How often should decking be replaced?

Wooden decks have a short life span compared to other decking materials. Softwoods can only last up to 15 years, considerably short-lived compared to composites or PVC, which can last for a minimum of 25 years. Hardwoods and pressure-treated, on the other hand, can last up to 25 years.

Should I replace my decking?

When Should I Repair or Replace My Deck? When the cost of repairs starts to get close to the cost of replacing the entire deck, you should consider replacing the whole thing. Even decking materials that are structurally sound are still old, and you may have to replace them anyway in just a few years.

What is the average lifespan of a deck?

The life expectancy of wood deck boards is 10 to 20 years, with an average of 15 years. Perhaps a little longer, with limited weather exposure and maintenance coating with a weatherproofing sealer every few years.

How do I know if my wood deck is still good?

You can also tell if deck wood is rotten by checking for these dry rot signs:

1. Probe around posts that contact the ground for soft spots as these areas are typically more exposed to moisture.
2. Search for long sheets of greyish mold or darker looking wood as these are common dry rot indicators.

How do I know if my decking is rotten?

We’d advise that you check each board of your deck on the underside, looking for signs of rot. You can tell that wood is rotting from indications such as mold, the wood breaking away easily in your fingers, or discoloured spots on the underside of your deck.

What can I do with my old deck?

How to Dispose of Old Deck Wood

1. Sell it. Imagine if you could get rid of all that unwanted wood, and get paid for it!
2. Give it away.
3. Trash Pick-up.
4. Reuse It.
5. Trash removal services.
6. Local landfill.

How much does it cost to replace a deck?

The average cost to install a new deck is $7,000 – $8,000, ranging from $4,000 – $10,000 in most cases….Cost to Build a Deck.

Deck Size	Average Cost	Most People Pay
Small (< 200 sq. ft.)	$7,000 – $8,000	$2,000-$12,000

When should you get a new deck?

As soon as your nose or tail starts to chip it’s time to replace your deck. It also depends on how often you skate, even if there’s no damage at all at some point a skateboard deck loses its pop. With time your deck wears out, often you don’t even notice when you struggle with your board too much.

Can I leave my deck untreated?

It is highly unlikely that the deck will rot, splinter or decay if you choose not to have it finished and you can always choose to stain and protect the deck at a later date.

How much does it cost to redo deck?

Rebuilding the Whole Deck: If the deck is old or decrepit, removal costs $5 to $15 per square foot, so taking down a 10 x 12-foot deck would set you back about $1,200. A new wood deck costs an average of $14,360, according to Remodeling magazine, and a new composite deck is over 5 grand more at $19,856.

What type of deck lasts the longest?

Aluminum and Steel Aluminum decking is the most expensive out of the deck material and will last the longest with a lifespan of 30+ years. Steel decking can have a lifespan of 60+ years when correctly installed by a professional builder.

Should I replace my deck before selling?

Ultimately, whether or not to change out your deck needs to be as personal a consideration as a strategic one. The wisest plan is to make any improvements at least a few years before you sell, giving YOU a chance to enjoy them while still having them be fresh and new when you list your home.

Do I need a permit to repair my own deck?

This will depend on the extent of the repair. If you are just replacing some deck boards and maybe some railing then a permit is not required. If you are replacing anything structural like joists then yes you should get a permit. You will also want the deck inspected when you are finished.

What should I consider when replacing my decking?

Here are some other considerations to keep in mind. You can save hundreds by replacing the decking yourself. Along with a circular saw you’ll need a drill, preferably cordless. Don’t skimp on support joists if you choose heavier composites or less-rigid plastics. For wood, solid stains typically yield longer-lasting results.

How do you repair rotted wood decking?

When repairing a deck, you’ll need to remove nails or screws from the damaged boards. Use a pry bar, screwdriver or drill on the decking. If the fasteners won’t come out, chop the board into pieces with a chisel or saw, pry up the slivers and replace the board. Inspect the joists underneath for signs of rotted wood.

Can you repair a deck with a sketch?

Created with Sketch. Repairing a deck can save you time and money, especially if it is a small area. If a cosmetic issue, remove the plank, flip and refasten. If repairing a damaged joist, support the deck on one side or it could crash.