June 2025 – WernerCo

When Deck Repair Isn’t Enough

June 4, 2025 Oscar Russell

In some cases, structural damage or rot may be beyond repair. In these cases, it is important to consider deck replacement.

Often, the best way to keep your deck healthy is through regular maintenance and repairs. Proper deck repairs focus on structural stability, preventing surface problems from reoccurring, and ensuring that all components of the structure are sound. Contact Deck Builders Murfreesboro for professional help.

If a deck has been flooded and is showing signs of damage like warping, water stains, or mold, it will require a thorough cleaning and possibly replacement. Wood is particularly vulnerable to moisture, and if the water is not cleaned off immediately it can cause damage that will affect the entire structure of the deck.

The key is to determine whether the problem is structural and needs to be replaced or cosmetic and can be repaired. Structural issues include sagging, splintering, and loose fasteners that threaten the safety of anyone who uses the deck. A quick test can help you determine whether the issue is structural: Try sinking a screwdriver into a board. If it easily goes in, the board is rotting and must be replaced.

Another common sign that a deck requires replacement is if the boards are warping or splitting. This can be caused by several factors, such as the weather, soil conditions, and age of the boards. If the boards are not replaced, they can become splintering and a trip hazard. It is also important to check the deck joists to see if they are damaged and need to be reinforced or replaced.

A more severe issue is if the deck has extensive rot. This can be caused by poor drainage, ground contact, or improper flashing. The rot can eat through the wood, leaving it brittle and weak. The rot is then able to absorb more moisture, continuing the cycle and potentially damaging the entire deck structure.

Some rot may be treated with fungicide and the damaged areas filled with epoxy. However, if the deck is severely rotted it will likely need to be completely replaced.

In addition to rot, other structural problems that need to be addressed include cracking or splitting of the floorboards, and loose screws and nails. Loose nails can be re-tightened, but loose screws should be removed and replaced with rust-resistant deck screws. These will hold better and prevent tripping hazards. If there are loose or missing railings and stairs, they need to be secured and reinstalled as soon as possible. Wobbly handrails and steps should always be repaired by a professional to ensure that they meet building codes and are safe for use.

Wood Rot

Wood rot, or fungal decay, is a common problem that affects the structural integrity of a deck. It is a serious issue that can damage joists, boards, and railings. It’s important to catch rot early so that it doesn’t spread to other areas of your home. This is why it’s vital to inspect your deck regularly for signs of rot or damp conditions.

The most common type of rot is wet rot (corniophora puteana). This is caused by water seeping into wood and causing it to grow fungus. This is often a result of leaky pipes or roofs, and it can be very difficult to identify until you notice that the wood has begun to rot. Wet rot can lead to significant damage to your home’s foundation and can even cause structural issues in the floor of your home.

Dry rot (Serpula lacrymans) is not as invasive as wet rot, but it can still inflict significant damage. This fungus is found in wet timber that has a moisture content of up to 20%. It can also affect masonry and can spread throughout a deck quickly. The main symptoms of dry rot are brown or grey patches on the surface of timber that look like spongey spots and can be quite deep. A musty odor is also a common sign of dry rot.

If you have wood rot, it is essential to have it repaired immediately as it will continue to spread if left untreated. The fungus will break down the cellulose and hemicellulose of the timber, which will weaken its structure and lead to further damage. This is why it is important to check your deck for any soft, spongy spots on a regular basis and treat them immediately if you spot any.

While the costs of repairing and replacing a damaged deck are generally comparable, it can be more cost effective to replace your deck entirely when it is severely compromised by flooding or wood rot. A professional will be able to assess the situation and determine whether you should repair or replace your deck. They will also be able to provide advice on waterproofing and other protective measures that can help prevent flooding or wood rot in the future.

Loose Joists

Loose deck boards and joists are not only unsightly but they can pose a safety hazard. If your deck is swaying or bouncing, you’ll need to do some structural repairs before you can use it again.

Floodwaters can loosen fasteners, corrode hardware and cause wood to swell or even break down. Check for rusted nails, screws and brackets that need to be tightened or replaced. Check that the flashing where the house meets the deck is intact and watertight. If you find any damage, consult a builder or structural engineer for a quote.

