Deck Repair in Knoxville, TN

Professional Deck Repair in Knoxville, TN

Professional deck repair goes far beyond replacing a few weathered boards. We examine the entire structure—from footings and posts to joists, ledger boards, decking, railings, and stairs. Every deck repair project starts with understanding what’s failing and why.

East Tennessee’s humidity, heavy rain, and temperature swings accelerate wood decay and structural movement. Pressure-treated lumber that looked solid ten years ago might now have soft spots, hidden rot, or loose fasteners that compromise the entire deck. We’ve repaired hundreds of decks across Knoxville, Maryville, Farragut, and surrounding areas where moisture damage went unnoticed until someone felt a board flex underfoot.

Our in-house crews—not subcontractors—handle every deck repair from inspection through completion. When you work with Knoxville Deck Builders, you get experienced craftsmen who understand local building codes, East Tennessee weather patterns, and the unique challenges of repairing older deck structures built on sloped terrain common throughout Knox County.

We repair wood decks and composite decking. We fix structural framing issues. We rebuild stairs and railings to current code. And we do it right the first time, backed by our five-year workmanship warranty.

Signs Your Deck Needs Repair

Many homeowners wait too long to address deck problems. Small issues become expensive repairs. Minor rot spreads through framing members. A wobbly railing becomes a serious safety hazard.

Watch for these warning signs that your deck needs professional attention:

• Soft, spongy, or discolored wood that indicates rot or moisture damage
• Loose or wobbly railings that move when you apply pressure
• Cracked, split, or splintered deck boards that create trip hazards
• Rusty nails or screws pulling away from the wood surface
• Gaps between the deck and your home’s exterior wall
• Posts that lean or shift when pushed
• Stairs that feel unstable or bounce when you walk on them
• Visible daylight through gaps in the ledger board connection
• Mold, mildew, or green algae growth that won’t wash away
• Popped nails or raised screw heads across multiple boards

Any single item on this list deserves a professional inspection. Multiple signs mean you shouldn’t wait another week to address structural safety concerns.

We’ve inspected decks where homeowners ignored small problems for years. What started as minor surface rot became hidden joist decay that required extensive structural repairs. The cost difference between early intervention and delayed repair can be thousands of dollars—and the safety risk isn’t worth gambling with your family’s wellbeing.

Deck Repair vs Deck Replacement

The most common question we hear is whether repair makes sense or if replacement is the better investment. The answer depends on several factors: the extent of structural damage, the age of your deck, code compliance issues, and your long-term plans for the outdoor space.

Deck repair makes sense when the underlying structure remains sound. If your footings, posts, and main framing members are solid but surface boards and railings show wear, repair delivers excellent value. You preserve the investment in the foundation and structural framing while updating visible components that take the most abuse from weather and foot traffic.

We provide honest assessments. If your deck needs replacement, we’ll tell you—and explain exactly why repair won’t deliver the safety and longevity you deserve. But we won’t push replacement when quality repair work will give you another ten years of safe use at a fraction of the cost.

Many homeowners in Knoxville and surrounding East Tennessee communities have older decks that just need targeted repairs—new boards where rot developed, reinforced railings to meet current code, or structural repairs to address specific joist or ledger board issues. These repairs extend deck life and restore safety without the disruption and expense of complete replacement.

Structural Deck Repair

Structural deck repair addresses the bones of your deck—the framing, support posts, footings, and ledger board that carry the weight and keep the entire structure stable and safe. These repairs require experienced crews who understand load calculations, proper connection methods, and building code requirements.

We’ve repaired structural issues on hundreds of decks throughout Knoxville and East Tennessee. Common structural problems include rotted joists, compromised ledger boards, unstable posts, settled footings, and inadequate bracing that allows excessive movement.

Ledger Board Repair and Replacement

The ledger board connects your deck to your home and carries half the deck’s weight. Improper installation or rot in this critical component causes catastrophic deck failures. We inspect ledger board connections on every deck repair project and address any issues with proper flashing, fasteners rated for the load, and code-compliant spacing.

Many older decks across Knoxville were built before current ledger board requirements became standard. We bring these connections up to code using proper through-bolts or lag screws, install flashing to prevent moisture intrusion, and ensure the ledger attaches to solid framing—not just siding or sheathing.

