Standing water on a deck is a common issue that can lead to long-term damage if not addressed. It can cause staining, wood rot, and structural problems. Even decks made from composite or PVC materials are not completely safe from the effects of water buildup.
The main causes of standing water often come down to the way the deck was built or how it’s holding up over time. From uneven framing to improper spacing between boards, small mistakes can lead to water collecting where it shouldn’t.
Here’s what you need to know about why water pools on decks and how to keep it from becoming a bigger issue.
Why Does Water Pool on a Deck?
Standing water is usually caused by inconsistencies in the deck’s structure. Here are some common reasons water might accumulate on your deck:
- Uneven Framing Members: If the framing members are not level or are sagging, water will naturally settle in those low spots.
- Deck Board Sagging: If the decking spans are too long without support, the boards can sag, creating small dips where water collects.
- Lack of Proper Spacing: Composite decking requires gaps between boards to allow for expansion and contraction. If these gaps are not correctly spaced, water drainage may be compromised.
- Use of Pressure: Treated Understructure: While common in deck construction, pressure-treated wood can warp over time, leading to uneven surfaces where water can pool.
Preventing Standing Water on Your Deck
1. Proper Deck Construction
The best way to avoid standing water on your deck is by building it correctly from the start. Here are some key construction tips:
- Use Correct Framing Sizes: Avoid pushing the limits on framing member spans. If framing members are too far apart, the deck boards can sag and create water collection points.
- Incorporate Ladder Blocking: Placing additional blocking between framing members provides extra support and minimizes sagging.
- Consider Alternative Framing Material: Traditional pressure-treated wood is prone to movement due to its natural growth rings. Opting for steel, aluminum, or engineered lumber can provide greater stability and reduce movement over time.
2. Choosing the Right Decking Material
If you’re worried about water damage, composite or PVC decking is an excellent option. These materials are specifically designed to resist moisture and won’t rot like traditional wood. However, keep in mind that:
- Composite and PVC decks have built-in spacing: This allows water to drain naturally between boards.
- Water sitting on the surface won’t cause damage: Unlike wood, composite and PVC boards won’t absorb water, so standing water won’t lead to decay.
- Regular maintenance helps prevent staining: Even though water won’t damage the deck, removing pooled water can prevent dirt and debris from creating stains.
3. Ensuring Proper Drainage
Proper drainage solutions can help prevent standing water from becoming an issue:
- Under-Deck Drainage Systems: If you want to keep the area below your deck dry, you can install an under-deck system that catches and diverts water away from the house.
- Gapping for Composite Decking: Composite decks must have spacing of at least 1/8″ to 1/4″ between boards to allow for drainage. If not done correctly, drainage problems and warranty issues could arise.
- Regular Water Removal: For wood decks, using a squeegee or wiping down pooled water can help protect the finish and prevent deterioration.
What to Do if Your Deck Already Has Standing Water
If you’re dealing with standing water on your deck right now, here’s how to address it:
- Identify the Cause: Check for sagging boards, improper spacing, or low points in the deck’s structure.
- Remove Water Regularly: For wood decks, quickly remove pooled water to prevent damage to the stain or finish.
- Check Your Framing: If the problem persists, inspect the deck’s framing to see if adjustments or additional support are needed.
- Consider Retrofitting Drainage Solutions: Installing an under-deck drainage system or re-spacing composite boards might be necessary if water accumulation is a frequent issue.
In Summary
Standing water on your deck doesn’t have to be a major issue if you take the right steps to prevent it. Whether you’re constructing a new deck or maintaining an existing one, ensuring proper framing, choosing the right materials, and keeping up with regular maintenance can make all the difference. If you’re dealing with persistent water pooling, it may be time to inspect your deck’s structure and consider professional solutions.
If you need help with your deck, contact us at DW Decks today. We have the experience and expertise to build high-quality, long-lasting decks that withstand the elements.
