Termite Damage on Deck – Prevent Rot and Wood Decay Infestation

As a homeowner, you want to ensure your wooden deck remains an appealing and functional outdoor space for years to come. However, damage and decay can look similar to an untrained eye. Identifying termite damage and decay early is key to protecting your investment. This guide will cover the signs of termite damage on decks, prevention tips to keep termites away, and how to treat termite damaged wood properly.

Signs of Termite Damage on Deck

Termites love feasting on the cellulose in untreated or wet wood. Left undetected, termite colonies can severely compromise the integrity of decks, causing thousands in damage. Here are the most common signs of termites around your deck:

Holes in Wood Boards

Look closely along the wood boards and posts for tiny holes around 1/8 inch wide. These round holes may indicate termites dug tunnels looking for food. Mud tubes nearby help confirm termite activity.

Mud Tubes on Deck Support Beams

The most obvious evidence involves finding narrow mud tubes running vertically on deck posts or supports. Subterranean termites construct these tunnels out of soil, wood, and saliva to reach wood sources above ground. Breaking open tubes reveals active termites inside.

Soft, Damaged Wood

Use a screwdriver to poke susceptible areas, like where deck boards rest on joists. Soft, damaged wood that breaks apart easily points to advanced termite destruction underneath. A hollow sound when walking across decking can signal termites devoured the inner wood layers.

Hollow Sounds When Walking on Deck

An abnormal hollow sound underfoot as you walk across the deck indicates termites damaged large sections underneath. Their extensive tunnels and galleries compromise the internal structure. Stamping on balloon-framed construction is especially telling.

Pro Tip: Dry rot damage and termite destruction can look similar to an untrained eye, but an expert can tell the difference. If uncertain, consult a pest control professional for an assessment.

Preventing Termite Infestations on Decks

While no deck is 100% immune from termites, several proactive measures can greatly reduce the risk of rot damage and decay infestation down the road:

Keep Wood Clear of Soil Contact

All types of termite colonies need access to soil as their primary food and water source. Ensuring deck ledger boards, posts, stairs, and any wood components remain at least 6 inches above ground minimizes this attractant.

Ensure Proper Drainage Under Deck

Stagnant moisture under decks essentially lays out a welcome mat for termites. Improving drainage and correcting leaky plumbing helps keep wood boards dry and less appealing. Routinely inspect for new cracks that can trap water too.

Use Termite-Resistant Wood

While more expensive upfront, pressure-treated lumber contains insecticides that deter termites longer. Naturally rot-resistant woods like cedar, redwood, and cypress prolong the lifespan as well. Seal end grains to further slow moisture absorption.

Apply Protective Barriers

In higher risk areas, wrap key structural posts and ground-level rim boards with a moisture barrier or metal termite guard to block hidden access points. Stainless steel mesh offers another physical and reusable barrier option.

How to Treat Termite Damaged Wood on a Deck

If you discover signs of active termites in deck boards or support structures, taking prompt action is critical to prevent further infestation:

Perform Regular Termite Inspections

Vigilantly checking your wood deck every 6 months makes it easier to detect termite problems early before major structural damage occurs. Pay special attention during spring when colonies become most active.

Call a Professional Exterminator for Treatment

Don’t attempt DIY chemical treatments yourself around the home. Licensed pest control technicians have the proper tools, protective equipment, treatment products, and experience addressing termite infestations safely and effectively.

Repair Damaged Wood Promptly

After extermination, have badly damaged boards and support members replaced by a professional deck contractor immediately to restore structural integrity and prevent additional rot issues.

Maintaining Appeal and Use of Your Wood Deck

Besides making critical repairs following termite damage, several other maintenance practices preserve your deck’s beauty, safety, and enjoyment for the long run:

Make Minor Repairs Quickly to Limit Damage

Don’t delay fixing popped nails, loose handrails, warped decking, etc. that allow moisture intrusion or structural instability over time. Preventative upkeep deters rot, decay, and termite hazards.

Keep Termites Away By Maintaining Deck & Landscaping

Routinely clear flower beds and debris away from deck structure. Correct soil levels allowing wood-soil contact. Fix leaky outdoor faucets wetting deck. Improve drainage problems under deck with grading or French drains.

Refinish Surface Regularly

Sanding and reapplying protective deck sealant every 2-3 years maintains water resistance while enhancing visual appeal. But only use finishes specially formulated for walking deck surfaces.

Inspect Entire Deck Twice Per Year

Vigilantly checking for early signs of damage every spring and fall lets you repair small issues before they worsen into costly headaches…or attract wood-munching termites!

Summary

In summary, here are the key things for homeowners to remember about preventing termite damage and decay on their wood decks:

• Check deck boards, posts, stairs regularly for signs of termite infestation like tubes or holes
• Ensure no wood has direct contact with soil
• Improve drainage and correct moisture problems under deck
• Use naturally termite-resistant wood varieties whenever possible
• Apply physical barriers to block termite access
• Act quickly to treat active infestations and replace damaged boards
• Perform preventative deck maintenance like sealing and debris cleanup
• Schedule biannual deck inspections to catch issues early

Vigilantly monitoring for termites and properly caring for your wood deck ensures you can continue enjoying this valuable outdoor living space safely for years to come. Contact the experts at [Pest Control Company] if you suspect termite damage or want to proactively treat your deck against destructive pests. Call [phone number] to schedule service!