Deck Resurfacing vs. Deck Replacement: How to Know Which One Makes Sense in Michigan Climate

One of the most common conversations we have with homeowners starts the same way:

“The deck itself is built well — it just needs new boards.”

About 50% of the time, that turns out not to be the full story.

That doesn’t mean the deck was built poorly. In many cases, it means the parts that matter most aren’t visible from the surface — and that’s where resurfacing decisions get complicated.

This article is meant to walk through how we evaluate deck resurfacing vs. full replacement, what typically fails first, and how to make a decision that actually holds up over time.

What Deck Resurfacing Really Means

Deck resurfacing typically involves:

• Removing and replacing decking boards

• Replacing or rebuilding railings

• Making structural corrections as needed

  
  

What it does not mean is starting over from scratch.

The existing framing — posts, beams, joists, and footings — stays in place if it’s structurally sound. That “if” is where most resurfacing decisions are made or broken.

In our experience, we have never resurfaced a deck that required zero structural work. Even well-built decks usually need adjustments to spacing, blocking, drainage, or protection to support new materials properly

Signs of Rot on Your Deck

1. Soft or Spongy Deck Boards: If your deck boards feel soft or spongy, it may be a sign of rot. Check for any areas that are particularly soft or weak.

2. Discoloration or Stains: Rot can cause discoloration or stains on your deck boards. Look for any unusual colors or patterns, especially in areas that are prone to moisture.

3. Cracks or Splits: Cracks or splits in your deck boards can be a sign of rot. Check for any cracks or splits, especially in areas that are subject to heavy foot traffic.

4. Mold or Mildew: Mold or mildew on your deck can be a sign of rot. Check for any areas that are prone to moisture, such as under railings or near stairs.

5. Loose or Missing Fasteners: Loose or missing fasteners can be a sign of rot. Check for any areas where fasteners are loose or missing, especially in areas that are subject to heavy foot traffic.

The Risk of Using a Rotted Deck

Why You Shouldn't Ignore Deck Rot If you suspect that your deck has rot, it's essential to address the issue immediately. Using a rotten deck system can lead to collapse, which can result in serious injury or even death. In addition to the safety risks, ignoring deck rot can also lead to costly repairs down the line. By addressing the issue early on, you can save yourself time, money, and stress in the long run.

The Most Common Structural Failure We See Isn’t the Joists

Homeowners often expect problems in the joists or ledger board. Surprisingly, that’s not where most resurfacing projects fail.

The most common point of failure we see is the posts — specifically 4 to 6 inches below grade.

That area stays damp longer, sees the most freeze/thaw stresses, and is often where rot begins. Once posts start to degrade there, the rest of the structure follows.

A few consistent patterns we see:

• 4x4 posts fail far earlier than larger posts

• Poor drainage under the deck accelerates post decay

• Water sitting at grade is more damaging than rain from above

• Restricted air flow underneath the decking itself

  
  

The best candidates for resurfacing almost always have 6x6 posts, which are rated for a significantly longer service life and tolerate moisture much better over time.

Joist Spacing: Often Fixable, Rarely Ideal

Another common issue we see is joist spacing that’s less than ideal, especially on older decks.

The good news: this is usually fixable.

When a deck is otherwise structurally sound, resurfacing typically includes:

• Adding joists where needed

• Installing proper ladder blocking

• Bringing spacing into alignment with modern decking requirements

  
  

This is standard practice for us. New decking — especially composite — performs best when the framing beneath it is reinforced and corrected as part of the resurfacing process.

What Makes a Deck a Good Candidate for Resurfacing

Based on what we see in the field, the best resurfacing candidates typically have:

• 6x6 posts

• Joists with a minimum nominal size of 2x8

• Acceptable joist spans (or the ability to correct them)

• Sound footings and beams

• Proper drainage beneath the deck

• Either a detached structure or a properly detailed ledger connection

  
  

When those conditions are met, resurfacing can be a long-term solution, not a temporary fix.

How We Protect the Structure During Resurfacing

Resurfacing only makes sense if the structure is preserved.

That means:

• Treating existing joists, new end grain cuts and exposed posts with new pressure-treated solutions

• Enforcing strict waterproofing on top of all existing and new joists

• Correcting airflow and drainage wherever possible

  
  

These steps aren’t optional if the goal is durability. They are what allow new decking and railings to perform the way they’re intended to.