As a homeowner, you should be protecting your home’s interior and exterior.
Water damage can leave you struggling to pay for expensive repairs. On average, homeowners pay thousands of dollars to fix water damage. If you don’t get started before the next storm hits, you could be left scrambling to cover the costs of fixing the problems.
You can start protecting your exterior from harmful weather conditions with professional services. Keep reading for deck waterproofing 101. Here are 7 reasons you need to waterproof your deck now.
1. Extend Life of Joists and Beams
Moisture trapped between joists, beams, and the deck can result in structural problems for your deck. This issue can lead to decay and wood rot. Prolonged exposure to water and leaves stuck in the decking can worsen the problem.
Compromised structural integrity heightens the risk of injury or even death. You can protect deck structures from water damage by hiring a professional to flash the joists and beams. This will protect it from water damage, seal the decking screws, and provide a barrier between materials.
2. Increase Durability
When you choose to maintain your property with deck waterproofing, you’ll increase its durability. This can result in a longer lifespan for your deck without having to maintain it as often. When your deck is more durable, it’s safer for those around you.
Waterproofing your deck is a smart way to increase durability. It will save you from extensive repairs later and help you maintain a safe property. This should be a top priority for homeowners, including you.
3. Protect From Weather
When a storm rolls in, you have a higher risk of your deck becoming damaged. If the wood boards are splintered, cracked, warped, soft and spongy, this can be a real structural risk. It means you’re likely experiencing wood rot due to a lack of waterproofing.
If you’re trying to make it to the sunny weather without investing in deck waterproofing, you should know there are risks involved with waiting. The longer you hold off, the higher risk you have of mold and mildew. Not to mention, UV rays are harmful to your home as well.
4. Improve Property’s Aesthetic
Constructing your deck to be waterproof is more crucial than any other property aesthetic. A rotting and damaged deck can make your property look cheaper and unsafe. Not only is it displeasing to the eye, but it shows a clear risk of using the deck excessively.
You didn’t choose to have a deck to let it go to waste, and you don’t have to. Deck waterproofing is a smart way to enhance the property’s aesthetics and safety. This investment will save you money in the long run.
5. Reduce Repairs and Maintenance
When you properly maintain your deck, you’ll limit the need for repairs. After a professional comes out to waterproof your deck, you’ll be able to perform a quick sweep and cleaning a few times a year. Without it, you may be forced to maintain your deck before and after every storm.
The coating used for deck waterproofing will make it look nice without additional effort on your end. Instead of performing annual maintenance, you can focus on other areas of your property.
6. Limit Leaks
Hiring a professional will limit the number of leaks you’re forced to deal with. An expert contractor will know how to install the deck to remove water. This will prevent leaks from creating mold and rot in between materials.
Not only does hiring a professional prevent leaks in the deck, but it will protect your home from water entering your home’s structure.
7. Decrease Slips and Falls
When your deck gets wet, it gets slippery and increases the risk of slips and falls. Injuries from deck structural issues are more common than you think. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) estimated that there were 4,600 ER visits associated with decks collapsing between 2001-16.
You can reduce your risk of injury and death by properly waterproofing your deck. If you don’t act fast and someone else gets hurt, you could be held liable. Save yourself the stress of a lawsuit and hospital bills by investing in a safer home.
Warning Signs to Watch For
There are warning signs that show it’s the time for deck waterproofing. A few of the areas you should keep an eye on are the deck connectors, railings, missing pieces, and wood board issues. If you notice rust or other issues near deck connectors, this can be a warning that water’s making its way in.
If you see that a piece of the deck is detaching, you will need to repair this immediately. Warning signs are proof that the deck’s structural integrity is at risk and is no longer safe. By acting fast and hiring a professional to get it done right, you’ll reduce your chances of further problems.
Deck Waterproofing Professionals
DIY isn’t going to fly when it comes to deck waterproofing. If you want to reap the full benefits of this smart investment, you need a professional to get the job done right. A contractor can give you the best results and lower your risks of future problems.
You don’t have to go far to find someone who can get the job done right the first time. Our contractors are experts in creating a stronger exterior. You can contact us today to learn more about deck waterproofing.
Protect Your Home Today
As a homeowner, you should want your deck to last. Structural issues are dangerous and expensive to repair. Now that you know deck waterproofing 101, you can use these 7 reasons to waterproof your deck before it’s too late.
Living in Calvert County or Anne Arundel County in Maryland, you have access to the best contractors available. Our experts are ready to help you protect your home and avoid costly repairs. If you liked what you read here and want to learn more, explore our blog for the top property advice.