DIY Repair Rotten Deck Post
DIY repair of a rotten deck post is not a difficult task. If you own a deck, naturally it is just a matter of time before the elements, including rain, sun and snow, wear it down, making repairs necessary. This will ensure that the deck remains structurally sound and continues to provide you and your family with years of enjoyment. Does this Spark an idea?
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Evaluate and Plan
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Before you do anything, determine exactly what area of the deck the rotten post is supporting. Carefully examined the post and ascertain the degree of rot. Determine exactly what you will need to do to make the necessary repairs. Depending on the extent of the rot, you may be able to repair the post without removing it entirely. If the post has an extensive amount of rotten wood, you will have to replace the entire component, which takes a little more work.
If you only need to repair the existing post, you need to purchase a post connector and post spacer anyway. If you need a new post, make sure it is the correct size, which is typically 4-by-4 and made of pressure-treated lumber. Buy the fasteners you need to secure the post.
Repair/Replace the Post
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You'll need to install a temporary support system before you start to cut or remove anything. Use some 2-by-4s to provide the necessary support. Cut them to the same length as the existing post. Place a concrete block or other solid piece of material underneath the spot for your temporary support. Wedge the 2-by-4 into place underneath the beam that is supported by the post you're repairing.
Once the temporary support structure is in place, begin repairing the rotten deck post. If during your analysis you determined that there is only a small amount of rotten wood at the bottom of the post, you can simply repair the component. You'll need a connector and a one-inch spacer. Cut out the rotten wood and put the connector in place. Then insert the spacer and attach it to the connector. Secure the spacer to the deck post.
If you are replacing the entire post, unbolt it from the deck beam and at its anchor. Ease the damaged post out of position. If you have difficulty removing the post, use a handsaw to simply cut the post in half and remove it.
Cut the new post to the proper length. Place it in position and make sure that it is level and plumb. You may need to use some temporary braces to hold the post in place while you secure it. Drill the holes for your fasteners and secure the new post to the deck and to the post anchor. Remove the temporary support.
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