List three visual indicators of deck distress.

• A. Potholes, spalling/cracking, and scaling or surface wear.
• B. Cracks in interior columns
• C. Moisture on soil
• D. Vegetation growth on the deck surface

Answer: (A)

The main idea here is recognizing the concrete deck surface distress signs that an inspector can see directly on the deck. The three most direct visual indicators are potholes, spalling or cracking, and scaling or surface wear. Potholes show where the deck surface has worn away into holes, usually from traffic, water intrusion, and freeze‑thaw action, signaling ongoing surface deterioration that can worsen and trap water. Spalling or cracking indicates the top layer of concrete is breaking away or cracking, which often means the protective cover over reinforcing steel is compromised and may lead to corrosion or deeper structural problems if not addressed. Scaling or surface wear is the loss of the concrete’s surface finish, typically from freeze‑thaw cycles and abrasion from deicers or traffic, reflecting ongoing surface degradation and reduced protective capacity.

Other options don’t reflect deck surface distress as directly. Cracks in interior columns relate to substructure elements rather than the deck surface. Moisture on soil points to conditions at or below the foundation, not the deck surface itself. Vegetation growth on the deck can signal drainage problems or neglect, but the most characteristic deck distress indicators are the concrete surface defects listed above.