If the wood feels soft, splinters, or is easily penetrated, it is rotting and needs to be replaced. [substeps] Pay special attention to the gaps between decking boards as well as the deck joists underneath the deck boards.
[header] How to safety check your deck [title] Make sure the deck's boards are strong. [step] Look all across the deck for damaged boards, particularly in areas where water gathers. Take an ice pick or screwdriver and push the tip into the wood.