What this covers
Resurfacing keeps the footings, posts, beams and joists of a deck and replaces everything you see: boards, stairs treads and railing. It is the middle path between repair and rebuild for a deck whose frame is in good shape but whose surface is gray, split or loose. The installer strips the old boards, inspects every joist from above, replaces any that are soft, adds blocking or extra joists if composite is going on, installs a joist tape or flashing over the tops to keep water out of the wood, and lays the new surface. New railing often goes in at the same time.
When to call
- Boards that are cracked, cupped or splintering while the frame below is firm.
- A deck you want to convert from wood to composite.
- A railing that is dated or no longer meets code.
What to expect
- AssessThe frame is inspected from below and the resurfacing plan and materials chosen.
- StripOld boards, treads and railing come off and are hauled away.
- Prepare the frameSoft joists replaced, joists added where needed, hardware upgraded and joist tops taped.
- New surfaceDecking, stairs and railing are installed and checked with you.
Get a certified company
Look up a certified company by ZIP code. Every company's license, insurance and trades are verified before it is listed, and placement is never paid.
Questions people ask
How do I know the frame is good enough?
The company probes the joists, beams, posts and ledger before quoting. If more than a few joists are soft, a rebuild is usually recommended instead.
Can the deck change shape?
Not much without new framing. Small changes such as a new stair location or a wider landing can often be framed in while the boards are off.
What is joist tape?
A self-adhesive flashing laid along the top of each joist so water that gets through the board gaps runs off instead of soaking into the wood at every screw.
Related: Deck repair · Composite decking · Deck building · All decks, porches and outdoor living
This page describes what the service involves. The company you hire sets the scope, the schedule and the price, and your contract is with that company. We verify credentials and collect reviews from real jobs. We do not guarantee any company's workmanship. Safety steps are general guidance. When in doubt, leave the home and call 911.