Having an outdoor living area in your backyard gives you a convenient and relaxing place to spend time on pleasant days. However, your deck will eventually start showing signs of wear and tear, especially if it’s made from wood. Are you wondering how to repair your deck in Ashburn, VA? Below, we have some tips you should consider before getting started.
In the meantime, if you have any deck-related questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our decking experts by calling 571-707-8772 or contacting us online.
Determining Whether You Need Repairs or a Replacement
Before you can get started with deck repairs, you need to determine whether repairs are sufficient or if you need a full replacement instead. The most important thing to pay attention to is the extent of the damage.
For example, small cracks in a few boards can usually be repaired. However, if the majority of your deck boards are broken, then a replacement is likely a better option for your needs. We recommend prioritizing deck repairs at the first sign of damage, so you can stop the issue before it gets worse and a replacement is inevitable.
How to Repair Your Deck in Ashburn, VA
When you decide to move forward with deck repairs, there are a few common issues you might be dealing with. Let’s take a closer look at how to handle these common repairs.
Broken Boards
Exposure to the elements over the years can take a toll on your deck boards, weakening them and causing them to crack or break. If you only notice small cracks, you might be able to fill them with epoxy wood filler.
Another option is to reseal your deck boards, which can help slow down the aging process. Otherwise, you’ll need to replace the broken boards before they get worse.
Discoloration
Another common issue is discoloration on your deck boards. Small stains or discoloration are normal and can be fixed by repainting or re-staining your deck to bring it back to its former glory. Just remember to give it a thorough cleaning first.
You can also try using a wood cleaner and brightener to combat discoloration. No matter which option you choose, we recommend resealing your deck to prevent future issues.
If the discoloration is more widespread, it could indicate a more serious structural issue, so keep in mind that refinishing your deck may not be a long-term fix.
Loose Railings
When the railings around your deck become loose, it can be a safety issue. Make sure your family stays safe by taking the time to repair your railings. Most of the time, loose railings are a result of rot.
To fix it, detach the railing and fill the rot with epoxy putty. Then, you can reinstall the repaired sections using new hardware.
Damage From Pests
If you have a wooden deck, it’s susceptible to pest infestations from termites, woodpeckers, and carpenter ants. If you’re able to catch it before the structure is too damaged, the first step is to call an exterminator to come out to your home to assess and remedy the issue.
After that’s finished, you can repair or replace the affected boards so your deck is usable once again.
Should You DIY the Repairs or Hire a Professional?
When you need deck repairs, the most important decision you’ll make is whether to do the repairs yourself or hire a decking contractor to do it for you. If you want to save money, taking a DIY approach is probably your first thought. However, if you don’t have carpentry experience, anything beyond basic repairs may be too difficult to complete on your own.
If you decide to hire a professional contractor for the repairs instead, you might actually save money in the long run, when you factor in the cost of materials, tools, and the fact that inexperienced DIYers often end up hiring a pro to fix mistakes.
Unless you’re especially handy, your best bet is to hire a contractor to fix the damage for you.
Trust DeckGuru for Your Deck Repairs
Now that you know more about how to repair your deck in Ashburn, VA, you should feel confident deciding whether to do them yourself or hire an expert. If you need help, we can come out to your home, inspect your deck to assess the damage, and develop the best repair plan for your needs.
To schedule your inspection, please give us a call at 571-707-8772 or contact us online.
