How to Repair a Deck and Restore It: Detailed Fixes for Joists, Boards, and More

Is your once-beautiful deck showing signs of wear and tear? Before you consider a complete overhaul, you might be wondering, can you repair your own deck? Absolutely, yes! If you've got the right tools, some know-how, and are willing to put in a little effort, a lot of deck problems can be handled by homeowners on their own.

We've asked the decking pros behind our company for deck restoration and repair techniques. Whether you're dealing with rotting wood, sagging joists, loose railings, or splintered boards, we'll show you how to repair a deck and breathe new life into your outdoor space.

When Should I Repair My Deck?

When it comes to maintaining outdoor structures, the old adage ‘A stitch in time saves nine!’ could not be more apt. Regular inspections and preventative maintenance are the best forms of defense, but do not despair if things have been neglected. You should repair a deck if you see any signs of damage like wood rot on deck, safety issues especially on staircases and railings, or a lot of wear and tear. Here are the major signs that it's time to do deck repair:

Structural Concerns:

• Use a penknife to check the structural parts under the deck. If the knife goes in more than a quarter of an inch into the wood, it could be a sign of rot.
• Small, isolated soft spots can usually be scraped out and treated, but this is but a temporary fix.
• Severe rot means you need to replace the damaged sections at the very least, but very likely the whole deck.

Surface Damage:

• Check deck boards for rot using the penknife test.
• If you're dealing with general aging and an unappealing look, a bit of light sanding and restaining might do the trick.
• Mold and mildew growth.
• A springy or spongy feel when walking on the deck.

Safety Issues:

• Fix leaning deck railing right away.
• Loose or raised boards can be tripping hazards and need to be repaired immediately.
• Protruding screws or nails can cause nasty injuries and should be set below the deck surface.
• Fix deck posts with large cracks or rot immediately. 
• Staircases need proper inspection, as failure can lead to severe injury. 

Make sure to look for these problems from time to time, especially after severe periods of severe weather.

Keep in mind that while cosmetic problems can usually be fixed with some upkeep, structural issues need to be addressed right away and might need a professional to take a look. Knowing how to repair a deck and keeping up with maintenance can help your deck last longer and make sure it stays a fun and safe place to hang out outside.

How To Repair Deck Boards

When you need to repair a deck, dealing with specific board problems is usually a smart way to save money and can help make your outdoor area last longer without needing to replace everything. This guide will help you understand how to fix different issues with deck boards, like rot and cupping, and help you figure out when it's time to replace them.

Assess the Damage

Before you begin the deck repair, take a look at how your deck boards are doing. Look for signs of:

• Rotting
• Cupping
• Splintering
• Cracking
• Spacing issues

Gather Materials

Materials you’ll need to repair a deck board:

• Replacement boards (if necessary)
• Stainless steel deck screws
• Sandpaper
• Wood filler
• Joist tape
• Stain or sealant

Remove Damaged Boards

For rotten deck boards or severely damaged planks:

• Use a pry bar to remove the affected boards.
• Inspect the joists underneath for any damage or rotting.
• Apply joist tape to protect the joists from moisture.

Repair or Replace

Depending on the extent of the damage, you may be able to repair existing boards:

• For repairing splintered deck boards: Sand down the splintered area and apply wood filler and a good sealer.
• For repair of cupped deck boards: Try flipping the board over if it's not too severely cupped.
• When fixing cracked deck boards: For minor cracks, use wood filler followed by a good sealer or deck paint. For larger cracks, consider replacement.
• For fixing rotted deck boards or removing rotted deck boards: Check how bad the rot is. If it's localized, just cut out the bad part and patch it up with a new piece of wood. If it's really bad, just take out the whole board and swap it for a new one.

Install New Boards

If replacement is necessary:

• Cut new boards to size.
• Secure them with stainless steel deck screws.
• Ensure proper spacing between boards for drainage.

Finishing Touches

After repairs:

• Sand any rough spots or uneven edges.
• Apply a water-resistant sealant or stain to protect the wood.

How Much Does It Cost To Replace Deck Boards?

The cost to replace deck boards can vary widely depending on the material and extent of the work.

We've put together a table to help you compare the different decking materials and what it’ll cost to replace the deck boards:

Tips to Successfully Repair Deck Boards

• Use joist tape to protect the underlying structure and extend the life of your deck.
• When repairing rotted deck board sections, ensure you remove all affected wood to prevent further spread.
• Consider flipping boards as a cost-effective solution for worn surfaces, but be prepared for the labor-intensive process.
• When you need to repair cedar deck boards, be aware that cedar is naturally resistant to rot, but you still need to use cedar-specific products for cleaning and sealing.
• Use stainless steel deck screws to prevent staining.

How To Do Deck Railing Repair

To repair a deck railing:

• Tighten loose deck fasteners and replace any that are corroded or damaged.
• Reinforce weak joints with metal brackets or wood blocks.

To fix leaning deck railing:

1. Check for and replace any wood rot on deck posts or railings.
2. Make sure the posts are securely attached to the deck frame.
3. Add diagonal bracing for extra support.

To fix warped deck railing:

• For minor warping, try using clamps and pressure to straighten the rail.
• For severe warping, replace the affected sections with new materials.

Vinyl deck railing repair:

1. Clean the railing thoroughly to remove dirt and debris.
2. Use vinyl repair kits for small cracks or holes.
3. Replace entire sections if damage is extensive.

