A deck is a wonderful outdoor space to use, but the structure will deteriorate over time. Once it's in poor enough condition, it loses its structural integrity and can become a hazard to your family and guests. Here are a few signs that it's time to schedule a light demolition of your deck. 

When Should Your Deck Be Removed?

1. Bowing Boards

Bowing boards are no longer straight and rigid. They begin to bend in the middle, usually downward for deck boards. Set a ball down on the edge of the deck in the center of the board. 

If the ball rolls along the boards toward the middle of the deck, the boards are bowing. This means the boards are weak from issues such as water damage or rot. While you may be able to replace a single bowed board, you should have the deck removed if the damage is more widespread, as this loss of strength can cause the wood to collapse under your weight. 

2. Termite Damage

Termites are drawn to wooden structures, as they build their homes inside the material and feed on it. If your deck is showing signs of termite damage, you either have an active infestation or had a previous one. Either way, the wood may be damaged beyond repair. 

Check the boards and posts for termite tunnels, which resemble mud lines approximately as wide as a pencil. When you knock on the wood, it may sound hollow inside. The material may also look sunken and rippled. 

3. Wood Rot

Rot can occur from water damage or dry rot, which is a fungus growing inside the wood. The material decays from the inside out, so it will lose its structural integrity. Fittings may fall apart, or the structure may crumble. Rotting wood may appear discolored, spongy, or flaky when wet. The most common places for rot are on the deck boards, the bottom of the posts, and at the joists.

If your deck is showing signs of damage beyond repair, have the team at Two Tigers and a Truck remove it. These junk removal experts offer light demolition services to homeowners in Casselberry, FL, and the surrounding area. They'll safely and efficiently dismantle your deck and properly dispose of the old materials. Learn more about their services on their website, or call (407) 879-7638 to request a quote for light demolition.