Most decks can be repaired long before they need replacing. Replacing soft boards, tightening railings, fixing stairs and adding proper connectors keeps a deck safe and extends its life.
Sifixit is a free referral service. Call the number on this page and you will be connected with an independent deck provider where one serves your area. Calling costs nothing and you are never obliged to hire anyone.
Signs your deck needs repair
Check your deck each spring for these.
- Soft, rotted or cracked boards
- Wobbly railings or posts
- Loose or cracked stairs
- Rusted nails, bolts or connectors
- A gap where the deck meets the house
- Framing that sags or bounces
What to do right now
Keep people off any section with loose railings, rotted boards or wobbly stairs until it is repaired.
- Mark or block off unsafe areas
- Photograph the damage
- Check the ledger where the deck meets the house
- Note how old the deck is
- Get written quotes
- Ask whether repairs need a permit
Common deck repairs
Board replacement
Swapping rotted or broken boards for new ones.
Railings and posts
Tightening, reinforcing or replacing railings and posts.
Stairs
Replacing treads, stringers and handrails.
Framing and ledger
Repairing joists and making sure the deck is properly attached to the house.
How deck repair works
- The provider inspects boards, framing, connectors and the ledger.
- Damaged boards and railings are replaced.
- Rotted framing is repaired or reinforced.
- Loose connectors are replaced with proper hardware.
- The deck may be cleaned and sealed.
Making repairs last
- Seal or stain wood decks regularly
- Keep leaves and debris off the deck
- Make sure water drains away from the ledger
- Check railings every spring
- Replace rusted hardware promptly
Questions to ask before you hire
- Is the framing sound?
- Will you check the ledger connection?
- Can new boards match the old ones?
- Do the repairs need a permit?
- What warranty do you give?
Frequently asked questions
Can rotted deck boards be replaced individually?
Yes, if the framing underneath is sound.
When is replacing a deck better than repair?
When the framing is rotted, the ledger is failing or damage is widespread.
How long does deck repair take?
Small repairs take a day. Larger repairs can take a few days.
Do I need a permit for deck repair?
Small repairs often do not, but structural work may. Ask your provider.
Learn more
Our main deck guide covers the wider picture, including what affects the cost and when to call a professional.
Looking for deck repair? Call the number on this page to be connected with an independent local provider. For more background, see the FTC’s advice on hiring a contractor and avoiding home improvement scams.
This site is a free service to assist homeowners in connecting with local service contractors. All contractors are independent and this site does not warrant or guarantee any work performed. It is the responsibility of the homeowner to verify that the hired contractor furnishes the necessary license and insurance required for the work being performed. All persons depicted in a photo or video are actors or models and not contractors listed on this site.
Helpful guides
- Deck maintenance: cleaning, staining and sealingInspect your deck every spring, clean it once or twice a year, and stain or seal wood decks...