Fencing Company Massillon OH | Call General Fence

Look for loose or wobbly railings, splintered boards, and small soft spots that don't extend beyond a few feet. If the ledger board where the deck attaches to your house is still firmly secured and only a few surface boards are rotted, General Fence can often handle targeted repairs. We check for hidden issues near the foundation that are common in older Massillon homes, especially those near Massillon Cemetery or Reservoir Park.

We first remove all old decking and assess the joists and support posts. For decks near the Tuscarawas River or in low-lying areas of Massillon, ground moisture can be a persistent problem. We replace any compromised structural lumber with pressure-treated wood rated for ground contact. For the new deck surface, we recommend composite decking for longevity, but we also offer treated pine if you prefer a natural look that matches older homes in neighborhoods like the Massillon Historic District.

Not exactly. Even replacement decks often require a permit from the City of Massillon Building Department, especially if you change dimensions or structural support. General Fence handles permit applications on your behalf. We work with the city inspectors to ensure your new deck meets current code, which is stricter than many older decks built 15-20 years ago. We can often reuse existing footings if they pass inspection, saving you cost and time.