Complete Punch List Items
Walk your deck thoroughly and fix any remaining issues. Tighten loose fasteners, touch up scratches, sand missed rough spots, and address any inspection corrections. Make it perfect before you start enjoying it.
Quick Summary
1-3 hours
$0-$50
Easy
Very high
What is a Punch List?
In construction, a "punch list" is the final checklist of small items that need attention before a project is truly complete. The term comes from the old practice of punching a hole in a list next to each item as it was fixed. For your deck, this is your last chance to address the small details that make the difference between "good enough" and "perfect."
The 90/10 Rule
The last 10% of a project often takes 90% of the satisfaction. These small finishing touches - tight screws, smooth railings, clean lines - are what make your deck feel professional and well-built rather than obviously DIY.
Systematic Walk-Through
Grab a notepad and pen. Walk your deck systematically, checking each area. Write down everything that needs attention - you'll fix it all in one pass.
Deck Surface
- All screws flush with surface (not proud or sunken)
- No loose or spinning screws
- Consistent gaps between boards
- No splinters or rough spots (do barefoot test)
- Stain coverage even with no missed spots
- Debris cleaned from between boards
Railings
- No wobble in any post (push test each one)
- Top rail smooth with no splinters
- All balusters secure (wiggle each one)
- Post caps secure and level
- No sharp edges on corners
Stairs
- All treads secure (no bounce or squeak)
- Handrail smooth and secure
- Nosing edges rounded for comfort
- Bottom of stringers secure to landing
Structure (Visible Areas)
- All joist hanger nails/screws installed
- Fascia boards secure with no gaps
- Post base hardware tight
- Ledger flashing in place and sealed
Common Fixes
Proud Screws (Sticking Up)
Drive screws down until heads are flush with or slightly below surface. If the driver slips, switch to a fresh bit. For composite, don't over-drive or you'll create a mushroom effect.
Spinning Screws (Stripped Holes)
Remove screw, insert wooden toothpicks with wood glue into hole, break off flush, let dry 30 minutes, then re-drive screw. Alternatively, use a longer screw or move to a new location.
Rough Spots and Splinters
Sand with 80-grit, then 120-grit. Work with the grain. Round over any sharp corners. Apply touch-up stain to sanded areas after dust is removed.
Wobbly Railing Posts
Check that all bolts are tight. If post still wobbles, add blocking between post and rim joist, or add an additional through-bolt. Don't ignore this - it's a safety issue.
Stain Touch-ups
Use same stain as original application. Feather edges to blend with surrounding area. Apply in thin coats. Work on cool, shaded areas if possible.
Debris Between Boards
Use a putty knife, old credit card, or specialized deck gap tool to clean out debris. This improves drainage and airflow, extending deck life.
Inspection Corrections
If Your Inspection Found Issues
Address all inspection corrections before scheduling your re-inspection. Common corrections and how to fix them:
- Baluster spacing: Add balusters where gaps exceed 4 inches
- Missing joist hanger nails: Fill every hole in every hanger
- Railing height: Raise top rail to meet minimum height
- Handrail issues: Install graspable handrail at correct height
- Ledger concerns: Add flashing, additional fasteners as required
Final Cleanup
Construction Cleanup
- Remove all tools and equipment
- Dispose of or recycle scrap lumber
- Sweep deck surface thoroughly
- Clean debris from under deck
- Rinse off sawdust with hose (if stain is cured)
- Store leftover stain for future touch-ups
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a punch list?
A punch list is a final inspection checklist of small items that need to be fixed or completed before a construction project is considered truly finished. It typically includes minor corrections, touch-ups, and adjustments that were missed or developed during construction.
What should I look for on a deck punch list?
Check for loose or proud screws, rough spots and splinters, gaps in decking, wobbly railings, scratches in finish, debris in gaps between boards, any inspection corrections that were required, and ensure all post caps and trim are secure.
How do I fix a screw that won't tighten?
If a screw spins but won't tighten, the hole is stripped. Options: 1) Remove screw, insert a wooden toothpick with wood glue into the hole, let dry, then re-drive screw. 2) Use a slightly longer screw. 3) Move the screw to a new location nearby.
How long should punch list items take to fix?
For a typical DIY deck, punch list items should take 1-3 hours to complete. Most items are quick fixes - tightening screws, sanding spots, touching up finish. If you have significant issues, you may need more time or professional help.