Porches, decks, and exterior stairs take more abuse than any other part of a house. They're exposed to sun and rain every day and carry people, furniture, and grills. A few minutes of checking once or twice a year can catch problems early.
Push on every railing. It shouldn't move. A loose railing usually means a post fastener has backed out or the post base is rotting.
Walk every board and stair tread. Soft spots, cracks, or boards that bounce mean rot or failed fasteners underneath. Pay extra attention where boards meet the house, since that's where water collects.
Look at the posts and footings. Posts sitting directly on soil or in standing water will rot. Footings should be solid and level, with posts on metal bases above grade.
Check the ledger where a deck attaches to the house. It should be bolted, not just nailed, with flashing above it to keep water out of the house framing.
If anything feels loose or soft, call (979) 551-2012. Most deck and stair repairs can be done in a single visit, and we build new ones with proper footings, fasteners, and railings.