Cost of a deck replacement and repair (2024 data)

If your deck is old and outdated and makes the rest of your outdoor living space look bad, then that’s a sign that you need a renovation or a replacement of your deck. The main question is what is the price to replace or repair your deck? Deck repair costs range from $750 to $3,200 depending on the size of the repair, the type of deck material, and the source of the problem. 

Deck replacement costs, typically range from $5,000 to $20,000, which includes the cost to build a deck, demolish the old one, and reassess the land for the new design. Overall price also depends on many factors, and just like for a deck repair, it depends on your deck’s size, deck materials, and location.

Stay with us and find out all the details about the cost of deck replacement or repair. At the same time, we discover every potential additional cost that can cross your way and make your process easier. Let’s start!

The average cost to replace or repair a deck

Most decks have their expiration date, which is between 15 and 30 years. If you use deck materials that are better quality, the more likely you will need fewer repairs over the years.

When you start from scratch and consider deck prices, many parts of the existing structure can often be saved. The cost of repairing a deck versus replacing a deck is quite different and you have to consider several factors. In the table below, you can check out the different prices.​

Deck replacement cost breakdown

You can calculate the price of deck replacement based on two things, which are:

1. deck size
2. deck material

Decks exist in all shapes and sizes, but most have between 150 and 400 square feet.

Since size determines the estimate, if your deck is large, then it’s expected that you’ll spend more on materials, installation, permits, foundation flashing, and finishes compared to small decks.

You will need to pay between $6 and $15 per square foot to demolish your old deck and for the junk removal. Also, you will need to obtain a demolition permit.

In the following table, check out the average cost of deck replacement (building a new one) depending on its size: 

The average cost of deck replacement 

Different parts of the deck have different costs, so in the following table, we’ll break down the prices for you:

When we talk about the cost of deck renovation, one of the first things that often need repair or replacement are the deck boards, so we’ll discuss the cost of the deck boards below.

Cost to replace deck boards

Broken boards is a widespread problem with decks. The average labor cost to replace deck boards goes from $30 to $130 per square foot, and the price mostly depends on the deck materials.

Different decking materials have different lifespans, so replacing certain types more often than others is possible. Yet, this aspect may impact the redecking price as well.

In the table below, we’ll show you the deck board replacement cost by material:

Since we’ve established the deck floor replacement cost, let’s see how much it costs to redo the deck railing which plays a very significant role in the way your deck looks.

Deck railing replacement cost

Replacing a railing on a deck can cost between $40 and $250 per linear foot. It’s advisable to have a railing because they’re an essential safety feature for decks that are raised and have stairs and balcony, and the cost of railing also depends on the type of material that is chosen.

Here you can see the average cost for different deck railing materials:

Now that we established the deck replacement costs, let’s see how the price changes when we talk about deck repair costs.

Deck repair cost

Even though decks are often made to last for a very long time, during that time, because of different outdoor impacts, a lot of things can happen that can influence the look of our deck. 

Luckily, we can extend the life of our deck with proper upgrades such as resurfacing, replacement boards, or building new stairs and railings.

In the following table, we will show you different problems and the causes of the problems so you can understand how to approach the cost of deck repair in the best possible way. 

The average cost to repair a deck 

In the following table, we will show you the price for average deck repair:

The cost depends on numerous factors such as size, type of material, and location, so it’s always important to keep that in mind when talking about the general cost of the project because these things influence the price.

Additional cost factors for your deck replacement or repair

There are a lot of factors that can influence the price of repairing or replacing a deck such as local cost of labor, building permit, and different details regarding the deck’s design. Let’s check the most important ones:

• Labor – Labor costs to build a deck range from $9 to $23 per square foot, depending on the type of material and design. For repairs, most professionals cost between $150 and $550.

• Total square footage – If you want a bigger deck, it will take more time, labor and materials to be finished. Because of this, the price can be higher.

• Material choice – Each type of material has its good and bad sides. Wood, composite materials, or PVC decks are some of the most commonly used materials that exist on the market and are highly used. The only difference between them is their maintenance and cost so always choose your materials carefully and stick to your budget.

• Permits – Making some major changes to your deck, such as building a new deck or replacing the old one, requires a deck permit. If you’re building a new deck you will need a site plan as well. Permits play a huge role and they can cost up to $600, and it’s always important to check everything about it with your local building department to get updated with potential regulations changes.

• Customizations – If you add custom railings for the staircase, and a lot of different unique details to your deck, the hidden costs can occur and the price will get higher. Decks with different shapes cost more, and they need more time and work to be done. Some of the most common upgrades (which make the deck more attractive) include stair lights, railing lights, pergolas, wrapped columns, and gutter systems. If you decide to install a pool deck, remember it may be the most expensive customization option.

Additionally, since the homeowner maintains the structure, this aspect should also be counted as an additional ongoing cost factor.
Now, let’s review the steps to follow when deciding whether to replace or restore your deck.

Deck replacement process – 4 steps to follow

To ensure your deck reconstruction is detailed and effective there are some common steps you should follow.

