Deck Replacement & Rebuilds
Replace your old, worn-out deck with a modern structure built to last decades using today's best materials and techniques.
When It's Time to Replace Your Deck
Every deck has a lifespan. Even with good maintenance, wood decks eventually reach the end of their useful life. If your deck is 15 to 20 years old and showing serious wear, replacement usually makes more sense than trying to patch it up. You will get better value from a new deck that lasts another 25 to 30 years.
At ECD Eau Claire Deck Builder, we help homeowners decide whether to repair or replace their decks. If more than half of your deck needs work, or if the frame and support structure show rot or damage, replacement is almost always the smarter choice. Starting fresh gives you a safer, better-looking deck that will not need major work for decades.
Deck replacement also gives you a chance to upgrade your outdoor space. Maybe your current deck is too small, or the layout does not work well for entertaining. When we rebuild your deck, you can change the size, shape, materials, and features to create exactly what you want.
Clear Signs Your Deck Needs Replacement
Here are the problems that usually mean it is time for a new deck rather than repairs:
- •Widespread rot in the frame: If support beams and joists show rot in multiple places, the structure is compromised and needs replacement.
- •Severely damaged or rotted posts: Support posts carry all the weight. If they are failing, your entire deck is unsafe.
- •Loose ledger board: This board connects your deck to your house. If it has pulled away or shows rot, replacement is usually necessary.
- •Multiple boards need replacement: If you would have to replace more than 40 percent of the decking surface, full replacement costs almost the same.
- •Major structural settling or sagging: When the whole deck has shifted or sunk, rebuilding from the foundation up is the only real fix.
- •Building code violations: Older decks often do not meet current codes for safety. Replacement lets you build to modern standards.
We offer free inspections where we check all of these potential problems. We will tell you honestly whether your deck can be repaired or if replacement makes better sense. Our repair and restoration services are always an option when your deck just needs targeted fixes.
How We Replace Your Deck
Deck replacement is a bigger project than repairs, but the process is straightforward when you work with experienced builders. Here is what you can expect when we replace your deck.
Design and Planning
We start by talking about what you want in your new deck. Do you want the same size and layout, or would you like to expand or reconfigure? What materials appeal to you? We discuss wood versus composite, railing options, stairs, and any built-in features like benches or planters.
Then we create a detailed plan and get any necessary permits. Building codes in Eau Claire require permits for most deck projects, and we handle all of that paperwork for you. We make sure your new deck meets all current safety standards.
Demo and Removal
We carefully tear down your old deck and haul away all the debris. This usually takes one to two days depending on the deck size. We protect your yard and landscaping during demo, and we leave your property clean when we finish.
Sometimes we can reuse the concrete footings if they are in good shape and meet code. Other times we need to pour new footings. We inspect everything and do what is right for a safe, long-lasting deck.
Building Your New Deck
We build your new deck from the ground up using modern techniques and quality materials. We properly flash the ledger board where it attaches to your house to prevent water damage. We use the right joist spacing for your chosen decking material. And we build stairs and railings that meet or exceed code requirements.
If you choose composite decking, we use hidden fasteners for a clean look. For wood decks, we select quality lumber and use proper deck screws that resist corrosion. Every detail matters when you are building something that needs to last for decades.
Final Inspection and Finishing
Once construction finishes, we schedule the required building inspection to get your final approval. Then we clean up the job site, stain or seal wood decks, and walk you through care and maintenance for your new deck.
Most deck replacement projects take one to two weeks from demo to completion, depending on size and complexity. We work efficiently while maintaining high quality standards.
Choosing Materials for Your New Deck
The materials you choose affect how your deck looks, how much maintenance it needs, and how long it lasts. We help you weigh the pros and cons of each option based on your budget and preferences.
Pressure-treated wood is the most affordable option. It lasts 15 to 20 years with proper maintenance, which means staining or sealing every few years. Cedar and redwood cost more but look beautiful and resist rot naturally. They still need regular maintenance to keep their color and protection.
Composite decking costs more upfront but needs almost no maintenance. It will not rot, splinter, or fade, and it lasts 25 to 30 years or more. When you factor in the time and money you save on maintenance, composite often costs less over the deck's lifetime. Many homeowners choose composite when replacing old wood decks because they are tired of the upkeep.
We can also combine materials. Some customers use composite for the main deck surface but add wood accents or a wood pergola overhead. Mixing materials lets you get the benefits of both while creating a custom look. We have installed every combination and can show you what works well together.
Making Your New Deck Better Than the Old One
Since you are already investing in replacement, this is the perfect time to improve your outdoor space. Many homeowners expand their deck size to create more room for furniture and entertaining. Others add multi-level sections to define different areas for cooking, dining, and lounging.
Built-in benches give you permanent seating that will never blow away in a storm. Planters add greenery without taking up floor space. If you have a great view, we can design railings that frame it perfectly without blocking sightlines.
Lighting makes a huge difference in how you use your deck. We can wire in low-voltage LED lights on stairs, railings, and posts so your deck is safe and beautiful at night. Many customers also add electrical outlets for convenience.
And if you want weather protection, consider adding a pergola or patio cover during your rebuild. Overhead structures provide shade and shelter while extending your deck's lifespan by protecting it from direct sun and rain.
The Value of Professional Deck Replacement
A professionally built deck adds real value to your Eau Claire home. According to national remodeling surveys, deck additions and replacements return 60 to 80 percent of their cost when you sell. But the real value is in how you use your outdoor space every day.
Your deck becomes an extension of your living space. It is where you grill dinner on summer evenings, where your kids play, and where you relax with friends. A new deck that you trust and enjoy gets used far more than an old, sketchy deck that worries you.
We also make sure your new deck is properly engineered and built to code. This matters for safety, but it also matters for insurance and when you eventually sell your home. Buyers and inspectors will see that your deck was built right and permitted properly.
You could save money by hiring the cheapest contractor or doing it yourself, but deck building requires specific knowledge and skills. Poor construction leads to problems down the road. We have seen plenty of DIY and low-budget decks that failed within a few years. It is worth investing in professional work that lasts.
Common Questions About Deck Replacement
Ready to Replace Your Old Deck?
Let's talk about your deck replacement project. We will inspect your current deck, discuss your options, and give you a detailed quote.
(534) 429-7461