Approximately 6% of Australian houses have a timber deck or balcony and about two per cent of these may cause potentially fatal injuries if they collapsed or if the balustrade or railing failed. These numbers are estimated to be even higher in Queensland.

Deck and balcony collapse or failure is often preventable through regular maintenance.

General deck and balcony maintenance

• Avoid frequently wetting decks and balconies and where possible sweep them instead of hosing.
• If your deck or balcony does get wet, ensure it is adequately ventilated to allow quicker drying.
• Place pot plants on trays and prevent them from overflowing.
• Remove shrubs or vegetation that permanently shade the deck or balcony, and remove creepers from rails or other components, as these prevent moisture from escaping.
• Ensure that timber decking is thoroughly cleaned before coating. Re-apply finishes at regular intervals depending on the finish type and degree of exposure.
• Always avoid using Oregon pine for structural purposes as it has a poor lifespan and durability.

Termites

Termites can be a major problem in timber structures. Look for:

• any softwood that has been used to construct the deck or balcony
• discoloured or blistered paint
• termite mud nests or any build up of soil around the base of the timber
• fine ‘sawdust’ around or below the timber.

Wet rot and moisture

Wet rot and moisture can cause decay in timber and fixings to rust. To help minimise damage:

• protect timber exposed to the weather by regularly painting or oiling
• reduce dampness on the timber by not allowing water to sit or pool on the deck, for example—keep trays or feet under pot plants
• soil and other debris should be cleared away from bearers or joists and deck posts or supports
• any structural problems need to be addressed immediately.

Coastal elements

The corrosive effects of salt, sand and wind can increase deck and balcony problems. To help protect your structure:

• wooden structures require oil-based paint to be regularly applied on all exposed timber surfaces such as bearers, joists and posts—decking oil alone may not be enough to provide a sufficient barrier against the harsh coastal conditions
• metal structures in coastal areas should be protected with paint or other protective coating. Ideally, this should be done at the time of construction to prevent initial deterioration or rusting
• metal that is left unprotected and starts to rust or corrode should be dealt with promptly to help prevent further deterioration.