Why does my deck pop and not my neighbor’s?

• <div><p>Your deck may pop, and your neighbor’s deck may not for a number of reasons. Whether or not a deck pops will depend on how it was made, the conditions it’s exposed to, and the materials. Improper spacing is a common reason for increased pressure between deck boards. Moisture penetration is another. </p></div>

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Q: Do cracked deck boards need to be replaced?

• <div><p>Often, cracked deck boards are just an aesthetic problem and do not need replacement. However, longer or deeper cracks may be a problem, especially if they are on the end of the board. You can fill minor cracks with caulk, epoxy, or sealant to prevent further damage and improve their appearance. Replace boards with more serious cracks, which could become a safety hazard.</p></div>

Q: Does the underside of a deck need to breathe?

• <div><p>Any wood deck provides some ventilation to the area below, as is the nature of that type of <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-often-should-i-inspect-my-deck.htm">deck design</a>. However, areas that experience excessive humidity and associated moisture benefit greatly from a dedicated ventilation system in the form of strip vents. This addition helps the various wood boards contract and expand evenly throughout the years and reduces the chances of twisting, warping, and buckling.</p></div>

Q: Why does my deck pop and not my neighbor’s?

• <div><p>Your deck may pop, and your neighbor&rsquo;s deck may not for a number of reasons. Whether or not a deck pops will depend on how it was made, the conditions it&rsquo;s exposed to, and the materials. Improper spacing is a common reason for increased pressure between deck boards. Moisture penetration is another. </p></div>

Q: What is the best way to sand a deck?

• <div><p>The best way to sand a deck is by cleaning it, sanding the boards and stairs with 60- or 80-grit sandpaper, and sanding the railings and posts with 80-grit sandpaper. You should sand in the direction of the wood grain to avoid damaging the timber. When sanding your deck, use medium pressure and aim for an even sand. Pressing too hard with a sander can damage decks, as most are softwoods. </p></div>

Q: Should you nail or screw deck boards?

• <div><p>You can either nail or screw deck boards according to your preference. We recommend using 3-inch galvanized deck screws in this guide because screws offer superior holding powder over time. If you&rsquo;re using screws, you can minimize the risk of cracking the boards by drilling small pilot holes before securing the boards to the deck joists. </p></div>

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