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January 06, 2022
Should I Repair or Replace My Old Deck?
It almost goes without saying that adding a deck to your property is a worthwhile investment. A deck that is in good shape increases your living space, adds aesthetic appeal to your home’s exterior, and increases your home’s market value. However, even the most durable deck will need repairs at some point or even replacement if it’s damaged beyond repair.
It’s not unusual for homeowners to have a hard time trying to decide between repairing and replacing their decks. In this article, we will help you figure out whether your deck needs to be repaired or replaced.
Here are some of the things you should consider when deciding between deck repair or replacement.
Age of Deck
A properly installed deck can last several decades depending on the quality of decking materials, maintenance routine, and your home’s climate. A deck made of untreated wood can last between 10 and 30 years, while a deck made of treated wood can last much longer. As your deck approaches the end of its lifespan, it may begin to wear down and eventually need replacement. If your deck has reached the end of its lifespan, it’s better to have it replaced rather than making repairs.
Rotted Wood
Rotted decking is no joke, it could cause your entire deck to crumble. If not addressed quickly, it can attract termites and other pests. The extent of moisture damage will determine whether you should repair or replace your deck. If you find a few rotted boards or posts, you can call a talented handyman to make repairs and fix the cause of wood rot. However, if a significant part of your deck is rotted, it’s best to replace the entire deck.
Dysfunctional Deck Surface
The condition of your deck surface will determine whether you’ll go for repairs or a complete deck replacement. If only one or two deck boards are loose or warped while the larger part of the deck remains solid, you’ll need to make repairs instead of replacing the whole deck.
Wobbly Rails
Your deck’s railing can become unsteady due to normal wear and tear, rooted wood, or other structural weaknesses. Although wobbly rails may not cause your deck to collapse altogether, they can be dangerous as people tend to lean on them. Wobbly rails are an undeniable sign that your deck needs to be repaired as soon as possible. However, if loose railing is caused by significant rotted wood, that’s a sign a new deck may be the better option.
Cracked Posts and Joists
The joists, posts, and beams that support your deck are equally important in ensuring your deck is stable. If any component of your deck's support system shows signs of rot, water damage, or insect damage, call a handyman to inspect the deck and determine the extent of the damage. If there's a lot of damage to the joists, posts, and beams, it's a good idea to install a new deck.
If you're considering deck replacement in your property, call Beall Contracting for reliable service.