Deck Safety Checks to Make Before Summer

Decks are often at the center of summer entertainment, and why shouldn’t they be? But just as they get plenty of use in the warm months, decks are often left untouched and neglected during the colder season. During these winter months, decks can take a hit in stability and performance which may not be revealed until it’s too late into the summer. We’ve put together a few safety checks for the best decking maintenance in Maryland so you can bring your deck out of hibernation.

Rust

The metal that holds your deck together is just as important as the wood that it’s supporting. While most of these parts—nails, bolts, screws, and other fasteners and connectors—are made from galvanized steel, they can never be fully immune to rust. Inspecting for rust, or even loose parts, can help ensure your safety while on your deck. If you do find any spots of rust or loose parts, call an inspector to further check things out.

Cracks

Even the finest quality of wood will eventually crack as the years go by. Small cracks should be of little to no concern. Keep an eye on them if you think they might expand, but it’s the bigger cracks that you’ll want to focus on. These often occur near fasteners, a sign of integral weakness. These cracks can take on water and expand, further worsening the condition of your deck. If you see sizable cracks, especially in the support beams under and around your deck, call an inspector to advise any next steps.

Rot, Mold, and Mildew

Even small spots of rot or mold on your deck need immediate attention. Not only do they look bad—and might make some of your guests uneasy—but they can also spread and create the need for even bigger repairs. If you find rot or mold on your deck, we recommend starting the maintenance process as soon as possible. Mildew, on the other hand, is nothing but a discoloration that can be removed with a bleach-and-water solution. If you’d like to be proactive against rot, staining your deck every few years usually does the trick.

Creaks and Give

Any spots that creak or give more than you’re used to should be immediately inspected. Creaks are most commonly heard while walking across your deck as you always do. All will seem well until you hear the creak, and there’s not much more advance notice to be had. Problematic give is most common in railings and should also be investigated by a professional immediately.

Call the Pros at North American Deck & Patio

While a personal inspection is a great start, all discovered problems and anything you’re unsure of should be sent to the pros so you can receive the best possible decking maintenance in Maryland. North American Deck & Patio is a reliable Maryland decking maintenance company that can deliver the results you’re looking for, fully customized to your property and your needs. Call us today to take care of those issues so you can start the summer deck parties.

“Jim at North American patio and deck's came up with the most ingenious way of utilizing our small very slanted very water drained environment and turned it into a virtual oasis. Making this deck the envy of all our ambitions and gem for the community.”

– C. Cross