8 minute read

Outdoor

from My Renovation June 2021

from My Renovation June 2021, page 20

DIY

AVOID DECK DISASTER

Rotting timber, fungus growth, corroding screws, warped bracing, cracked posts and split planks are just some of the dangers found by building inspectors on some of Queensland’s worst decks.

The Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC) warns homeowners not to be complacent about deck health.

And QBCC commissioner Brett Bassett says having a decay-free deck will reduce the risk of any unwanted disasters in the home.

“Deck safety should always be on your mind before hosting friends and family for the quintessential Queensland barbecue which has become a staple social event,” Mr Bassett says. “Decks, balconies, balustrades, stairs and handrails all require regular and eff ective maintenance to help ensure their long-term safety.

“We always recommend using a QBCC-licensed contractor to carry out any renovation or repair work on your deck or balcony, but before calling someone, it pays to give your deck a regular visual inspection.”

The QBCC recommends homeowners conduct regular checks on their decks and balustrades to keep a close eye on potential failings or maintenance issues.

Mr Bassett says that fixings, bracings, posts, bearers and joists are the key areas that need to be checked and maintained.

“We recommend a visual inspection at least every 12 months, however the frequency of any maintenance depends on the materials, type of finish, climate and the degree of exposure to the weather,” he says.

Homeowners can find a licensed contractor using the QBCC’s free online licensee search or by calling 139 333. Visit qbcc.qld.gov.au

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tip

Protect you deck fixings against the Sunshine Coast’s salty air by investing in products that can be applied to prevent early rust. Talk to the experts at your local hardware store for advice.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Here are the key areas to look at when undertaking a deck check. Source: QBCC.

Fixings

Fixings, including post brackets, should be free from rust, bending or fractures.

Rust may occur more rapidly if you live in a coastal region, although there are products that can be applied to metal fixings or components to slow or prevent this process.

For a weather-exposed deck or balcony, all fixings such as nuts, bolts, screws and nails should be metal with non-corroding properties. In most cases, hot-dipped galvanised fasteners should be used. However, in some highly-corrosive coastal atmospheres, stainless steel fixings will be needed.

Bracing

Bracing is oft en used to support a deck or balcony, helping prevent it from moving under load. continued over>

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Decks and balconies can come under considerable stress from swaying or twisting. It is important to inspect any bracing of a deck or balcony to ensure there has not been any excessive structural movement. If bracing fails, there is a significant risk of harm being caused to people and property.

Posts

Deterioration and subsequent failure of posts can result in death or serious injury to people and damage to property. Timber should be treated appropriately if in the ground or be of a species that will not degrade in soil.

Check timber posts for decay where bearers and other timbers are in contact with posts. Signs of decay include a fungus-type growth on the timber, timber becoming spongy and fibrous, and failure of the timber. Steel posts in the ground should be checked for signs of rust and deterioration as water can pool around these areas. Check for: • Warped, cracked or damaged bracing elements • Fixings that are coming loose or deteriorating • Cracked or rusted welds.

Bearers and joists

Bearers support the joists, which in turn support the decking. To maintain the integrity of the decking, it is vital for bearers and joists to be in good condition and free from defects, such as warping, cracking and decay.

Ledgers or pole plates

Decks and balconies are oft en attached to the main external walls of the house or other structure, such as a pool, by supporting joists or bearers off ledgers or pole plates.

Ledgers and pole plates must have adequate structural connections to their supporting structure, which may mean connecting them through the external wall cladding to the structural frame of the house.

While it is common for brick veneer houses with a deck to just use a masonry fastener (expanding anchor) to connect the ledger or pole plate, this is not usually an acceptable or structurally adequate connection.

Decking boards

Decking boards are the direct link between inhabitants and the structure, and timber boards should be regularly inspected for decay. Signs of decay include a fungus-type growth on the timber, timber becoming spongy and fibrous, and failure of the timber. Using a screwdriver or chisel to poke suspect timber can assist in identifying decay.

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HOW DO I COAT A DECK IN COLD WEATHER?

Leading woodcare product company Cabot’s Timber Finishes recommend continuing to protect deck timber through the winter months.

But, when is the best time to re-coat? If the wood is too hot, the stain will dry too quickly and look patchy; if the wood is too cold, the deck could start to have a milky or wrinkled appearance as moisture is trapped under the coating. Here is what you need to know… 1. Don’t coat wood with a surface temperature of less than 10 degrees Celsius. Tip: timber can oft en be cooler than the external temperature. 2. Choose a water-based product. These dry faster than solvent-based products, and are more robust when applied in cooler temperatures. 3. Always apply product in the direction of the grain to ensure a smooth finish. In cooler temperatures, ensure you’re not applying too much product. This can start to look milky and cause re-coating issues. Don’t overwork the product on the timber. 4. If you’re painting interior timber, warm the room to above 18 degrees to help in the drying process and avoid a milky finish.

Visit cabots.com.au for more tips, and local product stockists.

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