Your deck is an extension of your home, a place where you can relax, entertain, and enjoy the outdoors. However, over time, even the most well-maintained decks can start to show signs of wear and tear.
If your deck is looking worn, you might be considering replacing it entirely. But what if there was a way to breathe new life into your existing deck without the hassle and expense of a complete replacement? Composite deck resurfacing –cost-effective solution for transforming your old deck into a beautiful, durable outdoor living space.
Transform Your Outdoor Space with Durability and Style
What is Composite Deck Resurfacing?
Composite deck resurfacing is the process of installing new composite boards over your existing deck structure. This allows you to enjoy the benefits of new decking without the need to demolish and rebuild from scratch. By resurfacing your deck with high-quality composite materials, you can enhance its appearance, and extend its lifespan for years to come.
Composite Decking Contractors
Benefits of Composite Deck Resurfacing
Composite decking is an increasingly popular choice for outdoor spaces due to its numerous advantages over traditional wood decking.
- Low Maintenance: One of the most appealing features of composite decking is its minimal maintenance requirements. Unlike wood decking, which requires regular staining, sealing, and sanding, composite deck boards are designed to resist fading, staining, and mold growth, allowing you to enjoy your outdoor space without the hassle of constant upkeep.
- Improved Aesthetics: Composite deck resurfacing allows you to completely transform the look of your outdoor space. With a wide range of colors, textures, and finishes available, you can redo your deck to perfectly complement your home's exterior and personal style preferences.
- Enhanced Durability: Composite decking materials are engineered to withstand the elements and resist common issues such as splinters, rot, and insect damage. By resurfacing your deck with composite boards, you'll enjoy a low-maintenance, long-lasting outdoor living space that can stand up to the test of time.
- Savings Over Time: While the initial cost of composite decking may be higher than that of wood decking, composite decking offers significant savings over time in terms of maintenance, repairs, and replacement. With its durable and long-lasting materials, composite decking can withstand the elements and maintain its beauty and integrity for years to come, reducing the need for costly repairs and replacements down the road.
Pros and Cons of Deck Resurfacing
Pros:
- Saves money compared to a complete deck replacement
- Quicker installation process than building a new deck
- Enhances durability and resistance to weathering, rot, and insects
- Improves the appearance of your outdoor space with customizable options
- Increases home value and appeal to potential buyers
- Low-maintenance material reduces upkeep requirements
Cons:
- Initial cost may be higher than traditional wood decking materials
- Requires a structurally sound existing deck for successful resurfacing
- May not be suitable for severely damaged or decayed decks
- Certain composite products can be slippery when wet, requiring additional traction measures
- Limited ability to change the layout or design of your existing deck structure.
Making the Right Choice: Factors to Consider Before Resurfacing
Before you begin the process of resurfacing your deck with composite, there are a few important factors to consider:
Age and Safety of Current Deck
Composite decking is typically heavier than traditional wood, so it’s crucial to ensure your deck’s substructure is in good condition and can support the added weight. This also brings up the composite decking requires closer spacing of the deck framing then traditional wood can. Ensure that all elements are in good condition and structurally sound to create a safer outdoor space for your family. If you notice rot or missing components during the inspection, it may be time to decide between resurfacing or full replacement based on the extent of wear and tear. If your wood deck is 20+ years old it may be towards the end of its lifespan.
Inspection of Deck Components
Ledger Board: Ensure it is securely attached to the house with no signs of damage or missing hardware
Beams: Check for signs of rot or structural damage caused by pests.
Joists: Examine for sagging, splitting, rot or corrosion.
Fascia Board: Inspect for decay or water damage.
Flashing: Ensure proper installation and intactness to prevent water intrusion.
Posts: Check for stability and signs of rot at ground level.
Inspecting these components is crucial in determining whether resurfacing or replacement is necessary based on the deck’s current condition and age. If your deck is showing signs of compromised structural integrity, end of its lifetime or possibly not up to building code, replacing rather than resurfacing may be a better option.
Cost Considerations
When considering cost, factor in the expenses for resurfacing versus full replacement. Resurfacing can be more budget friendly as it usually requires fewer materials. However, keep in mind that while full replacement may have a higher initial cost, it could result in long-term savings by preventing frequent repairs and providing an opportunity to upgrade to more durable materials.
Desire for Updates or Upgrades
If you want updates or upgrades for your deck, resurfacing may not fully meet your needs. Upgrading to new materials and features allows for a fresh look and improved functionality. Incorporating modern deck materials can provide durability and aesthetic appeal for an updated outdoor space, ensuring a safer choice for your home.
Consider the opportunity to restyle and renovate with newer deck boards, stairs, railings, or frames. This step is essential when focusing on remodeling and bringing nitty-gritty details up-to-date without compromising safety.
