[Chainplate]

About 30 years ago (I can't believe it's been that long . . . ) we added an addition to our small home - a large family room with a master bedroom above. Facing the backyard from the second story, our contractor added a cantilevered deck and I had no complaints with his craftsmanship or technique, even though I have limited knowledge of residential construction.

My wife and I spent about 10 years overseas and when we returned, I found what appeared to be some termite damage. I pulled up the 2x6 redwood decking and found (what I consider) to be significant dry rot and termite damage. Some of the joists are a fraction of their original size.

While the deck feels as sturdy as it ever has, I feel like I need to do something. Is there anyway to inject penetrating epoxy and rehabilitate the joists? Or should we just cut the joists flush with the side of the house and lock the sliding glass door that serviced the deck?

Any suggestions will be appreciated.

 

[Nealtw]

Yes it should be cut off that is a clear path for water and rot to enter the house. The stucco should really be removed so you could make it weather tight.

 

[joecaption]

No amount of patching is going to fix this one.

 

[Nealtw]

If you still want to open the window.

 

[3onthetree]

If you cut off the joists you need to make sure water and termites haven't made their way inside the wall as well - don't just patch up the stucco. It seems though that option would detract from a great asset of a master balcony in CA. Of course replacing them requires ceiling access below, and doing a new stand-alone probably brings you undesired seismic requirements.

BTW you get a A+ for the homework assignment with your pictures, info and drawing on your very first post.

 

[sixeightten]

We removed one of those years ago, and the window header underneath was completely eaten up by insects.

 

[Chainplate]

Thanks to everyone who posted a comment about my deck dilemma. I'm hoping that the deck will last until either we sell the house or die, whichever comes first.

I thought I'd post photos of what it looks like, both before and after.

 

[Bud9051]

Did you inspect further for more termite damage?
It does look nice but termites don't just go away. Not sure how long you have been back but most termite varieties will swarm in spring, not sure about CA. But if they are still there they will let you know.

Bud