Beyond Repair – Why Your Replacement Deck is a Good Investment
Your deck is an important part of your home. It extends your living room from the inside to the outside, affording you another place to entertain and relax. So what should you do when aging and rotting make your deck less fun and relaxing? Perhaps even dangerous? How do you know when it’s time for a replacement deck?
Piecemealing new boards and staining as needed can keep your deck functional for a while, but eventually, replacing your deck is a wiser financial decision. Whether you’re upgrading for safety, aesthetic, or functionality purposes, here’s how you’ll know when it’s time and how you’ll benefit from a replacement deck.
New Deck ROI: What You’ll Gain
Most decks cost between $5,000 and $10,000. Of course, the final price depends on what materials you use and the design features you pick. The good news is you’ll get (most of) that money back. Decks top the list of home remodeling products that add value. On average, new replacement decks are an excellent investment, providing a return (ROI) of roughly 70%. By installing a replacement deck, you not only improve your deck’s safety but can also:
- Increase property value
- Improve deck function
- Upgrade deck materials
- Increase curb appeal
- Update and customize
These gains will benefit you for years to come as you enjoy your new deck. Many people choose to wait. It’s always easier to put off spending money, and most of us do it often. But if you’ve already been thinking about redesigning your deck, and you’re also worried about rotting or cracked wood, loose connections, or missing connections, now is the perfect time to move forward with the project!
Signs of Deck Trouble
Repairs can only keep your deck alive for so long. Eventually, you will need to contact professionals for a deck replacement. When you know the signs that your current deck is weathered beyond restoration, you can be proactive about constructing a new deck and saving money on repairs and maintenance for your declining structure. (Otherwise, you’d be wasting that money!)
Here are the signs that it is time to invest your time and money in a replacement deck.
Rotting Deck Posts
Deck posts are responsible for supporting the body of your deck. If you notice rot or water damage on the deck posts, you should not repair them.
Why? You’ll be wasting money on temporary measures since much of the accumulated water and moisture that causes rot is trapped inside the boards themselves. You’re better off getting a replacement deck with new and fully capped boards that resist moisture.
Ledger Board Issues
This part of your deck connects to your house, which means it should be securely attached to your home’s floor structure. However, if your deck was improperly installed, the ledger boards may be pulling away from the house, splitting, or rotting.
We strongly advise against repairing this component of your deck. So if you’re having issues with your ledger boards, think about installing a replacement deck. Otherwise, trying to fix old construction and perhaps outdated construction practices may create more trouble and costs. The last thing you want is to spend time and money on repairs only to have your deck collapse. Instead, invest in safety and peace of mind.
Damaged Beams and Joists
These horizontal pieces of wood support your deck boards. Unfortunately, they are prone to rotting, especially where they meet other parts of your deck because joints trap moisture.
Most of the time, when you replace a beam, you need to replace a joist. And when you replace a beam, you’re usually forced to replace large sections of your deck in the process. That’s why we recommend a replacement deck instead, particularly if you want to upgrade your deck anyway. Otherwise, the costs will stack up, and, ultimately, you may still have to battle moisture or structural issues.
Planning Your Replacement Deck
When you realize your deck has handled all it can of the Maryland weather, it is time to start planning a new deck installation. Here are the four steps towards planning for your new deck:
- Budget
- Pick a date
- Acquire materials
- Call professionals you can trust
Your deck is a major investment and it’s important to treat it that way. For the safety of anyone who uses your deck and the structural integrity of your home, you must take care of your deck and promptly replace it when the time comes. If you work with a trusted contractor, you will get what you want while keeping within your budget.
Get a State-of-the-Art Replacement Deck
7th State Builders has been working hard for Maryland residents over the last 20+ years. We want to give you the deck of your dreams. When you decide it’s time to replace your deck, we will treat your home with the care and consideration you can only receive from a family-owned and -operated business. Call us today to learn more about getting your dream deck and restoring safety to your favorite outdoor hangout space.
I agree, it is important to keep in mind that any outdoor space is susceptible to damage because of its constant exposure to the environmental changes and weather. Regular maintenance is important and it is important to perform the tasks as often as you can to maximize the use of your patio or deck.
You’re absolutely right! Outdoor spaces require regular maintenance to keep them in optimal condition. By staying proactive and performing tasks like cleaning, sealing, and inspecting for damage, you can maximize the longevity and enjoyment of your patio or deck. It’s all about preserving and enhancing your outdoor oasis for years to come. Thanks for highlighting the importance of regular maintenance.