Complete Deck Repair & Maintenance Guide
Keep your deck safe and beautiful with proper maintenance and timely repairs. Learn what you can do yourself and when to call professionals.
DIY Maintenance
$50-200 annually
Inspection Time
2-3 hours twice yearly
Safety Priority
Structural issues = Pro job
Safety Warning
Deck collapses can cause serious injury or death. Any structural concerns should be evaluated by a professional immediately. When in doubt, don't use the deck until it's inspected.
Bi-Annual Deck Inspection Checklist
- Ledger Board: Check connection to house, look for gaps or movement
- Support Posts: Check for rot, insect damage, or shifting
- Joists: Look for sagging, cracks, or separation
- Footings: Check for settling or erosion around concrete pads
- Deck Boards: Check for loose, cracked, or rotting boards
- Railings: Test for stability, check height (36" minimum)
- Stairs: Check for loose steps, proper rise/run ratios
- Hardware: Look for loose bolts, rusted screws, or missing fasteners
Common Deck Problems & Solutions
Loose Deck Boards
Solution: Re-secure with deck screws (not nails)
Cost: $10-30 | Time: 1-2 hours | Difficulty: Easy
Minor Surface Stains
Solution: Deck cleaner and pressure washing
Cost: $20-50 | Time: Half day | Difficulty: Easy
Faded or Peeling Stain
Solution: Clean, sand lightly, and re-stain
Cost: $100-300 | Time: Weekend | Difficulty: Moderate
Structural Damage
Sagging, bouncing, or separation from house
Risk: High | Urgency: Immediate
Extensive Rot
Multiple boards or structural members affected
Risk: High | Complexity: High
Railing Issues
Loose, damaged, or non-code compliant railings
Risk: High | Code Requirements: Complex
Deck Maintenance Schedule
- • Complete structural inspection
- • Clean deck surface thoroughly
- • Check and tighten all hardware
- • Clear debris from drainage areas
- • Plan any needed repairs
- • Second structural inspection
- • Apply stain/sealant if needed
- • Clear leaves and debris regularly
- • Trim vegetation around deck
- • Prepare for winter weather
Deck Staining & Sealing Guide
When to Stain
- • New deck: Wait 3-6 months for wood to weather
- • Existing deck: Every 2-3 years or when water no longer beads
- • High traffic areas: May need annual touch-ups
Staining Process
- Clean deck thoroughly with deck cleaner
- Allow to dry completely (24-48 hours)
- Sand any rough areas lightly
- Apply stain with brush or roller in thin, even coats
- Work in manageable sections to maintain wet edge
- Allow proper drying time between coats
Weather Considerations
Don't stain in direct sunlight, high humidity, or if rain is expected within 24 hours. Ideal temperature is 50-80°F.
Cost Analysis: DIY vs Professional
| Repair Type | DIY Cost | Professional Cost | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Deck Cleaning & Staining | $100-200 | $500-800 | DIY Friendly |
| Board Replacement (5-10 boards) | $200-400 | $600-1,000 | DIY if comfortable |
| Railing Repair/Replacement | $300-600 | $800-1,500 | Professional (safety/code) |
| Structural Repairs | $500-1,500 | $1,000-3,000 | Always Professional |
Red Flags: Stop Using Your Deck Immediately
- Bouncing or swaying when walking on the deck
- Separation from the house or visible gaps at the ledger board
- Loose or wobbly railings that move when pressure is applied
- Visible rot or insect damage in support posts or joists
- Cracked or broken deck boards that could cause falls
Ready to Get Started?
Don't want to tackle this project yourself? Our experienced team can handle your deck repair project with professional results and guaranteed satisfaction.