Start with the ledger board
The ledger is the board attaching the deck to your house, and its failure is the leading cause of deck collapse. Look for rust streaks, missing flashing, and lag bolts rather than nails. Any dark staining on the siding above the deck means water is getting behind the ledger.
Test the railings and stairs
Push firmly outward on the railing at several points. It should not flex more than a few millimetres. Check that balusters are spaced under 100 mm apart, that stair treads are solid, and that the handrail is continuous and graspable.
Probe for rot at contact points
Press a screwdriver into the wood where posts meet the ground, where joists meet the beam, and under any planter that sat all winter. Wood that gives way easily is compromised and needs a professional look.
Clean, then re-coat if needed
Sweep debris out from between boards — trapped organic matter holds water against the deck all season. Wash with a wood cleaner, and if water no longer beads after drying, schedule a re-coat while the weather window is open.
Quick checklist
- Ledger board flashed, bolted and dry
- Railing solid under firm outward pressure
- Baluster gaps under 100 mm
- No soft wood at ground and beam contact points
- Gaps between boards cleared of debris