Defects Your Decking Can Have and How to Fix Them

< Go Back

Defects Your Decking Can Have and How to Fix Them

Here are some defects your decking may have and what you can do to resolve them.

Decks get a lot of use all throughout the year. Even as the weather continues to cool, you’ll be able to use your deck regularly, which is why you have to keep it structurally stable at all times. Regular maintenance will help you avoid more serious problems down the road, but you’ll have to know how to detect problems when they arise to keep them from growing. Here are some defects your decking may have and what you can do to resolve them.

Loose Ledger

When your deck is attached to your house, it will be supported with the help of a ledger. A ledger is a long and horizontal board that is pressure-treated. The end of each one of your floor joists gets fastened to your ledger. This is often done by using a metal hanger. Problems arise when the ledger either doesn’t get fastened to your house as it should, or it has significantly decayed.

If you don’t want your ledger to rot because of water, you’ll need a continuous length of metal flashing that goes along it. Your flashing has to extend behind the siding of your home and then overlap your ledger’s top edge. Also, make sure it gets fastened tightly along the entire length of your house. If you don’t currently have flashing, you’ll have to get one installed.

Weak Posts

For elevated decks, vertical posts are often what support them. 4×4 posts used to be the ones that were used most often, but now people are shifting to 6×6 because they don’t bend, warp, split, or twist as easily.

You’ll want to give a thorough inspection to your posts to make sure that they are securely attached to your deck’s concrete pier, as well as the deck frame. See if the base of your posts show any signs of water damage. You can check by using an awl. You’ll know there’s rotting if the wood is soft or if your awl sinks into your wood. Posts that are rotting have to get replaced as soon as possible.

Bad Beams

Unless your deck is incredibly small, it will have horizontal beams that go on top of your support posts. The beams are in place to help support your floor joints, meaning the beams are one of the most critical elements for keeping your decking structurally sound.

See if your beams have any water damage or cracks in them. Check that your beams are correctly fastened to your posts’ tops. Ensure that your beams aren’t sagging. If you see sagging, you’ll need more supports installed. If you have beams that are made from untreated lumber, those beams have to be one foot off the ground at a minimum.

Contact Albaugh & Sons

Since 2003, Albaugh & Sons, LLC, has been dedicated to meeting the fencing, decking, and home remodeling needs of homeowners throughout the greater Frederick area. All of our team members are experienced, well-trained, and committed to exceeding the expectations of every customer.

Visit our website here, and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and YouTube.

< Go Back

Contact Us

Get in touch for the service you deserve at a price you can afford!

Albaugh Insights

Stay in the know! Check out all the latest news, tips, and guides with our blog.

See All Insights

5 Benefits of Installing a Privacy Fence

For being a stationary structure, a privacy fence sure does provide some great benefits to the home it belongs to. Sure, it can keep the dog from running away and mark your property lines, but the perks go deeper than...

Deck Maintenance for the Winter Months

When it comes to battling the forces of nature, winter is a fearsome foe. Cold temperatures, moisture, and an unrelenting freeze-thaw cycle can certainly take a toll on the structures we put so much time and money into; just look...

What to Consider Before a Deck Remodel

There comes a time in many deck owners’ lives when they’re trying to enjoy their outdoor space and something just feels off. Maybe the color has faded a bit too much, or there are one too many scuffs. Perhaps the...

Why Fall Is the Best Time for a Fence Installation

We know you’re excited about the coziness of fall—the apple cider, the brisk walks, and the nights out by the fire, just to name a few things to look forward to. But if you’ve been dragging your feet on getting...

DIY vs Professional Deck Installation

Outdoor living spaces like patios, gazebos, and of course decks, have always been popular. That popularity has been spiking even more lately. Maybe it’s because everyone got a sudden burst of motivation. Maybe it’s all the DIYers who came out...

Exterior House Painting Mistakes to Avoid

A shoddy paint job is easy to spot. Whether it’s peeling paint, missed spots, or other signs of deterioration, there’s a noticeable difference between good and bad exterior house painting. Don’t worry, though! There are plenty of mistakes that are...

6 Signs It’s Time for a Deck Replacement

If you have friends over for a nice dinner on your deck, will you be relaxing and enjoying their company, or will you be worried about someone tripping and falling? Having a deck that’s safe and functional is essential to...

Deck Maintenance Tips to Prepare for Summer

Summer is almost here! We can feel the buzz of excitement around vacation, swimming, and of course, hanging out and catching some sun on the deck. From barbecues to laid back afternoons, the deck is a great place to soak...

5 Benefits of a Screened In Deck

With the exception of the odd “Maryland weather” day, we’re finally starting to enjoy warmer weather. If you walk out your backdoor, you’ll feel fresh air and the sun on your face. The sound of a distant lawnmower will reach...

We’re the Right Painting Contractors for Your Home

So you’ve had it with the color of your bedroom—or maybe multiple rooms in your house—and it’s time for a change. When you’re scrolling through all the search results for “interior painters near me,” there are a few things you...

