If you’re like most homeowners, you probably take great pride in your outdoor deck. It’s a great spot to entertain guests or relax on a sunny day. But unfortunately, decks aren’t expected to last forever. Lashed by rain and wind, further weakened by sun exposure, and sometimes plagued by rot – decks can collapse due to structural defects.
Wood rot is a common problem for outdoor decks; if not repaired, it can cause the deck to collapse. In this blog post, we will discuss everything about repairing wood rot and maintaining your outdoor deck.
The Benefits Of Having An Outdoor Deck
There are many benefits to having an outdoor deck. First and foremost, decks provide a great spot for entertainment. They are the perfect place to gather, whether you’re hosting a barbeque or just relaxing with friends and family.
Decks also provide a great space for exercise. Whether you’re jogging or doing Yoga, an outdoor deck is a great place to get some fresh air and Vitamin D.
Finally, decks can add value to your home. If you’re thinking of selling your home, a deck can be a great selling point.
An outdoor deck is always a great idea, but what are you going to do if you spot signs of rotted wood? Let’s talk about what can you do to repair rotted wood without too much hassle.
Materials Needed For Repairing Wood Rot
- Pry bar
- Claw hammer
- Safety glasses
- Gloves
- Saw
- Screwdriver
- Putty knife
- Epoxy filler or polyester filler
How To Fix Rotten Wood
If you’re like most homeowners, and you notice rot in your deck – don’t panic! There are ways to fix it without too much hassle. This section will discuss how to fix rotted wood in a deck.
The first step is to remove the dry rot. This can be done with a pry bar or a claw hammer. Be sure to wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from debris when cutting the exposed wood.
Once the rotten wood is removed, you’ll need to saw off any remaining pieces. Be sure to use a sharp blade so that the cuts are clean.
After the rotten wood is removed, you’ll need to fill in the gaps with a wood hardener or wood filler like epoxy or polyester. Use a putty knife to apply the filler and smooth it out so that it’s level with the rest of the deck.
Once the filler is dry, you can screw in new boards or posts. Be sure to use screws that are long enough to reach into solid wood.
Finally, you’ll need to sand down the area to blend it in with the rest of the deck. You can use a hand sander or an electric sander for this step.
After you’ve completed these steps, your deck will be as good as new! Be sure to inspect it regularly for signs of rot or other damage if you don’t want to be repairing rotted wood often.
How To Maintain Your Wooden Deck
- Inspect the deck for signs of damage or rot regularly, and repair any damage as soon as possible.
- Clean the deck regularly with soap and water, and be sure to rinse it off afterward.
- Apply a sealant or waterproofing agent to the deck every few years to protect it from the elements.
- Avoid putting heavy furniture or plants on the deck, as this can damage the wood.
Conclusion
If you have a deck that is showing any signs of wood rot, it’s important to take action and repair the damage as soon as possible. This will help maintain the structural integrity of your deck and prevent it from collapsing.
Our team can help you remove the rotted or damaged wood and replace it with new lumber, so your deck looks good as new. We also recommend sealing the repaired area with a waterproof sealant to protect it from future water damage. Contact us today if you need assistance repairing your rotten deck!
