How to fix rotting fascia boards in difficult to access spot?

[Coolaholigah]

Hi and thanks in advance

I noticed water damage in the ‘ceiling’ below an external deck (first floor) and investigation has revealed the water penetration has obviously been going on for some time and there is rotten timber. Unfortunately to redo the area completely and properly the glass balustrade would have to be removed and it is really quite complicated and as much as I would love to get someone to do it it is so hard to find someone to do a small job…

I think I can stop the water coming in at the top with something like Aquaknead but my question is what can I use to fill the hole (it was so rotten it just broke and I cleared a fair bit of loose material out with a screwdriver). Expanding foam? Some kind of hardener and wood filler. It is exterior and quite exposed.

any suggestions will be gratefully received thank you

I think water penetrating down masonry ananda through these gapsCorner of first floor deckFascia boards have rotted but one is behind balustradeFascia rotted at top too

[JacobZ]

Hi @Coolaholigah,

I will do my best to help, but ultimately, working around the glass could be tough. Please remember to be cautious when you are working around glass, as there is always the potential for it to shatter if it is hit in the wrong spot. Make sure you wear eye protection, gloves, long protective clothing, and enclosed shoes just in case.

I'd start by removing that first decking board, so you have a bit of access to the top of the fascia.

Where possible, the rotted timber should be soaked with Earl's Wood Hardener. Apply it to the rotted surface, following the instructions for application, then wait 24 hours before proceeding.

Once the 24 hours are up, fill the voids with builder's bog. You should be able to use a joint knife slipped past the glass to get to the rotted section in the middle and the one on top of the board.

Allow it to dry, then give it a sand with some 120-grit sandpaper where possible. You might be able to slip your hand past the glass, or you may need to use a flat sanding tool like this UNi-PRO YCDI Floor And Ceiling Pole Sander Head to get to it.

Once sanded, seal up the seams against the masonry and between the boards with some exterior no more gaps, then paint everything with 2-3 coats of an exterior paint. You can use some masking tape and drop cloths to protect the glass from paint splatter.

Let me know what you think, and if you have further questions, please don't hesitate to ask.

Jacob