If you have a solid lumber joist deck, you may need to add diagonal bracing. This will help keep the joists from pulling loose over time. This is a common problem in areas where the local building code calls for soft wood like hemlock. The softer wood tends to expand and contract more than the adjacent joists, creating little waves in the deck surface that can lead to sagging over time.

When checking joists for damage, pay particular attention to joist ends and rim joists. If these are starting to pull away from the ledger board or joist hangers, it’s important to re-nail them as soon as possible. If a joist has suffered wood rot or has been split, it should be replaced immediately.

You may also need to reinforce your deck with a shaker sill beam. These are commonly found in pier and beam homes but can be added to a conventional deck as well. To do this, you’ll need to measure the height of the post and add 1 inch. You can then buy 1/2 inch diameter galvanised carriage bolts (with washers and nuts) at a hardware store to re-fasten the post to the joist. Drill clearance holes about 1 and 1 / 2 inches apart from each other, then tap the carriage bolts into place (shimming if necessary). Continue to tighten up the nuts until they are flush with the top of the post.

Once the damage has been repaired, it’s a good idea to apply a penetrating waterproof wood finish such as Owatrol Textrol. This will help protect your investment and extend the life of your deck for years to come.

Loose Ledger Boards

When water enters your deck and leads to joist or ledger board damage, the result can be dangerous, even catastrophic. This type of problem can cause your entire deck to collapse. In most cases, it is caused by improper fastening or a lack of proper flashing, which should be installed over the ledger to prevent leaks.

Ledger boards connect your deck to your house and are a critical anchor point, especially for older decks. A properly-attached and maintained ledger will keep the floor joists on your deck securely attached to your home, helping your deck last longer and stay safe for your family and guests. Unfortunately, many homeowners use nails to attach their ledger, which can easily loosen under heavy loads and over time. This creates a gap that allows moisture to seep behind the deck and cause rot. Luckily, modern building codes are much more stringent about using lag screws or carriage bolts that will provide a stronger connection to the house framing and prevent any future problems.

The key to keeping your deck safe is regular inspections and timely repairs. If your deck is showing signs of wear and tear, it’s important to contact a professional for repairs before the problem gets worse.

When a deck fails, it can fall down or cause injuries to your loved ones. Loose or unsecured boards can also become safety hazards and could lead to a lawsuit against the homeowner for property damage. In addition, the joists can lose their structural integrity from rot or pest damage, causing them to loosen and detach from the ledger or girders.

In most cases, this is due to a lack of properly installed joist hangers. These are the metal brackets that fasten to the side of the joists and the bottom of the deck post. While you are inspecting your deck, check that all joist hangers are secured properly. If you see any that have been loose or missing, they should be replaced immediately. It is also a good idea to confirm that the joists are securely fastened to the girders and ledger board with lag bolts.

Concrete Contractors

How Much Does a Concrete Driveway Cost?

June 3, 2025 Megan Barron

Concrete Driveway Orange County offers the best of durability and design. When well maintained, these surfaces withstand the pressure of vehicles and provide a significant boost to property value.

But to reap the benefits, you should choose the right material. Read on to learn more about concrete and the specifications your contractor should follow during installation.

A concrete driveway is a major investment that improves the functionality and curb appeal of a home. However, the cost can vary considerably depending on the materials used and the labor involved. Understanding what influences the price of a concrete driveway will help homeowners determine how much they can afford.

The basic cost of a concrete driveway is $6 to $12 per square foot, but this can increase dramatically when additional elements are included. Preparation work, such as grading and removal of existing pavement, adds to the total cost. Other additions include rebar, which strengthens the concrete and increases durability, and sealant, which protects the concrete from weathering.

In addition to these costs, the contractor must make sure the subbase is sufficiently compacted and has a gravel layer to prevent heaving. Choosing the right time of year for construction is also important, as concrete sets best in temperatures between 50 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

It is important to settle on the dimensions of your driveway early in the process, as changing these at a later date can significantly alter the strength and durability of the concrete. The final surface should be level and flat, without any cracks or divots. A sloping surface is susceptible to water pooling, which can lead to sinkholes or undermine the structure.