Joist and Beam Repair

Floor joists and support beams develop rot where they contact posts, where moisture collects, or where inadequate ventilation traps humidity beneath the deck. We sister new joists alongside damaged members or completely replace compromised framing depending on the extent of decay.

East Tennessee’s humidity creates ideal conditions for wood rot, especially in older pressure-treated lumber that wasn’t treated to current standards. We use properly rated pressure-treated lumber for all structural repairs and ensure adequate ventilation and drainage to prevent future moisture problems.

Post and Footing Repairs

Support posts that lean or show rot at ground level compromise the entire deck structure. We evaluate whether posts can be reinforced or need complete replacement along with footing upgrades to prevent future settling on the sloped terrain common throughout Knox County and surrounding areas.

Proper footing depth and size matter. Shallow footings settle over time, especially on hillsides around Knoxville, Maryville, and Farragut. We install footings that meet local code requirements and account for soil conditions and frost depth in East Tennessee.

Deck Restoration for Aging Outdoor Spaces

Deck restoration brings an aging outdoor space back to life through comprehensive repairs, surface renewal, and protective treatments. Restoration makes sense when the structure remains sound but years of weather exposure have taken their toll on appearance and surface condition.

We approach deck restoration as a complete renewal project. First, we address any structural repairs needed to ensure safety. Then we replace damaged boards, rebuild railings if necessary, and prepare all wood surfaces for refinishing.

Many homeowners in Knoxville and East Tennessee have decks built fifteen to twenty years ago that just need restoration rather than replacement. The framing remains solid, but surface boards show weathering, railings need updating, and the wood cries out for proper cleaning and refinishing.

What Deck Restoration Includes

• Complete structural inspection and any necessary framing repairs
• Replacement of damaged or rotted deck boards
• Railing repair or replacement to meet current safety codes
• Stair rebuilding if treads or stringers show wear or damage
• Power washing to remove years of dirt, mildew, and old stain
• Surface preparation including sanding rough or splintered areas
• Application of quality deck stain or sealant for long-term protection

Deck restoration costs less than replacement while delivering a deck that looks new and will serve your family safely for many more years. The investment in restoration makes financial sense when the underlying structure doesn’t need complete rebuilding.

Deck Refinishing for Weathered Wood Decks

Deck refinishing focuses on surface renewal—deep cleaning, repairing minor board damage, and applying protective stain or sealant to restore appearance and protect wood from East Tennessee weather. Refinishing extends the life of your deck and prevents minor surface issues from becoming major structural problems.

Weathered wood loses its natural protection over time. Gray, splintered boards aren’t just ugly—they’re more vulnerable to rot and moisture damage. Regular refinishing every two to three years protects your deck investment and maintains that outdoor living space you love.

We handle complete deck refinishing projects throughout Knoxville and surrounding communities. Our process includes thorough cleaning to remove all dirt and mildew, surface repairs to address any splinters or minor damage, and application of quality stain products formulated for pressure-treated lumber or the specific wood species in your deck.

The Deck Refinishing Process

Professional refinishing delivers results that last. We don’t just slap stain over dirty wood and call it done. Our crews prepare surfaces properly so stain penetrates and protects rather than just sitting on the surface ready to peel.

1. Deep cleaning with professional-grade equipment and cleaning solutions that remove embedded dirt, mildew, and failed stain
2. Surface inspection and minor board repairs to replace any damaged sections
3. Sanding rough areas and setting any popped fasteners flush with the surface
4. Application of quality penetrating stain or semi-transparent finish that protects while showing wood grain
5. Second coat application on horizontal surfaces that take the most weather exposure
6. Cleanup and final inspection to ensure complete coverage and professional results

Regular refinishing protects your deck from moisture damage, prevents premature rot, and keeps that outdoor space looking great year after year. Many homeowners in Knoxville schedule refinishing every two to three years as part of normal home maintenance—and their decks last decades longer as a result.

Pool Deck Repair

Pool deck repair requires special attention to safety, drainage, and materials that withstand constant moisture exposure. Pool decks take more abuse than standard decks—chlorine exposure, wet feet, pool chemicals, and year-round moisture create challenges that accelerate wear and damage.

We repair pool decks throughout Knoxville and East Tennessee communities where homeowners need surfaces that stay safe even when wet. Pool deck repairs address rotted boards, damaged concrete surfaces, compromised structural supports, and drainage issues that allow water to pool near the deck structure.

