Deck Repair

Deck Repair: Everything You Should Know

Before jumping into your deck repair, it’s important to identify the underlying problem. Is wood rotten? Did water damage cause it? When you diagnose the problem, you can decide whether to replace the entire deck area or proceed with specific repairs like pest damage repair or fastening loose boards.

In this article, you will learn when to replace or repair your deck, when to hire a contractor or a handyman, and the material to use when choosing a deck.

How do you repair rotten deck boards?

Start by checking the extent of the rot or damage to your wooden decking. It can be repaired if the board is mostly solid but has some soft areas. Use a chisel or utility knife to cut away the soft, rotten wood. Be careful not to remove too much, as you want to leave solid wood underneath. Next, apply a wood hardener to strengthen the remaining structure and allow it to dry completely.

Fill the rest of the damaged area with wood filler or epoxy, pressing it into the holes and smoothing the surface. Once the filler or epoxy is fully cured (check the drying time), sand the area smoothly so that it’s flush with the rest of the board. 

Then, apply an exterior wood sealant to protect the wood from moisture and UV damage to prevent future rot.

Deck repair contractors - handyman or carpenter?

A handyman can be a cost-effective solution if you have minor deck repairs or projects that don’t require specialized skills. However, for significant repairs or when structural integrity is a concern, you should hire a trained carpenter or deck specialist for high quality and long-lasting results.

Let’s look at the pros and cons of hiring a handyman vs a carpenter for deck repair.

Handyman

Pros

• Handymen typically charge lower rates than other contractors, which makes them a budget-friendly option for minor repairs.
• Handymen can handle various types of repairs beyond decking because of their wide range of skills. If you need additional small repairs for your home’s exterior, a handyman could fix those alongside your deck repair. 
• Handymen have more flexible scheduling, can be easily hired on platforms like Angi, and can often start work sooner than carpenters or other tradespeople.

Cons

• A handyman might not have the specialized knowledge needed for complex deck repairs.
• The quality of work can be inconsistent, as it depends heavily on the individual’s experience and skill level.
• Some handymen might not be licensed or insured, which could lead to liability issues in cases of accidents.

Trained carpenter

Pros

• Carpenters have specific training and experience in woodworking and construction, ensuring quality deck repairs and detailed craftsmanship.
• Trained carpenters are typically more knowledgeable about local building codes, materials, and techniques.
• Many professional carpenters offer warranties on their work, providing peace of mind if issues arise later.

Cons

• Hiring a trained carpenter is often more expensive due to their specialized skills and experience. They also are less able to assist with deck repairs made of other materials like PVC decking. 
• Skilled carpenters have a longer wait time for scheduling, particularly if they are in high demand.
• While they are highly skilled in carpentry, they might not handle other handyman tasks, requiring you to hire additional help and spend more money overall.

What is the cost of an average wooden deck repair?

Wooden deck repairs cost between $700 to $4,000 on average, depending on the work complexity, the deck size, and materials required. For instance, pests or termite damage repair can cost between $200 and $500 to fumigate and treat the entire deck. On the other hand, resurfacing decking costs $15 to $50 per square foot. 

Deck repair or replacement?

Deck repair is limited to minor issues like surface wear and localized rot. It’s cost-effective and takes less time, but it’s only a temporary fix and results in an inconsistent appearance if the newer decking is not an exact match. In contrast, replacement is a long-term solution that is more expensive and takes more time. Replace a deck entirely does allow for a complete redesign and the option to use completely different materials like synthetic wood that may be more durable.  

These key points are often the deciding factors between deck repair and complete replacement.

1. Extent of Damage

If the deck damage is limited to a few boards, railings, or fasteners (screws and nails), it’s fine to just repair them. Other minor issues like surface wear or localized rot can be addressed without major work. However, significant structural issues, extensive rot, or widespread damage typically require a full replacement for safety.

2. Cost

Repairs are generally more affordable and can be completed for a fraction of the cost of a new deck. This is preferable to homeowners on a tight budget. 

In contrast, a new deck is an investment that can increase your property’s value. Consider long-term costs versus short-term savings when evaluating your options.