These steps in chronological order are the following:

1. Deck’s Condition Assessment – Conduct a preliminary assessment to determine the condition of your deck. This step will help you gauge the extent of work required.
2. Old Decking and Rotten Portions Removal – Using tools like a hammer, pry bar, or driver, start the tear down process. Remove the old, worn (most often wooden) decking and replace any rotten joists or portions underneath.
3. Make the Necessary Repairs – Damaged areas can lead to further issues or pose safety hazards, so ensure you make comprehensive repairs before installing the new deck.
4. Install New Decking – To redeck ensure you measure the new boards accurately to fit the frame and maintain uniform gaps between them. Additionally, consider using composite materials and painting them to achieve a durable and high-quality deck and remodel it.

If these steps seem overwhelming or labor-intensive, you might want to use a cost calculator to estimate your cost to rebuild a deck and ensure you’re prepared.

Deck repair cost calculator

To obtain an accurate estimate for deck repair or replacement, it’s best to use a cost calculator that includes all key factors.
Your cost calculator should account for the following price elements:

• Size
• Demolition
• Material
• Labor
• Permits
• Custom Work

To estimate the cost, you can use the following formula:

Total Cost = Deck Size + Additional Services Cost

Each of these factors is detailed in the article, making it easy to determine whether replacement or repair fits your budget and what’s the cheapest option.

And once you have a budget in mind, one of the most common questions is whether you should replace your deck or you could get away with few repairs.

When or should I repair or replace my deck?

Repair should be the best option to fix minor issues like tightening or adding new fasteners or screws, or adding a support beam.

On the other hand, you should replace your deck when its condition presents safety concern and requires major repairs, most often as a result of irregular maintenance.

Signs that tell your deck is ready for replacement are:

• Damaged or cracked support posts
• Serious or widespread damage, like split boards, holes and signs of termite damage
• Bowing or loose deck boards
• Warping or rooting wood
• Loose railings
• Wobbly stairs
• Significant mold issues
• Sagging deck

If you don’t know whether you need a deck redone or not, you can always call a deck builder in your area who will help you estimate the situation. Deck inspections cost between $60 and $220 and will save you from guessing.

Once you assess neccessary work, you may wonder could you do it yourself or your deck project requires bigger or professional team.

DIY deck repair or replacement vs. hiring a professional

There are a lot of deck repairs that you can do by yourself if you’re good with the hammer and a power saw. You can do simple tasks such as power washing, board repair, and refinishing and save money on your overall deck-building cost.

You need to ensure you plan ahead and have all the necessary tools and equipment for this type of job. As labor impacts the price hugely, you’ll save on labor costs, but don’t forget that making any potential deck mistakes throughout the project will cost you even more money because then you’ll need to fix them.

If you’re more advanced, you can consider building a deck completely alone, which would cut the costs of labor to a minimum. Yet, since the deck is a load-bearing structure and one small error can keep your deck from passing the inspection, it’s not always advisable to do the deck construction alone without the help of a professional.

The DIY approach requires a lot of knowledge about the construction itself, tools, and safety equipment. 

We can conclude that although there are a lot of basic tasks that allow a homeowner to rebuild a deck himself, you probably should hire a deck contractor for deck replacements and most deck repairs. Deck installation companies have more expertise, they will inspect all the necessary things and install any upgrades. A reputable company will do the job faster and save you time.

Many professional contractors offer guarantees for their work, as they are familiar with local building codes and permit requirements.

Contractors installing a new or replacing an old deck will charge more, but they can easily navigate the process, ensure compliance with building departments, and obtain necessary site plans for permits.

In the following text, we will discover efficient ways to save money when it comes to deck renovation.

Tips and tricks on how to reduce your renovation deck cost

We all know that renovation of any kind often requires a lot of money. However, there are some things you need to keep in mind, to reduce your overall cost and make the project more affordable.

Regularly check and maintain your house; the sooner you spot a problem, the less expensive it will be to repair or replace, as you’ll be able to fix it on time.

Here is some more advice:

• Hire a deck professional during the off-season such as fall or early winter
• Before hiring a deck professional be sure of what type and size of deck you want
• Try to handle small repairs alone such as replacing the deck boards
• Do all the deck renovation prep and junk removal by yourself 
• Compare prices in different shops before you buy all the material
• Buy materials in bulk, because the more quantity, the cheaper the price

By following these simple tips, we assure you that you can reduce your overall costs and save your budget.

Deck replacement cost FAQs

Balancing a budget to get your dream deck

Crafting a budget is very important for cost-effective deck repair and replacement. To get the long-lasting deck you have envisioned, you need to be informed about all the costs concerning the deck. Always contact your local contractor who will provide all the necessary information and help you throughout the project. 

Both repairing and redoing a deck are good options. Repairing an existing deck can make it look better, but depending on the problem, repairing only sometimes works out. Because of this, replacing a deck is sometimes a much better option. Whatever you select, your decision should be based on your previously planned budget plan, needs, and the current state of your existing deck.

If you need design help decorating your new deck, check out some deck ideas that will help bring your backyard to life.