Wood pool decks need moisture-resistant materials and proper drainage design. We use pressure-treated lumber rated for ground contact even on above-ground applications because pool decks face constant moisture exposure. Proper spacing between boards allows water drainage and air circulation that prevents rot.

Composite decking works well for pool deck applications because it resists moisture damage, won’t splinter, and requires minimal maintenance. We repair both wood and composite pool decks and can advise on material choices if sections need complete replacement.

Common Pool Deck Problems

• Rotted boards near pool edges where splashing concentrates moisture
• Loose or damaged coping that creates trip hazards
• Structural movement from soil settlement around pool excavation
• Drainage problems that allow standing water against deck framing
• Fastener corrosion from chlorine and chemical exposure
• Surface deterioration from constant wet-dry cycles

Pool deck safety matters even more than standard deck safety because wet surfaces amplify any trip hazard or structural instability. We inspect pool decks thoroughly and address both visible damage and underlying issues that could create safety problems.

Repairing Stairs, Railings, Posts, Joists, Boards, and Ledger Boards

Every deck component serves a specific structural or safety purpose. When any single element fails, the entire deck becomes less safe. We repair all deck components using proper materials, code-compliant methods, and construction techniques that deliver long-term durability.

Deck Board Replacement

Individual deck boards wear unevenly based on sun exposure, foot traffic patterns, and where water tends to collect. We replace damaged boards with matching materials and ensure proper fastener spacing and gap maintenance for drainage and expansion. Mixing new boards with existing decking requires careful attention to spacing and alignment so the repair blends seamlessly.

Railing Repair and Replacement

Railings prevent falls and must meet specific height and spacing requirements in current building codes. Many older decks throughout Knoxville have railings that no longer meet code—balusters spaced too far apart, rails too low, or connections that have loosened over time. We rebuild railings to current standards using proper post connections and baluster spacing that passes inspection.

Loose railings aren’t just annoying—they’re dangerous. We secure existing railings when possible or completely rebuild railing sections that show structural damage or rot. All railing repairs use code-compliant fasteners and connection methods that keep railings stable for years to come.

Stair Repairs

Deck stairs take tremendous stress from constant use and weather exposure. Treads wear out. Stringers develop cracks or rot where they contact the ground. Handrails loosen. We rebuild deck stairs using proper riser and tread dimensions, adequate stringer support, and handrails that meet code requirements for height and return details.

Bouncy or unstable stairs indicate structural problems that need immediate attention. We evaluate the entire stair assembly—not just visible damage—and make repairs that restore solid, safe access to your deck.

Post and Support Repairs

Support posts carry the deck’s weight and must remain plumb and solidly connected to footings and framing. Posts that lean indicate footing settlement or inadequate bracing. Rot at post bases compromises load-bearing capacity. We replace damaged posts using proper connection hardware and ensure adequate post-to-beam and post-to-footing connections.

Joist and Ledger Board Repairs

These critical structural components were covered earlier, but they’re worth repeating: joist and ledger board damage creates serious safety hazards. We never compromise on structural repairs. Damaged framing gets replaced or properly reinforced using methods that restore full load-bearing capacity and meet current building codes.

Common Deck Problems Caused by East Tennessee Weather

East Tennessee weather creates specific challenges for deck structures. High humidity, heavy rainfall, temperature swings, and occasional ice storms all take their toll on wood decks. Understanding local weather patterns helps us repair decks properly and recommend maintenance that prevents future problems.

Humidity and Moisture Damage

Knoxville’s humidity creates perfect conditions for wood rot and decay. Moisture doesn’t just damage deck boards—it penetrates joists, beams, and posts, causing hidden structural damage that spreads over time. Inadequate ventilation under decks traps moisture and accelerates rot in framing members.

We see moisture damage most often where deck boards trap water against joists, where posts contact soil or concrete, and in areas with poor drainage. Proper repairs include addressing the moisture source—not just replacing rotted wood that will fail again without fixing the underlying problem.

Rain and Water Infiltration

East Tennessee gets significant rainfall throughout the year. Water infiltration around ledger boards, through deck board gaps, and pooling on flat deck surfaces all contribute to accelerated wear and structural damage. We ensure proper flashing at ledger board connections, adequate deck slope for drainage, and appropriate gap spacing between boards.

