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 New Jersey
home inspection NJ home
inspectors perform
Certified New Jersey home
inspections in NJ.
DECK PLANKS LOOSE / DAMAGED /
WEATHERED / NAILS LOOSE:
This item is checked if the inspector notes nail
heads protruding above the deck planks,
indicating that the wood has shrunk, or if
planks are missing or damaged to the point that
they are dangerous. This item is checked whether
the problem is on steps or the main deck. The
item is checked if the wood is splintered or if
the grain is curling. While any wood can have
splinters wood decks seem to have more than
their share. Rotted wood is usually caused by
moisture or insects and results primarily from
not originally using treated wood or redwood.
Cracks in wood are universal. Cracks allow water
to enter the wood and the resultant evaporation
will push paint products off the surface. The
inspector is referring to a specific problem
which may prove to be hazardous or a situation
which may be affecting the longevity of the deck
or its finish. Driving the nails down with a
hammer is the most obvious cure to most of the
problems. If extra nails are needed be sure to
use 16 to 20 penny galvanized nails or deck
screws. Missing or heavily damaged planks may
require replacement. Single pieces of decking
may have to be removed and replaced, or perhaps
removed, turned over, and renailed. A heavy
application of urethane varnish helps to hold
down grain curl and splinters. After a couple of
coats of varnish are applied, sanding will help
remove the existing curls and splinters.
Subsequent coats will then feel smooth to the
touch. Rotted wood should be replaced with
treated wood or redwood. Cracked wood should
either be replaced or repaired if it is
affecting the structure. Filling the crack with
wood preservatives will help prevent water from
soaking into the wood. Everything you need to
effect repairs will be available at Building
Material Stores, Paint Stores, and Home
Improvement Stores. If you need assistance or an
additional opinion you may wish to contact
either a Painting Contractor, a General
Contractor or a Home Repair Service.
The above information was provided by TWI Systems Copyright 1995-2005 1-800-553-5660 |
