Fix It or Replace It: Protecting Wood Decks Before Winter

Hey there, neighbor — Hank here!

Fall’s rolling in, the leaves are crunching underfoot, and your deck’s probably seen its fair share of summer BBQs, splashy kiddie pools, and maybe even a spilled drink or two (no judgment — we’ve all been there).

But before winter weather sneaks up, there’s one big question to tackle: Should you fix it, or replace it?

Let’s break it down…

When to Fix It: Minor Deck Repair 

If your deck’s got minor wear and tear, there’s still plenty of life left in those boards.

Here’s when a good old-fashioned repair job will do the trick:

• Boards are slightly warped or cracked, but not rotting.

• Railings are wobbly, but posts are solid.

• The stain’s faded, but the wood still feels sturdy underfoot.

• You just need a few replacement boards or new screws to tighten things up.

In this case, a little TLC — sanding, staining, sealing — can go a long way.

Pro tip: Fall is perfect for sealing your deck. Cooler temps mean the stain cures evenly, and you’ll head into winter with wood that’s protected from moisture and freeze damage.

When to Replace It: When to Rebuild Your Deck

Now, if your deck groans louder than your grandpa getting off the couch, it might be time to face the music. Full replacement is the smart move if:

• Boards are soft, spongy, or crumbling — that’s rot, friend.

• You spot rusted fasteners or loose ledger boards (the piece that connects the deck to your house).

• The structure sways or bounces when you walk on it.

• You’ve been “temporarily fixing” the same problems for years.

A fresh rebuild not only boosts safety, but it can also add serious curb appeal — think composite decking, hidden fasteners, and railings that don’t try to bite back when you lean on them.

Hank’s Two Cents

If you’re not sure which way to go, I’ve got your back.

Sometimes a professional eye (and a level that’s not from 1984) can make the call easy. I’ll check your boards, support posts, and fasteners, then give you the honest rundown — no upselling, no nonsense.

Because around here, we don’t just fix homes...

We take the stress out of the stressful stuff — so you can get back to enjoying that pumpkin-spice-everything season on a deck you can trust.

Get a FREE estimate with Handyman LKN today. Let’s make sure your outdoor space is ready to weather whatever winter brings.

Call (980) 494-3017 for a quote or submit a request online!