Do you need to repair or replace your deck?
This a question that every homeowner has to answer eventually. Time always takes a toll on a deck. Sometimes it’s the natural deterioration of the deck. Other times, it can be the result of a guest or yourself being less than careful. Most people can probably account for the number of times when people have been less than gentle with your outdoor space.
Regardless, there will be a point where you have to fix these problems. However, the way you tackle these damages will vary depending on certain factors. Sometimes, a little repair job will do the trick. But sometimes circumstances call for more drastic action. So, when should you repair or replace your deck? Here are a few things to consider before deciding!
First of all, how old is your deck? Over time, your deck will take a beating from the weather and aging. Common issues will pop up, including:
If your deck is newer, repairing these issues as they come is typically better. Fixing problems as they occur will help the longevity of your deck. However, if your deck is older, these issues will often compound with age. Furthermore, older decks can be outdated making them less structurally sound. If your deck is almost fifteen years old, replacing is often the best option.
Another important factor is safety. Is your deck safe? Before considering what is the best option for a deck, you should fully inspect your outdoor space’s condition. To ensure your deck is structurally sound and safe, you should look at:
All of these areas play a role in the overall stability of your deck. Inspecting them will help you catch any problems early, allowing you to repair them. However, if components like the ledger board are pulling away, your deck will need more than a repair job. It. is a good idea to get your deck inspected if it’s older than 10 years old.
If you are not confident inspecting your own deck, Miles Bradley offers deck inspections!
Finally, there is the price tag. How much is going to cost to repair or replace your deck? A good rule of thumb to go by is that if the repairs cost more than a deck, then you should replace it. After all, what is the point of repairing your old deck when you can buy a new one for cheaper? The best way to know the cost of your deck’s repair or replacement is to get a quote from a construction company. If you want the best deck builders, then you should contact Miles Bradley.
To stay up to date with the latest news, check out our blog!
Getting your deck’s ledger, framing, and hardware checked can help you avoid any future pains
Miles Bradley Building is participating in deck safety awareness all throughout the month of May in Michigan. With all the storms that have been rolling through, you never know if your deck has sustained any damage from falling debris or regular wear and tear. Letting your old wooden unsealed deck rot doesn’t make your time outside enjoyable or safe.
This point especially rings true for all the DIYers out there who may have missed a step or safety code when building their deck. Getting a professional deck inspection will not only give you peace of mind but will ensure that your investment will pay off in the long run. We encourage everyone to get their old deck regularly inspected by a licensed professional to ensure that they are safe and up to code.
Over the years, code requirements for decks have changed. Older decks may not be built to adhere to today’s code requirements and can cause a safety hazard. One example of an overlooked Some older decks were not built using the correct deck tension hardware which can cause ledger failures.
Code requirements were established to protect the consumer and any future buyers of the consumer. Repairing an old wooden deck can be costly, and in some cases replacing a deck may be the only option. That’s why getting an inspection can help you catch any problems before they start.
As a supporter of NADRA or the North America Deck and Railing Association, we are highly qualified deck builders that can provide a deck inspection for you. Miles Bradley has the training, expertise, and special knowledge to provide deck inspections and repair your damaged deck. We can help repair and replace your old deck with new composite deck materials that can stand the test of time. All decks that we construct are up to code and will pass any inspection with flying colors.
Contact us now or get a free quote on your next professional deck inspection!
