The decision to resurface or replace a deck is tough. Price, safety, longevity, looks, and functionality are all things homeowners have to consider. I’ve been building and repairing decks for decades and have assisted thousands of owners in making this decision.
That said, I wanted to cover the pros and cons of resurfacing versus replacing to help you as you consider these options.
Resurfacing vs Replacing a Deck — An Age-Old Question
Replacing and resurfacing decks both involve a lot of work. Resurfacing means you are refinishing the surface boards. It’s a great choice for decks that are lightly scratched on the surface. Resurfacing gives the deck a new appearance and can help keep it looking good for 5 to 10 years.
Replacing a deck, on the other hand, is a total dismantling and rebuilding of the deck. When the frame is rotted, what are you going to do? It’s pricier, but replacement is a better solution if you’re facing a pest infestation or wood that is worse for wear.
You get a fresh start — a clear pallet by replacing a deck. You can ditch wood and choose contemporary, tough materials such as composite or PVC. Ultimately, it’s up to you what the deck looks like and how to make it work within your budget. A professional will know best whether your deck can be refreshed with a resurfacing or if you need to go ahead with a replacement.
When Resurfacing a Deck Is Best
Resurfacing your deck is great if it is already well built and you don’t need to replace it completely but you still want to update its look. This works best when the underlayment is in excellent shape and not rotting, warping, or badly damaged. If your deck frame was constructed from pressure-treated wood, it may have some life left if its integrity is intact.
The best part of resurfacing is the price. It’s cheaper than replacing a deck. It’s a good option for those with tighter budgets looking to refresh their outdoor space.
Resurfacing is also less intensive. The timeline is condensed. A deck can take weeks to replace, but resurfacing can be done in a matter of days with minimal interruption to your day.
If you love your deck design but want a change, resurfacing is the way to go: replace the deck boards and railings and give them a new look.
When Resurfacing Is Not The Best Call
Resurfacing is an effective and cost-conscious option, but it’s not always the right choice. The biggest constraint is that resurfacing doesn’t fix the structural issues plaguing your deck. If your deck substructure is deficient due to rot, insects, or warped joists, resurfacing is a cosmetic job that could be ineffective and potentially dangerous. Hidden damage doesn’t usually show up right away, so a professional inspection is key before resurfacing.
The other limitation of resurfacing is the time it gives you. New decking boards might look good, but your deck will never last as long as the old frame. But if the frame is approaching its death bed — resurfacing will just stall replacement.
How To Know When You Should Replace Your Deck
Wood decks can last up to fifteen years. Anything older, and it may be time to start fresh. Older decks aren’t usually up to current building codes, so it may be worth replacing.
The biggest benefit? Increasing your deck’s longevity.
(It’s also nice to get a new look and the chance to make it how you want it).
Composite materials like Trex are great. They’ll last more than thirty years with much less maintenance.
They’re lightweight. They’re low-maintenance. They don’t rot, break or fade. They truly are a good long-term investment.
A new deck adds to property values as homebuyers are more likely to be interested in updated outdoor spaces. It will be more expensive initially, which is the downside of replacement, but it eliminates the maintenance and lets you know your deck is sound, beautiful, and durable. If your deck is old, worn, or outdated, it’s the way to go.
Signs Your Deck Needs To Be Replaced
Learning the signs of deck damage can help determine if your deck needs replacement. It’d be worth getting a professional to take a look as well.
Sagging, Slanting, or Wobbling Frame
If your deck feels weak or has been sagging or tilting, that’s a red flag. These problems can be structural problems like collapsed joists, posts, or ties that can no longer secure the deck. Slow-moving gates and an uneven floor are surface-level signs of a bigger issue.
Breaking or Cracking Decking, Railing, Stairs or Railings
Loose or rotting deck boards, railings, and stairs are all dangerous. They can result from moisture damage, rusted hardware, or warped wood. Major deterioration always needs to be replaced.
Rot, Decay, or Insect Infestations
Decaying wood and rot are bad signs. Damage caused by insects (like termites or carpenter ants) indicates that the deck may need to be replaced. If you see one of these pests, it’d be worth calling a professional.
Excessive Splintering, Cracking, or Warping
Splinters and cracks are no cause for concern when they’re minimal. The larger issue is the cracked boards. They can be signs of moisture leaks or worn materials that are not easily repaired or salvaged.
Any of these signs are a red flag to know whether your deck needs repairs, resurfacing, or replacement.
When to Hire a Professional and Why It’s Worth It
There are some things you can do by yourself. Other times, you need an expert.
If you’re thinking about replacing or resurfacing your deck, the best thing to do is to reach out to us. I’ll come out for free, take measurements, and design a 3D model of your dream deck—no stress, no obligation. We’ll help address your deck’s needs.
Structural Concerns: A professional deck inspection is necessary when your deck is sagging, rotting, or in the worst possible condition. Our team can catch hidden problems so your deck stays safe and compliant.
Complex Repairs or Full Replacement: You need the right tools and knowledge for major repairs like joist replacement, beam replacement, and stairs repair.
By hiring a professional, you’ll get some of the following:
- Knowledge and expertise
- Access to the best materials
- Safety and peace of mind
- Increased property value
- Time and cost efficiency
- Longer-lasting deck
Quick Summary
The decision to resurface or replace your deck is best made by considering aspects such as safety, longevity, property value, and local building ordinances.
Resurfacing is inexpensive if your deck is in decent structural shape but needs a fresh look. It repairs the deck surface boards, makes your deck look new, and increases its life.
But you can’t resurface decks with structural issues like rot, pest infestation, or sagging deck frame. When you replace a deck, you start over, you’re safe, and often you replace it with composite or PVC, which last more than 30 years with little maintenance. This investment increases the deck’s look and value.
Plus, you get to make it look how you want.Resurfacing a Deck vs. Installing a Deck In Long Island, New York
The decision to resurface or replace a deck is tough. Price, safety, longevity, looks, and functionality are all things homeowners have to consider. I’ve been building and repairing decks for decades and have assisted thousands of owners in making this decision.
That said, I wanted to cover the pros and cons of resurfacing versus replacing to help you as you consider these options.
