Of course, homeowners bear the greatest burden for keeping new decks free from mold, but there are some things a builder can do:
- Gap the decking properly (minimum 1/8”) for drainage.
- Pitch the deck properly away from the house for drainage (minimum 1/8” in 8’).
- Space the ledger away from the wall with a 3/4” gap so that air can circulate behind it; allowing air to circulate behind it not only helps to prevent mold but discourages rot as well.