3. Longevity

Repairs can extend the life of a deck, but they are not a permanent solution, especially if underlying issues remain unaddressed. This can lead to recurring costs over time. A new deck will have better longevity, especially with proper maintenance.

4. Aesthetics

Deck repairs may not match the existing materials perfectly and lead to a patchy appearance. A full replacement of decking allows for a cohesive look, and you can choose new materials, colors, and a design that enhance the aesthetic of your home. 

5. Building codes and safety

Some repairs may not meet current building codes, particularly if they involve structural components. On the other hand, a new deck is built to current codes and standards, ensuring it is safe and compliant with local regulations.

6. Time and disruption

Repairs can typically be completed quickly. This is ideal for homeowners who need a fast solution. Replacing a deck takes more time and requires planning.

Building a wooden deck - stain vs paint?

Color options and appearance 

Painting a deck results in a solid, opaque color that fully covers the wood’s natural grain, making it ideal for a sleek, uniform look that can complement the exterior of your home. Painting offers a broader selection of colors overall as well as helps to hide imperfections on older decks.

Staining brings out the wood’s texture and natural beauty, making it an excellent choice if you want to emphasize the wood's character and grain. Staining is generally more limited in color choices, offering mostly earth tones that are generally transparent or semi-transparent.. Staining a wooden deck also gives it a warm, rustic appeal which works well with certain architectural styles. 

Protection and durability

A painted deck offers solid protection against moisture, insect damage, and weathering. However, paint will chip or crack especially in areas with significant weather changes year-round leading to the need for extensive touch-ups or even a full repaint. 

Overall, stained decks require less maintenance over time than painted decks. On the other hand, stain penetrates the wood and bonds directly, making it less likely to peel or crack. Stain will usually fade more evenly than paint so reapplications for aesthetic reasons could easily be delayed for a year or two.  

Regarding timeframes, high-quality outdoor paint can last 5 to 10 years before needing reapplication, while stain needs to be reapplied every 2 to 3 years, depending on exposure.

Choosing a type of deck - wood vs. vinyl vs. composite lumber

Wood, vinyl, and composite lumber are popular materials used to build a deck. Understanding the pros and cons of one over the other can help you make a well-informed decision when building a new deck. 

Wood

Wooden decking has been a popular choice for decking for years because of its natural beauty and versatility. However, it has specific maintenance requirements and durability concerns.

Pros

• It provides a natural appearance that complements outdoor environments.
• The initial cost is less expensive compared to composite and vinyl options due to the ease of cutting, shaping, and installing wooden decks.

Cons

• Outdoor wooden materials needs regular staining or painting to protect against moisture, UV rays, and pests. 
• A wood deck will be susceptible to rot, warping, and insect damage, leading to a shorter lifespan.

Vinyl

Vinyl decking is a modern option made from synthetic materials and mimics the look of wood while providing superior resistance to weathering and wear.

Pros

• Vinyl decking requires minimal upkeep with no need for staining, sealing, or painting. It is also more resistant to fading, splintering, and insect damage than other materials.
• Vinyl is available in numerous colors and textures, allowing for easy customization.

Cons

• The initial cost of vinyl decks are higher than that of natural wood and vinyl decking will be harder to repair or replace if damaged compared to wood.
• Vinyl decking also retains heat and becomes hot under direct sunlight, making walking barefoot uncomfortable.

Composite lumber

Composite lumber blends wood fiber and plastic together, designed to provide the best of both worlds, a natural appearance alongside enhanced durability.

Pros

• Decks made from composite lumber do not require regular staining or sealing. They are more resistant to rot, splintering, and fading, leading to a longer lifespan.
• Incorporates recycled materials, making them eco-friendly.

Cons

• Composite lumber is typically more expensive than wood, both in terms of materials and installation. It also expands and contracts with temperature changes, which may necessitate special installation techniques.
• Lacks the natural look and feel of real wood.

Deck Repair: Summary

Deck repair is usually a more affordable option than a complete replacement, especially if the work could be completed by a handyman. 

Once you have completed the necessary repairs to your wooden deck, regularly apply a new layer of stain or sealant will help maintain its condition. Regular touch-ups will help maintain the deck's integrity and prolong its lifespan. 

‍