5 Signs Your Deck Needs Repair Before Summer

A deck takes a beating over the winter months, and small issues can quietly turn into safety hazards. Before you host your first cookout of the season, walk your deck and check for these warning signs.

1. Soft or Spongy Boards

Press down on each board with your foot. Any give or softness usually means water has gotten into the wood and rot has started underneath.

2. Wobbly Railings

Give every railing post a firm shake. If it moves more than an inch, the fasteners or the post base have likely loosened or corroded.

3. Rust Stains Around Fasteners

Streaks of rust bleeding from screws or nails are a sign the hardware is failing and needs to be replaced with corrosion-resistant fasteners.

4. Gaps Between Boards

Wood naturally shrinks and swells, but wide, uneven gaps can trap debris and moisture, speeding up decay.

5. A Sagging Ledger Board

The ledger board connects your deck to the house. If it's pulling away or sagging, this is a structural issue that needs prompt attention.

Catching these problems early usually means a simple repair instead of a full rebuild. If you spot two or more of these signs, it's worth having a professional take a closer look.