Get matched with top deck maintenance specialists in Oceana, WV

No, you don’t need a permit to repair and replace a few boards on an existing deck. However, if you’re making structural changes to the deck or tearing down the old one and building a new one, you will likely need a permit. Check with your local municipality for the regulations and rules in your area, or ask a local contractor who builds decks for advice.

Rotten deck boards can sometimes be repaired, but only if the damage is minor. Repairing small patches of rot involves strengthening the damaged area with wood hardener, filler, or epoxy. More substantial damage requires replacing the boards or rebuilding the entire structure in extreme cases. If the rot extends to the joists, posts, or beams, have a contractor evaluate the damage to ensure it is still structurally sound.

Most two-person porch swings are rated to hold up to 500 pounds or more. However, each swing manufacturer has its own recommended weight limits, with some as low as 250 pounds while others are as high as 800 pounds. Always double-check the manufacturer’s guide and stay within the recommended range when in doubt.

Wood rot is not normally covered by insurance except in rare cases when it results from a covered event like a burst pipe. Wood rot is categorized as gradual, preventable damage, so most insurance policies won’t pay for claims to repair wood rot damage. Check your policy to find out if wood rot is covered before making a claim.