Choosing the Right Composite Decking Material
When it comes to composite deck resurfacing, selecting the right material is key to achieving the best results. There are numerous composite decking products on the market, each with its own unique features and benefits. Some factors to consider when choosing your composite decking material include:
Durability and Longevity
Look for composite decking materials that are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, heavy foot traffic, and everyday wear and tear. High-quality composite boards should resist fading, staining, scratching, and moisture damage, ensuring that your resurfaced deck looks great for years to come.
Color and Texture Options
Composite decking materials come in a wide array of colors and textures, ranging from traditional wood-grain patterns to sleek, modern finishes. Consider your home’s existing color palette and architectural style when selecting the perfect composite boards for your resurfacing project.
Maintenance Requirements
One of the main advantages of composite decking is its low-maintenance nature. However, some composite materials may require more upkeep than others. Be sure to choose a product that aligns with your desired level of maintenance, whether you prefer a completely hands-off approach or don’t mind occasional cleaning and care.
Budget Considerations
Composite decking materials are available at various price points, so it’s important to choose a product that fits within your budget. Keep in mind that investing in higher-quality materials may result in better long-term performance and reduced maintenance costs over time.
Average 300 Square Foot Deck 15 Year Cost Comparison
Pressure Treated
Cedar
Composite
*Wood Decks need to be stained, painted or sealed every other year at average of $750 a year. *Composite Decks need to be washed 2x a year with a hose and soap. DIY just cost of soap
Pressure Treated
Cedar
Composite
*Wood Decks have a life span of 15-25 years if properly maintained. *Composite & PVC decks has a life span of 25-50 years without the hassle.
Form and Function
Brands We Trust
At Decked Out Builders we work with the leading manufacturers of composite decking to provide our customers with the best products on the market. Some of the top brands we install include:
- TimberTech: TimberTech composite decking offers the beauty of natural wood with the durability and low maintenance of composite materials. With a range of colors and finishes available, TimberTech is a popular choice for homeowners who want a deck that stands out.
- Deckorators: Deckorators composite decking is known for its exceptional durability and resistance to staining, fading, and mold. With a range of colors and finishes available, Deckorators offers a high-quality, low-maintenance option for any outdoor living space.
- Azek: Azek Advanced PVC decking is engineered for maximum performance and durability, with a range of colors and textures that mimic the beauty of natural wood. Azek's Vintage Collection is a popular choice for homeowners who want a deck with a classic, timeless look.
Resurfacing VS. Replacement FAQS
Resurfacing involves replacing only the deck boards and railing, making your deck look new without altering the existing framing. Replacement means we tear down your old deck completely and build a new one from the ground up.
Resurfacing is best for decks that are structurally sound but need a facelift, while replacement is necessary when the entire deck, including its structure, is worn or compromised.
The first step is a thorough inspection. Check for signs of structural damage like rotted joists or a deteriorating ledger board attached to the house. If the main framework of your deck is structurally sound and your deck’s current condition mainly involves surface-level wear and tear, resurfacing might be an option to consider.
However, for older decks with underlying structural issues, a complete replacement is often more cost-effective in the long run.
Composite decking offers durability and minimal maintenance compared to traditional wood decks. It’s made from a blend of wood fibers and plastic, making it resistant to rot, decay, and insect damage.
Composite boards also come in various colors and textures that mimic natural wood. If you’re looking for eco-friendly decking that lasts longer without the need for frequent stain or paint, composite is a great investment.
Replacing your entire deck allows for a complete redesign of your outdoor space, the opportunity to correct any structural issues from scratch, and the option to use modern, durable materials like composite decking for minimal maintenance.
A brand new deck can increase your home’s value and provide a safer, more attractive space for relaxation and entertainment.
The cost varies widely based on the size of your deck, the materials chosen and the project’s complexity.
Resurfacing is generally less expensive than a full replacement by 20%-30% because it requires less materials.
Composite vs Wood Decks - FAQS
Composite decking is available in a wide variety of brands and pricing within those brands depends on the level of selection. Composite decking typically ranges anywhere from 30%-70% more upfront cost than traditional wood however saves maintenance costs in the long term.
People often refer composite decking to Trex. Trex, however, is a brand of composite decking. There are multiple brands of composite decking ranging from different options, pricing, and warranties. Trex being the most known due to its availability to homeowners in box stores.
Customer Testimonials
We were extremely pleased with Decked Out Builders. Tony and Kristen were so easy to work with. Tony took his time to go over all samples and design options. His finished work speaks for itself. High quality work and impeccable service from them both.
Decked out builders did an amazing job on our deck extension. They were easy to work with and were very professional. Arrived early every day and cleaned up after every days work. We absolutely love our new deck and can’t wait for the summer to enjoy our new features. Highly recommend them.