Temperature and UV Exposure

Summer sun bakes deck surfaces while winter freezes stress wood fibers. This expansion and contraction cycle loosens fasteners, opens cracks, and accelerates surface deterioration. South and west-facing decks in Knoxville take the worst UV damage and need more frequent refinishing to maintain protection.

Slope and Terrain Challenges

Many homes throughout Knox County sit on sloped lots that create unique deck challenges. Elevated decks on hillsides face greater structural stress. Footings must extend deeper. Posts carry more load. And slope-related drainage often directs water under deck structures, creating moisture problems.

We’ve repaired hundreds of decks on East Tennessee slopes and understand the engineering requirements for elevated structures, proper footing placement on hillsides, and drainage solutions that protect deck framing from moisture damage.

When a Deck Is Unsafe or No Longer Code-Compliant

Some deck problems create immediate safety hazards that require urgent attention. Others represent code violations that might not cause immediate failure but increase risk over time. We help homeowners understand which issues demand immediate repair and which can be scheduled as part of planned maintenance.

Immediate Safety Hazards

Stop using your deck immediately if you notice any of these conditions:

• Ledger board pulling away from the house structure
• Visible gaps between ledger and wall larger than 1/4 inch
• Posts that lean more than one inch out of plumb
• Joists or beams with visible splitting or major rot
• Railings that move significantly when pushed or leaned against
• Stairs that bounce or shift when walked on
• Soft or spongy areas in deck boards indicating hidden rot
• Footings that have settled causing visible deck slope or structural movement

These conditions indicate structural failure in progress. Continued use risks catastrophic deck collapse. We respond quickly to safety emergencies and can often schedule urgent structural repairs within days.

Code Compliance Issues

Building codes change over time. Decks built twenty years ago might have been code-compliant then but don’t meet current safety standards. Common code violations we find include:

• Railing height below current 36-inch minimum requirement
• Baluster spacing wider than 4-inch maximum opening
• Missing or inadequate handrails on stairs
• Ledger boards attached with nails instead of proper bolts or lag screws
• Inadequate flashing at ledger board connections
• Undersized joists or beams for the deck span and load
• Missing lateral bracing on tall deck posts
• Footings too shallow for local frost depth requirements

Code violations don’t always mean your deck is about to collapse, but they represent safety risks that should be addressed. Many municipalities in East Tennessee require permits for major deck repairs, and bringing older decks up to current code often becomes part of the repair project.

How the Deck Repair Process Works

We follow a structured process for every deck repair project in Knoxville and East Tennessee. This approach ensures we catch all problems, explain your options clearly, and complete repairs that deliver safety and long-term value.

Step 1: Free Initial Consultation and Inspection

Every project starts with a thorough deck inspection at no cost to you. We examine all structural components, test for rot, evaluate code compliance, and photograph problem areas. You’ll understand exactly what’s wrong with your deck and why specific repairs are needed.

Step 2: Detailed Estimate and Repair Recommendations

We provide written estimates that break down material costs, labor, and timeline. You’ll receive clear explanations of recommended repairs, alternative options if available, and honest guidance on repair versus replacement. We never push unnecessary work or hide costs in vague estimates.

Step 3: Scheduling and Project Planning

Once you approve the estimate, we schedule your project based on your timeline and our crew availability. Most deck repairs take two to five days depending on scope. We’ll explain the work sequence, discuss any access requirements, and answer questions about how the project affects your daily routine.

Step 4: Professional Repair Work by In-House Crews

Our experienced crews—employees of Anchored Construction, not subcontractors—handle all repair work. We use quality materials rated for the application, follow manufacturer installation guidelines, and meet or exceed building code requirements. You’ll see the same professional crews from start to finish.

Step 5: Inspection and Quality Assurance

We inspect completed work before calling any project done. All structural connections get verified. We ensure proper fastener spacing and type. If your project required permits, we handle inspection scheduling and coordinate with local building departments.

Step 6: Cleanup and Final Walkthrough

We leave your property clean. All debris gets removed. You’ll receive a final walkthrough where we explain the work completed, review warranty coverage, and provide maintenance recommendations to protect your deck investment.