If you’re looking for a concrete driveway that is both functional and visually appealing, consider adding a brick or paving stone border. This will create a beautiful contrast with the concrete and give the driveway a distinctive look. Similarly, a textured finish can be added to the concrete for a more rustic appearance.

Alternatively, you can use a stamped or stencilled concrete finish. This will cost more than a standard concrete finish, but it will offer an attractive, decorative, and slip-resistant surface.

Another option is to use air-entraining agents to strengthen the concrete and improve its resistance to freeze-thaw cycles. These additives form small, evenly distributed air bubbles in the concrete mix. This will help the concrete withstand freezing and thawing cycles, and prevent cracks and spalling in the future.

Durability

Concrete is a highly durable material that stands up well to most climate conditions, requires little maintenance, and provides a smooth driving surface. It’s also one of the more cost-effective driveway installation options available, especially when compared to asphalt and other designer materials. Furthermore, a properly installed concrete driveway can increase the property value of your home, and it’s a great option for homeowners who want to add curb appeal to their property.

A concrete driveway can be stained or colored to complement your home and landscaping, and it can also be stamped to create unique patterns and textures. Its versatility means that it can be poured to fit any curve or shape of your driveway, and you can incorporate borders and decorative elements for a truly personalized appearance.

Proper care and maintenance are essential for extending the lifespan of your concrete driveway. For instance, it’s important to avoid watering the driveway or allowing standing puddles to develop on its surface. Water can cause the concrete to deteriorate and lead to cracking and fissures. In addition, it’s a good idea to keep large trees and shrubs away from the driveway, as their roots can penetrate the concrete and cause damage.

The type of concrete used in your driveway will also impact its durability. To ensure that the concrete is strong enough to support the weight of vehicles, it’s essential to use a higher-strength mix. In addition, the contractor should reinforce the concrete with steel rebar to prevent it from cracking under pressure.

Lastly, the contractor should ensure that the concrete is water-cured for several days after it’s laid. This can be done by using a wet curing blanket or regular sprinkling to keep the surface moist. This will help the concrete to flex and resist the effects of freeze-thaw cycles, which can cause the internal pressure within the concrete to expand and crack the surface.

In addition to proper maintenance, a concrete driveway will last longer if it’s installed by an experienced and knowledgeable contractor. Make sure to ask the contractor about their experience, references, and warranty before hiring them.

Maintenance

Concrete is an excellent option for driveways, providing durability and a long lifespan. However, it’s important to keep in mind that it isn’t impervious to damage. Even the most durable material requires maintenance, and addressing small problems quickly can prevent them from becoming bigger issues. In addition to regular cleaning, you should also ensure that the surface is properly drained to avoid water damage and sinking.

If your concrete driveway is showing signs of wear and tear, it’s important to address them as soon as possible. This will help prevent cracks, fissures, and discoloration from forming. You can repair these issues with a concrete patching compound. Make sure to use a compound that is specifically designed for exterior applications, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.

It’s also a good idea to use a weed killer on your driveway, as this will help to control the growth of plants and weeds. You can also reseal your decorative concrete, which will provide additional protection against oil stains and harsh weather conditions.

Lastly, it’s important to maintain proper drainage on your concrete driveway. This will help prevent water from pooling on the surface, which can cause cracks and other damage. You can do this by ensuring that the soil is graded appropriately, and by installing drains.

A well-maintained concrete driveway can add value to your home, and it will also improve safety for you and your family by preventing slip hazards. It’s also a great way to reduce the amount of waste you send to landfills.

When choosing a concrete contractor for your driveway, it’s important to find one that is experienced and qualified. A reputable company will use quality materials and techniques to ensure that your driveway is durable and lasts for years. In addition, they will also be able to offer advice about how best to maintain your concrete driveway. They can also provide you with an estimate before starting any work. This will allow you to determine whether the cost is reasonable and affordable. This will ensure that you don’t overspend on your concrete project.

