A deck is a worthwhile investment in your home, for a number of reasons. It provides a comfortable outdoor living space for summer barbeques and parties, while also yielding a relatively high return on investment. But even decks that are properly cleaned, finished, and maintained will eventually show signs of wear-and-tear after a couple decades of use.
Sometimes a simple refinishing or power washing may sufficiently address cosmetic issues. In other cases, it’s a matter of deciding between a refacing job or a total rebuild. If you’re the owner of a Montgomery County deck showing it’s age and are looking for an upgrade, here are a few things to consider when making this decision:
- Warped, split, or decaying wood – If you notice that your deck has experienced more than just the usual signs of aging, it’s time to consider refacing. Once the wood has gone from cosmetically unappealing to structurally damaged, action must be taken. A bad deck is not only an eyesore, but dangerous as it is more at risk for a collapse. And while a good deck will increase your home’s value, a damaged one will lower it.
- Examine substructure and framing – In order to go the refacing route, your deck’s substructure and framing must be in tact. It’s best to hire a professional to evaluate whether or not this is the case. If there are serious issues in either of these areas, a total rebuild may be your best bet.
- What’s your budget? – A refacing job is a great way to extend the life of your deck, while saving loads of cash compared to a total rebuild. There is a wide range of options for materials and styles when refacing, which can give you all the benefits of a brand new deck without breaking the bank. If you have a higher budget and are looking to make bigger changes in the size and structure of your deck, a rebuild may be the better option.
If you’re the owner of a deck that’s started to show its age, don’t despair. This is a natural result of many years of foot traffic and exposure to the elements. Even the best-maintained decks will eventually need some work done.
Call Paul Construction for Backyard Construction Services
If you find yourself in this situation and would like some professional assistance, Paul Construction can help. For over 20 years, we’ve been assisting Montgomery County families with various backyard construction projects. Contact us today for a free in-home consultation to get started. We look forward to working with you!