How Much Does It Cost To Repair Deck Railing?

• The cost to repair deck railing may cost $100-$300 for minor repairs.
• More extensive repairs or partial replacements can range from $500-$1500.
• Full railing replacement may cost $2000 or more, depending on the materials and the deck size.

Remember to repair a deck railing promptly to ensure safety and prevent further damage.

How To Repair Deck Joists

When you need to repair a deck, it's extremely crucial to address any joist problems to keep everything sturdy and safe. Here's how to handle common joist problems:

Fixing rotted deck joist:

1. Inspect the extent of rot.
2. Remove any decking above the affected area.
3. Cut out the rotted section.
4. Install a sister joist alongside the damaged one.
5. Apply wood preservative to that area.

To repair split deck joist:

1. Clean the split area.
2. Apply wood glue into the split.
3. Clamp the joist tightly.
4. Reinforce with metal mending plates on both sides.

Partially rotted deck joists:

1. Remove rot with a chisel or saw.
2. Apply wood hardener to remaining wood.
3. Fill gaps with epoxy wood filler.
4. Sand and paint to protect from moisture.
5. Common sense will dictate whether or not a joist is worth saving or too far gone. Rather err on the side of caution!

Can you replace a deck joist?

Yes, you can replace a deck joist if the damage is severe. To repair a deck by replacing a joist:

1. Remove decking and any blocking.
2. Support adjacent joists.
3. Remove the damaged joist.
4. Install a new joist of the same size.
5. Secure with joist hangers and stainless steel structural screws.

Does joist tape trap moisture?

Joist tape helps keep moisture from getting into the wood. If you use it the right way, it shouldn't hold onto moisture. Just make sure the wood is dry before you apply it.

When you repair a deck, always prioritize safety and structural integrity. If you're feeling a bit uncertain about fixing those deck joists, it might be a good idea to reach out to a pro. That way, you can make sure your deck stays safe and solid for a long time!

How to Repair a Deck Post

When you need to repair a deck, it's important to pay attention to the deck posts. They're the main support for the whole structure, so you definitely want to make sure they're in good shape. Here's how to do deck post repair on common post problems:

Repair cracked deck post:

1. Clean the cracked area thoroughly.
2. Apply wood epoxy to fill the crack.
3. Clamp the post until the epoxy cures.
4. Sand the repaired area smooth.
5. Paint or stain to match the existing post.

Repairing a rotted deck post:

1. Support the deck around the affected post using screw jacks. 
2. Remove rotted sections with a chisel or saw.
3. Treat remaining wood with a fungicide.
4. Fill gaps with epoxy wood filler.
5. Sand and paint to protect from moisture.
6. Consider adding a post sleeve for extra protection.

How Much Does It Cost to Replace Rotted Deck Post?

The cost can vary depending on materials and labor but typically ranges from $150 to $300 per post.

How To Repair Concrete Deck Footings

If you repair a deck, remember that footings are the critical link between your deck and the ground.

1. Assess damage: Inspect footings for cracks, crumbling, or settling.
2. Clean thoroughly: Remove debris and loose concrete.
3. Fix cracks: Use concrete patching compound for minor cracks; chisel and refill larger ones.
4. Address settling: Use concrete leveling compound or polyurethane foam injection.
5. Reinforce if needed: Add rebar for extra strength.
6. Pour new concrete: Replace severely damaged footings entirely.
7. Allow proper curing time before applying full load.
8. Apply waterproof sealant to protect from future damage.
9. Implement regular inspections and maintenance.

If you ignore footing issues, your deck could end up collapsing, which might lead to some pretty serious injuries. If you see cracks wider than 1/4 inch, notice any significant settling (over 1 inch), or spot any rotation in the posts, it's a good idea to reach out to a licensed deck contractor or structural engineer right away. 

What is the best fixing for a deck?

When you repair a deck, choosing the right fasteners is crucial. Stainless steel screws are the best option for lasting durability. Stainless steel screws from trusted brands like Eagle Claw are way better at resisting rust compared to coated screws.

When doing deck repair, don't forget that good fasteners matter just as much as the wood you're replacing. When it comes to fixing joists, boards, or railings, stainless steel screws are tough enough to handle whatever Mother Nature throws at them. Using these high-quality screws to repair a deck is a smart move, making sure it stays strong and safe for a long time.

FAQs

Why are my pressure treated deck boards rotting?

Pressure treated deck boards can rot due to moisture retention, inadequate ventilation, or improper installation. When you repair a deck, check for poor drainage, insufficient gaps between boards, or damage to the protective treatment.

What causes a deck joist to rot?

Deck joists often rot due to prolonged exposure to moisture, especially where they connect to the ledger board or come in contact with soil. When you repair a deck, inspect joists for water damage, mold, or soft spots. Improper flashing, poor ventilation, or using non-treated lumber can accelerate joist rot.

What is the best wood for deck repair?

The best wood for deck repair depends on your climate and budget. Pressure-treated lumber is cost-effective and resistant to rot and insects. Cedar and redwood are naturally resistant to decay but more expensive. Composite materials offer durability and low maintenance. When you repair a deck, consider matching the existing wood or upgrading to a more durable option for longevity.

Can old decking be restored?

Yes, old decking can often be restored. The process to repair a deck might include cleaning, sanding, replacing damaged boards, and applying a new finish. When you repair a deck that's old, assess its structural integrity first. Minor issues can be fixed, but extensive damage may require a full replacement.