Restore or replace? An essential guide to deck renovation

From a build-up of algae to splitting wood, old decking can succumb to a number of problems. But from which issues can your decking still be saved, and which are a sign that it is time to replace your wood? Learn more in this essential guide to deck renovation.

Regular Decking Maintenance Checklist

The first step in decking renovation is to keep up with regular maintenance of your wood. Sweeping it with a stiff brush is a great way to remove the build-up of fungi, algae and debris which can slowly cause damage to your timber. It is also important to ensure that water is not lying on your wood in puddles for long periods of time. If it is, you may need to rethink how your decking is structured and whether it needs to be re-installed with a slope to aid water runoff.

Refinish Your Wood Every Few Years

If your deck is starting to look grey and weathered, it doesn’t necessarily mean that your wood needs to be replaced. Instead, it may simply need to be refinished. This means reapplying any stain or treatments you use on your timber to keep it safe from wear and tear, for example water repellant oils. To refinish your decking, follow these steps:

• Apply a deck cleaning solution to all wood

• Remove old stain with a stain stripper

• Remove all cleaner and stain stripped

• Wait for the surface to dry before applying your new stain

Refinishing your wood is also a great time to do any touch-ups, such as smoothing your timber surface or replacing any old fixings.

Are Your Boards Cracked, Splintering or Damaged?

If you have planks which are damaged but the rest of your decking is in good shape, it is possible to replace those which need it without replacing the whole of your deck. Simply work through it board by board, removing each damaged plank by removing the fastenings. Cut your new timber to size and reattach with the same style of fastening. Seal, stain and your decking should be good to go!

Fixing Protruding Nails

It is fairly common that nails will begin to stick out of the timber on your deck over time. This is annoying, but luckily it is easy to fix. Simply hammer the protruding nails back into the wood, or replace them with new ones if they look a little worse for wear. If your nails keep popping up, consider switching to deck screws which may be a better solution.

When Should You Replace Your Decking?

If all your timber is damaged, it is probably time to replace it. You can resurface your structure if the foundations are still sturdy just by replacing the exterior timber. If your foundations seem unstable, your deck is wobbling or you can see a lot of wear and tear throughout the structure, it might be time to replace the whole thing.

Repair Your Decking With Sustainable Timber

If you need to repair your timber, opt for sustainable wood with EcoChoice. With a wide range of timber such as Cumaru, Ipe, Balau and Thermowood^® from independently certified forests, you can create a deck that is good for your garden and good for the planet. Take a look at our decking products to find what you need today.

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