Decks are a great extension to any home, giving you space for relaxation, entertaining guests, and enjoying the sunshine. But like all outdoor structures, decks experience a lot of wear and tear and abuse. Knowing when its time to replace your deck is important to avoid safety risks and further costs. If you’re not sure how to tell when its time to repair or replace, here’s a guide on how to notice the signs that its time for replacement.
Signs its time to replace
- Visible Rot or failure
- What to look for: Are there any soft spongy areas on the deck surface? This is likely a sign of wood rot. You may also notice boards falling apart or chunks missing.
- Why it matters: When wood rots, it compromises the structural integrity of your deck. If its only rotted in a small area, maybe a repair is sufficient. If its widespread across the deck, maybe its time for replacement.
- Loose or Weak Railings
- What to look for: If your deck railing feels loose or wobbly when you lean on it, it could be a sign. Railings are an important safety feature, and if they’re not secure, they could create a huge safety risk.
- Why it matters: A loose railing is a sign the the deck is starting to fail. If the railings are not easily repaired, maybe its time to replace the deck.
- Cracked, Splintered, or Warped Boards
- What to look for: Over time, pressure treated wood can crack, split, or warp due to extreme weather swings and wear and tear. If boards are cracked or have large splinters, they can create a tripping hazard, not to mention a sore toe if you frequently use your deck barefoot.
- Why it matters: Extreme warping or cracking can be a sign to investigate a little further. If too many boards are like this, replacing the whole deck might be a better idea than replacing just the deck boards in the long run.
- Sagging or Uneven Deck
- What to look for: A deck that sag in one or more places is often a sign that decks are failing. Take a look under the deck at the posts, beams and floor joists for any obvious signs of failure.
- Why it matters: A sagging deck can be very unsafe. The footings or framing could be compromised, which could pose some significant safety risks. If that is the case, a full replacement might be necessary.
- Water Damage and Mould
- What to look for: Look for black or green spots on the deck boards, which could be signs of mould or algae growth. Additionally, areas of the deck that stay wet long after a rain storm, could indicate potential mould growth locations.
- Why it matters: Mould, algae, and water damage can significantly reduce the structural integrity of the deck. If mould or algae is widespread, replacing the deck may be the best option.
- Loose Screws and Nails
- What to look for: Over the years, nails and screws can come loose as the wood expands and contracts with the seasons and weather. If you find loose screws or see nails sticking out, it can be a sign that the deck is starting to fail. Take a look at the deck ledger too—this is a crucial spot!
- Why it matters: Loose screws can make the deck unstable. If they are too many, it could mean its time to consider a replacement.
- Age of the Deck
- What to look for: How old is the deck? Pressure treatet decks typically last up to 20 years, while composite and PVC decks can last 25-50 years.
- Why it matters: If your deck is getting up there in age, it may be more cost-effective to replace instead of repairing it in the long run.
What to Consider When Replacing Your Deck
If you think it’s time to replace your deck, there are several factors to keep in mind to ensure that you choose the right materials, design, and contractor for the job.
- Material Choices: Pressure-Treated vs. Composite vs. PVC
- Pressure-Treated Wood: Even though pressure-treated wood is the most affordable decking choice, it requires regular maintenance and upkeep, such as sanding, staining, and sealing, to maintain its integrity and appearance. This would need to be done every 2-3 years. Pressure treated wood may be a good option if you don't mind doing the maintenance and upkeep yourself or if you prefer real wood over composite.
- Composite Decking: Composite decking is made from wood fibres and plastic. It is low-maintenance and more durable and longer lasting than wood. It's very resistant to rot and mould and it comes in numerous of colours. Composite is a great option for homeowners who want a wood-like appearance but not the maintenance. If being “green” is important, composite decking is a great choice as its usually 90% or more recycled material.
- PVC Decking: PVC decking is made entirely of plastic, making it the most resistant to moisture, rot, and fading. It’s also low-maintenance. PVC is the best option around pools and other bodies of water but is typically more expensive than composite or pressure treated decking.
- Budget
- What to consider: The cost of replacing your deck can vary depending on which decking material you choose, the overall size of your deck, and any upgrades you want (such as railings or lighting etc).
- Why it matters: Start with a clear budget in mind, and even consider doing some research on the different options and figure out which one is best for you. Composite or PVC decking may be a larger investment up front, they require a lot less maintenance over the years, which could save you money in the long term
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- Deck Size and Design
- What to consider: Consider your needs. What will be you be doing with your new deck? Do you need space for dining, relaxing, entertaining family and friends, or maybe all of the above?
- Why it matters: A well planned out deck can maximize your outdoor living space and even increase the value of your home. Consider adding things like multiple tiers, lighting, or privacy to create a customized unique deck to fit your needs.
- Environmental Impact
- What to consider: If being “green” is important to you, consider composite or pvc decking. Composite and pvc decks are made from recycled materials usually between 80 and 95%.
- Why it matters: Choosing an environmentally friendly material helps reduce waste, reduces the number of trees cut down and can make you feel good about your impact on the planet.
- Hiring a Reliable Contractor
- What to consider: Choosing a reputable contractor may be the hardest part of your project. Selecting a reputable contractor is crucial to ensure that the deck is built correctly, safely, and on time. Make sure they have proper licensing, insurance, great communication and reviews from past customers.
- Why it matters: A skilled contractor will make sure your new deck is built right, meets local building codes, and is safe to use for many years to come.
- Building Codes and Permits
- What to consider: Check with your local township to see if you need a building permit before replacing your deck. Hint: most of the time you do need a permit.
- Why it matters: Failing to get a building permit can land you with fines or worse-like having to tear down a brand new deck. The right contractor will help you navigate this part of the project,.
Conclusion: Replacing Your Deck with Confidence
Knowing when is the right time to replace your deck is key to maintaining the safety and minimizing your risk. If you notice signs of rot, sagging, or damage, or if your deck is almost at the end of its life, it may be time to replace. When replacing your deck, consider things like the material, design, budget and contractor to make the best decision for your home. A well-planned deck yields a well built deck that can increase your home’s value while providing you a beautiful outdoor living space! If you need a little guidance, contact MKW today!