Replacing old or broken deck boards can make your outdoor space look and feel like new. But before I start pulling up boards and buying wood, I want to know how much it will cost. That’s what this blog is about.
I’ll walk you through the main factors that affect the price, including the type of boards, labor, and any additional tools or hardware you may need.
I’ll also share some tips to help you save money and avoid surprise costs. Knowing what to expect makes it easier to plan and stay on budget.
If your deck feels soft in spots, has cracks, or looks worn out, it may be time to take action. Let’s break it all down so you can fix your deck without breaking the bank.
What Affects the Cost of Replacing Deck Boards?
The cost to replace deck boards isn’t the same for everyone. Many things can change the final price. It helps to know what these are before you start.
1. Size of the Deck: A small deck will cost less to fix than a large one. The more square feet you have, the more boards you’ll need. That also means more time and more labor.
2. Type of Deck Boards: The kind of boards you pick can change the price a lot. Some are cheap, and others are high-end. The common options are pressure-treated wood, Cedar, Redwood, Composite, and PVC.
3. Labor Costs: If you hire someone to do the job, you’ll pay labor fees. These can vary by area, the contractor’s experience, and how complex the job is. Labor might be half of your total cost.
4. Location: Prices for both materials and labor change by region. In cities, costs are often higher. In small towns, they may be lower. Weather also plays a part; some materials work better in wet or hot climates, which can affect cost.
5. Tools and Extras: You might need tools like a drill, screws, saw, or pry bar. If you don’t already have them, that adds to the price. Extras like stain, sealer, or joist repairs can also raise the final total.
Average Cost to Replace Deck Boards
Let’s look at the typical cost breakdown. Keep in mind that prices can vary, but this gives you a good starting point.
1. Pressure-Treated Wood
- Material cost: $2–$4 per linear foot
- Labor cost: $10–$15 per square foot
- Total estimate: $15–$25 per square foot installed
2. Cedar or Redwood
- Material cost: $4–$8 per linear foot
- Labor cost: $12–$18 per square foot
- Total estimate: $20–$35 per square foot installed
3. Composite Deck Boards
- Material cost: $6–$10 per linear foot
- Labor cost: $15–$20 per square foot
- Total estimate: $30–$50 per square foot installed
4. PVC Decking
- Material cost: $7–$12 per linear foot
- Labor cost: $15–$22 per square foot
- Total estimate: $35–$55 per square foot installed
Material Comparison: Pros, Cons, and Cost
Before picking the right deck boards, it’s good to compare the most common materials side by side:
| Material | Cost (Per Linear Foot) | Pros | Cons | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pressure-Treated Wood | $2–$4 | Low cost, easy to find | Needs sealing, may crack or warp | Small budgets or quick fixes |
| Cedar | $4–$8 | Natural look, resists bugs | Needs care, can fade | Mid-range budgets, warm style |
| Redwood | $6–$10 | Strong, beautiful color | Expensive, not always in stock | Premium natural decks |
| Composite | $6–$10 | Lasts long, no sealing or staining needed | More costly, not a real wood feel | Long-term use, modern homes |
| PVC | $7–$12 | Won’t rot or splinter, easy to clean | High cost, may feel plastic-like | Wet or hot areas, no-maintenance homes |
Each material has its own strengths. If you’re on a budget and can do some upkeep, pressure-treated wood may be best. If you want low upkeep and plan to stay in your home for years, composite or PVC might be worth the extra cost.
How Much Does Labor Cost?
If you don’t plan to replace the deck boards yourself, hiring a pro is the next step. Labor can be a big part of your total cost. In some cases, it may even cost more than the materials.
Labor prices can vary, but here’s a general idea:
- Per square foot: Most contractors charge between $10 and $20 per square foot.
- Per hour: Some may charge by the hour, usually $30 to $50 per hour.
The total cost depends on the size of your deck, the complexity of the work, and your location. For example:
- A 200-square-foot deck at $15 per square foot: $3,000 for labor.
- A 300-square-foot deck at $18 per square foot: $5,400 for labor.
In big cities, rates are often higher. In small towns or rural areas, you may pay a bit less.
What Does Labor Include?
When you hire someone to replace your deck boards, here’s what their fee usually covers:
- Removing Old Boards: The contractor will take off the old or damaged boards using crowbars, drills, or saws.
- Inspecting the Frame: They’ll check the joists and framing underneath. If there’s damage, they’ll let you know and offer to fix it for an added cost.
- Measuring and Cutting New Boards: Each board needs to be cut to size and fit carefully so your deck looks even and strong.
- Installing the New Boards: They’ll screw or nail in each new board, following safety and design rules.
- Clean-Up: Most pros will clean the area and take away the old boards or leave them neatly stacked for you to toss.
