Living on the Sunshine Coast means enjoying outdoor spaces year-round. However, the sun, rain and humidity can take a toll on your deck! If your deck is looking worse for wear, don’t worry—I’ve seen it all and can help bring it back to life. Here are some common decking problems and how I fix them for you.
Mould and Mildew Growth
Moist and shady areas of your deck can develop mould and mildew, making the surface slippery and unsafe. Mold and Mildew are surface fungi that grow in damp conditions. They appear as black, green, or white patches and can often be cleaned off with a brush and mild cleaner. While they don’t directly weaken the wood, they indicate excess moisture, which can lead to rot over time. I offer professional cleaning and sealing services for deck care, to remove mould and prevent it from coming back. For a long term solution, I’ll fix this common decking problem by upgrading drainage systems, that improves airflow around your deck.
Wood Rot Due to Moisture Exposure
Wood rot happens when moisture seeps into your decking boards, creating the perfect environment for fungi to thrive. Wood Rot is a deeper issue than mold or mildew, caused by fungi that breaks down the wood’s structure. It occurs when timber stays wet for long periods. Rotted wood becomes soft, spongy, and may crumble. Unlike mold, rot cannot be cleaned off and usually requires replacing the affected timber. Rot is especially common in shady areas, under pot plants and in places of poor drainage. To rectify this common decking problem, I’ll replace damaged boards, apply a protective sealant, and improve drainage around the deck .
Termite Damage
Queensland’s warm climate is a paradise for termites, and your deck is no exception. These pests chew through timber, creating hollows that weaken the structure. If you notice soft or hollow-sounding wood, small holes, or mud tubes, termites could be at work.
I can take care of this by replacing affected boards and recommending protective treatments to keep pests at bay. Some timbers, like jarrah, blackbutt, and merbau, are naturally resistant to termites. You can also create a barrier by using sand or treated cedar mulch around the base of your deck. Elevating the deck can further reduce contact with the soil, helping to prevent infestations.
Regular maintenance is key—an annual termite inspection can catch issues early before they cause major damage.
Need a new deck built with termite-resistant materials? I can help with that too!
Fading and Discoloration from Harsh Sunlight
The Aussie sun is brutal on timber decks, causing fading and discoloration over time. UV rays break down the wood’s surface, making it look old and tired. I’ll resolve this common decking problem, by sanding back the damaged surface and applying a high-quality UV-protective oil or stain to bring back the natural beauty of your deck. Regular maintenance is vital to keep your timber deck looking fresh for years. Check out my blog on Deck Care on the Sunshine Coast
Warped or Cracked Decking Boards
On the Sunshine Coast, we face extreme weather—heavy rain followed by long, hot sunny days. Over time, the constant shifts in moisture and heat cause decking boards to expand and contract, leading to warping and cracking. This not only affects the look of your deck but also creates safety hazards and subsequent loss of value to your property.
To sort this out, I’ll replace damaged boards and secure them with durable stainless steel fixings to ensure long-lasting results.
Why not take care of your decking issues with my Handyman services.
Loose Railings
Wobbly railings or fencing present a major safety risk, especially if you have kids or guests using your deck, if your deck is above ground, or if it surrounds a pool area. Over time, fasteners can loosen, and wood can deteriorate, making railings or pool fences unstable.
I’ll correct this common decking problem by reinforcing weak railings or fences and securing supports to ensure your deck is safe for everyone to enjoy.
It’s also worth considering alternative materials to update your railing—try using glass for pool fencing or stainless steel to modernize your balustrade.
Protruding Nails
If nails are popping out of your deck, this is dangerous and unsightly. It is more common in older structures where the builder used nails to fasten the boards. To fix this issue, a short term fix is to hammer the nails back in, or However, I will correct this long term and pull the nails out and replace them with stainless steel deck screws. It’s preferable to use screws longer than the nails you pulled out, so they grab new wood to get a better hold and stay put longer.
Poor Drainage Leading to Water Pooling
If water sits on your deck after rain, over time, it can lead to wood rot or mold growth. However, this issue can also develop beneath your deck, where water can pool around the supporting structures and subframe. Poor drainage or clogged systems are often the culprits.
Decaying timber will feel soft or shift underfoot—this shouldn’t be ignored, as it can lead to injuries and extensive deck damage.
I’ll assess the structures beneath your deck and make the necessary corrections by installing effective drainage solutions. Repairing damaged timbers and fasteners, followed by applying a protective oil or stain, will keep your deck looking great and safe to walk on.
Need Help with Your Deck?
Whether your deck needs a quick fix or a complete overhaul, I’ve got you covered. I’ll offer expert decking repairs and maintenance, as well as gates, fences, drainage solutions, and general handyman services to keep your outdoor space in top shape. Get in touch today, and let All Round Maintenance bring your deck back to life!