Many decks sit several feet off the ground, which poses a danger to homeowners who try and perform their own repairs. Rotting wood or planks needing repairs can also be hazardous if left unattended. Avoid unnecessary deck-related injuries by calling in a professional.

John Arndt, owner of highly rated Coastal Construction in Seal Beach, Calif., recalls a job in Redondo Beach, Calif. where a customer’s 20-foot balcony was rotted and posed a major safety concern.

“It was a hazard and she was using it quite often,” he said.

Steven Brombert, owner of highly rated Regal Deck and Stair in Los Angeles, says when his customers call, the wood on their decks is most often already rotted and ready to be replaced. Calling a pro for repairs before it’s too late can often save the customer money, he says.

Other customers who call upon Brombert’s services need him to fix what others couldn’t. Brombert explains deck repair is often a multi-step process that could end up costing the homeowner double if not done correctly the first time.

“An untrained eye is not gonna see those hidden faults,” he says.

Because homeowners often do not have the right equipment needed for the job – such as scaffolding – Arndt says those who try to do it themselves are automatically at a higher risk of injury.