What is deck surfacing, and is it right for your backyard deck?
If your deck is starting to look tired, worn, or weather-beaten, you may be wondering whether it’s time for a replacement, or if there’s a more affordable way to bring it back to life. For many homeowners, deck resurfacing is the ideal solution. This process refreshes the appearance and function of your deck without the cost, hassle, or time commitment of a full rebuild.
Below, we’ll explore what deck resurfacing is, how it compares to a full deck remodel, what material options you can choose from, and when resurfacing from Freedom Fence and Deck is the smartest option for your home.
What Is Deck Resurfacing?
Deck resurfacing is the process of giving your deck a new top surface while keeping the existing structure intact. Think of it as a rejuvenating facelift: the foundation remains the same, but the surface is completely refreshed.
During resurfacing, the old or damaged decking boards are removed and replaced with new materials. This allows you to address issues such as splintering or cracked deck boards, faded or discolored wood, stains from mold, mildew, or weather exposure, or warping or surface-level deterioration.
As long as the framing underneath is stable, resurfacing can restore the beauty and safety of your deck while extending its usable life for years to come.
Deck Resurfacing Cost vs. Deck Remodeling
For many homeowners, cost is the deciding factor when choosing between deck resurfacing and a complete deck renovation.
Deck Resurfacing: A Budget-Friendly Option
Resurfacing a deck is significantly more cost-effective than rebuilding it from the ground up. Because the existing frame stays in place:
- Labor costs are considerably lower
- Fewer materials are required
- The project can be completed faster
- There is less demolition and construction work
This makes resurfacing a great choice if your deck’s structure is still in good shape, but the surface has seen better days.
Full Deck Remodeling: A Bigger Investment
A complete remodel becomes necessary when the deck frame is damaged, unsafe, or too old to support new materials. A rebuild involves removing the existing deck structure, purchasing new framing materials, and paying for additional labor to rebuild the entire deck. Because of these extra steps, a full deck remodel is far more expensive and time-intensive. However, it may be the only option if your deck’s structural components are compromised.
When Is Deck Resurfacing a Good Idea?
Resurfacing is often the perfect solution, but only if your deck’s foundation is in good condition. Here’s when resurfacing is a smart and cost-effective choice:
Resurface Your Deck If:
- The surface boards are damaged, faded, or splintering
- The structure underneath is stable and free of rot
- You want to upgrade the material or look of your deck
- You want a budget-friendly alternative to a full rebuild
Choose a Full Replacement If:
- The frame shows signs of rot, warping, or structural weakness
- Your deck is very old and no longer safe
- The support beams can’t accommodate heavier materials (like stone)
- You’re looking to change the layout, size, or shape of your deck
If you’re unsure about the condition of your deck, a professional inspection is the best way to determine which option makes sense. An expert at Freedom Fence and Deck can identify hidden problems and help you understand whether resurfacing is safe and worthwhile.
Final Thoughts
When done at the right time, deck resurfacing is an effective and affordable way to extend the life of your outdoor living space. It gives you all the benefits of a refreshed, beautiful deck—without the expense and disruption of a full rebuild. From wood and composite to stone and specialty systems, resurfacing offers material choices that can elevate both the look and functionality of your deck.
Upgrade Your Home and Reach Out to Freedom Fence Today
Whether you want a brand new patio in the spring or want to install a beautiful new wood fence, Freedom Fence and Home has the expertise, competitive prices, and professional service you need. Freedom Fence and Home has over 50 years of fencing experience in the Baltimore County area, Harford County, Essex, White Marsh, and Bel Air area and we pride ourselves on giving our customers the best customer service experience possible. To see examples of our work and pick the right fence for your home, visit us online. To get started on planning your project, give us a call at (443) 271-6841, or visit us online. For more information, tips, and updates about Freedom Fence and Home, follow us on Twitter, Pinterest, and Facebook.