Real Talk on Deck Companies in Longmont After Storm Season
After a season of strong winds, heavy rain, and a few good hailstorms, decks around Longmont can start showing signs of wear. Summer storms in Northern Colorado tend to sneak up fast and leave damage behind, especially to outdoor spaces that see a lot of use. By mid to late August, most homeowners are starting to take stock of the impact and figure out what needs fixing before cooler weather rolls in.
This is also when many people begin searching for deck companies in Longmont to take a closer look at things. Maybe boards are starting to curl, or the railing doesn’t feel as secure as it used to. Whatever the reason, now’s a smart time to act. The weather is still warm, materials can dry out fast, and repairs made now can help avoid bigger issues down the line. Let’s talk through what to keep an eye on, what might be hiding underneath, and how to make a solid plan moving forward.
What Storm Season Leaves Behind
Storms can wear down a deck in ways that don’t always show up right away. Wet wood expands, then shrinks again when the sun comes out. That back-and-forth makes decks more likely to crack, swell, or shift over time.
Deck boards might lift or split, especially if water got between tight spaces and didn’t dry quickly.
Fast-changing weather can loosen the connection between the stairs or railings and the main framing. These areas are often hit the hardest by wind.
If water sat too long in low spots or shady corners, mold and mildew might be starting to grow. Sometimes, you can’t see mildew forming on the surface, but you can smell it or feel extra slick areas when walking barefoot.
The longer storm damage goes unchecked, the easier it is for problems to grow. Late summer is the best moment to see how the deck is holding up while the wood is still exposed and the skies are mostly dry.
Signs Your Deck Might Need More Than a Quick Fix
There’s a difference between minor storm damage and deeper issues that could put safety at risk. If your deck starts creaking more than usual or feels less steady, it’s worth taking a closer look.
Wobbly railings or steps could mean the fasteners underneath have rusted or loosened.
Soft or squishy spots, especially near the edges, might point to water damage that has spread inside the wood.
Uneven stairs or sinking corners usually don’t fix themselves. They’re signs that something underneath has shifted.
This is where experienced help matters. Calling deck companies in Longmont isn’t just about making the deck look better. It’s about confirming the structure is still safe to use before the freeze-thaw cycle of winter makes things worse.
What Reputable Companies Notice That Homeowners Might Miss
It’s easy to spot a cracked board or loose screw on the surface, but a lot of deck trouble hides underneath. We’ve seen cases where the top looks solid, but the supports underneath are holding together by habit, not strength.
Posts and joists can start to rot slowly from inside out, especially if the drainage around the base is off.
Rusted brackets, bent fasteners, or hidden gaps in the frame can weaken the deck without showing signs from above.
Poor airflow under the deck can trap moisture, inviting fungus or pests to settle in.
These aren’t repairs most homeowners will notice without getting under the deck. A trained inspection takes into account how the deck is aging, how it was built, and what the recent weather might have done to it.
Schwabees Landscaping and Construction performs structural deck inspections, drainage checks, and both minor and major repairs for Longmont-area homeowners. Our team uses weather-resistant fasteners and proven construction methods to restore deck safety and function after storm season.
Questions to Keep in Mind Before Choosing Help
Before deciding on repairs or upgrades, it helps to think about how the deck has been used over the years and what might come next.
Has any work already been done to fix loose boards or railings in the past few seasons? If so, it may be time to look deeper.
Is the deck used weekly, or only during warm months? Frequent use puts different pressure on joints and stairs.
What material is the deck made of, and how has it handled this year’s heat and storms? Some materials age faster depending on exposure and weight.
These kinds of questions help figure out whether a quick repair makes sense or if a bigger fix is going to be the better plan.
Why Late Summer Is a Smart Time to Decide
August offers one of the last best chances to make outdoor repairs without rushing. In Longmont, we usually get a run of dry, warm afternoons during this month. It’s simple to clean the deck, check for issues, and let new materials settle in before the first signs of fall.
Late summer weather gives wood a chance to dry fully before repairs. That makes things easier to fix and helps avoid trapped moisture.
Contractors tend to book up quickly once September hits. Getting repairs in now often means a quicker timeline and fewer delays.
If you wait too long, snow could hit before any work starts. That leaves the deck vulnerable for another season and might double the trouble come spring.
Catching damage before it spreads is always the easier path. This window of time in late summer could be the difference between simple fixes and long-term problems.
Choosing Safety, Strength, and Peace of Mind
Taking care of storm damage isn’t just about style. It’s about keeping the deck safe, strong, and ready for what comes next. Whether it’s holding up to another windy season or just giving you confidence the stairs won’t wobble, it matters knowing the space is solid.
If something doesn’t feel right underfoot, don’t wait. Small signs have a way of growing into big issues, especially when weather gets colder. A thoughtful review now can keep frustrations low and confidence high through the rest of the year. When we make time to look closely, we’re making smart choices not just for our space, but for everyone who enjoys it too.
After a long summer, it’s important to make sure your deck is still safe and sturdy. Late summer is the ideal time to spot any signs of damage and address them before colder weather arrives. For homeowners comparing deck companies in Longmont, a timely inspection can make all the difference. We know from experience that acting on small issues now can prevent bigger challenges later. Contact Schwabees Landscaping and Construction to discuss your options or schedule a visit from our team.
