Deck Repair & Restoration

Every deck eventually shows signs of wear. Maybe you have noticed some boards feeling soft underfoot, or the finish has worn off in high-traffic areas. Perhaps the railings wobble more than they used to, or you have spotted cracks forming in the wood. These issues do not always mean you need to replace your entire deck.

We have been repairing and restoring decks in Tulare since 2024, and we have learned that many decks just need targeted repairs to give them another decade of life. The key is addressing problems before they get worse. A few damaged boards are easy to replace. A compromised support structure is a much bigger issue.

When you call us, we start with a thorough inspection. We check the visible surface, but we also look underneath at the joists, beams, and posts. We test railings for stability and examine all connections. Then we give you an honest assessment: can we repair it, or has the damage progressed too far? Our goal is to save you money when possible, not sell you services you do not need.

Different problems require different solutions. Here are the issues we see most often and how we address them:

• Rotting or damaged boards: We remove affected boards and replace them with matching material
• Loose or wobbly railings: We reinforce connections and replace compromised posts
• Faded or weathered finish: We clean, sand, and apply fresh stain or sealant to restore protection
• Popped or rusted fasteners: We replace old nails or screws with corrosion-resistant hardware
• Cracked or split boards: We replace individual boards before the damage spreads
• Structural issues with joists or beams: We sister new lumber alongside damaged supports or replace them entirely
• Drainage problems causing water damage: We adjust grading and add proper flashing

Sometimes the fix is straightforward. Other times we need to get creative to match existing materials or work within your budget. We have the experience to know what will work and what will not. You get solutions that actually solve the problem instead of just covering it up temporarily.

Restoration goes beyond basic repairs. If your deck structure is solid but the surface looks tired, we can make it look nearly new again through proper cleaning, sanding, and refinishing.

We start by power washing the entire deck to remove dirt, mildew, and the old weathered layer of wood. This reveals the fresh wood underneath and shows us exactly which boards might need replacement. Then we replace any damaged boards so the entire surface is sound.

Next comes sanding. This step smooths out rough spots, removes splinters, and creates an even surface for the new finish. We use appropriate grit sandpaper to prepare the wood without removing too much material. The deck should feel smooth enough to walk on barefoot when we are done.

Finally, we apply a quality stain or sealant based on your preference. Stain adds color while letting the wood grain show through. Clear sealant protects the natural wood appearance. We typically apply two coats to ensure even coverage and maximum protection. The finish needs time to cure, usually 24 to 48 hours, before you can use the deck normally.

A properly restored deck can look as good as the day it was built. The wood will be protected from Tulare's sun and occasional rain, giving you several more years before another treatment is needed.

This is the question homeowners always ask us, and the answer depends on several factors. Here is how we help you decide.

If less than 25 percent of your deck boards need replacement and the structure underneath is solid, repair almost always makes financial sense. You will spend a fraction of what a new deck costs and get many more years of use.

When 40 to 50 percent of boards are damaged or the support structure has significant rot or damage, replacement becomes more cost-effective. At that point, you are essentially rebuilding the deck piece by piece, which takes as much labor as starting fresh.

The middle ground is trickier. We look at the age of your deck, the quality of the original construction, and your long-term plans. If your deck is 15 years old and you plan to stay in your home another 10 years, investing in major repairs might not make sense when a new deck would last 20 to 30 years.

We always provide quotes for both repair and replacement when appropriate. This lets you compare the costs and make an informed decision. We are happy with either choice because we just want you to get the best value for your investment.

Once we repair or restore your deck, you want it to stay in good shape as long as possible. Here is what actually makes a difference in Tulare's climate.

Keep your deck clean. Sweep off leaves, dirt, and debris regularly. These trap moisture against the wood and accelerate rot. A quick sweep once a week takes two minutes and prevents real problems.

Maintain the finish. Stain and sealant protect the wood from sun and moisture, but they break down over time. Plan to reapply every two to three years, or whenever water stops beading up on the surface. Letting the finish wear off completely means moisture penetrates the wood, causing damage from the inside.

Watch for early warning signs. Check your deck a couple of times a year for soft spots, loose boards, or wobbly railings. Catching problems early means simple repairs instead of major reconstruction. We are always happy to come out and assess any concerns you have.

Good maintenance is not complicated or time-consuming, but it makes an enormous difference in how long your deck lasts. Think of it like changing the oil in your car: a little routine care prevents expensive problems down the road.

Looking for other deck solutions? We offer services that work well with repair and restoration:

If your deck is beyond repair, explore our deck replacement and rebuild services for a fresh start. To maintain your restored deck, check out our deck staining, sealing, and painting options for ongoing protection.

Need safety improvements? Our deck railing and safety upgrade service can modernize your existing structure.