Design

Concrete driveways can be a beautiful addition to any home. They offer versatility in design and can be used with other elements to create a cohesive landscape. When compared to paver options, they tend to be less expensive and require minimal maintenance. However, they can be susceptible to cracking and stains, especially in wet weather. Additionally, concrete is susceptible to freeze-thaw cycles and requires a long curing time. Fortunately, there are ways to mitigate these issues and ensure the longevity of your concrete driveway.

Before laying a concrete driveway, homeowners should gauge the anticipated load of vehicles that will be using it. This will help determine the thickness of the slab required. Moreover, soil conditions must also be considered as different types of soil have varying characteristics that impact how the driveway performs. For example, clay soils shrink and expand with changes in moisture content and require a thicker slab to maintain stability.

Unlike the popular perception of concrete as lifeless and boring, it can be stained in a variety of colors to enhance its aesthetic. These color additives can be dusted on or mixed into the concrete during its construction to complement existing landscaping and home exterior colors. Concrete can even be blended with decorative gravel or stones for a more organic look.

Exposed aggregate concrete is another popular option for modern concrete driveways. This style allows for a more textural finish that complements both contemporary and traditional homes. It is also slip resistant and requires minimal maintenance. Concrete contractors seed pebbles, shells, and other natural materials into the concrete during construction to achieve this effect.

If you want to boost the visual appeal of your concrete driveway, consider incorporating integrated lighting. This is a growing trend that makes your driveway safer and more attractive at night. This type of lighting can be installed into the slabs or along borders of your driveway to highlight the unique design features. It can also be connected to your home automation system for convenient control. In addition, it can reduce the amount of energy your driveway consumes.

Home Improvement

What Goes into a Window Replacement?

June 2, 2025 Trinity Pennington

Window Replacement Ellicott City, MD is an opportunity to maximize the performance and beauty of your home. Understanding the different parts of a window will help you to make an informed decision.

The frame is the overall surrounding structure into which a window sash fits. It consists of the head, jambs, and sill.

Window replacement is often a great opportunity for energy-efficiency upgrades. Aside from a more attractive look, new windows can help minimize heat loss and prevent excessive cooling costs in summertime. This can be achieved by choosing windows with low thermal conductivity and using insulation materials when installing them.

One of the most important factors that determine how well a window performs is its frame. To optimize performance, it’s best to use a durable material with low thermal conductivity such as fiberglass or wood.

Another factor is the glass type and the window sash construction. Double-pane glass is more effective than single-pane and triple-glazing offers superior energy efficiency. In addition, insulating coatings on the glass can also help minimize heat transfer and noise.

Aside from aesthetic preferences and energy efficiency, the structural integrity of an existing window frame must be considered. Cracked windowpanes, rotting frames or sills and gaps that allow air leakage are reasons to consider replacing an old window.

If the frame is damaged or structurally weak, full-frame replacement is a better option than insert window replacement. This involves removing the interior trim and casing to access the rough opening and install the new window unit. This method allows for a more precise fit between the new window and the frame, which improves energy efficiency.

However, full-frame replacement is more expensive than insert window replacement. Moreover, it can take more time to install since the installation team must remove and replace all the old materials and hardware.

Lastly, if homeowners are happy with the style and size of their current windows, pocket replacement may be a good choice. This method is less expensive than full-frame replacement and it can be installed quickly. However, it’s important to note that this method can reduce the size of the window and limit customization options.

To ensure proper fit, insulation and operation of a replacement window, it’s best to work with a professional contractor. A professional will conduct a thorough consultation to understand the homeowner’s needs and assess the condition of the existing window. Then, they will design the new windows and help select the best styles, sizes, colors and hardware for the project. Lastly, the professional will install and seal the new windows to prevent drafts and moisture leaks.

Durability

A new window will last longer if it is well-built and installed. It should be securely attached to the framing and the sill, and the weather stripping must seal tightly after hundreds of door closings and rain wettings. A durable material like compression foam or a substantial silicone gasket is essential for long-term performance.

