Edmonton Repair and Installation: How to Ensure Your Deck is Safe

Before you start grilling and celebrating on your deck, you need to ensure it is safe for entertaining. Call deck repair services in Edmonton to schedule an inspection.

Decks, especially natural wood decks, are prone to damage and repair. Through the years, a natural deck can suffer wood rot, insect damage, and normal wear and tear.

From rotted boards to loose rails, poorly maintained decks can result in significant injury. The last thing anyone wants is a loose deck board to ruin an excellent BBQ.

4 Ways To Ensure the Safety of Your Deck

Like most things in life, decks require maintenance. Every few years, you’ll need to reseal or restain a wood deck. Also, you must perform a thorough cleaning every year, followed by regular washings and sweepings.

Even when a deck owner sticks to a maintenance and cleaning schedule, the structure can succumb to age or less-than-ideal weather conditions. Because of the susceptibility of natural structures, regular inspections are necessary to ensure safety.

As you inspect your deck or hire a professional to do it for you, you want to pay attention to several specific items. Deck assessments or checklists should include at least four assignments.

1. Look for Cracks on Deck Boards

Over time deck boards may crack, especially if they are not properly sealed or maintained. The wood can dry out, becoming vulnerable and fragile.

Cracked boards can present a significant safety risk. Depending on the depth and span of the crack, the board may not handle the weight of people walking across it. The board may break and give way, resulting in injuries and structural damage.

You need to replace cracked boards, especially those that lack structural integrity. Even if a crack is not a safety hazard, it is a cosmetic challenge. Replacing the board may make the deck safer, and it will make it look nicer.

2. Check for Rot

Decks can experience wet or dry rot. Each type of rot stems from a different fungus and thrives in vastly different conditions.

Wet rot requires high moisture levels and will not survive on dry wood; it is more controllable than dry rot for this reason. The rot is darker in colour and often warps or distorts the wood.

Dry rot does not require high moisture levels and can thrive in relatively dry conditions. The rot typically occurs within the wood, but it is evident from the appearance of deep cracks through the boards. The rot may also suck moisture from the wood, turning it gray and fragile.

3. Look for Wobbly Railing

The railing of your deck is a necessary safety feature; it ensures that guests don’t fall over the edge of the structure. Unfortunately, as decks age, railings can become loose and less secure.

Before having any parties on your deck, you must check the strength of the railing. Walk around your deck and give the railing a little shake; it should be sturdy with little, if any, give.

If the railing wobbles easily, you need to check the fasteners and the integrity of the wood. Contact a professional deck repair service to handle any necessary repairs and ensure the security of the material.

4. Check for Mould and Mildew

If you find mould or mildew on your deck, it may be a sign that it is time to restain or seal the surface. Most stains and sealers contain a fungicide to prevent fungal growth.

While you can restain the deck yourself, it is a time-consuming task and better left to the professionals. Pros come to your home with a team and can complete the job in a day or weekend with little hassle.

Edmonton Deck Installation Services

Are you looking to install a new deck or ensure your existing deck is safe for the new season? Contact Handyman Connection and schedule an appointment with local deck services.