When Is It Time to Replace Your Old Deck?

It’s not always necessary to replace an old deck, especially if it’s structure is still intact. Sometimes, you can make your outdoor space look new with new decking, rail or stairs.

In this post, your trusted home improvement contractor, Handyman Connection® of Rockville, discusses how you can determine when you need to replace your old deck.

Footings

The footings may be too shallow if they appear to have lifted above grade. This will make your deck look warped. You’ll need to replace the footings with deeper ones. Instead of completely removing the old footings, you can just pour new ones directly next to the old ones.

Wood

Treated wood lasts longer than untreated wood. You should see a green tint of preservative on treated lumber. Check the wood for markings saying, “.40 treated” or a label that says it has been preserved. It’s best to replace cedar or redwood frame with treated wood.

Inspect the posts, especially the area where they touch the footing or ground where they can start to rot. Dig down and check the condition of posts that are buried to the ground. Remove gross, rock and wood chip around footings which top are only a few inches below grade. Consult your local inspector if your deck doesn’t have footings.

Structure

Bring a sketch of your deck including its dimensions and specifications. Your local inspector can help you determine whether the measurements are correct. Make sure you have all necessary building permit before you proceed with the renovation.

Support

Depending on the size of your deck, there should be at least one 3/8 inches lag screw or bolt into the ledger between the joists. Make sure that galvanized joist hanger nails are used for joist hangers and not roofing nails. Place joist hangers on areas where they are missing. You don’t need to add them on the ends of joists that are on a beam.

Flashing that’s over the ledger that connects to the house should extend behind the siding and across the top of the deck ledger. Add flashing at the back of the deck ledger, below and over the siding if it’s missing.

At Handyman Connection of Rockville, we can help you plan, design and build your deck. You can count on our experienced team for your deck’s maintenance, repair and restoration. Call us at (301) 453-2090 or fill in our online form to request an estimate.