Is your deck starting to look a little worse for wear? Have you noticed saggy boards, corroded fasteners, persistent mold, or maybe you just hate how it looks shabby? Here in the Tri-Cities, homeowners love getting to spend time outside. However, that means having a safe, functional deck you can rely on is vital. Unfortunately, general wear and tear can affect its longevity. Therefore, today, we are covering the top five warning signs you need deck replacement and why upgrading to durable, low-maintenance PVC decks may be the perfect solution for you.
5 Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Deck:
#1: Extensive Structural Damage
The first and most obvious call for deck replacement is when the deck is experiencing structural damage. Issues like rotting wood, loose boards, or sagging sections compromise safety, and the last thing you want is your family, friends, or guests to get injured when using your deck.
While a singular loose board can be replaced, extensive structural damage should be handled with a complete deck replacement to ensure the safety of the overall structure.
While it is vital to weigh the costs and benefits of repair versus replacement, it is essential to keep in mind that when a deck starts to show signs of deterioration, it typically snowballs with time. Typically, your first board replacement is often a sign that more are coming soon down the road.
#2: Outdated Materials
As with any residential construction, decks do not last forever. They, too, have an expiration date or expected lifespan. Of course, it will all depend on the materials chosen, the consistency of maintenance, environmental conditions, and other factors, but one can expect that there will come a time when the original materials are simply nearing the end of their product expectancy.
For example, traditional wood decks require frequent maintenance and are prone to damage. Therefore, even well-constructed wood decks that are consistently maintained have a lifespan of only 10-15 years. Looking at capped composite decks, their lifespan typically lasts 25 to 30 years, while capped PVC decks can last over 50 years. While these materials last far longer than wood decks, they, too, will eventually have to be replaced. Therefore, keeping an eye on your decking materials expected “expiration” date is a good indicator of when it’s time to replace your deck.
#3: Visible Rust or Corrosion on Hardware
Another clear indicator that deck replacement is necessary is when there is visible rust or corrosion on the hardware holding your deck together, such as fasteners, nails, or screws. When rust or corrosion occurs, it indicates that the integrity of the hardware is failing, which could potentially weaken the safety of the deck.
Similar to the previous point on outdated materials, hardware will not last forever. Of course, some pieces of hardware may age or be susceptible to rust or corrosion faster than others. In the case where it is just one or two pieces, they can simply be replaced. However, it is an essential sign that the others are likely soon to follow. In that case, moving forward with a deck replacement will be more cost-effective than repairing each piece of hardware.
#4: Persistent Mold, Mildew, or Algae Growth
While surface-level mold, mildew, and algae growth can often be handled with consistent deck maintenance, persistent growth of these three can eventually weaken a deck structure. Here in Washington, where we live in a moisture-rich environment, mold, mildew, and algae can grow abundantly and be complicated to manage. For traditional wood decks, persistent growth can penetrate the wood and become impossible to remove, making the deck slippery and unsafe.
When your deck faces persistent growths, the best course of action is a full deck replacement with mold-resistant materials, such as composite or PVC decks. These materials are far more resistant to moisture retention and are easier to maintain, which in turn prevents excess build-ups of growths.
#5: Aging Appearance
The final common sign you need a deck replacement is an aging aesthetic. Even if a structure is still technically sound, a poor appearance can reflect on the quality and value of your home. Faded, cracked, stained, or warped materials detract from your home’s aesthetic appeal, making it look old and haggard. Unfortunately, there is only so much that maintenance and repainting can do, and eventually, one must consider the return on investment in repair versus simply investing in a new deck.
Therefore, homeowners who enjoy a beautiful home appearance, often host guests, or are looking to sell their homes in the near future should consider appearance as an indicator of deck replacement.
Why Choose PVC Decks for Replacement:
While traditional wood decks were the standard for decades, they are a high-maintenance and expensive component of the home. Nowadays, homeowners have access to better materials that far outlast wooden decks – PVC decks. PVC decks are made from specially crafted plastic called polyvinyl chloride that offers the aesthetics of real wood but without its limitations.
With high durability, low maintenance, and impressive weather resistance, PVC decks can last 50 years or longer, making them an excellent return on home investment. Additionally, unlike traditional wood decks, PVC decks are resistant to rot, mold, and fading, making them far easier to maintain a high-level aesthetic.
Why Work with Simpson Decks and Construction:
At Simpson Decks and Construction, we have helped countless homeowners design and install high-quality PVC decks. We offer custom deck installation, with homeowners choosing everything from simple deck construction to elaborate designs to craft a space that best suits their family’s needs.
At Simpson Deck, we pride ourselves on our commitment to delivering durable, safe, and visually appealing outdoor spaces. We use only the best materials to ensure your deck is durable, low maintenance, and built to last.
Is your deck showing signs of wear and tear? Contact Simpson Decks and Construction today for expert PVC deck replacement and upgrade your outdoor space!