Is Your Deck Structurally Deficient?

80% of Decks In The U.S. Are Structurally Deficient

You read that right – a recent Washington Post article stated that “80% of decks in the U.S. are structurally deficient“. Now, you may be wondering, “is my deck structurally deficient?”. A deteriorating deck can impact your health, safety, and finances. With so many decks across the Denver area, from Littleton and Highlands Ranch to Golden, Wheat Ridge, and Boulder, that’s an especially sobering thought. We see the aftermath of decaying decks almost every day. From a small deck with an almost completely rotted-out frame to the second-story deck that separated from the house and collapsed while a crew of painters was on it.

How Denver’s Climate Accelerates Deck Damage

Colorado homeowners face a unique set of challenges when it comes to deck longevity. The Denver area experiences over 300 days of sunshine per year, which sounds great for outdoor living but is actually hard on decking materials. UV radiation at our altitude runs about 20% stronger than at sea level, which accelerates fading, cracking, and surface degradation on wood decks.

Then there’s the freeze-thaw cycle. Snow and rain push moisture into the wood grain. Overnight temps drop and that moisture freezes, expanding the wood fibers from the inside. When temperatures warm again, the water escapes, leaving behind small voids. Repeat that process dozens of times each winter and you have the conditions for serious structural decay, often in places you can’t easily see.

Homeowners in Littleton, Highlands Ranch, and Wheat Ridge tend to see this pattern accelerate on north-facing decks that hold snow longer and dry out more slowly. If your deck faces north or sits in a shaded area, add it to your priority inspection list this spring.

The good news is that modern composite decking and steel subframe systems are engineered specifically to handle these conditions. If your inspection reveals significant wood deterioration, a rebuild with these materials is worth a serious conversation.

Ensure Your Deck Health

The good news is you can take control of the situation and help ensure your deck is safe. Making a deck inspection a part of your spring cleaning routine is a must. A fall inspection before winter weather sets in is also a great way to help ensure a long life for your deck. However, there are things that will require a professional to take a look at – like inspecting the ledger boards.
Things you can do:
  • Don’t allow water to pool on the deck,
  • Push snow off the deck with a soft-bristled broom, if the snow has been there longer than a day or two,
  • If you have a ground-level deck, try to inspect the deck structure with a flashlight,
  • If you have a ground-level deck, look for and remove any ground contact points.

 

Inspect Your Deck

You should check your deck regularly to make sure it’s sound. This includes inspecting the posts, beams, and joists for signs of rot, decay, or damage. Check the deck for loose boards, nails, screws, or fasteners. Inspect the railing for loose railings or broken supports. Look at the deck floor for cracks, holes, or other defects. Even if you have pressure-treated wood, your deck is not immune to wood rot.
As you do your inspection, here are a few signs that your deck may be in need of repair or is unsafe:
  • Discoloration in the wood
  • Your deck is sagging or has shifted away from the house or other structure it’s attached to
  • Cracked or splintered joists
  • Insects like termites or carpenter ants around or near the deck
  • Steps creak or shift when you put weight on them
  • Wood beginning to splinter or powder.
With our climate here in the Denver area, rot can be a significant issue in wood decks. In the winter rain and snow allow moisture to penetrate the deck structure. As temps drop below freezing, that moisture expands inside the boards creating pockets. These pockets allow more water to penetrate the wood and sit. This freeze, thaw cycle sets the stage for long-term damage.
Most issues can be simple to take care of, but if you’re unsure, call a professional.
Looking to build a deck that will last for decades with the least maintenance? You may want to consider the new steel frame deck systems on the market paired with composite decking. With these metal systems, there’s no wood to rot and almost no upkeep. Additionally, since the devastating Marshall Fire, many homeowners are looking for ways to help reduce fire risk.
Interested in a deck safety inspection? Maybe you’d like to learn more about the products mentioned above, schedule an appointment with one of our specialists. You can also call 303-979-7203 if you have concerns or questions about your deck.