Deck Refinishing vs Replacement
Deck Refinishing
Your deck is a place for relaxation, gatherings, and enjoying the outdoors—but over time, exposure to the elements can take a toll. Whether your deck is showing signs of wear or feeling unsafe, you may be wondering: Should I repair and refinish, or is it time for a full replacement?
The answer depends on several factors, including the extent of the damage, the age of your deck, and your budget. Let’s break it down to help you make the right decision.
When to Repair and Refinish Your Deck
If your deck is structurally sound but just looks worn out, refinishing is the best option. Here are some signs that a repair and refinish that will do the trick:
1. Surface Wear and Tear
- Fading or discoloration from sun exposure
- Minor scratches, dents, or splintering wood
- Peeling or chipping stain or paint
Solution: A thorough sanding, power washing, and a fresh coat of our local oil-based Boodge deck stain can restore your deck’s beauty and extend its life.
2. Loose or Rusty Fasteners
- Loose nails, screws, or fasteners popping out
- Rusty or corroded hardware
Solution: Tightening or replacing nails and screws can quickly improve stability. Rusty hardware should be swapped out for new, corrosion-resistant fasteners.
3. Minor Wood Damage
- A few cracked or slightly warped boards
- Soft spots in isolated areas
Solution: Individual boards can be replaced without tearing down the entire deck. Refinishing afterward will help blend the new and old wood.
4. Sturdy Frame with Some Rotted Joists
- No widespread rot or structural weakening
- Only a few isolated rotted joists
- The deck doesn’t wobble or feel unstable when walked on
Solution: If most of the framework is solid, your deck just needs the rotting joists replaced with new pressure-treated lumber, surface repairs, and deck refinishing to bring it back to life.
When to Replace Your Deck
Sometimes, refinishing won’t be enough, and a full deck replacement is necessary. Here are the key indicators that it’s time to start fresh:
1. Widespread Rot or Decay
- Large areas of soft, crumbling wood
- Rotting posts, beams, or joists
Why Replace? Rot weakens the entire structure, making it unsafe. If more than a third of your deck is affected, replacement is the safest and most cost-effective option.
2. Unstable or Sagging Structure
- The deck wobbles, leans, or sags
- Posts are shifting or sinking into the ground
Why Replace? A structurally unsound deck is a major safety hazard. It’s likely that the underlying framework has deteriorated, and a full rebuild is necessary.
5. The Deck is Over 20-25 Years Old
- This is NOT a deal breaker. We refinish decks over 25 years old frequently.
- The deck has required frequent repairs in recent years
- It’s made from untreated or low-quality materials
Why Replace? Older decks built with traditional wood may have reached the end of their lifespan. A new deck using modern materials, like composite decking or pressure-treated wood, can offer greater durability and lower maintenance.
Final Thoughts: Refinish or Replace?
- Refinish if your deck is in generally good shape but needs cosmetic improvements.
- Replace if structural issues, widespread rot, or extensive damage are present.
If you’re unsure whether your deck needs a refresh or a full replacement, we can help. We specialize in deck refinishing and repairs, helping homeowners bring their decks back to life without unnecessary replacements. If you need replacement, Alex Cosman with www.cosmanconstruction.com can help. Contact us today for a consultation!
— Neill McKenzie, Founder
