It’s that time of year when everyone is getting out of their barbecues, relaxing outside, and enjoying the beautiful Central Oregon Summer. There’s nothing like a great outdoor space that allows you to enjoy a warm evening in the sun. Are you noticing some signs of wear and tear as you set up your patio furniture? We get this question a lot: How do I know when it’s time to replace my deck? It’s important to do regular inspections to make sure nothing needs fixing. Here are the top signs to look out for:
Visible Damage. Many things can cause damage to your deck. Weather, insects, and use over time to name a few. Examine all areas to check for any major signs of wear and tear. If you see any large cracks or boards that are broken, it’s definitely time to consider replacing the wood in those areas. In some cases, you may have enough damage to consider replacing the entire structure.
Lifted Boards. Your deck should feel solid and secure. When boards begin to bow and lift, things may start to wobble and feel unstable. This can also create tripping hazards which become a liability for you. This can be caused by water, the age of your deck, and even insects, so pay special attention to the condition of your boards. Be sure to check the joists as well.
Loose Railings. This is a major safety concern that shouldn’t be ignored. Railings prevent falls, and yours should be safe and secure at all times. Especially if your deck sits on any kind of ledge or overlook. Also, check railings along stairs for any issues. Many people need these railings to aid them upstairs, so they need to be sturdy enough to support someone.
Rotting Wood. This one can be tricky as rot is often more prevalent than it appears. When inspecting your deck, look closely at suspected areas to see if the rot goes deeper than it looks on the surface. Rot travels fast and you’ll want to address it as soon as possible. The structure of your entire deck may be at risk. If it spreads far enough, you may need a full replacement. We’ll help you inspect the issue and can share some more weather-proof alternatives you may want to consider.
Rust. You may have to go underneath your deck to examine the hardware. Here you’re looking for anything that might be rusted, loose, or missing. You’re more likely to find this kind of damage if your deck is older. Be sure to fix it promptly as missing or damaged hardware can compromise the safety of your deck.
If you notice any of the items above, it might be time to consider getting the affected areas repaired or replaced. A new deck is definitely a financial investment, but the safety concern of a failing deck makes for money well spent. We can help you decide what options would best fit your needs and what options you may want to consider to extend the life of your new or existing deck so you can avoid future damage.
Bend Fence and Deck work with a variety of decking materials including concrete, wood, and composite. We have the knowledge and certifications required to have a solid understanding of each material and how it could be beneficial for you. Here are the options you may want to consider for your project:
Cedar and Redwood Decks
Composite Decks from Trex and TimberTech
Paver Patios
Multi-Level Decks & Stairs
Cable Railings
Glass Panels
Don’t miss out on a summer making memories in your beautiful outdoor space! We’d love to help you get things fixed up so your family can continue to safely enjoy their time outside. Let us know how we can help!
Phone: (541) 647-7086
Email: info@bendfenceanddeck.com