Decking

Is Your Deck Secretly Set Up to Fail?
Many decks look perfect on day one, only to show swelling boards, cupping, or decay within a few short years. One of the biggest culprits? Inadequate ventilation. When air can’t circulate beneath a deck, moisture lingers, humidity rises, and timber slowly loses the battle against the elements. We’ve seen cases where a $20,000 deck was ruined in less than four years – all because this vital design consideration was overlooked.

This issue isn’t limited to low-set decks. Even elevated or partially enclosed decks can suffer when airflow is blocked or drainage is poor. Gaps can close up, moisture becomes trapped, and fungi get the perfect environment to thrive. Once the damage sets in, repairs can be costly, invasive, and, in some cases, a complete rebuild may be the only solution.

Our latest ATFA Information Sheet explains the tell-tale signs of poor deck ventilation, the design factors that make or break a deck’s longevity, and how to plan for a structure that stands the test of time. From industry-accepted tolerances to simple preventative measures, the guide gives you the knowledge to protect your investment. Full access is available exclusively to ATFA members.