After a wet winter and a heavy spring pollen season, it's a good time to look over the deck before the cookouts start.
Walk the surface
- Soft or spongy boards (step carefully and don't jump on suspect areas).
- Splits, cracks and lifting boards.
- Nails or screws backing out.
Check railings and stairs
- Push gently on railing posts. Movement is a warning sign.
- Look for loose or missing balusters.
- Check that stair treads are solid and stringers are attached.
Look underneath if you safely can
Joists, beams and posts carry the load. Look for dark, soft wood and connections that look rusted or pulled. If you see concerns, have it assessed. Structural repair is a specialist conversation.
Clean, then assess the finish
Pollen, mildew and dirt hide a lot. Cleaning first makes it easier to see damage and whether the finish is worn. For deck cleaning and pressure washing in LaGrange, Southern Style Soft Wash is an independent local business TLC Repairs recommends. Wood needs to dry fully before stain.
Repair before you stain
Replace bad boards before staining — see deck board replacement and staining and sealing.