Get matched with top deck maintenance specialists in Hornell, NY

Your deck may pop, and your neighbor’s deck may not for a number of reasons. Whether or not a deck pops will depend on how it was made, the conditions it’s exposed to, and the materials. Improper spacing is a common reason for increased pressure between deck boards. Moisture penetration is another.

It is possible to repair wet, rotted wood, but it depends on the extent of the damage. If the wood is severely decayed, it may be necessary to replace the affected sections entirely. However, if the rot is relatively minor, you can attempt to repair it. Start by removing any wet or decayed wood, allowing the area to dry thoroughly. Then, you can apply a wood hardener or consolidant to strengthen the remaining wood fibers. Finally, use epoxy wood fillers to fill in the damaged areas, shaping and sanding them to match the original wood surface.

In most cases, repairing a deck costs much less than replacing it. Deck repairs cost around $2,000 on average, while the cost of deck replacement is at least $7,900. Repairing involves fixing issues like loose boards or small cracks, which requires less material and labor. If the deck has extensive damage, though, the cost of repairs can add up quickly, and it may be more cost-effective to replace the deck entirely.

You can’t fix warped composite decking boards, but you can replace them so your deck surface is no longer warped. For more severely warped decks, especially those with damaged joists or support beams, you’ll need a pro to inspect the deck and recommend whether you should replace the structure or repair the damage.