A deck will add value and enjoyment to your home for years, but eventually, the time will come when you need to replace it. Age as well as exposure to the elements eventually take their toll, causing issues that could even become dangerous in some instances.

Some problems can be repaired, but if you see any of these issues, you may need to replace your deck with a new one:

Rotting boards
If you have a wood deck and boards that have become soft and spongy, it’s a sign that the material is rotting and needs to be replaced. Also check for orange dust, white strands, or crumbling on the wood, which can be evidence of dry rot.

Structural issues
Your deck is attached to your house by a ledger board. If it starts to lean away from the house, it could be in danger of collapsing. Also check the ledger board for signs of decay or hardware issues.

Insect infestation
Look for small holes on your deck boards, which could be evidence of termites or other insects. If it’s very limited, it may be possible to have only a board or two replaced, but if the damage is widespread, your entire deck may need to be replaced.

Damaged joists
Joists support your deck, so if the wood has become soft or you see evidence of rotting, they may need to be replaced. The damage will often extend to other parts of your deck as well. Damaged joists will usually make a deck replacement necessary anyway, because part of your deck will probably need to be torn up in order to replace the joists.

Cracked boards
Boards can crack over time and exposure to sun, wind, and rain. This can allow moisture to seep inside and cause your deck to rot.

Sometimes damage can be difficult to detect, so particularly if your deck is several years old, contact Woodscape Construction for a free consultation. Our professional carpenters repair and replace decks in Virginia and the District of Columbia. If you need to replace your deck – or you’re simply ready to upgrade – we also have an experienced team of Woodscape designers to help you plan the perfect deck to enjoy for years to come.

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