When you’re having a deck built on your home, chances are you’ve heard your deck and patio installation contractor talk about deck footings. However, believe it or not, some homeowners don’t actually know much about deck footings. As a homeowner who’s having one built, it’s best that you learn everything you can about the deck footing, such as:
[Read more…]6 Ways You Can Plan the Perfect Patio for Your Home
Adding a patio to your home can cost you a significant amount of time, money and property space to accomplish. With that in mind, it’s understandable if you want everything in your patio building project to go as smoothly as possible. In fact, if your project turns out well, and your patio is well-made, it would not only extend your living space, but increase your home’s curb appeal and overall value.
However, for your patio construction project to go well and allow you to reap the benefits of a well-made patio, you first need to properly plan out your project. But how exactly can any homeowner accomplish this?
[Read more…]3 Questions to Ask Your Patio Company
When it comes to your new patio installation in Bismarck, ND, you want the results to be beautiful, long lasting, and unique to your aesthetic. That’s why it is important to vet you potential contractors and designers before you decide to take on the job. If you want to guarantee you’re working with a true professional, be sure to ask your installation company these three key questions.
- Do You Do Custom Work?
Unless you are looking for a cookie-cutter patio, cookie-cutter patio companies in Mandan, ND, need not apply. No two personal styles are exactly alike, just as no two outdoor spaces are exactly the same. Both of these factors make it important to find someone who offers custom work. This enables you to curate the patio of your dreams as well as one that speaks to your unique aesthetic. Your contractor should also be able to provide a wide array of materials and design options.
- How Long Have You Served the Bismarck Area?
This question is important because it lets you know the depth of experience your patio or deck company in New Salem, ND, offers. North Dakota is known for being home to some of the most gnarly winter weather in the country. If your patio isn’t built to properly withstand these brutal conditions, you may find yourself needing repairs or a new one altogether by the time spring finally rolls around. Additionally, the answer to this question can reassure you that your contractor has a long-standing and positive reputation.
- Do Your Patios Have Weight Restrictions?
If you plan on using your patio for entertainment options such as hot tubs or large grills, be sure to inquire about any weight restrictions for the materials you are using. A subpar company may, for example, only work with low-quality materials that crack under pressure. Avoid this frustrating and expensive scenario by double-checking weight limits first.
By asking these questions, you can feel confident in your patio installer.
Identifying Water Damage on Decks
Although your deck or patio installation is designed to handle just about anything thrown on it, some can still fall victim to damage from weather and standing water. When it comes to decks, it is always better to address water damage immediately than wait for a more convenient time to make repairs. Any existing water damage will only grow worse and more costly the longer it is left to linger. While your trusted deck or patio company is always available to perform a professional inspection, there are also a few forms of water damage you can catch on your own. Here are three of the easiest dangers to spot.
- Splitting and Cracking
Splitting planks are not necessarily the result of water damage, but they are a great home for moisture. Deck boards can crack over time for a variety of reasons, whether due to normal wear and tear or as a result of hail damage. The problem with these splits is that they rarely stay the same size. Water damage and fluctuating temperatures can make cracks much worse and more expensive to fix the longer they are left unrepaired.
- Missing Nails
Nails can also work their way out of decks over time. Again, this can be the result of natural aging or due to storm damage. When nails become loose, however, they can allow water to penetrate into decking. Problems can compound if the nail is completely missing, as water can sink deep into wood and put you at risk of developing rot.
- Mold and Mildew
One surefire sign of water damage on decking is mold. When you notice mold on your outdoor living space, it lets you know that water has been festering in that spot for a while. It is especially important to check areas that do not get much sunlight for mold, as it loves to collect in dark and damp places.
If you notice any of these signs, call your contractor for deck repair.
Check for These Signs of Damage After a Storm
Your deck or patio installation is a beautiful investment, so don’t let it go to waste the minute storm damage strikes. North Dakota can see its fair share of sever weather in the summer months, and your deck often takes the brunt of it. Help your deck or patio last for many summers to come by checking for the following signs of damage after a storm. If spot something suspicious, don’t hesitate to call your local deck company for repairs.
Debris Buildup
It’s normal to find a few stray twigs or leaves on your patio after a gust of wind, but you shouldn’t let them stay there until the next storm. The longer debris can sit and fester, the more prone it is to developing mold and attracting pests. Neither is welcome on your deck, so remove any lingering leaves as soon as possible.
Splitting or Warping
Although most decks are designed to stand up to even the toughest weather, water can still work its way into beams over time. The most telltale signs of water damage are splitting, curling, warping, and cracking on boards. If you spot them, call your local contractor for deck repair.
Missing Pieces
When damage is extreme, sometimes-entire chunks can go missing. Call your contractor if you notice any obvious planks, railings, or stairs missing from your deck.
Loose Nails
Water, wind, hail, and even sun can cause nails to wiggle out of their places over time. Instead of trying to hammer them back in, which can only make damage worse, secure the board with a screw for extra support.
Mold
Last but not least, don’t forget to check for mold, mildew, and rot periodically. These developments aren’t just unsightly; they pose real threats to your health and safety.
By checking for these signs of damage and making repairs as fast as possible, you can extend the life of your deck by several years.