It is easy to understand why the deck is easily one of the most favorite parts of a home. It makes a great place to pause, rest, and reflect. It’s also a great place to host fun family gatherings, hold romantic dinner dates, and even sit down on a quiet night with a good book. With your deck serving this many purposes, you want it to remain safe and in perfect shape. Here are some telltale signs your deck needs some TLC:
Rotted wood
A little rot here and there may not cause much alarm, but it will definitely require attention. Wood rot can be prevented by staining your deck every few years.
Loose Railing
Deck railings are an essential safety feature. Check if the railing is still intact by pushing on it. Railings are supposed to be able to withstand 200 pounds of lateral force. If it sways or wobbles when you push on it, contact an expert in decking in Portland such as Erin Isle Construction.
Mold and Mildew Growth
Some green spots shouldn’t be too big of a problem since you can easily get rid of the discoloration with a bleach-and-water-solution. You should be alarmed, however, if you see growths like mushroom or fuzzy mold, as these eat away at the structure.
Unusual Sounds and Give
Check your deck for any changes that might have happened overnight. If you happened to hear creaks that weren’t there before as you walked across the deck, you’ll need a professional to examine your deck. You also need to take note if the deck surface feels spongey or springy, as these may be signs that it’s time for you to seek Portland, Oregon replacement decking and railing.
When looking to install your very own deck, turn to contractors like Erin Isle Construction. We install decking and railing from materials that utilize composite wood fiber and recycled plastic. The result is plank material that is more durable and fade-resistant than traditional wood.
Contact Erin Isle Construction today at (503) 512-6070 to schedule your free, in-home, no obligation consultation.