Wood decks endure the elements day in and out, and inevitably, they’re going to break down. For many families, a deck is an irreplaceable space for relaxing and entertaining. It’s important to know the signs that a general contractor needs to replace, not repair, your deck. Recognizing them will help keep everyone safe and prevent future complications and accidents.

When to Replace Deck

1. Gaps Between the Deck and House

If the soil holding your deck’s supports is loose and shifts, your deck can begin pulling away from your home. You’ll notice a visible gap between the deck and house that’s only going to continue growing over time. It’s unlikely a general contractor will be able to reattach the deck without first needing to reinforce the supports and soil. Oftentimes it’s better and more cost-effective to replace the deck altogether.

2. Concrete Erosion

When your deck’s support posts begin to fail, a collapse is sure to follow. The concrete holding the posts in the ground could begin to erode if it was poured incorrectly, or from constant rain and exposure to the elements. You may notice chipping, flaking, or other visible signs of surface wear. Contact a general contractor. They’ll help you explore support options that may allow you to keep some parts of your deck in place for the redesign.

3. Surface Damage

Are the surface boards, railing, stairs, and other top features rotted or broken? If so, they’ll need to be replaced before someone injures themselves. Tearing all of these up and replacing them costs money—in many cases, it can be cheaper to just replace the decking. Surface rot is often accompanied by framing rot. Once you have your new deck, make sure to seal coat it at least once a year to protect against moisture.

4. Stains

An unsightly deck can be just as bad as a damaged one. Wood stains and discoloration can’t always be resolved. This is especially true for grease stains around a grill or if harsh cleaning chemicals were used. In this instance, you may need to replace the decking if stains are widespread.

Turn to Gildehaus Construction to work with a general contractor for your next home improvement project. Serving the residents of New Haven, MO for over 30 years, they provide home remodeling, home additions, and new construction services. From remodeling a bathroom to finishing a basement, they’ll help you to bring your vision to life. Call (573) 459-2111 to schedule a consultation and visit their website to explore previous projects.