Summer will be here before you know it, now is the time to inspect or replace your old wood deck

Warren’s Wood Works, Inc. knows wood; we have the most extensive and in-stock inventories of hardwoods, softwoods, finish grade plywoods, framing lumber, antique reclaimed woods on the Eastern Shore.  We want our friends, family, and neighbors to stay safe and out of harm’s way; summer will be here soon, and we know you are ready to start to entertain again.  Now is the time to inspect your home and especially your outdoor living space to avoid injury.  

Even with annual upkeep of back-breaking painting, staining and preserving your old wood deck, traditional wood deck boards will still fade and deteriorate and could require extensive repairs or even full replacement. Regular inspections can help you mitigate the damage and your repair costs and irregular deck inspections could become flat out dangerous.

Immediately after completing the build, your wood deck becomes vulnerable to the elements. Moisture and weathering will begin to take effect and could cause significant damage.  Each year you should examine the deck boards for cracking, warping, splintering, and moisture damage as well as check the railings for any loose posts or handrails.  Here are some common wood deck surface problems that we see:

1.) Mold & Mildew

Moisture is wood’s greatest enemy. Why? Because accumulated moisture in organic material is food for mold and mildew growth. Mold and mildew don’t only look unsightly but will also weaken your deck’s structural integrity if not addressed.

Signs of a problem:

  • A greenish tint.
  • Black or white fuzzy areas.

Possible fixes:

  • Power-clean the area to remove mold and mildew, and then apply a waterproof seal or treatment. Power cleaner rental is expensive and timely to use, and traditional wood deck stains can release Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) into the atmosphere.
  • Replace any boards heavily impacted by mold or mildew.

2.) Cracking, Splintering, & Insect Damage

Cracking and splintering can be caused by simple wear and tear, but growing cracks in your boards could indicate serious structural damage.

Signs of a problem:

  • Watch any cracks and splintering closely for signs of growth.
  • Small holes in your deck boards is a sign of insect damage.

Possible fixes:

  • Replace deck boards that show significant cracking, splintering, or insect damage.
  • If the insect damage is minimal, treat your wood deck with an insect repellant. Be aware that many insect repellants can ruin the stain of your wood, due to the use of harmful chemicals, and so should be used with caution.

3.) Loose Railings

Loose or unsteady wood railings are not only a nuisance; they can be dangerous, especially if your deck is raised or two stories. Metal and composite railing lessens the risk of railing damage.

Signs of a problem:

  • Railing that wobbles or leans when pressure is applied.
  • Protruding nails or fasteners in the railing posts.

Possible fixes:

  • Tighten the screws or fasteners securing the railing.
  • Replace any damaged or rusted screws or fasteners.
  • Remove and replace any damaged, bowed, or warped rails.

While problems with your wood deck’s surface are unlikely to impact your deck’s structural integrity, they could still cause injury to you or your guests. In fact, more deck injuries are the result of railing failure than complete deck collapse. Routine inspections ensure you fix problems before they become a cause for injury.   

Perhaps after your inspection, you’ve determined that your deck is beyond repair or just time to say good riddance?   We also partner with TimberTech® for a considerably less exhausting maintenance and repair options with a full breath of colors and styles.  

TimberTech®  manufactures capped composite and capped Polymer PVC deck boards do not require an exhaustive inspection like wood deck boards because TimberTech® composite decking boasts mold-, mildew-, and moisture-resistant protective capping and core.  While wood decks will translate to regular maintenance costs that accumulate — especially if you don’t complete a regular deck inspection — a TimberTech® deck protects against the weathering agents that eat away at wood. With a TimberTech® composite deck, you’ll rest easy knowing your deck boards are built with advanced materials science.

Warren’s Wood Works, Inc. was founded in Easton, MD in 1983 and we enjoy the reputation as a local leader in the architectural millwork and building material supplier.  We provide our customers with the best in selection, quality, and service from start to finish.  We service all, from architect to builder / remodeler to consumer.  Give us a call so one of our experience staff can help you with your needs:

8708 Brooks Dr, Easton, MD  |   (410) 820-8984   |   www.warrenswoodworks.com