What signs indicate deck drainage problems?

• A. Ponding water, accelerated deterioration, potholes, and corrosion of deck components
• B. Ponding water and potholes only
• C. Cracking and peeling paint
• D. Sound anomalies in traffic flow

Answer: (C)

Moisture management on a bridge deck is the signal you’re looking for when drainage is failing. A deck coating is meant to keep water out and protect the underlying concrete or steel. When drainage isn’t working, water can sit on or under the surface and cause the coating to lose adhesion and deteriorate. Cracking and peeling paint or coating are direct indicators of that moisture intrusion, revealing that water has been penetrating through the deck finish. This moisture-driven damage often accompanies other deck problems, but the visible coating failure is a clear sign that drainage isn’t effectively removing water and that the deck’s drainage system (slopes, drains, scuppers, and coatings) needs evaluation and repair.