Why You Need a Deck Inspection in Mississauga

People put too much faith in backyard structures. Without proper maintenance and care, decks can rot and decay, which may lead to unfortunate injuries. Natural deck railing materials and products in Mississauga are not eternal; they will fade and deteriorate over time. The amount of care homeowners put into their decks is what allows them to last decades.

Deck inspections can ensure that a backyard deck stands the test of time. A professional can identify or pinpoint problems before they evolve into significant issues, allowing homeowners to get ahead of major problems. Foresight is a gift when it comes to decks, and the pros can predict the needs of the structure before it becomes obvious to homeowners.

3 Reasons a Deck Inspection Is Vital

How long has it been since your deck underwent a proper inspection? While a deck may appear structurally sound on the surface, you never know what problems might be lurking. There are at least three reasons to schedule an annual deck inspection.

1. Ensuring Safety

The primary reason to have a deck inspection is to ensure your deck is safe for use. Too many things can go wrong with a neglected structure. Rot can weaken structural components, threatening collapse. Loose railings can break, sending someone over the edge. Mould can transfer from a connected deck onto structural elements of the house, causing an interior problem.

While some issues are apparent because they occur on the deck’s surface, others are hidden. Only a trained professional will know what to look for to diagnose existing problems or pass favourable judgment.

If homeowners stick to proper maintenance schedules, like replacing the stain or sealer every three to five years, a deck can last a long time without many issues. That said, decks are not permanent fixtures; wood often needs replacing. Schedule an inspection to keep your family safe.

2. Ensuring Everything Is Up to Code

Building codes are not only for houses or commercial structures. Backyard structures like patios, porches, and decks also have regulations. Those regulations can change. For example, officials may update railing requirements for decks at a certain height above ground level. Skilled deck builders and contractors for railing installation in Mississauga know the regulations and can help homeowners make any necessary adjustments to their decks.

Even if a deck is grandfathered into older codes, contractors can help homeowners navigate any existing safety risks. Sometimes renovating or upgrading a structure is worth the investment, even if it means losing grandfathered status.

3. Checking for Rot, Mould, and Decay

Every inspection must address common structural concerns, but another significant concern is the health of the decking. Inspectors will look closely for signs of mould, rot, and decay.

Wood rot is either wet or dry. Wet rot is obvious. It occurs in high-moisture areas and typically results from poor drainage. You’ll know it when you see it because wet rot is a black or dark-coloured growth on the wood.

Dry rot is more dangerous and less noticeable. The fungus doesn’t need a ton of moisture to thrive and doesn’t stick to damp areas. Dry rot travels through the wood on the inside. It appears as large fissures in the surface, like cracks.

All rot is dangerous because it weakens the integrity of affected boards, but dry rot spreads like cancer through the structure. If left untreated and uncorrected, dry rot can transition to the house.

Deck Repair and Installation Professionals

Deck inspections should occur at least once per year, preferably at the start of the outdoor season — the beginning of spring or summer. Hire a professional to ensure the structure is up to code and safe for use. Contact Handyman Connection to schedule an assessment with licensed and experienced deck repair and installation professionals.