Repair Or Replace? How To Know It’s Time For a New Deck

Posted 19 October 2020 1:18 PM by Jase DeBoer

Deciding whether to repair or replace your deck can be a difficult decision. However, with time-consuming and expensive upkeep, it is often the best choice to start fresh with a new outdoor living space that can be enjoyed just as much as your interior space! Here are some signs that you’re well past due for a new deck.

Missing Balusters, Boards and Screws

An important safety feature of any deck is properly installed railing and balusters, as well as properly fastened screws and boards. When components such as these begin to wear and tear, or worse, go missing altogether, this can be a safety concern. Replacing your railing and balusters will not only update your space but will also keep your loved ones (both furry and kin) safe. If your deck is starting to lose deck boards and screws, it is likely time to replace your deck.

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This new deck on the right by Imperial Construction and Exteriors LLC was a much-needed replacement for this homeowner

Rotting, Shifting & Splintering Boards

Is your deck a major pain to walk on? Do your old wooden boards leave splinters scattered about? Replacing boards every season can be tiresome and laborious; if you find yourself doing this year after year, it’s time to replace your traditional wooden deck. 

There are multiple options for decking: both wood plastic composite (WPC) and mineral-based composite (MBC). And they are often backed by generous warranties. At Deckorators®, we offer a 25-year stain & fade, removal & replacement, and structural warranty for all of our WPC decking (Vista and Trailhead). Our top-of-the-line MBC boards (Voyage, Vault, and Frontier) also boast a 50-year structural warranty in addition to the 25-year stain & fade and removal & replacement. Unlike traditional wood decking, our boards will not sag, splinter, fade or warp over time. 

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Rhino Constructors LLC updated this space with Voyage Tundra (MBC) and picture frame board in Dark Slate

Hard To Remove Mold

Typical wood decking can attract mold, especially in older boards. With deep grooves and cracks, over time these contaminants can cause rot and degradation.  

Uncovered decks and docks are subject to lots of water and moisture, which often accelerates the end-of-life timeline of deck boards. All Deckorators MBC boards are rated for ground and water contact, making them the perfect choice for any deck or dock project. 

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This new dock by Rittenhouse Brothers was both a simple and necessary upgrade for an outdoor lakeside retreat

Your Deck Is Nonexistent

Perhaps you don’t have a deck or you have a typical concrete patio, but it’s not fitting your needs. Starting from scratch can be an ideal scenario, whether you are planning and building by yourself or hiring a Deckorators Certified Pro to complete your project. Not sure where to start? We have a full list of resources to start your project.

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This amazing transformation by Parker Woodwork is all the convincing we need to get started on a new deck

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