Improper Footing Placement
One of the worst mistakes made with deck building is mislocated footings. Due to the nature and point of the footings being the base of your deck, they must be appropriately located. If they are too shallow, your deck can begin to settle, fighting the structural integrity and creating safety issues. Concrete forms help a lot in building stable and long-lasting footings.
Using Incorrect Fasteners
Using the wrong fasteners will only lead to deck failure. Wood decks require fasteners that can resist corrosion and be firmly held. The use of regular nails or screws, for instance, can result in loose boards, which cause a wobbly deck. All decks call for stainless steel or coated screws. These fasteners are designed to withstand outdoor conditions without rusting.
Ignoring Wood Expansion and Contraction
Wood tends to contract and expand with humidity and temperature changes. People forget this and then get gaps between the boards or warping. While laying down the deck boards, put a little space between them to give space for expansion. Proper spacing helps prevent buckling of the deck and gives it a longer life. Suitable spacing tools can help you in doing this more precisely and efficiently.
Poorly Designed Railings
First and foremost, a deck must be safe. If it doesn't have properly designed railings, it can certainly be a danger. The anchoring provided by railings should not only be very sturdy but also hold weight if someone falls to prevent further injury. Be sure to check with local building codes regarding height and spacing requirements.
Poor Ventilation
Proper ventilation can go a long way toward protecting your wood deck. Without adequate airflow, the moisture builds up to support mold, rot, and insect infestation. Make sure there is space between decking boards and on the ground for good air circulation. Consider installing some vent or gap to promote airflow and help keep the area on the underside dry.
Neglect of Regular Maintenance
Even the best-built decks require periodic maintenance. If not, it can cut short the life span of a deck and bring time-consuming and pricey repairs. Watch for damage by regularly examining your deck for cracks, splinters, or loose boards. Clean its surface of dirt, mold, and mildew. Apply a sealant or stain every couple of years to help protect it from the elements and enhance the appearance of your wood.
Incorrect Spacing of Joists
Joists are the horizontal supports for the decking boards. If they were spaced wrong, as in improper distance apart, one big stability problem of your deck could very well happen. When too far apart, joists may allow the boards to start sagging or bouncing. Proper joist spacing is to meet building codes; usually, they are 16 inches apart. High-quality materials and proper methods will ensure solidity and safety for your deck.
Metamorphosis Construction Can Transform Your Outdoor Space
Need to build a safe yet beautiful wood deck? Let Metamorphosis Construction help. Our staff of pros will walk you through the process and help you avoid common mistakes so that you end up with a deck you love. Call us today and (925) 671-0465 to learn more.