A good window will also be resistant to warping, swelling, rotting and rusting. The frame and sash should be built of a strong material, such as aluminum, vinyl or fiberglass. Wood frames can deteriorate, but they can be restored with care and maintenance. Wood is a natural insulator and offers beauty that other materials can’t match. However, it is more likely to warp, swell or rot if not properly maintained.

Some window replacement upgrades involve inserting a new window into the existing frame, rather than replacing the entire window. This method, called pocket replacement, is especially helpful for historic homes or when the windows don’t complement the architecture or decorating style. It is also cost-effective.

The installation process is less involved than a full-frame replacement and will not disturb the exterior siding or trim. In addition, it preserves the existing window style and the frame, which may be of great value to a home’s character.

However, it’s important to understand the limitations of this type of replacement. The window must fit precisely into the existing opening, and it’s not a good idea to rely on the original water-shedding flashing or air-sealing sealants. A new window must have a completely new, properly integrated window system with water-shedding flashing and air-sealing sealants to ensure longevity.

If a homeowner is planning on pocket replacement, they should consider the best frame material for their climate and lifestyle. A durable material such as aluminum, vinyl or fiberglass will resist corrosion and hold up to extreme heat or cold. It is also a good idea to avoid natural wood frames, which can be more prone to damage and require regular maintenance. They are a poor choice for humid or rainy areas, where they can swell and rot unless thoroughly maintained.

Style

When selecting replacement windows, you want to ensure that your new units will complement the architectural style of your home and fit properly. This will help you achieve a consistent look while enhancing curb appeal and improving the functionality of your living space. In addition, it’s important to consider the energy efficiency of the window styles and materials that you’re considering. Choosing a high-efficiency model can significantly reduce your energy bills while also helping the environment.

Window styles are available in a variety of configurations and finishes, so there’s sure to be an option that fits your tastes. For example, double-hung windows feature sashes that tilt in for easy cleaning. Casement windows are another popular choice that provide a sleek, minimalist design and offer exceptional ventilation. And awning windows can be opened in even the tightest of spaces to let fresh air in while still providing privacy and security.

Before you commit to a window replacement project, it’s important to get an accurate idea of the total cost. This includes the price of the new windows as well as installation costs. Other factors that can influence the overall project price include the location of the windows, whether they need to be reframed or not, and the condition of the walls surrounding them.

To keep your project on budget, it’s often best to replace all of the windows in your home at once. This will prevent the need for costly repairs in the future and can help improve your home’s energy efficiency. It’s also helpful to select a window replacement company that offers a comprehensive warranty on the windows and the installation process.

Window replacement is a great way to upgrade the aesthetics and functionality of your home in Aspen. By exploring your options and consulting with a knowledgeable window expert, you can ensure that you’re getting the best value for your investment and are achieving maximum comfort, energy savings, and durability. To learn more about the different window styles and options that are available, contact a local window replacement company today.

Installation

Window replacement is a substantial home improvement project that can dramatically impact the interior aesthetic, energy efficiency and more. This is why it’s important to collaborate with the experts to ensure a high-quality installation and to understand what to expect. In this blog post, we’ll explore what goes into a typical window replacement installation and what you can do to prepare for the installation process.

A window replacement project begins with an initial consultation to understand the client’s needs and determine whether pocket replacement is a suitable option. During this phase, Reece will work with the homeowner to design their new windows and select the style, color, hardware and other features that will best suit their aesthetic preferences.

Once the design and selection process is complete, the team will begin the installation. They will carefully remove the existing window sash and frame while protecting the wall and any trim boards that will be reinstalled. Then, the installers will remeasure the opening to ensure the window is a proper fit. They will also inspect the exposed opening for structural damage or rot and make any necessary repairs.

The installers will then install flashing tape around the opening to prevent water and air infiltration. They will also place shims under the frame to level it. Finally, the installers will caulk the frame and trim to protect against moisture infiltration.

After the installation, the team will clean up the work area and dispose of any debris. They will also perform a quality check to ensure that the new windows are level, plumb and square. They will also test the new windows for functionality and energy efficiency.

To keep your home beautiful and comfortable for years to come, it’s important to regularly maintain your windows. Window replacement is a great way to refresh your home’s exterior and interior, increase its value, and enhance its overall performance.