The deck is the most exposed part of the house to extreme weather elements, including heat, sun, moisture, snow, ice, fog, etc. As such, it is prone to looking dull and even structural damage after a few years. But following up with the maintenance of your deck can keep it looking pristine even after years of use. The secret is being aware of the materials and coating used on your deck and knowing when to renovate or reseal. Below are the signs that indicate your deck needs a new sealant or waterproofing. We Offer Fencing Summerville SC Homeowners Love!

Peeling and flaking

The obvious sign that your deck needs resealing is the peeling or chipping of the topcoat. If it has been a long time years since you last stained your deck, peeling is a possible sign. Keep in mind that some waterproofing products for decks require recoating after a specific period. It is a good idea to contact a deck waterproofing specialist if you notice peeling or flaking of the stain on your deck.

Cracks

Moisture causes wood decking to expand and contract. But when dry wood absorbs moisture via cracks and other openings, the expansion and contraction lead to the splitting of the wood. So waterproofing your deck prevents water from seeping into the wood, which can compromise the integrity of the decking.

Damp stains below your deck

Do you notice any damp stains below your deck? Water stains are easy to catch on wood decking, especially on the underside. Most decks are usually on a higher floor of the home, so it’s easy to spot any damp stains underneath the decking. These stains are common after rain or a snowstorm, and they are also visible on concrete deckings. Stains below your decking signal that it needs new waterproofing before the damage gets out of hand.

Soft spots on your deck surface

Soft spots, especially on wooden decks, are an indicator that waterproofing is needed. For instance, you may notice that the plywood has become weak in some areas. That is a sign of rotting or a termite infestation that is even worse because it weakens the wood. The earlier you notice it, the better since you can rectify the situation before it gets worse and you have to replace the entire decking. So beware of soft spots on your deck.

Loose material

Wood and concrete decking are both prone to moisture and other water problems. Concrete begins to erode due to water exposure, while wood begins to rot and split. Any broken or loose material in your decking is a sign that it is compromised. Waterproofing your deck prevents moisture from seeping into the materials maintaining your deck in good condition for a longer time.

conclusion

If it has been pretty a while since you last waterproofed your deck, that’s a serious sign that you need to contact a waterproofing specialist to inspect it. Waterproofing your deck at least once per year helps maintain its pristine condition and preserve its structural integrity. Plus, it saves you more than waiting to repair your deck once it completely deteriorates.