Step 7: Five-Year Workmanship Warranty

Our five-year workmanship warranty backs every deck repair. If something fails due to our workmanship, we make it right at no cost to you. Material warranties vary by manufacturer and product—we’ll explain specific coverage for materials used in your project.

What Affects Deck Repair Cost

Deck repair costs vary significantly based on the extent of damage, materials required, structural complexity, and whether code upgrades are needed. Understanding cost factors helps you budget appropriately and make informed decisions about repair versus replacement.

Project Size and Scope

Replacing a few damaged boards costs far less than complete structural repairs to framing, posts, and ledger boards. Simple railing repairs run lower than full stair rebuilds. The more extensive the damage, the higher the repair cost.

Small repairs—replacing five to ten deck boards or tightening loose railings—might cost a few hundred dollars. Major structural repairs involving joist replacement, ledger board work, or post repairs can run several thousand dollars but still cost less than complete deck replacement.

Materials and Quality

Pressure-treated lumber remains the most economical repair material. Composite decking costs more but eliminates future rot concerns for replaced sections. Cedar and other premium wood species carry higher material costs but offer natural rot resistance and beautiful grain patterns.

We use appropriate materials for each application. Structural repairs get pressure-treated lumber rated for ground contact. Visible surface repairs can use composite, cedar, or pressure-treated options based on your preferences and budget.

Accessibility and Deck Height

Ground-level deck repairs cost less than elevated deck work requiring staging or specialized access equipment. Decks built over slopes common throughout East Tennessee sometimes need additional support during repairs, increasing labor costs.

Code Compliance Upgrades

Bringing older decks up to current building codes adds cost but provides essential safety improvements. New railing sections meeting current height and spacing requirements, upgraded ledger board connections with proper flashing, and additional bracing on tall posts all increase project cost while delivering important safety benefits.

Permits and Inspections

Major structural repairs often require building permits in Knoxville and Knox County. Permit costs are typically modest—a few hundred dollars—but inspection requirements can affect project timelines. We handle all permit applications and coordinate inspections as part of our service.

Refinishing and Protective Coatings

Adding deck refinishing to repair projects increases total cost but protects your investment. Quality stain and sealant application costs vary based on deck size and surface condition. Many homeowners combine repairs with refinishing to refresh the entire deck at once.

Why Hiring a Contractor for Deck Repair Matters

Deck repair isn’t just carpentry—it’s structural engineering that affects your family’s safety every time someone steps onto the deck. Professional contractors bring experience, proper tools, code knowledge, and accountability that DIY repairs and handyman services can’t match.

Structural Knowledge and Safety

We understand load calculations, proper connection methods, and how different deck components work together. We know which repairs require permits, how to bring older decks up to current code, and when underlying problems need attention beyond visible damage.

Structural repairs done wrong create hidden safety hazards. Undersized lumber. Inadequate fasteners. Improper connections. These mistakes might not fail immediately but compromise long-term safety and durability.

Proper Tools and Equipment

Professional deck repair requires specialized tools—laser levels for checking structural alignment, moisture meters for finding hidden rot, professional-grade fastening systems, and power equipment for efficient material removal and installation. We bring everything needed to complete repairs correctly and efficiently.

Local Code Knowledge

Building codes aren’t just bureaucratic red tape—they represent tested safety standards developed from decades of construction experience and failure analysis. We stay current on Tennessee building codes, local amendments in Knox County and surrounding municipalities, and best practices for East Tennessee climate conditions.

Warranty and Accountability

Our five-year workmanship warranty provides peace of mind that repairs will last. If something fails due to our work, we make it right at no cost to you. DIY repairs and unlicensed handyman work offer no such protection.

Insurance and Liability Protection

Professional contractors carry liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage. If someone gets hurt during the repair project or if work causes property damage, you’re protected. Hiring uninsured workers exposes you to significant financial risk.

Efficiency and Project Management

We complete deck repairs efficiently because we’ve done it hundreds of times. Our crews know the most effective repair sequences, have established supplier relationships for quick material acquisition, and can handle unexpected problems that arise during construction.

What might take a homeowner several weekends of frustration gets completed by our experienced crews in days with professional results and proper code compliance.

Why Quality Repairs Are Better Than Temporary Patchwork

We’ve repaired countless decks where previous owners or handymen applied quick fixes that failed within a year or two. Temporary patchwork seems economical in the moment but costs more in the long run when repairs fail prematurely and underlying problems continue to spread.

