I think the bolts I’m using are just a little too long and caused an insert to create a crack that moved laterally downward and then back up. If my theory is right and it’s not a weight issue, I’m about 300lb right now, then I’m wondering what kind of glue or epoxy would be strong and flexible enough to fix it.
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Sorry to hear that. You might be able to try injecting a thin epoxy with a syringe, then clamping the deck back together. The professional option would be to perform a resin infusion in a vacuum bag.
Maybe putting a layer of light fiberglass fabric around the rails would prevent future breaks?
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Delams gg. Epoxy filling it will prevent it from spreading. In a pinch you can use CA glue + some sawdust. Then clamp and dust baking soda on the CA glue to instantly set it
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I had a deck do that also. I just shot some Super Glue in there and clamped it tight. That was 3 years ago and it’s still 100% fine.
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That’s impressive… Is it a flexy deck?
Loaded Vanguard Flex 1.
The key is to clamp it down really good immediately after you put the glue in the crack.
Use more glue than necessary, and make sure it goes deep in the crack (use a toothpick to really get the glue in there) and make sure the glue covers the entire affected area. If you don’t have any super glue handy, a good 5 minute 2 part epoxy will do the same thing.
Then just lightly sand the excess dried glue off.
If super glue or epoxy doesn’t work (for whatever reason) - you can try more invasive options.
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Had exactly the same crack on wowgo 2 flex bamboo deck. And Uam used professional wood maker polyurethane glue. Than I covered gap by tape and clamped all for 24h and result was impressive. Just need to open gap as much as is possible that glue will go in. Polyurethane glue is expanding inside. Hope it will help You.
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That’s great! I was researching pliable epoxies and they’re not cheap, so this is really good to know. Thanks!
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Sounds good! Yeah, I might go with jb weld for wood, but so glad to hear about multiple long term fixes on bamboo decks.
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Yep. Open the crack as wide as possible, put some kind of strong glue in there, and clamp it until it dries - and you’ll be fine.
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I vote polyurethane glue for it’s expansion abilities.
Laminating epoxy is good too but I’m picking you don’t already have some. I mix a small amount up in a bottle cap and use “drug dealer scales”, when doing small amounts like installing threaded inserts. No need for rubberised epoxy. Also, a heat gun thins the epoxy if you need to and might help blow it deeper into the crack.
I also vote for using the clamps too. Maybe even some masking tape over the crack first.
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