Is Your Deck Putting Your Family at Risk?

A backyard deck can be the heart of your home—perfect for morning coffee, weekend grilling, and summer parties. But when was the last time someone actually inspected it?

As a professional home inspector serving North Atlanta, GA, I’ve seen decks that looked great on the surface—but were one rainy day away from collapse.

🚨 Don't ignore the warning signs. A deteriorating deck can lead to injury, structural damage, and expensive repairs. If your deck shows any of the following symptoms, it may be time to consider demolition and reconstruction.

8 Signs Your Deck Might Need Demolition

1. Missing Parts

Whether it’s a few boards or an entire stair rail, any missing components compromise safety and structural strength. Don't ignore the gaps—replace or rebuild.

2. Sagging or Uneven Surface

A properly built deck should be level. If it feels uneven or appears to be sagging, it could indicate rotting joists or failing support posts.

3. Loose or Wobbly Railings

Railings are critical for preventing falls. If they move when touched, that’s a serious safety issue and a red flag for deeper structural concerns.

4. Rust on Metal Fasteners

Rusty nails, screws, and brackets weaken over time. Corrosion spreads, affecting more than just the hardware—it can lead to joist separation and collapse.

5. Loose Connections

Support posts pulling away from beams or improper attachments to your home’s frame can spell disaster. These loose joins are often invisible to the untrained eye until it's too late.

6. Mold or Mildew Growth

Black or green spots aren’t just ugly—they’re dangerous. Mold signals excess moisture, which leads to wood rot and decay beneath the surface.

7. Rotted or Soft Wood

Run your foot across the deck boards. Feel soft spots? See splinters or wood flaking apart? You may have deteriorated wood that’s beyond repair.

8. Posts Touching Dirt

Deck support posts should never sit directly in soil. Moisture absorption causes rot, weakening the entire structure from the ground up.

Outdated Codes? That’s a Deal Breaker

Building codes evolve for a reason—to keep you safe. If your deck was built years ago, it might not meet current standards. Some older decks lack:

• Proper flashing where the deck meets the house

• Correct railing heights or baluster spacing

• Adequate load-bearing footings

Before listing or buying a home, have your deck reviewed by a licensed inspector familiar with current codes.

See a Deck Disaster Waiting to Happen

Home Inspector David Lelak recently documented an inspection where the deck looked fine—until he got underneath.

📺 Watch the YouTube video here to see signs of:

• Settlement problems

• Rotted floor joists

• Improper construction techniques

You’ll be shocked at what’s hidden behind the paint and stain.

Why Deck Inspections Are Essential in North Atlanta, GA

Our humid Georgia climate isn’t deck-friendly. In areas like Canton, Cumming, Jasper, Alpharetta, Roswell, and Woodstock, we frequently see:

• Water-damaged framing

• Insect infestations (termites & carpenter ants)

• Mold inside support beams

That’s why deck inspections are included in every full home inspection from IHI Home Inspections.

What We Do During a Deck Inspection

When you book with IHI Home Inspections, here’s what we check:

• Structural supports & framing

• Joists, beams, and footings

• Railing height and stability

• Fastener integrity

• Ledger board attachment

• Wood condition and moisture presence

• Code compliance and safety hazards

You’ll receive a next-day digital report with high-resolution photos and repair suggestions.

Areas We Serve

We inspect decks and homes across North Georgia, including:

• Canton

• Ball Ground

• Holly Springs

• Woodstock

• Cumming

• Jasper

• Dawsonville

• Alpharetta

• Roswell

• Gainesville

Deck Demo Doesn’t Have to Be a Disaster

If you suspect your deck is unsafe or outdated, don't wait for an accident. A proactive inspection can help you:

• Negotiate repair credits in a sale

• Plan a safe and code-compliant rebuild

• Avoid legal liability and injury

📞 Schedule Your Deck and Home Inspection Today

Trust the deck inspection experts at IHI Home Inspections.

📅 Book now: https://homeinspectioncantonga.com
📞 Or call us at 404-788-2581
📧 Serving North Atlanta for over 17 years, we specialize in finding what others miss.