You probably don't have to rebuild the whole thing. Whether you have one bad deck board to replace or many,
the process is the same
. We'll show you how on an old, weathered deck, because you can save hundreds of dollars in lumber by splicing in boards instead of replacing the entire decking.
How much does it cost to replace deck boards?
Cost to Remove Deck Boards
Most deck owners can expect to pay
between $5 and $10 per square foot
for removing decking. Multi-story decks, decks featuring intricate deck board patterns and layouts, or those outdoor spaces with heavy components like metal railing; deck board removal pricing can be higher.
Can I just replace deck boards?
If your existing deck is old, shabby and a maintenance nightmare, you don't have to tear it all down and start over. Chances are that the structural parts are still in good shape. If so, you can simply remodel it with new decking, rails and stairs, and save tons of money over the cost of a complete rebuild.
How do you replace deck boards on an existing deck?
- Cut out the bad part of the board. Cut the section of bad board free from the joists at both ends with a jigsaw. …
- Pull the nails and remove the board. Pull the nails that hold the board in the middle. …
- Install cleats. …
- Put flashing over decaying joists. …
- Flatten the nail tip or pre-drill screw holes.
Can you put new deck boards over old?
In short,
yes you can
. You are more than capable of placing composite deck boards over existing wooden ones in order to save time and money from building an entirely new frame.
What is the life expectancy of a wood deck?
Traditional wood deck: Typically
10 to 15 years
. Capped composite: Industry experts agree these boards can last 25 to 30+ years. Capped polymer (the best of the best): Because of its superior material composition, capped polymer boards can last much longer, potentially 50 years or more.
What can I cover my old deck with?
Interlocking deck tiles are a low-cost way to transform your deck into a safer, more attractive space while helping to protect the actual deck from wear and tear. Installing
outdoor tile
over a wood deck can help to protect you from splinters, while offering the deck protection from sun and wear and tear.
How do you fix rotten wood without replacing it?
Wood fillers
are products such as Bondo and Minwax that are designed to be all-purpose fillers for gaps, holes, and rotted wood. Their application is simple, they cure quickly, and they're not supposed to shrink once dry.
When should I replace my deck boards?
A typical wood deck can last anywhere from 15 to 40 years. This will depend on the materials used and the quality of routine maintenance performed. However, if your deck
is showing signs of age and is over 20 years old
, you should begin considering a deck replacement.
Can I replace wood deck with composite?
Wood can be replaced
with composite boards on a one-to-one basis, and when properly installed will last against the elements.
Can you put Trex over old deck?
Resurfacing your deck with Trex
®
is easy to do, and the results are easy to love. If the boards on your existing deck are looking a bit worn – and the foundation and deck framing system are sound – you can simply replace the walking surfaces and deck railings with Trex decking and railing.
How do I redo my deck?
If your existing deck is old, shabby and a maintenance nightmare, you don't have to tear it all down and start over. Chances are that the structural parts are still in good shape. If so, you can simply remodel it with new decking, rails and stairs, and save tons of money over the cost of a complete rebuild.
What type of deck lasts the longest?
Cement decking
will last the longest, with an average lifespan of 60+ years. It is durable and able to withstand the elements, making its higher cost worth it. Climate, type of cement used, and care of the cement will impact the decking's lifespan.
Does staining a deck make it last longer?
While staining may take less time than painting, painting often does a better job of filling the cracks, covering imperfections, and
provides longer lasting protection
. Paint also is typically more rot resistance and does a better job of preventing mold and sun damage.
Why are my deck boards rotting?
Moisture and pooling water on decks can lead to rot and decay
. Because dry rot is a fungus, it can spread like a cancer throughout a deck. Dry rot is caused by microorganisms that eat the cellulose from the wood leaving it brittle.
