Decking is an alluring feature for many homes. A wonderful place to relax, a deck can be the element that sells a home. However, the material you choose for your deck can impact the longevity and maintenance it will need. Classic wood decks may be charming but can easily fall into disrepair if not treated properly. Composite and vinyl decking options offer a modern solution to the need for durable decks in Kamloops, BC.

In this blog, we’ll explore common decking problems across various materials, highlighting signs that it might be time for an upgrade.

Common Decking Problems

You may experience separate problems from a neighbour using an alternative deck material. Let’s go through a few of the main decking options and the problems they may face. If you’re experiencing any of the following problems, it might be time to look into new decking.

Wood

For those of us using wood materials on our deck, you may begin to notice warping, rotting, rusty nails, and splitting deck boards. If left untreated, you may also experience splinters. Someone who notices these signs in their deck will need to think about replacing the deck with a more durable material. Many homeowners of older homes are pulling up wooden decks in favour of vinyl decking.

Vinyl

The main issue with vinyl decks is not an issue of the vinyl itself, but the glue holding it together breaking down. Repeated long exposure to full sun may damage the boards over time. When in particularly coastal conditions, the salt in the air may begin to break down the boards sooner than composite, but it will still last far longer than wood.

Composite

Composite decks fare well in most environmental situations. It is easy to repair and quick to install and can last through both wet and full-sun conditions. You may cause scratching on the surface when moving around heavy furniture, and eventually, it may warp in high enough temperatures.

Replace or Repair?

You may be able to repair your decking, but this depends on the material. In many cases, such as with vinyl decking and composite decking, the material has lasted for its expected lifespan by the time you begin noticing damage. At DekStar Exterior Solutions, our services mainly include replacing decks when it comes to vinyl. The cost of repairing vinyl decking will come out to approximately the same cost as a full replacement. In order to give our clients the best outcome, we have decided to focus on replacing it. It is rare for us to be consulted for a composite deck repair. But when it happens, it’s generally one board or a small section that needs replacing. Composite decking clicks into place, which makes swapping out boards far less time-consuming.

Make Sure Your Deck is Ready for Winter

Caring for your deck will prolong its lifespan. If you live in Kamloops, the first step is regularly shovelling off the snow and brushing away the dirt or leaves. During the summer, thoroughly wash down the vinyl decking with water and mild soap. If the deck is made of wood, be careful to check for signs of mould around the edges of the structure frequently.

You’ll know it’s time to contact DekStar Exterior Solutions for a new deck when you begin avoiding areas of the patio because of the condition of the boards. As experts in the decking industry in the Kamloops area, we’d love to help you bring your dream deck to life. Contact us to talk about our extensive options for vinyl and composite decking.