A deck is a great addition to your home, increasing the usable square footage. Unfortunately, a deck often needs repair before any other area of the home does. They are exposed to the elements year round, and may develop rot, termite infestation, or general wear and tear. Depending on the type of damage and how extensive the repair needs to be, deck repair costs can range considerably. Listed below are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a contractor for your deck repair.
Cracked or creaky deck boards cost between $100 and $600 to fix. Wood warps and shrinks due to moisture and temperature changes, but new fasteners can fix this problem. For more extensive problems, the repairman may recommend a total replacement of the wood or fit new joist brackets. A few DIY tips for fixing a deck board can save you money and the hassle. If you’re concerned about mold, you can cut and replace the damaged boards yourself, saving yourself hundreds of dollars.
Before hiring a deck repair contractor, make sure you check their insurance. The insurance covers you in case of an accident. If your deck is insured, you won’t have to worry about damages. If a contractor is not insured, you can ask for proof of insurance. Additionally, be sure that they have been in business for a while. A reputable company will also have plenty of time to dedicate to the project. This way, you won’t have to worry about the project being finished on time.
A deck repair company can also do the work for you, if you’re not comfortable with doing it yourself. It can be a good idea to contact a professional if the problem is serious, but if you haven’t had the time to get the work done, you can always go the DIY route instead. The best way to avoid a major repair bill is to do it yourself. The best way to do this is by tackling one deck repair at a time.
Another common problem that may require deck repair is uneven terrain. This could be due to a disaster event or a gradual sinking of the ground. In either case, your deck repair company may have to elevate the existing joists or level the ground. They may also have to install new ones. If your deck is more than 20 years old, you should consider replacing the entire deck as soon as possible. Otherwise, it will be a complete waste of money.
The first step in deck repair is determining the source of wood rot. If you have a wooden deck, you’re at risk of rot, which is caused by microscopic fungi. If you let it rot, it can destroy the framework and make it dangerous to walk on. Often, a deck has been compromised by frequent drainage. Fixing this problem early will help you extend the life of your deck. If you’re lucky, you won’t have to pay for a deck replacement for decades to come.