How to Estimate Deck Repairs

You can restore decks that have weathered storms or suffered from neglect to their former glory. It's just a matter of inspecting the extent and type of damage incurred and then pricing the replacement materials. You'll need to consider not only the floor itself, but also the underlying supporting beams and hardware. Additional expenses include paints or stains or other optional wood treatments. If you don't already have a power saw and drill, consider adding those costs to your estimate. With perseverance, you'll soon have a deck worthy of the expense.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape
• Carpenter's level
• Note pad

Instructions

1. Review the overall appearance of the entire deck structure. Stand at a distance from the deck to look at the entire expanse of the structure. Notice bulging that looks apparently out of place.

2. Approach the deck and stand next to it. Visually inspect the general quality of the deck floor and deck railings. Look at all wood planks rails for rotting or cracked wood. Measure the lengths of replacement planks and rails required for all areas. Note how many replacement screws or nails you'll need.

3. Check the integrity of the wood. Hammer along the deck planks and railing to check for rotten wood that is not visually apparent. Hit the wood every few feet or so to test the strength and to see if it crumbles, flakes or cracks under pressure. Measure and record the number of feet of decking lumber and the amount of railing lumber that needs replacing. Note, too, the number of screws you'll need.

4. Look for any warping on the floor of the deck. Use a level to verify that the deck planks are warped. Measure and record the length of deck planks that need replacing and note the number of screws needed.

5. Check all support structures to see what needs replacing. Look underneath the deck to see if any wood support structures are leaning or missing. Measure and record the lengths of supporting wood beams that need to be replaced or added.

6. Price all repair materials at your favorite lumberyard or building center. Total the prices for deck planks, railings and support beams by multiplying their total respective lengths by their cost per foot. Note the quantity of hardware needed and price a suitable container full. Price matching paint or stain; one gallon will approximately cover a six-foot square area. Total all costs and add prices for additional materials such as hammers, power tools and brushes to round out the entire estimated repair cost.

Tips & Warnings

• Take precautions where you step when inspecting for rotting or cracked decking materials.

References

• Start Remodeling: Building a Deck for Your Home
• This Old House: Go From an Old Deck to New in 4 Steps

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish