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Replacing vs. Restoring Wooden Decks: What To Consider

When you look at the various projects people take on in their homes, it’s probably not surprising to learn that outdoor spaces are some of the most popular places to spend time. After all, who doesn’t love being outside during those long summer evenings? 

Thanks to various factors like climate and geography, many properties have expansive outdoor space. Whether you’re lucky enough to have a private backyard or live in an apartment with access to a communal balcony, there are plenty of opportunities for outdoor living. 

In many cases, this means having the perfect area for a wooden deck. From large open terraces to smaller patio spaces, decks are excellent ways to add value and functionality by integrating them with your property. However, they often come with certain downsides that need careful consideration when planning renovations or repairs.

This article will explore replacing vs. restoring wooden decks and what to consider before making your final decision. 

What Is The Difference Between Replacing And Restoring?

Deck replacement is precisely what it sounds like. You would altogether remove the existing structure and replace it with all-new materials.

The critical difference between replacing and restoring a wooden deck is whether you’re dealing with rot or insect/pressure damage. Let’s break down the implications of these two situations below.

Replacing a wooden deck due to rot is a project that can be hugely disruptive for both your property and your wallet. As soon as you find the rot, it would be best if you work to eliminate the affected area to keep it from spreading. And even if you do a great job, this is the kind of damage that can come back later.

Restoring a deck damaged by rot is a much more targeted process. You can often save the rest of the deck by removing and replacing the rotten areas. Again, this project will be expensive, but it’s much less disruptive than building a new deck.

Why Is It Essential To Maintain A Wooden Deck?

A deck is a great way to enhance your property and create a more enjoyable outdoor experience. However, they can be costly to replace or repair. You should make sure that you are maintaining your deck correctly so that it lasts as long as possible.

The materials and construction methods used for deck railing have changed significantly over the years. While this is excellent news for many homeowners, it does mean that proper maintenance is vital for protecting your investment and ensuring longevity.

Because most decks are exposed to various elements and conditions, including rain and sunlight, they can start to show signs of aging. It’s essential to keep up with regular cleaning and maintenance to prevent problems from occurring and extend the life of your decking.

Deciding Between Replacement And Restoration

Replacement vs. restoration is not a decision to make lightly. It’s essential to weigh each option's pros and cons carefully. Your deck is an investment, and, like most things you put money into, you want it to last as long as possible.

In many cases, it’s possible to repair a deck suffering from rot or pressure damage. It will be much less disruptive and expensive than building a new deck. However, be sure to hire a contractor who knows how to repair and restore decks.

An entirely new deck will cost more than repairs. But it will also add value to your property and give you a beautiful new outdoor space.

 

Repairing Rotting Wood

Deck repair is a big job, but it’s crucial to catch the problem early. As soon as you notice any signs of rot, you need to take

If your deck has suffered from rot, there are two main ways of repairing it. You can either cut out the impaired areas and replace them with new pieces of wood, or you can sand and seal the entire deck to protect against further damage.

If you decide to replace the rotting areas, you should remove them as soon as possible. This will prevent the rot from spreading further, allowing you to replace the boards with new pieces. You can either use untreated wood or choose pressure-treated timber to help prevent the risk of further damage emerging in the future.

Deck repairs can be a big job, but it’s essential to catch the problem early. Once you notice any signs of rot or insect damage, it would be best if you take action to prevent it from spreading.

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Replacing Rotting Wood

If you need to replace the rotten timber on your deck completely, you will have much work ahead. Depending on the size of your deck, this can be a very time-consuming project.

While many professionals specialize in deck restoration and repair, it may be wiser to replace the entire deck. This will prevent the same problem from occurring in the future, and it will look entirely new.

Replacing the rotten sections with new wood will ensure that they are treated adequately against rot and other damage, maximizing the life expectancy of your deck.

 

Restoring Rotting Wood

Sometimes, you can sand and seal the rotten parts of your deck rather than replace them entirely. However, if you are dealing with severe rot, you may need to replace the affected boards entirely.

This can be time-consuming and challenging, but it can be much less expensive than replacing the entire deck. It’s also worth noting that restoration is not as permanent as replacing the boards.

Before You Start: What To Know Before Committing To A Decking Process

Before deciding whether to replace or restore, you should have a contractor inspect your deck. This will help you identify the extent of the damage and be better informed when it comes to deciding on repairs.

It’s also vital to ensure you have suitable materials for your deck. If you don’t, you could find that your deck either doesn’t last as long as it should or starts to look dated much faster than it should.

To replace deck components, you will likely need the following:

- New lumber to replace damaged or rotted boards

- Nails or screws

- A hammer or screw gun

- A saw

Wood decks are a beautiful addition to any home, but they require regular maintenance to keep them looking their best. Your deck's surface should be cleaned and sealed every few years to protect it from the elements.

Different Types Of Wooden Decks

Before you decide how to tackle your decking, you should know a bit about the different types of decks and materials. This will help you to make an informed decision and get the most out of your decking.

 

Composite Decking

Composite decking is made from a mixture of wood and plastic. It’s designed to give you the look of wood without the high maintenance. Anchoring deck stairs is essential to avoid any movement or shifting that could lead to accidents.

 

Timber

Most people are familiar with the look and feel of timber. It’s been the go-to material for outdoor furniture and decks for decades.

Timber is an excellent choice for several reasons, including its durability and aesthetic appeal. However, it does require upkeep to keep it in good shape.

This can include cleaning, sanding, and occasionally applying a sealant. Deck framing the ledger board is especially important to avoid any water damage that could lead to rot.

 

Wicker

Wicker is made from natural materials and is an attractive decking option. It is also reasonably light, which makes it easy to move and clean. Wicker is a fantastic choice if you want a vintage or rustic look for your deck.

However, it is vital to keep in mind that it will require some upkeep to keep it looking in good shape. Deck railings are an essential safety feature, so include them in your plans.

 

Concrete

Concrete might be the way to go if you are looking for a more modern or industrial aesthetic for your deck. While it is more expensive than many other decking materials, it is durable and low-maintenance. The existing deck surface must be prepped before you can lay the new concrete.

When To Restore A Deck vs. When To Replace

There are a few things you can look out for to decide whether you need to restore or replace your deck. If the deck is old and was built using materials that are no longer widely used, it might be more cost-effective to replace it entirely.

If the deck is relatively new but has been neglected, it might be better to restore it. If the deck has seen a lot of wear and tear, but the wood isn’t rotten, you may be able to restore it to its former glory.

If you want to protect your investment in a wooden deck, you should make sure to keep it clean and well-maintained. This will help you identify problems as early as possible, giving you the best chance of keeping the deck in good shape for many years./

Final Words

Deck boards should be replaced or restored when they show wear and tear. When you repair or replace deck boards, it is important to use suitable materials so that your deck will last for many years to come.

So, which option is best for you? It depends on your specific needs and budget. If you have the time and money to invest in a brand-new deck, then replacing it is the way. But restoring may be the better choice if you're looking for a more economical option that can still breathe new life into your old deck.

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