There is nothing like relaxing on your deck with a cup of coffee and a fabulous view. After all, outdoor decks are a great way to bring inside living outdoors. But what happens when your deck is leaking or absorbing water? You may have a leak. Deck leaks appear in several forms, so here is what to look for: Water marks and staining – Unnatural staining or marks occur when deck protection doesn’t properly do its job. It’s probably time for a new coat of sealant. Rotting wood – Decaying wood indicates failing sealant either from age or a cheap sealant product. The wood will need to be repaired or replaced. Bowing or warped planks – If your planks are beginning to bend, then the deck sealant has become worn or thin and is allowing water to soak into the planks. Time for new planks. Cracked flashing – Damaged or cracked sealant can allow water to seep into connection areas. Fortunately, flashing can easily be repaired. Sinking – A slanted deck is an indication of collapsing ground beneath the framing of the deck. This is due to ground softening from water. This repair takes a professional’s touch. Pooling water – Check the area around or under the deck. If you see pooling water or soaked earth, then water is seeping through your deck boards onto the ground below. This can cause your deck framing to sink, and cause rot and mildew to build beneath the deck. You may also have water runoff from your yard. A deck expert can work up a plan to level your yard, or the area beneath your deck and better seal the planks. As with any home addition, decks require maintenance and occasional repair. If you suspect any of the above conditions are affecting the quality of your deck, be sure to call in an expert. Professional deck contractors will discuss your options and find the best solution for the health and longevity of your deck. Give us a call at 405.702.4442 for your FREE estimate
There is nothing like relaxing on your deck with a cup of coffee and a fabulous view. After all, outdoor decks are a great way to bring inside living outdoors. But what happens when your deck is leaking or absorbing water? You may have a leak. Deck leaks appear in several forms, so here is what to look for: Water marks and staining – Unnatural staining or marks occur when deck protection doesn’t properly do its job. It’s probably time for a new coat of sealant. Rotting wood – Decaying wood indicates failing sealant either from age or a cheap sealant product. The wood will need to be repaired or replaced. Bowing or warped planks – If your planks are beginning to bend, then the deck sealant has become worn or thin and is allowing water to soak into the planks. Time for new planks. Cracked flashing – Damaged or cracked sealant can allow water to seep into connection areas. Fortunately, flashing can easily be repaired. Sinking – A slanted deck is an indication of collapsing ground beneath the framing of the deck. This is due to ground softening from water. This repair takes a professional’s touch. Pooling water – Check the area around or under the deck. If you see pooling water or soaked earth, then water is seeping through your deck boards onto the ground below. This can cause your deck framing to sink, and cause rot and mildew to build beneath the deck. You may also have water runoff from your yard. A deck expert can work up a plan to level your yard, or the area beneath your deck and better seal the planks. As with any home addition, decks require maintenance and occasional repair. If you suspect any of the above conditions are affecting the quality of your deck, be sure to call in an expert. Professional deck contractors will discuss your options and find the best solution for the health and longevity of your deck. Give us a call at 405.702.4442 for your FREE estimate