
Refinishing your deck is a great way to restore its appearance and fall in love with your outdoor space. Use this guide to learn how much it costs based on factors like size and type.
The average deck repair cost in Detroit, MI, is $1,815, but it can range between $736 and $2,966, depending on the deck’s size and material. Contact a local deck builder for a quote that takes your project specifics into account.


Materials cost $3 to $45 per square foot, making larger deck repairs more expensive.
Composite, which costs $12 to $45 per square foot, is popular for Detroit’s hot summers and cold, wet winters.
Hiring a pro costs $50 to $100 per hour, and repairs take five hours on average.
Not all repairs require permits. If you need one, local building permits start at $271.43.
The warm season in Detroit can feel fleeting, so keeping your deck in good shape and ready for action is key to making the most of your outdoor space while you can. Deck repairs in Detroit cost $1,815 on average, with most projects totaling between $736 and $2,966 depending on deck size, deck material, and the type of repair. You’ll also want to factor in permit costs, demolition, and maintenance fees.
Deck repair costs in Detroit, MI, depend on several factors, particularly what needs to be repaired. Larger repairs, especially those that involve demolition, will cost more than simpler repairs, like replacing popped screws. Consider the following common cost factors that influence deck repairs when budgeting for your project.
Larger decks carry higher material costs and greater labor costs. To get an idea of repair costs, you can inspect your deck and measure the problem areas. The materials for deck repair cost between $3 and $45 per square foot, with the type of decking also influencing the cost.
Size also impacts the cost of rebuilding a deck from scratch. The average cost to build a new deck ranges between $4,500 and $18,000, or $30 to $60 per square foot.
| Deck Size in Feet | Average Repair Cost |
|---|---|
| 10-by-10 | $300–$4,500 |
| 12-by-12 | $432–$6,480 |
| 12-by-14 | $504–$7,560 |
| 14-by-14 | $588–$8,820 |
| 14-by-16 | $672–$10,080 |
| 14-by-20 | $840–$12,600 |
| 16-by-16 | $768–$11,520 |
| 16-by-18 | $864–$12,960 |
| 20-by-20 | $1,200–$18,000 |

The cost of replacing broken boards depends on the deck materials and the best wood for your deck. Different deck board materials also have varying life spans, so you’ll need to replace certain types more often than others.
| Decking Material | Average Cost per Square Foot | Pros in Detroit | Cons in Detroit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cedar | $3–$7 | Withstands temperature fluctuations | Frequent resealing needed to withstand moisture |
| Pressure-treated lumber | $8–$20 | Treated for pest and decay resistance | Vulnerable to warping, cracking, and splitting |
| Ipe hardwood | $10–$20 | Highly durable, even in harsh winter temps | Difficult to source and cut, leading to higher labor and material costs |
| Redwood | $5–$30 | Naturally resistant to insect damage and decay | Requires extra caution when sweeping or shoveling snow to avoid dents and scratches |
| Composite wood | $12–$45 | Easy to clean and maintain | May trap moisture, leading to mold |
| Recycled plastic lumber | $30–$45 | Durable against moisture and pests | Retains heat, making it less comfortable underfoot on hot days |
In November 2024, three genera in the Ipe family (Handroanthus, Roseodendron, and Tabebuia) were added to the CITES Appendices of species with a threat of endangerment. Trade of Ipe is now more strictly regulated with increased pricing.
If your deck just needs a repair or two, the cost depends on the issue. Minor cosmetic fixes will cost much less than major structural repairs. Here are some common decking issues that you may encounter when evaluating your deck for repairs.
| Decking Issue | Average Cost to Repair |
|---|---|
| Railing repairs | $500–$4,000 |
| Popped nails or screws | $0.30 per square foot |
| Loose stairs | $25–$50 per stair |
| Mold and rot | $200–$500 |
| Mildew | $50–$110 |
| Board replacement | $500–$4,000 |
| Termite or other pests | $200–$600 |
| Resurfacing | $15–$50 per square foot |
| Refurbishing | $100–$2,000+ |
| Stair anchoring | $15–$40 per step |
| Pressure washing | $200–$450 |
Replacing your deck railing costs $35 to $210 per linear foot. Railings are essential safety features for raised decks, and they’re also nice to have on ground-level or floating decks to prevent accidents. Your final cost depends on the material you choose for the railing.
| Deck Railing Material | Average Cost per Linear Foot |
|---|---|
| Wood | $40–$60 |
| Metal | $55–$85 |
| Composite | $80–$165 |
| Glass | $140–$210 |
| Cable | $115–$175 |
Demolishing an old deck costs $5 to $15 per square foot. This includes removing the old materials and the demolition itself. However, disposing of the materials yourself can cut costs.
The average cost to stain a deck professionally is between $550 and $1,250. Whether hiring out or DIYing, always follow up with a clear sealant for added protection. Be sure to stain and reseal your deck every two to three years.
While it’s a great idea to repair rather than replace a deck when possible, there are some instances when it’s better to start fresh. Unfortunately, if your deck is in poor shape, your best option is to tear it down and rebuild. Here are some key signs that it’s time to budget for deck replacement costs.
| Deck Repair | Deck Replacement |
|---|---|
| Minor damage, like small cracks | Significant damage, like large holes and split boards |
| Mold that hasn’t permeated the interior | Extensive termite or mold damage |
| Popped nails or screws | Large sections of rotting wood |
| Buildup of dirt and grime | The overall structure sways |
| Loose railing | Frequent and high repair costs |
| It needs a maintenance visit | It’s older than the projected lifespan |
In addition to paying for materials, you’ll also need to budget for labor and permitting costs. Consider the following factors when getting project quotes from contractors.
Deck pros in Detroit charge $50 to $100 per hour, and most repairs take five hours.
While you may have the skills and tools to make small, simple repairs, like replacing a screw, leave more complex jobs, like fixing decayed boards, to a deck repair pro in Detroit, MI. The pros have the proper training and licensing to get the job done as quickly and safely as possible so that you can get back to relaxing on your deck.
Major deck repairs, like structural updates, could require a permit from the Buildings, Safety Engineering, and Environmental Department. It’s best to let a pro handle the permit process so that you get the correct permits for your project and avoid any penalties. Building permit fees in Detroit start at $271.43 but vary by project type and cost.
While Detroit doesn’t have a city sales tax, the state will apply a 6% sales tax to construction materials. The contractor will pay for materials needed for the repairs and accompanying taxes and build that cost into your quote.
Because contractors set their own hourly or project rates, tipping for deck repairs isn’t required or expected. However, you can show extra appreciation for the deck repair crew with a 10% to 20% tip.
Although winters can be long and cold in Detroit, homeowners here make the most of warmer months by spending more time outdoors. You can make your property more attractive, both for yourself and potential buyers, by installing a deck or maintaining and repairing an existing deck.
In Detroit, you could get a return on your investment of building a deck of 50% to 70% for wood decks or around 40% for composite decks, but you’ll need to keep up with repairs and maintenance to get the best ROI.
Home is the most important place on earth, which is why Angi has helped more than 150 million homeowners transform their houses into homes they adore. To help homeowners with their next project, Angi provides readers with the most accurate cost data and upholds strict editorial standards. We survey real Angi customers about their project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.
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