"using a screwdriver or something similar to gently prod suspect areas can help spot soft spots or rot early."
Good tip. I'd also recommend checking underneath the deck—especially around joists and ledger boards. Moisture loves hiding there, and catching issues early can save you from structural headaches later on.
That's a solid suggestion—checking underneath is definitely a must. I learned the hard way after ignoring the underside of my deck for years... thought everything was fine until my foot almost went through one of the boards during a BBQ. Lesson learned: moisture damage is sneaky and loves hiding in spots you don't usually look at. Regular checks can save you from some embarrassing (and expensive) surprises down the line.
I wish I'd read this thread sooner. When we bought our first house, I was so focused on interior renovations that I completely overlooked the deck. Figured it looked sturdy enough from above, right? Well, one weekend I finally crawled underneath to run some wiring for outdoor lights and found a whole section of joists practically crumbling from rot. Ended up spending way more time (and money) replacing structural supports than if I'd just checked earlier. Definitely learned my lesson about regular inspections...
Totally get where you're coming from—it's easy to overlook the deck when you're wrapped up in interior projects. Did you end up treating or sealing the new joists afterward? I've found that even pressure-treated lumber can start to rot quicker than you'd expect if moisture gets trapped. Also, did you notice any drainage issues under there? Sometimes just adding better ventilation or drainage channels can help prevent rot down the line...
"Did you end up treating or sealing the new joists afterward?"
Good point—pressure-treated lumber isn't bulletproof. I'd definitely recommend sealing the cut ends at least. Also, double-check ventilation underneath... trapped moisture is usually the real culprit behind rot issues.
