A deck can significantly enhance the aesthetics and functionality of your home, providing extra living space and boosting property value.
However, in areas like the Tri-Cities and the Metro Vancouver area generally, weather conditions and extremes can be notoriously tough on outdoor structures, including decks. So to, insect infestations, a poorly installed deck, and wear and tear, especially for certain decking materials, can compromise the structural integrity of a deck and necessitate costly deck membrane repairs.
To help you maintain a flawless deck, we’ve outlined the common causes of damage and provided actionable tips to prevent them from occurring, or at the very least to catch them early before significant damage can occur.
NOTE: Of course, the type of decking surface you have (polyurethane, composite, vinyl or wood) plays a roll in how well your deck stands up to issues like weather extremes and wear and tear. Check out our blog for information on specific deck types and their pros and cons by clicking here.
Weather Extremes
Weather in the Tri-Cities of Coquitlam, Pitt Meadows and Port Coquitlam, or Metro Vancouver – and any other area characterized by heavy rainfall, scorching summers, and occasional freezing temperatures – poses a challenge to deck maintenance.
Over time, these weather fluctuations can take a toll on your deck’s surface.
- Cold Weather Impact: During winter, water can seep into small cracks in the deck membrane. When temperatures drop, this water freezes, causing the cracks to expand and deepen. This freeze-thaw cycle can quickly escalate into significant damage.
- Heat and Sun Damage: Prolonged exposure to the summer sun can dry out and weaken deck materials, leading to surface cracks. UV radiation can also deteriorate the deck membrane, reducing its effectiveness over time.
1. Weather Extremes Deck Prevention Tips
- Apply a high-quality waterproof deck membrane, such as OmegaDeck, to protect the surface from moisture and UV damage. These membranes often come with long warranties, offering peace of mind. (NewPort Dry Deck’s OmegaDeck comes with a 20-Year Deck Waterproofing Warranty)
- Conduct regular inspections, particularly after extreme weather, to identify and repair minor cracks before they worsen.
- Keep your deck clean and free of debris that can trap moisture and accelerate wear.
Insect Infestation
Insects may be small, but they can cause significant damage to your deck. Common culprits include termites and carpenter ants. These pests can burrow into wooden deck components, creating holes and cracks that weaken the structure.
- Termites: These insects feed on wood, leaving behind hollowed-out sections that are prone to cracking and further deterioration.
- Carpenter Ants: Unlike termites, carpenter ants don’t eat wood but instead excavate it to build their nests. Their activity often leaves sawdust-like debris around the affected area.
2. Deck Insect Infestation Prevention Tips
- Treat your deck with insect-repellent sealants to deter wood-boring pests.
- Regularly inspect the deck for signs of infestation, such as small piles of sawdust or visible tunnels.
- Address any pest issues immediately by consulting a pest control professional.
Poor Installation Practices
Decks that are poorly constructed are far more susceptible to cracking. Common issues include:
- Improper Staggering: Failing to stagger deck boards correctly can create weak points where cracks are likely to develop.
- Low-Quality Materials: Using subpar materials may save money initially, but they’re more prone to cracking and warping.
- Incorrect Fastening: Improper screw placement can lead to undue stress on the deck boards, causing them to split over time.
3. Poor Installation of Deck Prevention Tips:
- Invest in professional installation services to ensure your deck is built to last. (Ask us for a free quote!)
- Opt for high-quality materials, even if they’re slightly more expensive upfront. Our OmegaDeck membrane, for example, offer superior durability and aesthetics compared to standard vinyl options.
- Verify that your contractor uses proper techniques, such as accurate board spacing and secure fastening methods.
Wear and Tear
Daily use and environmental exposure naturally contribute to the wear and tear of your deck. Heavy foot traffic, furniture movement, and the use of grills can all place stress on the surface. Over time, this can lead to cracks and other damage. This is where OmegaDeck shines! OmegaDeck is a top-quality waterproof polyurethane deck that is built to last for years in the toughest weather conditions.
You can also use your favourite cleaner and any brush you want, it cleans so easily that you will not need to power wash (although you can if you want to). (Check out the OmegaDeck 20-Year Deck Waterproofing Warranty here.)
4. Wear and Tear Prevention Tips:
- Use protective pads under furniture and grills to reduce surface abrasion.
- Where the deck surface you have requires it, reapply deck sealant every couple of years to maintain a robust protective layer. (This is not needed with OmegaDeck.)
- Avoid dragging heavy items across the deck surface to prevent gouges and cracks.
- Regularly clean the deck to remove debris and prevent buildup that can trap moisture.
Additional Maintenance Tips to Prolong Your Deck’s Life
- Routine Inspections: Conduct a thorough inspection of your deck at least twice a year. Pay close attention to areas around fasteners, as these are common weak points.
- Prompt Repairs: Address small issues, such as minor cracks or loose boards, as soon as you notice them. Ignoring these can lead to larger, more expensive problems.
- Professional Maintenance: Schedule regular maintenance services with a professional deck repair company, like NewPort Dry Deck. Professionals can spot potential problems early and provide expert solutions.
When to Call for Professional Deck Membrane Repairs
While preventative measures and regular maintenance can go a long way, some issues require professional intervention. If you notice damage like widespread cracking, sagging, or water pooling on your deck, it’s time to consult a specialist about possible deck membrane repairs. Professionals can assess the damage and recommend appropriate solutions, such as replacing compromised deck membranes or reinforcing the structure.
At NewPort Dry Deck we specialize in deck membrane repairs to waterproof new and existing Decks using our proven waterproof OmegaDeck protection (see the four layer waterproof protection process we use for OmegaDeck below). OmegaDeck also comes with a 20-Year Deck Waterproofing Warranty.
Our high-quality OmegaDeck membrane is designed to withstand Metro Vancouver’s challenging climate and uses advanced materials to waterproof membranes to ensure long-lasting protection and aesthetics.
Click here to learn more about OmegaDeck.
4 Layers of Waterproof Protection With OmegaDeck
OmegaDeck provides four layers of waterproof Protection for your deck. Here’s how it works …
Step 1
Remove the vinyl or existing membrane, do pocket repairs if needed. Grind the deck, prep the plywood joints. Tape all joints; let them dry for about 1 hour. Trowel on the polyurethane base coat.
Step 2
Apply the urethane colour coat and add the acrylic flakes onto the wet surface. The flakes give the surface a slip resistant texture, and the colour of your choice. This needs to dry overnight.
Step 3
We remove the excess flakes. Whatever has bonded to the colour coat is there to stay. We give the surface a light sanding to ensure that it’s textured but still smooth enough and easy to clean.
Step 4
The clear coat is applied. This also needs to dry overnight. These steps are not always done in consecutive days, weather is a factor and timing is important.
Don’t let damage to your deck compromise it’s safety and beauty. When you need deck membrane repairs or a new top quality membrane for a new deck, contact NewPort Dry Deck to schedule a free consultation.