Things to Consider Before Replacing Your Old Deck

Your old deck may no longer be in the best condition. But before tearing it down and replacing it with a new one, you might want to consider its remodeling potential.

Timberland Exteriors™, a trusted remodeling expert offering services such as deck and new roof installation, shares a few tips on what you can do with your old deck.

What to Check

To know if your old deck is a good candidate for remodeling, have a professional examine the various parts of your deck. Some of the crucial components that need to be checked are the following:

1. Joists and Beams

Joists and beams determine the structural integrity of your deck. Their spans and sizes should be adequate. Otherwise, you should reconsider using your old deck’s framework. It’s best to consult with an inspector or the building department at your city hall regarding the framing sizes of your deck.

2. Posts and Other Wooden Components

Treated wood, which is often used to frame decks, is known to last for decades. Find out if your deck is framed with treated lumber as you can reuse this material for remodeling. If you have cedar or redwood, it would be best to start over and use treated wood to reframe your deck.

Make sure the posts are showing no signs of rot as well. If your posts are in bad shape but your footings are good, simply remove the posts and replace them with new ones. However, if your deck has no footings, consult with your contractor.

3. Deck Footings

If your deck looks warped especially during the winter, this means that the footings have heaved above grade. They’re now too shallow, so you need to replace them with deeper footings. You don’t have to take out the old footings as this process could be a little too complicated. You can simply dig and pour the new footings next to the old ones.

Tips on Remodeling Your Deck

Your choice of material matters a lot. Whether you’re remodeling your deck or replacing fiber cement siding, this is an important aspect of any project. Should you choose composite decking for your new deck, keep in mind that this material contracts and expands more than regular wood. Using plenty of screws and fasteners is typically required to prevent the boards from getting distorted.

Additionally, you might want to consider installing blocking between the joists. This will help keep them straight and add stiffness to a deck that’s too bouncy. If you want some privacy in your deck, adding a privacy screen would be a great idea.

Timberland Exteriors offers a range of quality services covering windows, roofing, siding and more. If you’re looking for a deck or window installation service, fill out our contact form. You can also call us at (952) 373-5145. We serve customers in Maplewood, MN and the surrounding areas.