Extra Labor Costs
Some jobs are more than just replacing flat boards. You might see added fees for:
- Stairs or Railings: If your deck has stairs or rails that also need work, labor costs can go up.
- Deck Height or Shape: A ground-level deck is easier to work on than one that’s high up or has lots of angles.
- Framing Repairs: If the frame has rot or damage, your contractor may need to fix that, too. It usually costs extra.
Tips for Hiring Labor
- Get Multiple Quotes: Ask at least 2–3 contractors for estimates. Prices can vary a lot, even in the same area.
- Ask for a Breakdown: Make sure the quote shows both labor and material costs. This helps you understand what you’re paying for.
- Check Reviews and References: Pick someone with good reviews, or ask friends if they know a trusted deck builder.
DIY vs Hiring a Pro
You can save money by doing the job yourself, but it takes time, tools, and skill.
DIY Costs
- Boards: Same as above
- Tools: $100–$300 if you don’t have them
- Other: Screws, sealant, safety gear
If you have tools already, your only cost might be the boards and a few supplies.
| Pros of DIY | Cons of DIY |
|---|---|
| Save on labor costs | Takes more time to complete projects |
| Learn valuable new skills | Mistakes can be expensive to fix later |
| Have full control over the work | Physical work can be tiring or potentially unsafe |
| Sense of personal achievement | Requires specialized tools and knowledge |
| Customize exactly to your preferences | Quality may not match professional work |
| Potential for creative expression | May void warranties on materials or equipment |
Extra Costs You Might Not Expect
When replacing deck boards, some surprise costs can sneak up on you. These aren’t always in the first quote you get, so it’s good to plan for them just in case.
1. Joist or Frame Repairs
When replacing deck boards, contractors often uncover hidden structural issues beneath the surface. Wood supports can deteriorate due to moisture damage, insect infestation, or natural aging processes.
Identifying and addressing these problems is crucial for ensuring the long-term stability and safety of your deck. Potential repair needs can significantly impact your overall project budget and timeline.
- Cost: $10–$20 per foot for joists
- Total possible add-on: $100–$500, depending on damage
2. Old Board Disposal
Removing and disposing of old deck boards involves more than simply pulling them up. Waste management can be an unexpected expense in your deck renovation project.
Some contractors include disposal in their service, while others charge it as a separate line item. You’ll need to factor in potential costs for removal and proper disposal.
- Dumpster rental: $300–$500
- Hauling away boards: $50–$150
3. Permits
Local regulations can complicate deck board replacement. Many municipalities require official documentation before starting home improvement projects.
Obtaining the necessary permits ensures your project meets local building codes and safety standards. Skipping this step could result in fines or forced removal of your work.
-
Permit cost: $50–$200
4. Sealing or Staining
Protecting new wooden deck boards is essential for long-lasting performance. Sealing and staining create a barrier against environmental elements like moisture, UV rays, and potential wood-destroying organisms.
While this adds to your initial investment, it significantly extends the life and appearance of your deck.
- DIY products: $30–$80
- Pro sealing: $0.50–$2 per square foot
These extras can add a few hundred dollars, or more, to your project. It’s smart to keep a little room in your budget just in case anything unexpected pops up. Better to be ready than surprised!
How to Estimate Your Total Cost?
Let’s walk through an example for a 200-square-foot deck using pressure-treated wood.
- Material cost: About $2.50/linear foot
- Labor cost: $12 per sq ft × 200 = $2,400
- Extras (sealant, fasteners, waste): Around $300–$500
- Estimated total: $4,700–$5,000
Now let’s try composite for the same size:
- Material: 800 linear feet × $7 = $5,600
- Labor: $18 per sq ft × 200 = $3,600
- Extras: $300–$500
- Estimated total: $9,500–$10,000
Signs Your Deck Boards Need Replacing
Don’t wait too long because old boards can be dangerous. This is what to look for:
- Soft spots or sagging
- Splits or deep cracks
- Rot or mold
- Nails popping up
- Loose boards
If just a few boards are bad, you may be able to replace only those. But if many are damaged, full replacement is smarter.
Conclusion
Replacing deck boards can cost a little or a lot, depending on what you choose.
I’ve learned that the type of board, size of the deck, and labor all affect the price. Some extras, such as tools or hidden damage, can also increase the cost.
That’s why it helps to plan ahead. I like to obtain a few quotes, establish a clear budget, and leave room for unexpected expenses.
Even a small repair can make the deck safer and improve its appearance significantly. A full replacement can take more time and money, but it can also add value to your home.
Now that I know what to expect, I feel more ready to take the next step. If you’re considering fixing your deck, start with a solid plan and build from there.