Should You Repair or Replace Your Deck?

Homeowners often call us thinking they need a new deck when what they really need is a new surface. The decision comes down to what is failing: the boards, the railings, or the structure underneath.

When repair is enough

• Surface boards are cracked or faded but the framing feels solid and the ledger is still firmly attached to the house.
• Railings are loose but the posts are intact and the framing they attach to is sound.
• One or two stairs have rotted at the tread but the stringers are in good shape.
• The deck is less than 15 years old and was originally built with decent materials.

When replacement is the smarter choice

• The ledger board is rotted or pulling away from the house.
• Footings have heaved, shifted, or are undersized by current code.
• More than half the boards and railings are failing.
• The existing structure wasn't permitted or was built with untreated lumber in contact with soil.

The hidden cost of a half-fix

Replacing beautiful new boards on a rotted frame is a waste of money. We inspect the full structure — footings, posts, beams, joists, ledger and hardware — before recommending any path. If the bones are good, we repair. If they aren't, we quote a replacement that gives you a deck you can trust.

For a free assessment in Nepean, Barrhaven, Orléans or the surrounding Ottawa area, book an on-site inspection and we'll tell you exactly where your deck stands.