Should You Repair or Replace Your Deck?
If you are continuously scrubbing your deck to remove algae, mold, and stains, there may be a deeper issue at play. Additionally, you may have structural problems that no amount of cleaning can resolve. If you have performed frequent deck repairs over the last few years, it may be time to consider a deck replacement. Chances are you hang out on your deck when you host friends or family. Whether it’s relaxing in the sun or enjoying a sunset BBQ, your deck is a vital part of your home’s outdoor living space. Stop spending good money on deck repairs—if it’s time to change it, that’s a better use of your renovation dollars.
To help you make the best decision for your home, the pros at MasterCraft Painting & Finishes have put together the following list of reasons to replace your deck. While one or two of these issues may lead to affordable repairs, multiple issues point to deck replacement as the most cost-effective approach.
Symptoms that Indicate the End Is Near for Your Deck!
- Wood Rot and Stains: If you have extensive water damage, it can stain your deck irrevocably. It can also point to structural issues that make your deck unsafe.
- Aged Deck and Weathered Boards: If cleaning no longer restores its original luster, you may have an aged deck that requires replacement. If you have recently moved, you might not know the history of the home. It’s a good idea to research local building regulations to determine whether your deck complies with them.
- Unsteady Railing: Not all decks have a railing, but this safety feature can prevent injury and falling accidents. Unfortunately, an unsteady railing sometimes does more harm than good. Extensive weathering or constant leaning can damage your railing beyond repair. Therefore, you may want to consider replacing it along with other damaged portions of your deck. Don’t forget to call our experienced painters to stain or paint your new deck!
- Unstable Joists: Joists are made of timber, and they hold up the deck to keep it from falling apart. Unstable joists can cause collapses that can injure people you care about. However, visually and physically inspecting the joists can help you find any signs of termite infestation or water damage that could make the structure unsafe.
- Sagging boards and rotting materials: Do the boards sag or appear warped? This may be the result of water damage to the floorboards or joists. If this significant portion of the deck show signs of damage, it might be time to replace it.
- Loose Posts: Post buried in the ground give your deck strength. They hold up the joists that support your deck. When you inspect the posts, ensure that they connect securely to the flooring and joist. What happens when you shake them? A wobbling post poses a safety hazard and indicates that you probably need a new deck as soon as possible.
- Shaky Ledger Boards: This part of the deck connects to your home. Damaged, unstable, or wobbly ledger boards often mean that you need a new deck for safety considerations.
If you do decide to rebuild your deck, you may want to call in Mastercraft Painters to apply smooth, even paint or stain that can protect your new deck and extend its useful life. We may also be able to help you with summer maintenance projects.
What the Deck! It’s Time for a Change!
Deck replacement is a big project, but one worth undertaking. If your deck is showing any of the above signs, it’s time to take action and get started on building a new one. With a little care and attention — and the right stain or paint — your new deck will provide years of enjoyment.
If you’re thinking about replacing your deck, be sure to call MasterCraft Painting & Finishes. We can paint the deck or any other exterior structures on your property. Contact us today to get started!