Deck Planning Guide
Repair or Replace a Deck?
Decide whether localized deck repair, resurfacing or complete replacement is appropriate based on framing, connections, layout and expected service life.
Localized Damage May Be Repairable
One damaged board or a small wet area can sometimes be corrected without rebuilding the deck, provided the framing and cause are understood.
One damaged board or a small wet area can sometimes be corrected without rebuilding the deck, provided the framing and cause are understood. Apply this point to the actual property and product rather than relying on a general rule or a small sample viewed indoors.
Widespread Structural Problems Point to Replacement
Rot across joists or beams, weak house connections, unstable posts or repeated failures can make a complete rebuild safer and more predictable.
Rot across joists or beams, weak house connections, unstable posts or repeated failures can make a complete rebuild safer and more predictable. Apply this point to the actual property and product rather than relying on a general rule or a small sample viewed indoors.
Layout Matters Too
An old deck may be structurally repairable but too small, poorly connected to the yard or difficult to use. Replacement can solve those functional problems.
An old deck may be structurally repairable but too small, poorly connected to the yard or difficult to use. Replacement can solve those functional problems. Apply this point to the actual property and product rather than relying on a general rule or a small sample viewed indoors.
Compare Remaining Life, Not Only Initial Cost
A small repair is economical when it restores a sound deck. It is less valuable when it only postpones an inevitable rebuild for a short period.
A small repair is economical when it restores a sound deck. It is less valuable when it only postpones an inevitable rebuild for a short period. Apply this point to the actual property and product rather than relying on a general rule or a small sample viewed indoors.
Start a Project
Discuss Your Deck Project
Share the property location, deck type, existing conditions, material preference and the result you want to create.