Leaning or visibly tilted posts, rot at post bases where they meet concrete or soil, cracked or settled concrete footings, posts pulling away from beam connections, or visible movement at post bases.
Posts set directly in soil or in inadequate footings, frost heave from Connecticut freeze-thaw cycles, rot at the post-to-footing connection where water collects, undersized footings for the load, improper post-to-beam connections, and age-related concrete deterioration.
Posts carry the entire deck load to the ground. A failing post redistributes weight to adjacent posts, potentially overloading them. Leaning posts can buckle. This is a structural failure in progress.
We check every post for plumb, probe for rot at post bases, evaluate footing size and condition, check post-to-beam and post-to-footing connections, look for evidence of frost heave or settlement, and assess whether the footing depth meets current code.
Post replacement with proper base detailing, footing replacement or enlargement, post-base connector installation, post-to-beam connection upgrades, and improved drainage around footings.
When multiple posts or footings have failed, when frost heave has displaced several supports, when footings do not meet current frost-depth requirements, or when the post-and-beam system has widespread deterioration.
Yes, in most Connecticut towns, any deck that attached to the house or is over 30 inches off the ground requires a building permit. Don't worry, we handle all the permit paperwork and inspections for you.
Composite decking (like Trex or TimberTech) is highly recommended for Connecticut weather because it resists moisture, mold, and doesn't splinter. However, pressure-treated wood or cedar are excellent, cost-effective options if you are willing to keep up with bi-annual staining.
Yes! If your deck's underlying structure (joists, beams, and ledger board) is sound and properly flashed, we can perform a 'deck resurfacing.' This saves you thousands of dollars while giving you a brand-new looking deck surface and railings.
Small repairs can often be done in 1-2 days. A surface replacement might take 3-5 days. A complete custom build can take 1-3 weeks once permits are approved and materials are delivered.
Look for signs like spongy boards, wobbly railings, stairs that flex when you step on them, or gaps between the deck and your house (the ledger board). If you're unsure, we offer a comprehensive Deck Safety Check.