Decks, replace or repair?

In January 2025, a deck in Anglesea collapsed sending 8 people to hospital.

It’s actually a shock that events like this don’t happen more regularly. Wood rots, joist hangers rust, and some decks just aren’t built to code. When decks do fail suddenly, the first call is 000, and then the lawyers get involved.

Some decks really do need replacing. Generally speaking, if the boards are splitting and lifting, you might be able to get away with replacing the top layer. If joists and bearers are getting soft, you’re probably looking at a full replacement. If a post or two is rotting, these can be replaced,.

Here are the big warning signs for unsafe decks, .

• splitting, cupping or lifting decking boards

• Soft or rotten joists (especially at ends)

• protruding nails and decking screws (often the result of rotten joists)

• bounciness

• rotting bearers

• rotting stair treads (at cuts)

• subsidence in various sections

• swaying (huge warning sign, time to put up safety tape and lock access doors)

• posts rotting at ground level

• no waterproofing tape or bitumen paint on joist, bearers and posts.

A well built deck will last 20 + years.

Winter is the best time to replace a deck because the top surface often needs 4-5 months rest before oiling. If you’re planning on summer BBQs on your new deck, don’t wait. There was a merbau shortage last spring and tradies are always under the pump in the lead up to Christmas. You don’t want to be getting quotes in October.

Photo is from recently completed deck that will be getting its’ first oil coat in early spring.