Spring Deck Repair and Maintenance

Now that the weather is warming up, it is a good idea to take a few minutes to inspect your deck for signs of deterioration. Deck repairs are easiest in early spring before the structure gets heavy use during spring and summer. Below are a few helpful hints to make sure your deck is in shape for the warm months:

• Look for any loose, soft or cracked wood that could be unsafe if not corrected.
• Replace any decking boards that have too much give, or feel spongy when you walk on them.
• Handrails should be secure and not wobbly.
• The deck posts should not show signs of rot at the bottom. Push a screwdriver into any areas that show damage. If the point of the screwdriver goes into the wood, it is time to get it repaired.
• The deck board against the house should not have any gap between it and the house. It should also not have any rot or deterioration.
• Balusters (vertical slats on the rails) shouldn’t be more than 4 inches apart.
• Apply sealer to any exposed wood. Pressure-wash if necessary to clean the deck prior to sealing.

Dan Johnson is owner of Mr. Handyman of Papillion, providing Handyman Services to Omaha, Nebraska. All Mr. Handyman franchises are Fully Insured – General Liability and Workers Compensation.

Some services subject to state and local licensing and may not be available in all locations. Click here to request service in your area.