Looking to give your deck a whole new look? Before you begin your search for a deck replacement contractor, it’s important to know whether it’s the right time to upgrade and completely replace your deck.
A deck can transform your backyard into a functional outdoor space while adding value to your home. However, if your deck is worn, damaged, or dangerous, it can prove to be a liability. So how do you know when it’s time to replace your deck and how do you go about doing it? Our deck replacement contractors can answer these questions in this blog!
Although the actual decision to replace your deck can depend on a variety of factors like structural damage and personal preference, here are some signs your deck needs a replacement.
If you are ready to replace your deck, contact us at Get Decked today for a free deck quote.
Signs Your Deck Needs to be Replaced
Your Wood Deck is Rotting, Split, or Warped
Decks built using pressure-treated lumber can face a lot of issues over time. After all, they must face the elements day in and day out, which can cause a lot of damage.
With time, wood can split, warp, or even rot. Regular deck routine maintenance can help extend its life, but even the most well-maintained decks may have to be eventually retired.
If you notice any sign that your deck’s structural integrity is compromised, you must replace it immediately to avoid any potential accidents.
If your custom deck has split, warped, or even rotten, talk to a deck replacement contractor for a quote to replace it. Our experts will provide you with an estimate to replace your old deck with a whole new modern Azek deck.
Broken or Wobbly Railings
Your deck’s railings also play a crucial role as they help keep your deck safe. If you notice that the deck railings are broken or wobbly, this could be a sign that your deck needs a complete replacement.
If the deck railings are broken or wobbly, this could be due to a possible structural failure or simply that your deck is not up to code. It should be a priority to have it replaced as soon as you can by your local deck builder simply to ensure the safety of everyone who uses the deck. Also, there’s nothing worse than putting a “band-aid” on a problem, only to have it become a bigger issue down the line.
As your deck replacement contractor, we highly recommend upgrading to a PVC deck material like Azek decking. This type of decking material is extremely durable and is significantly easier to maintain as well, so you won’t have to worry about regularly caring for your deck.
A Termite Infestation Has Damaged Your Decking
A termite infestation can severely affect the deck’s structural integrity. However, detecting termite damage isn’t always straightforward. If you see splintered or cracked wood, it can be a sign of termite damage. If you walk over your deck, and it feels bouncy and soft, that is another possible sign that the deck is being hollowed out and experiencing internal damage.
Termite damage is a ticking time bomb, so be sure to talk to a deck replacement contractor for an inspection.
Apart from termites, other wood-boring insects like carpenter bees and ants can also cause damage to your backyard deck. So, look for the above signs to determine if it’s the right time to call in a deck replacement contractor.
Unattractive or Outdated Decking
The aesthetic appeal could be another reason why you may want to consider replacing your deck.
Maybe you don’t like your deck anymore. Perhaps it looks old and outdated, or maybe your deck was a DIY project built by the previous homeowners and you’d rather contact a reliable deck builder to replace the deck using modern Azek decking materials that last.
Tips for a Successful Deck Replacement
If you’re considering replacing your deck, it’s the perfect opportunity to create a unique outdoor living space that doesn’t look like any other.
In your search for deck replacement contractors, look for a company that can build a strong custom deck made with high-quality materials rather than a deck that is built with cheap materials. Look for a deck company that can cater to your requirements and can build you a customized solution to help your deck not only look great but also help you get your money’s worth by having it last for years to come!
You don’t want to go through all the effort and end up with a deck replacement that leaves you dissatisfied. You deserve a deck that not only looks great but also enhances the quality of life for your family and improves the functionality of your backyard.
With the help of a custom deck builder like Get Decked, you can design and build the deck of your dreams. At Get Decked, we treat your deck replacement project like our own and give it our all to build a deck you will be proud to share with friends and family. No matter the reason why you may be considering replacing your deck, whether it’s due to damage, age, or a desire for a fresh new look with ease, Get Decked can help make it a reality!
A Word of Caution About Common Industry Practice
At Get Decked, we can remove your old deck and replace it with a brand-new deck. We do not make add-ons to an existing deck. The main reason why we don’t do add-ons is that we don’t want to use old deck frames since it is not good practice. And we don’t repair decks (unless it’s under warranty from one of our own decks), re-deck or resurface either.
A lot of deck replacement contractors will do this because it’s a way to make a quick buck, but that doesn’t mean it’s good practice.
Here are some more reasons why we do not re-deck or resurface:
- Every few years, deck codes will change along with the structural support requirements. Due to these changes, we cannot use old deck footings as we cannot prove how deep they are among other issues.
- The process of partially removing the old decking can leave the deck joists riddled with screws or old nail holes. This means that you will have a poor base for your deck which is why this Delaware deck builder recommends replacing the entire deck.
- Although decking manufacturers state on their websites that you can span your deck floor joists 16″ in the center, we don’t recommend doing it as it can leave the decking wavy up and down rather than strengthening it. We always go 12″ in the center, so if your old deck had the standard 16″ on center, we would have to add joists in between, which would add a lot more weight to an already older beam and footings.
- With the new low-maintenance decking products available, deck replacement is more cost-efficient and sensible in the long run. While new-age products like Azek decking, tend to be more on the costly side, installing your new deck on a strong and solid base can alleviate any issues for a positive return on investment.
Get Decked, Your Local Deck Replacement Contractor
At Get Decked, we understand that when it comes to custom deck building, it’s important to focus on one craft and do it exceptionally well. That’s why we specialize in building custom decks and do not claim to be a master of all trades. And when we build decks, we build them the right way the first time to ensure that our clients receive a high-quality, long-lasting backyard deck that meets their unique needs, style, and preferences.
Get Decked is your local deck builder with over 38+ years of industry experience serving all over Chester County PA, Montgomery County PA, New Castle County DE, and Kent County DE. If you are looking to upgrade to a new deck, we can help! Over the years, we have successfully replaced decks in hundreds of homes across Southeastern Pennsylvania and Delaware. Get in touch with us today for a free deck estimate!
