An outdoor deck is a great place for entertaining family and friends or just soaking up the sun while you read your favorite book or watch your children play.

Over time, your deck will show signs of wear and tear, and may even have damage that you need to address. Maybe you’re worried about replacing your entire deck, so you’ve been putting it off, so you don’t have to face the cost.

But what if we told you there might be a better alternative?

Deck restoration is an inexpensive and often better alternative to a deck replacement. However, not all decks can be restored rather than replaced.

What Is Deck Restoration?

Deck restoration is basically a facelift for your deck. After a few years of sun, rain, snow, and anything else the Maryland weather brings, your decking may show signs of warping, rotting, or swelling.

Restoring a deck can include any of the following:

● Replacing worn boards

● Replacing loose nails and screws

● Power washing the dirt, grime, algae, and moss

● Sanding down the tread boards and handrails

● Adding a fresh coat of stain or paint to wood surfaces

If you have a composite deck, restoration usually means power washing the deck and replacing damaged composite deck boards. The age and type of composite decking (cap or no cap) will ultimately determine your deck's best cleaning and restoration method.

Savvy DIYers may be able to tackle this task themselves. Still, it’s always a good idea to have professionals inspect your deck first. This ensures that the structure is still sound and can withstand the restoration process and continued usage.

What Are The Advantages Of Deck Restoration?

The biggest advantage of deck restoration is the cost savings compared to a deck replacement. Deck restoration can also bring new life to your deck, allowing you to change the color of the stain or paint.

It can also add visual appeal and increase the value of your home if you’re thinking about selling. Another benefit of deck restoration is preventing your deck from decaying and rotting.

Over time, deck surfaces can become dangerous and slippery from the elements. It may give off a mildew or musty smell that prevents you from enjoying your outdoor space. Deck restoration can solve these problems, creating a safe and inviting surface for your friends and family to enjoy for years to come.

When Should A Deck Be Replaced Rather Than Restored?

Sometimes, a deck’s condition is cause for replacement rather than restoration. Since decks face constant exposure to the elements, excess water, the freeze-thaw cycle from changing seasons, temperature fluctuations, and harmful UV rays can cause severe damage or deterioration. In these cases, we usually recommend deck replacement over deck restoration.

Here are some telltale signs your deck has extensive enough problems that a replacement may be the better solution:

● Gaps between boards

● Deck surface is spongy

● The deck frame or foundation shows signs of decay

● The structure is weak

● Excessive mold or algae growth

● Wood is decaying or rotting

● Soft spots in boards when walking on the surface

● Rails are wobbly

● Excessive loose or damaged nails, screws, and deck boards

● There’s evidence of pest infestation, like termites

Should I Have My Deck Restored Or Replaced?

Are you wondering whether your deck needs restoration or replacement? The team at Baldwin Home Services in Pasadena, Maryland, can help you decide. Schedule a consultation with us, and we’ll send our professionals out to inspect your deck. Our experienced professionals can often restore the deck — unless it’s in serious disrepair — and save you thousands of dollars that you would have spent on a deck replacement.