An older outdoor deck doesn’t have to be torn down and completely replaced with a new one. Worn-out decking and railing can be replaced with new ones, turning the whole structure into a brand new one for less money. Handyman Connection® of Carmel, home of your local home improvement pros, explains more on how to make your deck look new again.

Start With a Thorough Inspection

Before you make the decision to reuse the deck framework, check if the deck’s footings, posts and joists are still in good condition. Examine the footings first as these serve as the foundation of the whole deck. See if they have been too shallow for some time now. Replace them with deeper ones if that is the case.

Then, check the posts and other framing members if they are made of treated lumber. This material is used to frame most decks and tends to last longer. Otherwise, consider reframing them with it. More importantly, call one of our pros to have the deck fully inspected. An on-site opinion is all it takes to confirm the structural integrity of the deck.

Removing the Old Components

Once you’ve determined which components need to be replaced, it is now time to remove them. Most railing can be knocked off using a sledgehammer. Keep a crowbar and a flat bar handy during the teardown. Also, be sure to remove screws or bolts driven into structural members prior to removal. You don’t want to cause tears on some parts of the deck you want to preserve.

Building Your New and Improved Deck

Depending on the amount of old wood taken down from the deck structure, it might take longer to build your new and improved deck. For this, you must consider working with the experienced pros of Handyman Connection of Carmel. Expect us to deliver quality workmanship and superior customer service. Call (317) 342-2040, or fill out our contact form to request an estimate.