All decked out- Building a long lasting deck. Wenatchee and Chelan Real Estate Inspections

Decks, Decks, Decks… I love decks, but as a Chelan home inspector I have never seen one done completely right. Now I have seen a few that were close and probably will fare very well but still not 100% right.

Depending on the climate and the environment in which the deck was built will greatly increase or decrease the cause and effect of issues associated with some of these deficiencies.

The number one issue with decks beside the structural integrity is how it will handle water. Even here in our dryer climate of North Central Washington this will still have a great effect on the materials.

Attached is a PDF from NADRA, the North American Deck and Railing Association, that addresses water management and deck building.

Don’t Build Decks that Rot

Here is an example of a deck that moisture was collecting on the beam and blocking then absorbing into the joists causing rot of the joist members.

Again flashings can play a critical role in how durable a deck will be. If we think about all these horizontal surfaces as being little roofs we can now start to think about how to best handle these areas.

Little details again can plan a huge role in how the long term effects of weather and moisture on building materials.

“If you think it's expensive to hire a professional to do the job, wait until you hire an amateur.”

Red Adair

NCW Home Inspections, LLC  is a Licensed Washington State Home Inspection service located in Wenatchee Washington serving Chelan County, Douglas County, Kittitas County, Okanogan County and Grant County Washington and the cities of Wenatchee, Leavenworth, Cashmere, Oroville, Cle Elum, East Wenatchee, Quincy and many more…  

Your Wenatchee and Chelan Professional Real Estate, Home and Structural Pest Inspection Service

www.ncwhomeinspections.com                                               509-670-9572