure your ladder and other tools as needed. You’ll also need to remove any rugs or mats that are on the deck, as they can attract water and cause damage to the wood underneath. It’s also a good idea to keep tree branches and other foliage at least a foot away from the edge of the deck, as this can reduce the risk of rot. Find out more details in relation to this topic here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deck.