If you have any problems with your deck, you should do any deck repairs needed before adding your porch awning. Your porch awning will be your finishing touch to your deck, so it is wise to get everything in top shape before adding your awning or even new outdoor furniture.
Over the years, decks have increasingly replaced the front porch. Homeowner’s aren’t as interested in socializing with their neighbors on the front porch as they are in capturing a few moments of quiet time alone on the back deck, or entertaining a select group privately, away from the busy street. But porches had an advantage over decks: They were usually covered. This meant that the floor and most of the porch was protected from the elements.
The typical deck, however, is totally exposed unless you have a porch awning over your deck. If you have not purchased your awning yet, let’s look at doing a little work on the deck or at least, checking out some of the common problems that you might have with your deck.
Common Deck Problems
Anyone who’s considering a deck makeover or adding a new porch awning should get all repairs done to your deck before the new additions are in place. If your deck looks old and worn out, it may just be cosmetic, or there may be structural issues that you need to be aware of.
Nail pop- Probably the most common problems with an old deck is nail “pop.” The wood boards on old decks are often secured with nails, and nails are prone to popping throughout the year. This happens when the seasons change and the wood expands and contracts. This constant in and out movement of the wood squeezes or pushes the nail up and out of the wood. All you have to do is go around and nail them back into place.
Bad Deck Boards-this is the second most frequent problem you might have. Boards that are warped, twisted, rotted, or broken can give your some problems. Replace the boards as needed.
Bad Railings-Compared to horizontal deck boards, railings don’t generally take as tough a beating from the elements, since they’re vertical. Still, they are often subject to much more stress, as people lean against them or sit on them. Any one of the three main components of the railing can fail: The rails can warp or twist, the balusters can warp or break, and the posts can crack under use.
Once you have surveyed your deck and made any repairs, you are good to go on installing your new porch awning.