Professional Decking Western Cape

Wooden deck in the process of being restored.

Deck Restoration and its Benefits

Posted at 13:52h in Balau, Clado Calyx, Composites, Decking, Garapa, Hardwoods, Latest News, Massaranduba, Softwoods, Teak by

It is recommended to renew your deck every 24 to 36 months. This will keep your deck looking fresh and healthy all year round.

A deck is a beautiful installation that provides a warm connection to the outdoors whilst also adding to a home’s beauty. But being an outdoor installation, a deck suffers from the elements every moment, of every day. Fortunately, most wood deck surface problems are cosmetic, not structural, because decking is built of durable wood.

WHAT CAUSES DAMAGE TO YOUR WOODEN DECK?

1. Rot

Rot is a huge problem for any wooden structure, and it’s usually quite easy to spot.

Look for darkened wood that is softer than the wood around it. If it gives under pressure from your screwdriver, it’s likely rotted.

Deck restoration - Before and After.

The best way to avoid rot is with preventative deck maintenance.

2. Black Stains: A Sign of Mildew

Stopping rot in its tracks is an important part of deck repair, but other deck problems aren’t as easy to prevent. When it comes to mould and mildew, you may have to take a more reactive approach.

If you spot any dark stains during your deck checks, you need to get your hands on some mould and mildew cleaner. These washes are industrial strength and can kill any nasties that are lurking in your deck before they cause any more problems.

Mildew developing on a piece of wood.

3. Holes in Your Deck

Bugs are a menace and can cause all kinds of deck problems. The two most problematic bugs are carpenter ants and termites.

These are common signs of carpenter ants:

  • Wood shavings on the ground below the deck
  • Rustling noises inside the deck
  • Winged ants on the deck
  • Shed wings on your deck

These are common signs of a termite infestation:

Holes in a piece of wooden deck

If you’ve got any of these problems, you need to act fast. The best way to avoid bugs getting into your deck is to make your deck as non-bug friendly as possible.

If your deck is made of wood, keep plants away from it. Plants can allow moisture and rot, which then attracts critters. If you have a composite deck, you can have plants as close to your deck as you would like.

Address any moisture problems as soon as you notice them. You should also seal any cracks or holes in your decking and keep pipes and wires flush to the deck. There should also not be any point where mulch is touching your deck.

Beautifully restored outdoor deck area

Deck repair doesn’t need to be a headache. Contact Decking Pro for a Free Deck Survey and no obligation quotation for your deck restoration or installation.