A damaged deck isn’t a permanent fixture, but there are ways to repair it and make it look brand new again. Listed below are some tips that will help you improve a damaged deck. First, identify the damaged boards, then determine where to cut. Cuts should be one joist space apart or span two joist spaces. If the damage is more extensive, remove the board and cut a new one to size. You should check out the deck repair service in boston references.
The first step in repairing a damaged deck is identifying the broken boards. Some signs of damage include splits, curled edges, or complete fractures. It would help if you also looked for sharp protruding edges. If you find one of these signs, mark it with tape or chalk. You can then use the board’s damaged area to guide the repairs. The next step is determining what fasteners were used to secure the board.
Cleaning the deck regularly is vital. Scrutinizing the surface will reveal any hidden problems, and addressing them is essential to keep your deck looking good. In some cases, stains or cracks on the surface are indicative of a more significant problem. Either way, it’s best to fix the issue before it spreads. Alternatively, you can hire a professional deck repair company to get the job done.
After cleaning, the next step is to apply wood filler to the damaged area. Wood filler comes in tubs and tubes, which harden when mixed with air. The use of wood filler differs depending on the product. If the damage is merely superficial, the wood filler may be sufficient. Otherwise, a wood hardening product may be more appropriate. This product strengthens the deck before the surface is damaged. However, it’s not a suitable choice for repairing significant structural damage. After applying the filler, you’ll need to clean the deck with a stiff brush and sand it with medium-grit sandpaper.
Before you repair, you should identify the damaged board’s dimensions. It is best to buy slightly longer panels than the old ones since too-long boards are impossible to cut and lengthen. Also, it would help if you acquired the right tools. The tools you need to complete the job include a circular saw, electric sander, screwdriver, and electric drill. You may also want to apply a sealant or paint on the damaged deck before completing the project.
Aside from fixing the damages caused by water, you also need to maintain your deck. Moisture can lead to rotting wood if it isn’t cleaned regularly. The best way to prevent this is to keep the deck clean, dry, and swept periodically. Power washing can also help remove algae and moisture buildup from the wood. Power washing should be done early in spring before you use patio equipment. If you’re not comfortable doing the cleaning yourself, you may want to hire a professional.
Aside from repairing the rotten boards, you can also improve the beams that support the deck boards. If the cracks in the boards are less than 6 inches wide, you can fill them with latex wood filler. Crashes that are longer require prying off the affected boards and inspecting the underside for damage. If the bottom of the board is still intact, you can repair the crack using deck screws. It will need to be replaced if it is cracked or has a loose nail or two.