What Deck Resurfacing Means
Resurfacing means removing the existing decking boards and railings while keeping the structural framing underneath, then installing new boards on top. It's a common choice for Jenkintown, PA homeowners whose framing has years of life left, but whose surface boards have deteriorated beyond what restoration or repair can fix.
This differs from restoration in that resurfacing replaces the boards entirely rather than sanding and refinishing what's there. It's also more cost-effective than full replacement because the framing, footings, and structural work stay in place.
When Resurfacing Makes More Sense Than Restoration
If a deck's boards are cracked, splintering badly, or made from a material you'd rather not maintain going forward, sanding and staining won't solve the underlying problem. Resurfacing lets you switch decking materials entirely, often moving from aging wood to low-maintenance composite.
It's also the right call when boards have reached the end of their functional life but the framing, inspected underneath, is still structurally sound. That combination is common on older Jenkintown, PA decks that were well-built originally but never had their surface material upgraded.
Our Resurfacing Process
Framing Inspection
Before removing old boards, we inspect the framing thoroughly to confirm it's sound enough to resurface rather than replace.
Old Board Removal
Existing decking boards and railings are carefully removed and hauled away.
Framing Adjustments
Any minor framing repairs or spacing adjustments needed for the new decking material are made before installation.
New Board Installation
New decking boards, whether wood or composite, are installed with fastening and spacing appropriate to the material.
Railing Reinstallation
New or refreshed railings are installed to complete the updated look.
What to Expect From Resurfacing
Resurfacing projects in Jenkintown, PA generally move faster than a full rebuild since the framing and footing work is already in place. Most projects can be completed within several days depending on deck size and railing scope.
You'll end up with what looks and feels like an entirely new deck surface, often with the option to switch materials, while avoiding the cost and disruption of tearing everything down to the ground.
Why Choose Us for Resurfacing
- Thorough framing inspection before recommending resurfacing over full replacement.
- Flexibility to switch from wood to composite decking during the resurfacing process.
- 17 years identifying which decks are good resurfacing candidates.
- Careful old board removal that protects the framing you're keeping.
- Full railing updates included as part of the resurfacing scope.
Common Questions About Deck Resurfacing
The framing needs to be structurally sound, without significant rot or damage, for resurfacing to make sense. We inspect this first and will recommend replacement instead if the framing itself needs to come down.
Yes, this is one of the most common reasons homeowners choose resurfacing, since it lets you upgrade materials without rebuilding the entire structure underneath.
Generally, yes, since the framing and footing work, often the most labor-intensive part of a deck project, stays in place. Savings vary depending on the specific scope.
Not always, but railings are often updated at the same time since posts frequently attach through the decking boards being removed. We assess this during your Jenkintown, PA consultation.
Most resurfacing projects take fewer days than a full rebuild, since demolition is limited to the surface materials rather than the entire structure.
If those issues are caused by loose surface boards, yes. If they stem from framing problems, we'll identify that during inspection and address it as part of the framing adjustments before new boards go down.