Is Your Deck Ready for Summer?
7131632830 • May 19, 2025
Signs It Needs Repair or Replacement
As warmer days roll into the Upstate, many homeowners in Greenville are looking forward to cookouts, lounging outside, and spending quality time on their decks. But before you fire up the grill or invite guests over, it’s important to ask: Is your deck ready for summer? At J Pratt Construction, we specialize in residential remodeling, and we’ve seen too many decks that look fine on the surface but hide serious safety risks underneath. Here's how to tell if your deck needs some TLC—or a complete replacement—before summer fun begins.
1. Check for Wood Rot or Soft Spots
What to look for:
Use a screwdriver or key to gently press into the wood in several spots, especially around support posts and stairs. If the wood feels soft or spongy, it's a sign of rot.
Why it matters:
Rot compromises the structural integrity of your deck. It’s often caused by trapped moisture and can spread quickly if untreated. A rotten deck board could lead to an unexpected trip to the emergency room, if not replaced in a timely fashion.
2. Wobbly or Loose Railings
What to look for:
Lean or push gently against your deck’s railings. Do they move or wiggle? Can you feel any give?
Why it matters:
Loose railings are a major safety hazard—especially if you have children or guests leaning on them during gatherings. International building code requires railings to be able to withstand 200 pounds of force. Wobbly or loose railings should be repaired or replaced immediately.
3. Rusted or Missing Fasteners
What to look for:
Inspect all bolts, nails, and screws. Are any corroded, loose, or missing entirely? Also check metal connectors under the deck.
Why it matters:
Rust weakens the hardware that holds your deck together. Over time, this can cause sections of the deck to separate or collapse.
4. Cracked or Splintering Boards
What to look for:
Scan the surface for deep cracks, splinters, or warped boards. Walk the deck barefoot to see if anything feels uneven or rough (carefully, of course).
Why it matters:
Besides being painful hazards, splintering boards are a sign that the deck may be drying out, weathered, or nearing the end of its lifespan.
5. Sinking or Shifting Footings
What to look for:
Check where the deck meets the ground. Are the footings level? Is the deck pulling away from the house or sloping?
Why it matters:
In Greenville’s clay-heavy soil, shifting can happen due to moisture changes or erosion. Uneven support can lead to deck instability.
When to Repair vs. Replace
Repair if the damage is limited to a few boards, railings, or fasteners, and the structure underneath is still solid.
Replace if there are multiple safety concerns, widespread rot, or if the deck is over 15–20 years old and hasn’t been maintained regularly. This may be the time to consider replacing your old deck with a composite deck that requires less upkeep and has better longevity than traditional wood decks.
Bonus: Summer-Ready Safety Tips
- Clean and seal your deck to protect it from UV rays and humidity.
- Add slip-resistant strips to stairs for rainy summer days.
- Install lighting for visibility during evening use.
- Schedule a professional inspection if you're unsure about any of the above signs.
Need a Hand Getting Your Deck Ready?
Whether your deck needs a quick refresh or a full rebuild, J Pratt Construction is here to help. We offer custom deck solutions, replacements, and upgrades designed to last through Greenville’s hot summers and rainy seasons.
Call us today at (864) 468-9297 to make sure you're ready for this summer—or send us photos of your deck, and we’ll help you figure out the next steps.
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