Deck Repairs You Can Do Yourself Or Hire a Professional

 Whether you need to repair a wood deck, a composite railing, or a wooden pergola, you may need to hire a professional like Oliveira Painting & Carpentry to help you. Some repairs are easy and inexpensive, while others require special carpentry skills. It would be best if you got several quotes before making a final decision on the necessary repairs.

Depending on your location and the type of material, the cost of repairing a deck can range from $250 to $2,350. This includes the labor to replace damaged boards, the delivery of replacement materials, and the disposal of old materials. It also depends on the size and severity of the damage. For example, if the board is badly damaged, you might need to remove the entire deck.

You can do the repairs yourself if you have minor railing issues, such as splinters and cracks. You will need to remove paint and varnish and use a chemical stripper to remove the old finish. You can then use a pressure washer to clean the deck but keep the pressure low. It would help if you also were careful not to damage the finish.

If you notice a fungus growing on your deck, you may need to have your deck power-washed. You can do this on your own, but it is easier to hire a professional. A professional can also check for termites and other insects damaging your deck. You can pay $60 to $200 for a deck cleaning service.

Termites can be a significant problem for wooden deck owners. They can cause holes, hollows, and softwood. They can also eat wooden parts, which means you need to get the affected areas repaired. The best way to prevent termites is to have a termite-resistant plant near your deck. The cost of a termite-proof plant can be as low as $100.

Inspecting the underside of your deck can reveal problems with the joists and beams. Water can collect at the base of the posts, causing rot to develop. You will also need to repair cracked, loose, or damaged fasteners. The damage to the joists can be accelerated if the posts are installed incorrectly. The position can also weaken, resulting in more damage.

You may need to get a permit from the city or county. You might also have to remove items nearby for safety reasons. You can also have the city or county send an inspector to check your deck.

If you notice mold, moss, or other slippery materials on your deck, you should have it cleaned. Be aware of the hazards that mold and moss pose to you and your family. They can also be toxic to your pets. Leaving them untreated can lead to a poisonous and slippery deck.

Some areas of your deck, such as the underside of your joists and beams, can be challenging. If this is the case, you will need to hire a contractor to perform the work. You can get a free estimate from a deck contractor to determine if you need to have the job done.