Looking for more guidance? Take a look at our Repairs overview.
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BACKDEC 8, 2025
How to Replace Old or Damaged Deck Boards
BACKDEC 8, 2025
Looking for more guidance? Take a look at our Repairs overview.
A deck is the heart of your outdoor living space, but years of sun, rain, and foot traffic can take their toll. Wobbly, cracked, or rotting deck boards aren't just an eyesore—they can be a serious safety hazard. The good news is that replacing worn-out boards is a project many homeowners can tackle themselves, instantly boosting their home's curb appeal and restoring peace of mind.
Whether you're dealing with a few problem spots or planning a full resurfacing, this guide is your go-to resource. We'll walk you through everything, step-by-step, just like a friendly expert on the phone. We'll cover how to inspect your deck's structure, remove old boards attached with nails, screws, or hidden fasteners, and install new wood or composite decking like a pro.
Let's get that deck back in shape!
Before you start pulling up boards, let's confirm you're on the right track. If you notice any of the following signs, it's a clear signal that your deck boards need attention:
If any of these sound familiar, it’s time to roll up your sleeves.
Hold on! Before you grab that pry bar, we need to do the single most important thing: inspect the deck's foundation. The deck boards are just the surface; the real strength comes from the joists and beams underneath. Putting beautiful new boards on a rotten structure is a recipe for disaster.
Think of it like this: you wouldn't put a new roof on a house with a crumbling foundation.
Here’s how to perform a thorough inspection:
When to Stop and Call a Professional
This is a critical checkpoint. If you find that any joist or beam is rotten, cracked, or loose, your project has just changed from a simple board replacement to a structural repair.
DO NOT PROCEED. Structural work requires professional expertise to ensure the deck is safe. This is the moment to put down the tools and call a licensed deck contractor. If your deck boards are arranged in a complex pattern like herringbone or have a picture-frame border, it's also wise to consult a professional to ensure the repair matches the original craftsmanship.
Assuming your deck's structure is sound, it's time to get everything you need for the job.
Tools:
Materials:
How your boards are attached determines how you'll take them up. Take a close look to see if you have nails, screws, or no visible fasteners at all.
This is the most labor-intensive method but straightforward.
This is much faster if the screws are in good shape.
This method requires a special tool, often specific to the brand of decking.
After removing the old boards, take a moment to sweep the exposed joists clean of any dirt, leaves, or wood splinters.
With the joists exposed, now is the perfect time for an extra layer of protection. We highly recommend applying butyl joist tape along the top of every joist. This self-adhesive waterproof membrane prevents moisture from sitting between the new deck board and the joist, which is the number one cause of joist rot. It’s an inexpensive step that can add years to the life of your deck's structure.
The installation process differs significantly between traditional wood and modern composite boards. Follow the path that matches your material.
Composite decking uses a system of hidden fasteners for a clean, screw-free surface.
One of the biggest motivators for a DIY project is cost savings. According to Forbes, hiring a professional to replace deck boards can cost anywhere from $10 to $45 per square foot, including labor and materials.
By doing it yourself, you only pay for materials, which can cut the cost by more than half.
For a 200-square-foot deck, a professional replacement could cost $2,000-$9,000, while a DIY replacement might cost $800-$2,500 in materials, depending on your choice of decking.
Replacing old deck boards is a transformative project that enhances your home's safety, value, and your enjoyment of the outdoors. By following these steps, you can confidently tackle this repair and achieve professional-looking results.
Feeling a bit in over your head, or did your inspection reveal a bigger problem? That's what we're here for. Download the Casa app today to connect with vetted, local deck contractors who can handle everything from simple repairs to full rebuilds. With Casa, expert help and easy-to-follow DIY guides are always right at your fingertips.
