How Moisture Can Harm a Wooden Deck

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Placeholder ImageHow Moisture Can Harm a Wooden Deck Today, we’ll review the ways that moisture could cause damage to your wooden deck.

If you own a wooden deck, then you know about the dangers of water damage. Unfortunately, water is a variable you can’t really avoid, and eventually, it could start to cause problems for your decking. This damage isn’t going to happen all at the same time; instead, it happens more gradually as water slowly builds up over time.

Tiny puddles might evaporate after just a couple of hours, but the long-term effects could still be problematic. Knowing how water causes damage to your deck makes it easier for you to take measures towards keeping it safe in the future. Today, we’ll review the ways that moisture could cause damage to your wooden deck.

The Boards of Your Wooden Deck Could Crack

Deck boards could crack for different reasons; it isn’t always because water damage has occurred. That, however, does not mean you can overlook this possibility. Even the smallest amounts of water could sneak inside of the cracks of your deck boards and start causing the wood to expand.

Afterward, the wooden boards will dry out, which makes them shrink and eventually begin to crack. If you don’t protect wood with a waterproof sealant, it won’t be long before your wooden deck boards have become warped and unusable.

Mold and Mildew

Detecting water damage early is always better than finding out later, and with mold and mildew problems, that’s the one victory that is afforded to you. You may start noticing dark and damp spots on your wooden deck, and if not addressed, these spots serve as the perfect setting for mold and mildew to grow and thrive.

At some point, places with mold on them will start getting softer, making it easier for your wood to break apart. You might even start seeing insects flock to your deck, which will accelerate the decaying process.

Monitoring darker and shadier areas of your wooden deck is a must, and if you see anything damp or wet, you need to remove it before it causes bigger problems.

Your Wooden Deck is Missing some Hardware

Your wooden deck could also have problems with missing hardware. If you have a deck made from wood that is either older or not treated, then the wood could crack more easily around areas that have nails and screws near them.

If this happens, the nails and screws could come out completely, which leaves you with loose deck boards. Sometimes, with older decks, nails could come loose simply because of how old the deck is.

All of these factors cause new holes to form in your deck, and these holes allow water to collect inside of them. Because of this, you should inspect your hardware when performing your standard deck maintenance procedures.

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.

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Customer Testimonials

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

4.8
Based on 229 reviews
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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!!
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