Contact Custom Decks (705) 734-0488


"The Deck Doctor"


Is your deck structurally sound?

When was the last time you looked at it critically?    If your deck is over 20 years old or you are unsure of it's structure, then a critical analysis of your deck is overdue!

Most structures when designed properly don’t fail overnight, rather they show signs of potential problems, years before the failure occurs. This is true for major structures like highway bridges and high rise buildings and the deck structure attached to your home.

Is the deck material healthy?

The most frequent reason for deck failure is structural material breaking down. Wood, even pressure treated wood, and speciality woods like cedar can and do break down due to bacteria or fungi. Decks that see very little sun or are very close to the ground are most at risk of structural failure. These decks tend to retain moisture facilitating premature growth of bacteria and fungi. Surfaces often look normal but under the surface the bacteria is at work breaking down the fibres in the wood. In extreme cases the fungi will surface. In these cases the fungi have consumed all the internal fibre and the wood is at the failure stage.

Decks with a southern exposure and in the sun most of the day often look like they are failing however, over exposure to the sun more often results in “cosmetic” failure rather than structural failure. Often these decks can be restored to like new conditions with only a few hours of sweat equity when treated early. If neglected longer the deck plate can be replaced at a fraction of the full deck cost restoring the deck to like new conditions.

Does your deck have wood piers below grade?

Wood piers should be inspected every year! The Ontario Building code once allowed wood piers to be placed below the ground line. It is not the case today. The code was changed due to premature failure often within 5 to 10 years where soil drainage is poor.

Is your deck properly designed?

The second largest reason for deck failure is poor deck design. A high percentage of decks are built by the homeowner. A new deck requires a building permit where the deck design is first reviewed and approved by the municipality and later inspected by them to ensure the design and material are to code. Unfortunately, far too often homeowners build their decks without a building permit, and the design is questionable. If you do not know the history of your deck and do not understand structural design, then you should have it inspected.

Are you aware that you are liable for the safety of your deck?

If your deck fails and there is a claim your insurance company will investigate. If it is found the deck did not have a permit or the design does not meet the Ontario Building code or you have not properly maintained your deck, they can and do challenge claims. Negligence is not a good defence.

Are any of the above questions a concern?

If so, the “Deck Doctor” a licensed professional engineer, would be glad to assist you evaluate the structural safety of your deck. CONTACT US!


Do I Need to See the Deck Doctor?

  • Is your old deck structurally sound?
  • Is the deck material healthy?
  • Is it built to today's Building Code Standards?
  • Is your deck properly designed?
  • Are you aware that you are liable for the safety of your deck?

Custom Decks Barrie is increasingly involved in deck replacement in older areas. We call this service the The Deck Doctor

Our professional engineering service can provide you with a free evaluation of the health of your existing deck.