You want your wood deck to be beautiful and safe. Unfortunately, moisture can wreak havoc on it. Thankfully, there are several warning signs you can watch for that indicate a moisture problem. These range from simple discoloration to boards that feel unstable underfoot.

Being able to spot moisture issues early allows you to quickly fix them before they cause further damage. With prompt repairs, you can avoid a potential structural failure.

Visual Signs

Look for dark or unusual patterns on the wood on your deck. This indicates failed finishes and water penetration. White, black, or bluish-green spots can signal fungal growth in damp areas. In addition, visible mold and mildew are clear signs of excessive moisture.

You also want to watch for cracks, splits, and splinters in the wood. These happen as the wood expands and contracts. They can deepen with repeated exposure to moisture, which leads to structural weakness.

You may even notice warping and cupping. Individual planks or boards may curl upward. This moisture issue creates an uneven surface, which can be a safety hazard as well as a structural issue.

Tactile and Structural Signs

Look for soft or spongy wood. It will droop when you step on it, which is a clear indication of rot. Fasteners can loosen or corrode due to the wood’s movement. This further compromises your deck’s stability.

Watch for wobbly railings or joists as well. These are signs of weakened or deteriorated structural components, which can be a result of rot.

Additional Clues

A persistent musty odor indicates ongoing moisture problems. This is true even if you don’t notice any of the other warning signs. Pools of water that don’t drain properly after rain are a strong indicator of poor drainage. Poor drainage is one of the top contributors to moisture damage.

What to Do Next

If you see any of these warning signs, you’ll need to call a professional company to clean and restore your deck. They can scrub the area and sand any rough spots or damaged boards to create a smooth surface. If there are boards showing signs of rot, they’ll remove and replace them with new, pressure-treated lumber. A professional deck company will also inspect the supporting joints and posts. If necessary, they can replace them to ensure safety.

As long as you’re vigilant when it comes to watching for warning signs, you’ll be able to stay a step ahead of moisture damage. Catching these issues while they’re small will save you money on more extensive repairs and potential deck replacements later on. Call MC Home Improvements & Construction in Northern New Jersey now for professional wood deck service.