Signs it's time
Boards soft or split, a green and slippery surface, popped screws, a sagging corner or a balustrade that moves. In shady Harrogate gardens, softwood decks often reach this point sooner than people expect.
Re-board or rebuild
A sound frame can take new boards, with extra joists added for composite. A rotten or poorly built frame is replaced completely.
A better design
Replacement is a chance to correct proportions, improve steps, add a level, or choose hardwood or composite that suits the house. It's also the moment to keep the deck clear of the walls and damp-proof course.
Around trees
Many old decks were built around trees that have since grown. We rebuild with generous gaps around trunks and avoid damaging roots.
Your questions answered
Can you replace a deck around a mature tree?
Yes. We leave a generous gap around the trunk, avoid heavy digging near roots and design the frame to bridge over them.
Can a softwood deck be replaced with hardwood?
Yes. If the frame is sound, it may be re-boarded; often, though, we rebuild the frame to suit hardwood's weight and fixing.
