Most decks that look finished can be repaired. Walk through these five checks before you pay for a new one.
- Screwdriver test. Push a screwdriver into the worst boards. Firm = repair. Soft or crumbling = those boards need replacing.
- Count failed boards. Under about one third failed? Replace those boards. Over a third? A full re-lay is often the better choice.
- Check the frame. Lift one board near the drain. Rotten timber battens can be swapped for aluminium, but if the whole frame is gone, re-lay.
- Look at the surface. Grey, splintered or patchy is cosmetic: sand and oil fixes it.
- Decide on maintenance. If you do not want to oil timber every year, replacing with composite may suit you better.
Our rule of thumb
Repair when the frame is good. Replace when the frame is gone or most boards have failed. Send us photos and we will tell you which.