Older decks show wear over time. Some issues require simple repairs while others indicate the need for complete replacement. Here's how to evaluate your deck's condition.
Warning Signs
Structural Concerns (Repair or Replace) - Ledger board pulling away from house - Posts rotting at ground level - Joists showing significant decay - Beams cracking or splitting - Connections failing or loose
Surface Issues (Usually Repairable) - Cracked or split deck boards - Loose boards or fasteners - Surface mold or mildew - Faded color or finish - Minor rot on individual boards
Testing Your Deck
Simple tests reveal deck condition:
The Screwdriver Test Push a screwdriver into wood surfaces. Soft, spongy wood indicates rot. Check joists, ledger, and posts in particular.
The Bounce Test Walk across your deck. Excessive bounce indicates undersized joists or span issues.
Visual Inspection Look underneath for: - Water staining - Insect damage - Hardware corrosion - Connection failures
Repair vs. Replace
Repair makes sense when: - Structure is sound - Only surface boards need work - Deck is less than 15 years old - Issues are localized
Replace makes sense when: - Multiple structural issues exist - Ledger attachment is compromised - Deck doesn't meet current codes - Repair costs exceed 50% of replacement
Dream Decks offers free deck inspections. We provide honest assessments and recommend the most cost-effective solution.
Ready to Start Your Project?
Dream Decks provides free consultations for deck projects throughout the Minneapolis–Saint Paul metro area.
