Your deck is where you relax, host BBQs, and spend quality time outdoors. But like anything else in your home, it requires care and maintenance. Over time, decks can wear down, and while some small fixes can be DIYed, other problems need professional help. So, how do you know when it’s time to call in the experts? Let’s walk through seven clear signs your deck needs professional repair services.
1. Loose or Wobbly Railings
Safety comes first, especially with railings. If your deck’s railings feel loose or shaky, it’s a sign of trouble. Railings are supposed to provide support and prevent falls, so they need to be secure at all times. Loose railings could mean the screws or bolts are coming undone, or the wood might be rotting. While you might be able to tighten a few screws, a professional can ensure the entire railing system is secure and up to code.
2. Rotting Wood
Rot is one of the biggest enemies of any wooden deck. It usually happens when water seeps into the wood and stays there, creating the perfect environment for decay. Signs of rot include soft spots, discoloration, and a crumbly texture. Left untreated, rot can spread quickly and weaken the entire structure. A professional can identify how far the damage has spread, replace the affected wood, and suggest treatments to prevent future rot.
3. Sinking or Uneven Decking
If parts of your deck feel uneven or seem to sink when you walk on them, you’re dealing with a serious structural issue. This often points to problems with the foundation, footings, or support posts. Sinking decks can become unstable, making them unsafe to use. A professional repair service can inspect the deck’s foundation and fix the issue before it gets worse.
4. Cracked or Splintering Boards
Over time, weather and foot traffic can cause deck boards to crack or splinter. Not only do cracks look unsightly, but they can also create tripping hazards or lead to injuries if someone gets a splinter. While a single damaged board might seem like an easy fix, widespread cracking often signals that the deck needs a more thorough inspection and possibly replacement of multiple boards. Professionals can determine if the damage is surface-level or if it’s deeper and affecting the deck’s overall integrity.
5. Rusted or Missing Hardware
Nails, screws, bolts, and brackets hold your deck together. If these metal components are rusting or have gone missing, your deck might not be as secure as it should be. Rust weakens the hardware, making it more likely to fail under pressure. Missing hardware can cause sections of your deck to become unstable. Professionals can replace all the necessary hardware with corrosion-resistant materials, ensuring your deck stays sturdy for years to come.
6. Unstable or Wobbly Deck Posts
Deck posts are the backbone of your structure. If they start to wobble, lean, or shift, it’s a sign that your deck’s foundation might be failing. This can happen due to poor installation, shifting soil, or water damage. Wobbly posts are not something you want to ignore, as they can lead to a full deck collapse if not addressed. Professionals have the tools and expertise to stabilize or replace posts and ensure the foundation is solid.
7. Fading or Peeling Stain/Paint
While fading or peeling paint might seem like a cosmetic issue, it’s more than just an eyesore. Paint and stain protect your deck from moisture, UV rays, and general wear and tear. When they start to peel, the exposed wood becomes vulnerable to water damage, rot, and cracking. A professional repair service can strip away the old paint or stain, properly prep the surface, and apply a fresh coat to protect your deck and keep it looking great.
Why You Shouldn’t Wait
Ignoring these signs can lead to bigger, costlier problems down the road. For example, a loose railing might not seem urgent, but it could lead to a dangerous accident. Likewise, a small patch of rot can spread quickly and compromise your deck’s entire structure. By addressing these issues early with professional help, you save yourself time, money, and stress.
When to Call the Professionals
Not all deck issues are visible to the untrained eye. Sometimes, the real problems lie beneath the surface. If your deck shows any of the signs we’ve mentioned—or if you’re unsure about its condition—it’s better to be safe than sorry. Professionals have the experience and equipment to thoroughly inspect your deck, find hidden issues, and fix them correctly.
What Causes These Problems?
Understanding why these issues happen can help you prevent them in the future. Most of the problems we’ve discussed stem from natural wear and tear, environmental factors, or poor initial construction. Let’s break it down:
- Weather Exposure
Rain, snow, and direct sunlight take a toll on your deck over time. Water can seep into the wood, leading to rot and mold, while constant exposure to the sun dries out the material, making it brittle and prone to cracking. - Moisture and Drainage Issues
Poor drainage around your deck can cause water to pool, especially near the posts and footings. This can lead to soil shifting, which makes the deck unstable, or water damage that rots the wood and weakens the structure. - Inadequate Maintenance
Like anything else, your deck needs regular care. Skipping routine tasks like cleaning, resealing, or inspecting for loose hardware can allow small problems to grow into big ones. - Shifting Soil
Over time, the ground beneath your deck can shift due to erosion, heavy rainfall, or changes in temperature. This can cause posts to lean and the entire deck to become unsteady. - Low-Quality Materials
Using low-grade wood or hardware might save money upfront, but it often leads to quicker deterioration. Investing in high-quality materials during construction or repair will pay off in the long run.
How Professionals Tackle These Problems
Deck repair specialists don’t just fix visible issues—they dig deeper to ensure your deck is solid from the ground up. For instance, if they find signs of rot, they’ll remove all affected areas and treat the wood to stop the spread. If your foundation is unstable, they can reinforce or replace posts and footings to stabilize the structure. Their expertise ensures the repairs are thorough and built to last.
FAQ
How often should I inspect my deck?
It’s a good idea to inspect your deck at least once a year, especially after winter or heavy storms.
Can I fix small issues myself?
Yes, minor repairs like tightening screws or cleaning mildew can be DIYed. For structural issues, it’s best to call a professional.
How long does professional deck repair take?
It depends on the extent of the damage, but most repairs can be completed in a day or two.
Is it worth repairing an old deck?
If the structure is sound, repairs can extend your deck’s life. If it’s severely damaged, replacement might be a better investment.
Upgrade Your Deck With Deck Bros
Your deck is an extension of your home, and it deserves the same care and attention as any other part of your property. If you’ve noticed any of these signs, don’t wait—let Deck Bros bring your deck back to life.
With our expert repair services, we’ll ensure your deck is safe, sturdy, and ready for years of enjoyment. Contact Deck Bros today for a free consultation at (402) 369-5724, and let’s kickstart your deck building project!