Your Ultimate Guide to Fence Materials

Have you ever bought a new house and loved everything about it except for the fence? Though it’s often overlooked, it’s crucial for privacy and the all-important curbside appeal. It can make or break the charm of your property.There are...

Reasons to Professionally Install Smoke Detectors

Smoke detectors are usually the first line of fire defense in a home. Their purpose is to alert you to the presence of smoke, even if you're in an area where you can see that a fire is breaking out...

Knowing When Your Vinyl Fence Needs Repairing

Winter is on its way out, and you know what that means! Spring is the season of making changes and doing repairs, especially for outdoor areas around your home. Sometimes this involves simple (or not so simple) gardening or landscaping...

How You Can Pick Out the Best Painting Company For Your Home

Do you remember when you last got your home painted? Perhaps it’s been a while, and you’re looking to revitalize your home with a new coat of paint. For many homeowners, you’ll first want to research painting companies in your...

Knowing When a Decking Contractor Can’t Be Trusted

Are you in the process of finding a decking contractor? If so, then you know that it can be a highly stressful process. You need to know that the decking contractor you hire is trustworthy so that your installation goes...

How an Aluminum Fence Performs in Different Weather Conditions

Whether it’s a home or a business, aluminum fencing has been widely used on both types of properties. When you consider how durable an aluminum fence is, along with its resistance to damage and its low maintenance requirements, it’s no...

Why You Should Get a Subpanel Installed

Your home is going to need a lot of electricity in order to function. This electricity gets into your home via an electrical panel known as the circuit breaker. Now, you may feel okay with the circuit breaker handling all...

Why Deck Cleaning Should Be Done By Professionals

Decks are wonderful areas of our homes. We use them to relax after a stressful day, and we also use them to entertain guests and host various types of gatherings. To get the most out of your deck, though, you’ll...

Customer Testimonials

We could talk all day about the happy homeowners we’ve provided additions and renovations for, but the real measure of merit lies in customer reviews. See what people are saying about Albaugh & Sons.

Albaugh & Sons

4.8

Based on 229 reviews

review us on

Bonnie

21:41 27 Nov 24

I just want to say this company is the Best.. did my fence and my screened in porch. The guys are professional and just a delight to deal with.. customer service is important.. their prices are reasonable.. I would never use anyone but them.. they do it All too..

Alexander S.

16:32 22 Nov 24

We could not be more pleased with the entire process and outcome of our experience with Albaugh & Sons. From the timely turnaround on coming out to give us an estimate, to the flexibility on adjusting our proposal, and to the quick and professional installation itself. I would highly recommend Albaugh & Sons to anyone in their area of serviceability.

Abby G.

14:50 04 Nov 24

So great to work with. Have had the pleasure of working with both sons who were knowledgeable and courteous. The entire process was easy from estimate to completion of my new deck. Both arrived on time, had my estimate for both deck and basement remodel in a couple of days. Danny, the project manager arrived on time and explained the plans, the work crew were amazing. Old deck demolished and beautiful new composite in its place in less than 2 days. Tiffany, the office manager is prompt in responding to all emails with courteous knowledgeable answers. They make you feel like you are their only customer. Look forward to working with them for my basement remodel. I 100% recommend this company.

James L.

13:49 10 Oct 24

We love our new fence. Thanks Emily and George for everything. Excellent communication, timeliness and excellent workmanship. We highly recommend Albaugh and Sons.

John K.

13:19 31 Aug 24

I had a beautiful deck built almost 2 years ago. I called yesterday about a few items that have come apart such as the pvc outside corners on the rim/ band board etc. The company was very responsive and ready and eager to help. Because of this, they have made a customer for life! Not only will you get an amazing product, but it appears you get a lifetime of amazing customer service!! 100 out of 5 stars!

Van Lavoy J.

17:06 01 Apr 24

We needed a fence as fast as possible for 5 rescue dogs that we took on. Albaugh and Sons was able to provide a great quote and a speedy installation. My wife and I love the new fence. It has literally improved our day to day lives by being able to let the dogs run free in the back. The materials were perfect and high quality. I would definitely recommend them to friends and family.

Bill D.

20:50 24 Mar 24

I hired Albaugh and Sons to tear out our old deck and replace it with a new composite deck/ screened porch. The front office was a pleasure to deal with and kept my wife and I informed on everything. The crew did an amazing job every step of the way. I was especially impressed with their finish work. The attention to detail was impressive! What I also liked Albaugh and Sons is they had a project manager (Danny) who would occasionally pop over and answer questions and would also keep me updated on progress. I would highly recommend hiring Albaugh and Sons for any of your fence/ deck / home improvement needs.

Joseph D.

15:39 04 Oct 23

We are very pleased with the work done by Albaugh and sons. We had them replace our side porch and they did excellent work and built it to our request. Also had them install a three tier rail fence around our property. It is excellent and looks great. We thank Danny and his deck crew and George and his fence crew for their excellent work. I recommend them for any projects you need done. Thank you very much!!