There are several steps to follow if you want to replace or repair a deck. You will first need to take down the deck. If the damage is extensive, you may not need to completely remove the decking boards. However, it is helpful to dismantle the entire deck first, as some parts may still have hidden damage. Once the substructure is removed, drill holes for the screws and hammer them to remove the damaged decking.
Next, figure out the cost of replacing the deck. In general, decks do not require a full replacement. The frame, pillars and other components are typically in good shape. If they are in poor condition, you could also replace the railings and staircases. To avoid problems, a replacement deck board will need to be installed. Get estimates from at least three deck contractors before you decide on which one to hire. You should remember to secure a permit before tearing down an old deck.
Consider replacing the decking as well as the joists. While these aren't as strong as wooden posts, they can still cause serious damage. If the railings are too weak or loose, you can replace them. Moreover, if the old railings have been exposed to the elements, it poses a safety risk. You should immediately repair any boards that have become bent or warped. Over time, they can rot or soften and become a dangerous hazard.
The last step in replacing a deck is repairing or replacing the substructure. To repair or replace a deck, you should buy new posts and railing. This way, you can save money and time. Additionally, the material you choose is less susceptible to damage. A new deck will be much safer than a deteriorating one. You can ask the contractor for help if you aren't sure what the materials are.
Also, the wooden deck posts can be replaced. If the deck post has been buried in concrete, this step is crucial. Concrete is porous, and concrete can cause wood to rot. It is not recommended to pour concrete over a wood footer, as it will weaken the footing. This is because the new footing will have to be poured from scratch. A new footing is necessary for a properly installed and waterproofed deck.
Wooden deck posts that have begun to decay can also start to rot. The rot may be visible or hidden. It can even extend to the inner parts of the post. The rotting section will continue growing because the water will eventually get inside the posts. You need to replace it if the rot continues to spread. It is important to ensure that the rotted posts get replaced with the same wood deck posts.
FAQ
Do you prefer to hire a general contractor, or a subcontractor for your project?
A general contractor will usually cost more than a subcontractor. General contractors usually have many employees. This means that they charge their clients much more for labor. A subcontractor hires only one employee so they charge less per an hour.
Do you prefer to do walls or floors first?
It's important to know what you want to accomplish before you start any project. It's important to think about how you are going to use the space, who will use it and why they need it. This will help you choose flooring or wallcoverings.
Flooring may be an option if you are planning to make an open kitchen/living room. Wall coverings can be used if the intention is to keep this area private.
Is there anything I can doto save money on my home renovation?
You can save some money by doing as much of the work yourself as possible. You could, for example, try to reduce the number of people involved in the renovation. Another option is to try to lower the cost of the materials you use in your renovations.
Is it worth the extra cost to build or remodel a house?
There are two options if your goal is to build a new home. One option is to buy a pre-built home. These homes are ready to be moved into and have already been built. A custom-built home is another option. With this option, you'll need to hire a builder to help you design and build your dream home.
How much time and money it takes to design and plan a new house will affect the cost. It will take more effort to build a custom-built home because you'll be required to do most construction work. You also have greater control over the materials and their placement. It might be simpler to find a contractor specializing in building custom homes.
A new home is typically more expensive than one that has been renovated. Because you will need to pay more money for the land and any improvements made to the property, this is why a new home is usually more expensive. You will also need to pay inspections and permits. The average price difference between a new home and one that has been renovated is between $10,000 and $20,000.
Statistics
- ‘The potential added value of a loft conversion, which could create an extra bedroom and ensuite, could be as much as 20 per cent and 15 per cent for a garage conversion.' (realhomes.com)
- They'll usually lend up to 90% of your home's "as-completed" value, but no more than $424,100 in most locales or $636,150 in high-cost areas. (kiplinger.com)
- Most lenders will lend you up to 75% or 80% of the appraised value of your home, but some will go higher. (kiplinger.com)
- Design-builders may ask for a down payment of up to 25% or 33% of the job cost, says the NARI. (kiplinger.com)
- On jumbo loans of more than $636,150, you'll be able to borrow up to 80% of the home's completed value. (kiplinger.com)
External Links
How To
Where can I get information on home improvements?
Home improvement projects are an excellent way to save money while improving your home. You don't have to spend a lot of money to make your house more appealing. There are many ways to make your home more appealing without spending a lot of money, such as painting and landscaping or adding a spa. These are just a few of the many options available to you online.
The internet offers a wealth information about home renovation projects. Many websites provide detailed instructions on how to complete various tasks. You can often see completed projects on these sites so you can imagine how your own home would look once each task has been completed.
You may also find articles written by professionals about topics related to home improvement. One example is a magazine article that discusses the best paint to use for walls. This article can give you advice on how to choose the colors and types of paint that best match your existing decor.
Websites that offer advice and suggestions on home improvement are also available. Houzz.com is a great place to find out more about home improvements. Each website has useful information about the products and services you may be interested in.
Some websites only focus on home improvements. For instance, you may visit Lowe's.com to browse the company's catalog of tools and materials used in home improvement projects. You may also find useful information on how to choose and install window treatments.
Home improvements are often fun, entertaining, and rewarding. Learn about these topics to improve your home.