PREVENTION OF DECK ROT
sure to the elements and
proximity to the moist ground can leave wooden decks and
porches susceptible to rot. Compromised structural elements
in a deck or porch can lead to serious
injury, so it is vital that homeowners periodically
check for rot-causing fungus.
Identifying Wood Rot
Wood rot is the result of fungus that feeds on moist
wood. As the fungus sends tiny threads into the wood for
food, the wood fibers are gradually broken down and the wood
decomposes. The two main types of wood rot differ in
appearance and effect. The first produces brown-colored
spots, and the affected wood tends to break off in cubes,
inspiring the name "cube rot" or "brown cubical rot." The
second type of rot leaves a white or yellow color on the
wood and gives it a spongy or stringy feeling. A common
mistake is to call rot "dry rot"—this phrase is often used
to describe very old wood that has long-since rotted and
dried out. Wood rot always requires moisture to feed on.
Sometimes homeowners confuse stains with rot. A stain might
be caused by mold or mildew that affects the surface of the
wood. These blemishes do not impact the integrity of the
wood itself. Conversely, healthy-looking wood might hide
rot-producing fungus. To determine if wood has been affected
by rot, a homeowner should use a sharp, pointed object like
a pick or a screwdriver and attempt to pierce the wood in
question. If the suspected area breaks off in chunks, the
wood is rotted. Soft or "punky" wood is a common sign of
rot. Moist or wet areas in the wood also indicate potential
rot.
Common Trouble Spots
Decks and porches are typically built to leave wood
vulnerable to rot. In particular, porch or deck undersides
often rest close to the ground, where moisture can take
hold. If possible, a homeowner should use a flashlight and
inspect the underside of the porch or deck for areas of rot.
Rot tends to migrate from joists to the underside of deck
planks —an important area for routine checking.
From
my own experience, Trex has a decent warranty program. Most
of the problems with some boards are a disintegration of the
board itself reducing it to either peeling apart or
reducing it to a sawdust like condition.
In fact, according to a popular trade magazine, Trex
recently in 2008 set aside approximately 45 million dollars
towards it’s present warranty claims.
Mold is another
concern to watch out for too, which as most of us know,
black spots appear on the boards. Composite decking,
is made up of 50% wood fibers which under the right
conditions attracts mold.
To
file a claim go to the Trex home page and follow the
guidelines. Once that is done, Trex will arrange for an
inspection of your deck and claim. An actual representative
of Trex will call you and set up an inspection appointment.
He
or She will diagram your deck, identify the problem and take
digital pictures of the problem. Next this information will
be submitted to Trex for review. Expect the whole process
to take at least 30-60 days before getting an approval to
finally have a scheduled reinstallation of the flawed
boards, done by a licensed contractor through Trex.
Trex
usually prefers to replace the whole deck just in case
other boards in time become warranty issues, and will not
cost you even a penny. The following information deals
with Maintenance issues , plus present problems and
solutions to keep your deck looking it’s best;
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Don't let this happen to your Deck |
Fight
Back to End Rot
The presence of wood rot doesn't necessarily
mean all is lost. Do-it-yourself remediation
options are available, providing the scope
of rot infestation is not too great or
seriously affecting structural members.
Compromised wood should be removed, and up
to two feet of additional wood in either
direction of the decay should be removed and
replaced. Other options include the use of
penetrating epoxy sealers on decaying areas.
These products harden the soft or "punky"
rotting wood and are meant to halt the
spread of rot.
If any structural member needs replacing, it
is best to call a professional.
Any direct contact with the ground or masonry (such as
concrete) can lead to wood rot. Portions of the deck or
porch that contact masonry should be inspected regularly for
signs of rot.
Prevention
There are a number of steps a homeowner can take to prevent
wood rot on decks and porches. Since rot requires moisture,
it is essential to keep decks and porches as dry as
possible. Downspouts and water run-off should be guided away
from the structure—this means adequate flashing, gutters,
etc. Potted plants resting on the deck or porch can cause
moisture pooling; likewise, plants and shrubs planted nearby
can contribute to moisture and water buildup on and around a
wooden structure. Even the sprinkler can be a
culprit—homeowners should take care that watering tools not
spray the porch or deck.
Products like stains and sealers can treat the wood and keep
moisture from leading to rot. Most of these products are
meant to be reapplied. Homeowners should follow
manufacturers' guidelines for reapplication. The active
chemicals in these agents vary as well. Sodium borate is one
well-known fungicide. Penetrating epoxies are also useful as
stabilizers for decaying wood.
There are also products on the market to protect the joists
and underside of the deck boards from moisture. The use of
specially treated wood will also ensure a longer-lasting
deck or porch.
To ensure that the underside of the porch breathes properly,
it is critical to maintain airflow. This space should not be
completely enclosed. Any concrete used for a
foundation should not come into direct contact with
wooden support posts, because concrete absorbs water. The
use of deck spacers is important in deck construction to
help minimize areas where wood meets wood. Spacers are
particularly vital where the deck meets the house or ledger
board. Where the ends of deck boards might meet, a 1/4-inch
space is advised to allow for ventilation.
* All
© 2005 American Floor
Coverings Inc. All rights reserve
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