10 Common Deck Problems and How to Fix Them Like a Pro

A deck can be the crown jewel of your outdoor space – perfect for hosting BBQs, enjoying sunsets, or simply relaxing with a cup of coffee. But over time, even the most well-built decks can start to show signs of trouble. From loose boards to moldy surfaces, deck problems can sneak up on homeowners and become serious safety issues if not addressed.

The good news? Most deck problems can be handled with a bit of knowledge and some DIY effort. Here are 10 common deck problems and how to fix them like a pro.

1. Loose or Wobbly Railings

The Problem:
Unstable railings are not just annoying – they’re dangerous, especially if kids or elderly people use the deck.

How to Fix It:
Check where the railing connects to posts. Tighten loose screws and bolts. If the wood is rotting or cracked around the connections, replace the damaged pieces and reinforce with metal brackets. Always use corrosion-resistant hardware for longevity.

2. Warped or Bowing Deck Boards

The Problem:
Wood boards can warp, twist, or cup due to heat, moisture, and poor ventilation – making your deck look uneven or feel bouncy.

How to Fix It:
For minor warping, use a deck board straightener tool to bend boards back into shape and secure them tightly. For severe damage, replace the affected boards and ensure proper spacing between new boards to allow airflow.

3. Rotting Wood

The Problem:
Wood rot is one of the most common and destructive deck problems, often caused by trapped moisture.

How to Fix It:
Tap suspicious boards with a screwdriver – soft spots mean rot. Remove and replace any rotted boards, joists, or posts. Choose moisture-resistant timber such as treated pine or naturally durable options like cedar. Seal the deck annually to block out moisture.

4. Rusty Nails and Screws

The Problem:
Rusty nails or screws can tarnish the wood, weaken its stability, and cause the boards to become uneven or lift.

How to Fix It:
Pull out rusted nails and screws with a pry bar or drill. Replace them with stainless steel or galvanized fasteners designed for outdoor use. When replacing boards, consider switching to hidden fastener systems for a cleaner look and longer life.

5. Cracked or Splintering Boards

The Problem:
Cracks and splinters form due to weathering, wear, or poor-quality wood, creating a risk of injury.

How to Fix It:
Sand down rough areas to smooth splinters. Fill cracks with a wood filler or epoxy resin suitable for outdoor use, then sand and reseal. Swap out planks that are heavily cracked or structurally damaged.

6. Peeling Stain or Faded Color

The Problem:
Over time, UV rays and rain can wear away stain or paint, leaving your deck looking old and uneven.

How to Fix It:
Strip the old finish using a deck cleaner or sander. Let the wood dry completely. Then, apply a high-quality stain or paint with UV and moisture protection. Refresh the finish every couple of years based on weather conditions and use.

7. Pooling Water

The Problem:
If water doesn’t drain properly, it can cause mildew, rot, and structural problems.

How to Fix It:
Ensure your deck tilts gently away from the home, with a gradient of roughly 1/8 inch for every foot. Ensure gaps between boards are not clogged with debris. If pooling persists, consider adding a drainage system or adjusting the slope with shims and spacers.

8. Mold, Mildew, or Algae

The Problem:
Green, black, or white growth can make your deck slippery, ugly, and unsafe.

How to Fix It:
Wash your deck using a mixture of water and oxygen-based cleaner or a store-bought mildew remover. Scrub thoroughly with a hard-bristled brush, rinse thoroughly, and allow it to dry completely. Keep the deck dry and exposed to sunlight to prevent regrowth.

9. Squeaky or Bouncy Deck Surface

The Problem:
If walking across your deck feels springy or squeaky, the joists or fasteners may be loose or undersized.

How to Fix It:
Crawl under the deck and inspect the joists. Tighten any loose fasteners, and add blocking (short pieces of wood between joists) to reduce bounce. If joists are undersized or spaced too far apart, reinforce with additional supports.

10. Insect Damage

The Problem:
Termites and carpenter ants love untreated wood and can silently destroy your deck from the inside out.

How to Fix It:
Look for tiny holes, sawdust, or hollow-sounding wood. Swap out damaged planks and apply a borate-based pest control solution to the nearby area. Prevent future infestations by sealing cracks and using insect-resistant materials like composite decking.

Don’t Let Deck Problems Linger

Deck problems don’t have to spell disaster. Most issues are easy to catch early and even easier to fix with a little DIY effort. Frequent check-ups, routine upkeep, and timely fixes will ensure your deck remains in top shape and safe to use for many years.

And if a problem ever feels out of your hands – whether it’s structural damage, major rot, or a full redesign – don’t stress. Call the experts at Home Makeover for reliable deck repairs, deck upgrades, and professional outdoor home renovation you can count on.