Deck Over, Or Replace

bob14-0

Customer wants PT decking replaced with composite 5/4 X 6 over 17 yr old deck, the framework of which appears solid. 4 X 4 PT burried posts are rot free at least 1 ft. below grade. 2 X 10 PT joists are solid and rot-free.

How long will those posts last? Should I insist on taking the entire deck down, or is it common to replace decking on a deck this old?

Thanks, Bob

Mike(VA)

What does your local code say? If anything on the substructure is not to code, you must correct it. If too much is out of code, replace it all. I don't like 4x4's unless the deck is close to the ground. 17 yrs, I would be careful about the ledger attachment and flashing. If it has rotted behind the siding, and you don't bring it up, you own it. Also, how deep are the posts? Footered? What's it look like deeper than one foot?

You are probably better off just doing the whole thing over, IMO. Especially with composites. The problems that get you are the ones you find later.

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I EXPECT THAT SOMEDAY I WILL SEE THE FRUITS OF MY LABOR. IS IT SOMEDAY YET?
Clifton, Great Falls, McLean, Fairfax Station, Manassas, Virginia Renovation Contractor

neolitic

Have done them that age if they
don't want to pay to re-frame and
it's all solid.
The posts usually rot at grade
or from the tops, if they didn't
use cuprinol on the cut.
I slather all the cuts and joints
with cuprinol before the re-skin.

Good luck.

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deckman22

If you are putting on a high end composite that will last say 30 years that means the frame must hold up for 47 years, probably too long imo.

If you need the work & it's not in the customers budget to re-frame then go for it, but word your contract carefully.

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Deckman
www.alscustomdecks.com

deckndave

Good advice! But framing (generally speaking of course) is the least expensive part of the job. If they want the composite stuff the extra work t/o & reframing should'nt be overly burdensome. If there's any doubt about the framing I'd talk 'em into a full replacement.

MartyCD

What about the possibility that 1992 PT is better than 2009 PT? Probably doesn't enter it but maybe it's a minor consideration. Some older decks I've looked at, the wood was much better than what you can get now.