Having a deck on your house allows you to extend living space outdoors. So that it can bear the weight of furniture and people, you must maintain its structural integrity with regular maintenance. However, if it gets too worn to repair, home improvement contractors may recommend a full replacement. Here are some circumstances that may warrant tearing down your existing deck and starting from scratch.  

Types of Damage That Warrant Deck Replacement

1. Rotting Wood

Check for signs of rotting on the footing, posts, joists, and beams of your deck by poking the wood with a screwdriver. If the shaft sinks in with little resistance, this indicates significant damage. Have the deck inspected by a home improvement expert to confirm whether a partial or full replacement is necessary.

2. Termite Infestation

Termites are ant-like insects that feed on wood, deteriorating its integrity. Unless you detect and address the infestation quickly, the colony can render the supports of the deck unsafe.  

3. Significant Warping

Though warped deck boards are less of a safety issue than an aesthetic one, you should be concerned if water damage has deformed the posts, beams, and joists. Aside from the damaged wood, there may be an underlying problem stemming from the initial installation.   

4. Damaged Ledger Boards

Ledger boards are what connects the deck to your home, so they must be fastened securely. Inspect the ledger for missing flashing and loosened or damaged joist hanger nails. If you don’t know what to look for, a home improvement expert will evaluate the boards and recommend whether the deck needs replacing.

5. Age

If your deck is built with pressure-treated wood, it should last approximately 20 years. However, without regular refinishing and maintenance, it may deteriorate faster. If your deck is 20 years old or hasn’t been well maintained, it may be time to rebuild from the ground up.

If your deck looks damaged beyond repair, have it replaced with a better, sturdier structure. Trust the team of home improvement experts at E H Home Remodeling to do it right. Based in Milford, CT, they are a trusted building contractor throughout New Haven County with 36 years of experience. Call (203) 877-6498 to discuss your remodeling project with a general contractor or visit their website for more information.