What Causes Decks to Fail?

Maybe your decking looks suspect, but how sure are you that the structure underneath isn't just as bad?

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Published on 03 Jun 2025

inspect your deck annually

Three things matter most

A deteriorating deck is pretty easy to spot. Your first thought is, let’s get some shiny new decking to fix that.  And you’d be partly correct. Most decking used in decades past is only good for about 10-15 years in our Minnesota climate. However, replacing the decking is not the whole story. Not even half.

When decks are suspect, a good remodeler (a good investigator) will also examine the structure and the foundation. Because putting new decking on a flawed structure is worse than lipstick on a pig.  It can be outright dangerous.  All failures result from one or all of three things: Faulty/degraded materials, improper methods, and inexperienced workmanship.

A lack of maintenance over many years can destroy natural decking, but even low-maintenance decking needs an annual power wash, depending on exposure to sun and trees.

According to data from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), an average of approximately 6,000 people per year are injured due to the structural failure or collapse of decks, porches, railings, or staircases. 

The International Association of Certified Home Inspectors estimates that about 60% of the 45 million decks in the U.S. have safety issues, with 90% of deck collapses occurring due to failure at the ledger board—the connection point between the deck and the house.

This deck was face-nailed to the ledger board. Over time, with freeze/thaw cycles, foot traffic, and load-bearing shifts, those nails work themselves loose.

inspections involve 10 key components

The 10 things we look for inspecting decks

        1. Improper ledger board attachment: Proper lag bolts used?
        2. Inadequate support posts and beams: Proper spacing and size used?
        3. Lack of regular maintenance: Painted, stained, cleaned?
        4. Inadequate foundation: Footings solid, soil settled or shifted?
        5. Wood rot and decay: Constant moisture exposure?
        6. Corroded fasteners: Were galvanized fasteners used?
        7. Pest infestation: Ants, etc?
        8. Overloads: Large groups or a hot tub?
        9. Improper modifications: Planters or enclosures added?
        10. Improper stair or railing construction: Proper hangers & blocking?
Apparently, some skipped math too.

The changes in building codes for decks have been significant in recent years, and so too have the types of materials, fasteners and railing options. 

This sustainable, biophilic-designed deck remodel we did recently, features glass railings, thermally treated Arbor decking, an outdoor shower, with sauna.

Ever year, new technology emerges to help remodelers build the safest, strongest, longest-lasting structures possible—and the most beautiful.  While natural material like cedar still has appeal, composites are also great choices for the harsh Minnesota conditions.

We have many great supply partners for every level of aesthetics and durability.  Check out our showroom page for our latest decking supply partners.

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