Removing Unpleasant Odors From Under Your Deck

So you’re relaxing in your outdoor space, sipping a cold drink, just enjoying a good day–and then you notice a problem with your deck. But the issue in question is not exactly something you can see, but something you can smell. You don’t have to let this ruin a good day. The trusted deck and roofing contractor in the area, Shine Construction Inc. shares how you can get rid of unpleasant odors from beneath your outdoor space.

1. Identify the reason for the smell first. This is probably the most challenging thing about this process. But once you determine the cause for the odor, you’ll know exactly how to deal with it. There are many reasons why that smell under, or around, your deck is there, including:

• Animals. The fact is that small animals will brave any yard and deck to look for food. Woodchucks, possums, raccoons, skunks, moles and rats will find their way under your deck and settle there. Sometimes, they leave droppings behind, but they can also expire under the deck. Even if it’s a tiny animal, the smell can become overpowering.

• Dog and cat urine. Urine can create a powerful smell, especially when it accumulates over time. The same goes for pet poop. Have you seen your furry friends exiting the space under your deck on occasion? It’s probably time to potty train Rover and Mittens better.

• Mold and mildew. In other cases, the reason for that stale and musty smell is fungal in nature. Mold and mildew thrives in shady and damp environments. Serious fungal growth can occur on the framing of your deck, so it pays to deal with it immediately.

When you need to check under the deck (you’ll need to do some crawling), make sure to wear clothes with long sleeves and pants. You should also wear gloves, plus a mask over your nose and mouth for greater safety and protection. And bring a flashlight with you! If there’s not enough space under the deck to crawl into, you may need to remove a few boards to get to the source of that smell.

2. Remove the cause of the odor. There’s no getting around it–you’ll need to take matters into your own hands, literally. Once you find the reason for the smell, it’s time to get rid of it. Reach over with your gloved hands and slip the offending material into a plastic bag, then tie it shut. If you’d rather not touch it altogether, use a garden trowel or long-handled grabber tool. Note that if the reason for the smell is excessive mold and rot in the deck structure, you should have it checked by a trusted deck and roofing contractor like Shine Construction Inc.

3. Start Deodorizing. Even after removing its source, there’s still a chance the smell will linger. The treatment option you’ll need to use will, once again, depend on the cause of the odor. You should, for example, sprinkle baking soda on areas where your dog or cat has urinated. Scrubbing the deck using vinegar mixed with water may also work. If the mold under the deck is minor, you may get away with cleaning the area with a bleach and water mixture. You may need to have the deck resealed after. 

Other Ways to Keep Your Deck in Good Shape

Once you get rid of the foul odor from under your deck, take the time to inspect the structure for other possible issues that also need resolution. Check out these tips:

• Practice routine cleaning.
• Sweep the dirt and debris on the deck regularly.
• Use the appropriate cleaner when washing the deck.
• Check for, and replace, any missing nails or popped screws
• Look for mold and rot in the boards, joists, and beams.

When Deck Maintenance Won’t Cut It Anymore

In some cases, unpleasant odors aren’t the only decking problem you’ll need to address. Aging materials, weakened deck structure, worn finishes–when your current outdoor space is already displaying these warning signs, it may be time for a new installation. Shine Construction Inc. can help you with this. We’re not just your trusted expert in roof replacement–we are also your go-to company for designing and building a better, more durable and beautiful deck for your home.

Our professional crew will listen carefully to your needs, and work on a design that suits them. Not only that, we’ll also help you explore available decking materials. This way, we can determine the option that matches best with your style and budget. The talented deck specialists at Shine Construction Inc. have experience working with pressure-treated lumber, cedar, composite, and PVC. Look no further for a functional and well-designed outdoor space that goes beyond your expectations.

What to Expect From Shine Construction Inc.

Homeowners in Massachusetts and Rhode Island know that when it comes to high-quality exterior home improvement services, they can always count on Shine Construction Inc. From roof repair and gutter installation, to deck replacement and roof snow removal, we’ve got you covered. Here are the reasons we remain one of the top choices for exterior home upgrades in the New England region:

• Full Credentials. First, the basics. Shine Construction Inc. has all the requirements that make us qualified to perform home improvement work in your area. We are fully licensed, bonded, and insured. Every member of our professional team also has workers’ compensation and liability coverage. Your greater protection is one of our top priorities, after all.

• More than a Decade of Industry Experience. It always pays to work with an experienced contractor for your home upgrade. Shine Construction Inc. has been in business for 20 years. We understand what MA and RI homeowners need and how to meet them completely. Whether you need roof replacement or deck installation, you can expect us to deliver only the best results. No costly errors, callbacks and unnecessary delays–just superior workmanship and a smooth process from start to finish.

• Full Customer Satisfaction. Shine Construction aims to make your home improvement experience a positive and enjoyable one. That’s why we work hard to not only meet your expectations, but to exceed them. You’ll find this dedication reflected in the 5-star reviews we earn in Facebook and Google from pleased customers, and the  A%20 Rating we maintain with the Better Business Bureau. You have our word that we’ll give your project the full attention it deserves. In fact, our highly trained and skilled crew will guide you through every step of your home improvement project.

Schedule Your Free Quote Today!

Aside from expert roof repair, Shine Construction Inc. can also handle your deck maintenance needs. And when it’s finally time to replace your old one, we can help you with that, as well. We proudly serve the areas in and around Uxbridge, MA, and nearby cities in RI. Call us today at (508) 278-3300 or fill out this contact form to schedule your FREE consultation. We look forward to hearing from you!