Addressing Root Causes, Not Just Symptoms

Quality deck repair identifies why damage occurred and fixes the underlying cause. Replacing rotted boards without addressing drainage problems just delays the inevitable next repair. Reinforcing a wobbly railing without fixing inadequate post connections wastes money on repairs that won’t last.

We examine the entire system when repairing any deck component. If moisture caused rot in one joist, we check adjacent framing. If one post shows movement, we evaluate the entire support structure. Comprehensive assessment prevents surprise failures after completing repairs.

Using Appropriate Materials and Methods

Proper deck repairs use materials rated for the application and installation methods that meet code requirements. Structural repairs require pressure-treated lumber rated for ground contact. Ledger board connections need proper through-bolts or lag screws—not deck screws. Joist hangers must match joist dimensions and be installed with correct fastener types.

Shortcuts in materials or methods compromise repair longevity and safety. We don’t cut corners. Every repair uses appropriate materials installed according to manufacturer specifications and building code requirements.

Long-Term Value and Safety

Quality repairs last. Our five-year workmanship warranty reflects confidence in our construction methods and materials. When we repair a deck, you can trust that work will perform as intended for years to come.

Cheap repairs fail quickly, requiring repeated work that ultimately costs more than doing it right the first time. And failed structural repairs create safety hazards that put your family at risk.

Building Trust Through Quality Work

We’ve served more than 1,000 customers across Knoxville and East Tennessee over 25 years by delivering quality work and standing behind it. That reputation matters more than any individual job. We succeed when customers trust us enough to recommend our services to neighbors and friends.

Quality repairs build that trust. Every project represents our commitment to safety, value, and long-term customer satisfaction.

Service Area

Knoxville Deck Builders provides professional deck repair services throughout Knoxville and East Tennessee communities. Our service area includes Knox County and surrounding areas where we’ve built relationships with homeowners and completed hundreds of successful deck projects.

Communities We Serve

We regularly complete deck repair projects in these East Tennessee areas:

We know East Tennessee. Our crews understand local weather patterns, soil conditions, slope challenges, and building code requirements specific to this region. That local expertise matters when repairing deck structures that must withstand humid summers, occasional ice storms, and the unique terrain throughout Knox County and surrounding areas.

Our office is located at 1219 Maryville Pike in Knoxville, making us readily available to serve nearby communities and respond quickly to deck repair needs throughout East Tennessee.

Frequently Asked Questions About Deck Repair

Ready to Restore Your Deck’s Safety and Beauty?

Your deck should be a safe, beautiful outdoor living space—not a source of worry every time family and friends gather outside. Whether you’re dealing with rotted boards, structural concerns, outdated railings, or a weathered deck that needs complete restoration, we’re here to help.

Knoxville Deck Builders brings 25 years of deck repair experience to every project. We’ve served more than 1,000 homeowners throughout Knoxville, Maryville, Farragut, and East Tennessee communities with professional deck repair services they can trust.

Our in-house crews—not subcontractors—handle every aspect of your deck repair from initial inspection through final cleanup. You’ll work with experienced professionals who understand East Tennessee weather, local building codes, and the unique challenges of repairing deck structures on sloped terrain common throughout this region.

What You Get When You Choose Knoxville Deck Builders

• Free deck inspection and honest assessment of repair needs
• Detailed written estimates with transparent pricing—no hidden fees
• Professional in-house crews with decades of combined experience
• Quality materials properly installed to manufacturer specifications
• Code-compliant construction that passes inspection
• Five-year workmanship warranty on all repairs
• Respect for your property with thorough cleanup after completion
• Local company that stands behind our work for the long term

We’re not the cheapest deck repair option in Knoxville—we’re the best value. Our focus on quality materials, proper construction methods, and long-term durability means repairs that last instead of temporary patches that fail within a year or two.

Knoxville Deck Builders
Operated by Anchored Construction and Restoration LLC
1219 Maryville Pike
Knoxville, TN 37920

Email: info@knoxvilledeckbuilders.com
Website: knoxvilledeckbuilders.com

Serving Knoxville, Maryville, Farragut, Oak Ridge, Alcoa, Powell, Lenoir City, Seymour, Clinton, Sevierville, and surrounding East Tennessee communities with professional deck repair services you can trust.