How to strengthen and beautify an aging deck
by
Nicole
+7
I call it’s deckbut it’s only a couple inches off the ground. We waterproof sealed it two years ago but paint is chipping and the boards bend a bit while walking on them. What can I do without having to redo the whole deck? Thank-you for any/all help!
Nicole
https://www.thisoldhouse.com/how-to/go-old-deck-to-new-4-steps
Hi Nicole, For warped deck boards, just unscrew them and turn them over. Screw them back down.
Oh my gosh, what a great idea!!! Thank-you!!! That’s exactly what i’ll do!!!
Thank-you great site!!’
If the deck is bending when you walk on it... then the underlying structure may be compromised.... using pressure treated wood.... pull up the deck boards.. and "sister" up all of the compromised structure... replace any really rotted ones.... if the structure sits directly on the ground... consider raising it onto piers or concrete pads (such a stepping stones or bricks) to stop direct contact with the dirt.
Hi Nicole, I had your problem and here is what I did:
1) Identify all boards that have dry rot or termite damage. Then measure all the boards total so you can determine how much lumber to buy.
2) Remove all damaged boards and then sandpaper the remain boards.Best to use an electric sander
3) Replace the missing boards and tack down with galvanized screws.
4) Water proof the whole deck which you have sanded down with a good product. I use Behr Deck Plus transparent Waterproofing Wood Finish (redwood No 402).
5) I flipped my boards once, but my deck still looked uneven and it did not get rid of the dry rot or termites !
Steve.
Thank-you so much for your help!!! I really appreciate it!!!
I recommend power washing and staining again. My experience has been that staining/sealing needs frequent repeating. If you pull up some boards as others have recommended, I would also recommend staggering the ends of the boards so not all boards end at exactly the same point on the deck. Staggering is visually appealing and helps stability
You can replace really aged or any split boards and look into Ready Seal stain, this is a high quality product that protects the wood better than any other product I've ever used. It's always recommended to stain every 2 to 3 years.