Replacing or repairing a deck enhances safety, longevity, and aesthetics. Whether you’re patching up minor damage or rebuilding entirely, understanding the cost breakdown helps you budget wisely.

Average Costs

• Deck Replacement: $4,100–$11,700 (including demolition)
• Per Square Foot: $30–$60
• Demolition: $5–$15 per square foot
• Deck Repairs: ~$2,000 average
• Minor Repairs: $100–$500
• Major Repairs: $500–$4,000+

Key Cost Factors

1. Decking Materials

Costs vary depending on durability, aesthetics, and maintenance.

| Material | Cost per Sq. Ft. | Key Benefit |
|----------------------------|----------------------|------------------------------------------|
| Cedar | $3–$7 | Beautiful color and natural scent |
| Pressure-Treated Lumber | $8–$20 | Affordable and easy to maintain |
| Ipe Hardwood | $10–$20 | 30–50 years lifespan, rot-resistant |
| Redwood | $5–$30 | Unique grain patterns |
| Composite Wood | $12–$45 | Weather-resistant and low maintenance |
| Recycled Plastic Lumber | $30–$45 | Splinter-free, durable, and eco-friendly |

2. Railing Replacement

Safety and aesthetics make railing repair or replacement essential. Costs depend on material:

| Railing Material | Cost per Linear Foot |
|----------------------|--------------------------|
| Wood | $40–$60 |
| Metal | $55–$85 |
| Composite | $80–$165 |
| Glass | $140–$210 |
| Cable | $115–$175 |

3. Common Repairs

Addressing damage promptly ensures structural integrity.

| Repair Type | Cost Range |
|----------------------|-------------------------|
| Railing Repairs | $500–$3,000+ |
| Loose Nails/Screws | $0.30 per sq. ft. |
| Loose Stairs | $25–$50 per stair |
| Mold/Rot Removal | $200–$500 |
| Termite Treatment | $200–$600 |
| Resurfacing | $15–$50 per sq. ft. |
| Refurbishing | $100–$2,000+ |
| Pressure Washing | $200–$400 |

4. Labor Costs

• Repairs: $100–$500, depending on complexity
• Replacement: Part of the $30–$60 per sq. ft. average
• DIY Savings: Minor fixes like nailing or staining can be done yourself for $10–$50 in materials.

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro

| Option | Cost | Pros | Cons |
|-----------------|-----------------------------|---------------------------------------|--------------------------------------|
| DIY | $10–$50 (minor fixes) | Saves money on labor | Risk of improper installation |
| Hiring a Pro| $100–$500 (labor only) | Ensures safety and quality | Higher upfront cost |

• DIY Feasibility: Great for simple tasks like fixing popped nails, sealing, or replacing a board.
• Pro Recommendation: Essential for structural repairs or major replacements.

How to Save Money on Deck Repairs

• Buy Materials Yourself: Request a list from your contractor and shop around.
• DIY Small Fixes: Handle simple repairs like power washing or nail replacements.
• Off-Season Repairs: Schedule repairs in winter to avoid peak rates.
• Get Multiple Quotes: Compare estimates from at least three contractors.
• Dispose of Materials: Handle demolition debris removal yourself.

When to Repair vs. Replace

Replace Your Deck If You Notice:
- Widespread rot or warping.
- Cracked or damaged support posts.
- Loose or bowing boards, stairs, or railings.
- Frequent and costly repairs.

ROI on Deck Projects

• Wooden Deck: 52.4% ROI (2023 data)
• Composite Deck: 39.8% ROI

A deck project not only improves functionality but also adds value to your home.

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