Top Deck Repair Services in Princeton, NJ

The cost to repair a deck can vary widely by region, decking material, and deck size. The average deck repair costs are between $100-$500 for basic repairs when a deck doesn’t need major structural work. If more extensive repairs are required, such as board or railing replacement, expect to pay about $500-$2,000.

Homeowners can save money by doing basic repairs themselves, but more extensive repairs should be performed by a deck repair professional to ensure safety and guaranteed work.

Repairing a deck board seems like a straightforward and easy DIY job. There are several steps to proper and thorough decking board repair, however, that may make you think twice and decide to hire a pro to repair the deck for you.

First, remove all nails and screws from the damaged decking board. Inspect the joists and remove the rotten sections of the boards. Measure the exposed section and cut new boards to size. Apply sealant to the newly exposed boards and reinforce and secure the joist. Apply matching wood stain to the new board and nail and/or screw into the existing deck.

It’s not always easy to know if your wood deck is rotten, as rot can begin in areas not easily visible to the naked eye. There are some signs to look out for, though, and it’s important to inspect your deck every season to ensure it’s safe and there are no hazards that need to be addressed.

If your wood deck is older, it may begin to show signs of dry rot, even if it’s made of pressurized wood. Dry rot includes spongy and discolored wood that can flake off or disintegrate when it becomes wet. You can use a screwdriver to test areas of a wood deck for dry rot. When you see signs of dry rot, it’s important to address the problem and get it repaired as soon as possible, because the problem will only get worse and the deck may become dangerous to use.

The average lifespan of a deck can vary greatly, depending on usage, climate, and deck material. However, the general average lifespan of a deck is about 10-20 years. You can prolong the lifespan of a deck up to 20 years with proper maintenance, prompt repairs, and weatherproofing as needed or every couple of years.