By Barbara Lehrer
Real Talk
Barbara Lehrer
Take a good look at your deck: under it, over it and all around it. Fall is one of the best times to inspect, maintain and protect this important part of your home.
Winter weather can be especially hard on an already-compromised deck. Moisture, freezing temperatures, snow and ice can worsen small problems and turn relatively minor repairs into much larger expenses.
Whether your deck is constructed of treated or untreated wood, fall is an ideal time to assess its condition, clean it and, when appropriate, apply a protective coating.
But maintaining a deck involves much more than its surface. If you were having a professional home inspection, the evaluation would include the structural components underneath the deck, including posts, footings, joists and connections to the house. Over time, these components can shift, deteriorate or become damaged. Because they support the entire structure, their condition is critical to the safety and longevity of your deck.
You should also inspect railings, stairs, stair supports, fasteners and flashing where the deck meets the house. Loose boards, popped nails or screws, cracks, soft spots and worn finishes are common signs that it may need maintenance. Addressing these problems early can help prevent much more costly repairs later.
The underside of the deck deserves particular attention. Depending on its condition and construction, you may discover deteriorated wood, inadequate support or excessive vegetation and moisture beneath it. Leaves and other organic debris can collect underneath a deck and retain moisture, preventing the soil and wood from drying properly. Damp conditions can contribute to wood deterioration and create an inviting environment for insects.
Keep leaves and debris cleared away, and trim plantings so there is adequate airflow around the structure.
An appropriate penetrating sealer or semi-transparent stain may provide additional protection against moisture and sun exposure for elevated decks that are in sound condition. However, you should never use sealing to disguise or compensate for existing structural deterioration. You should evaluate and repair any rot, splitting, instability or other damage first. When in doubt, consult a qualified contractor.
One of the most important lessons I share with my real estate clients is simple: prevent expensive mistakes.
Neglecting a deck can be an easy mistake to make because deterioration often happens gradually. Regularly removing dirt, pollen and mildew, addressing cracks and loose fasteners, watching for rot or soft spots and maintaining the finish can add years to the life of a deck.
In my 40 years as a real estate professional, I have seen countless decks in every imaginable condition. I have also seen how a well-maintained outdoor space can enhance a home’s appearance, functionality and appeal to prospective buyers.
Replacement costs have increased substantially over the years, making preventive maintenance even more important. Spending some money today to maintain what you already own may save you from a much larger expense tomorrow.
Before winter arrives, give your deck the attention it deserves. Walk around it. Look underneath it. Check the stairs and railings. Clear away leaves and vegetation. If anything looks questionable, have a qualified professional take a closer look.
Your deck is more than an outdoor space. It’s part of your home, part of the way you live and part of your overall investment.
Love your deck, and protect your deck.
If you need more information on these issues, email Barbara.Lehrer@cbmoves.com.