How To Replace Deck Planks In 4 Easy Steps
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It is important to keep your deck well maintained if you want to continue to enjoy it for years to come. Occasionally a deck plank may need to be replaced. Deck planks may crack or break due to heavy wear and tear, severe weather, or a part of the deck may not have been treated properly. At first it may seem annoying, but it is actually quite easy to replace deck planks. Here are a few tips to help you complete this easy deck repair job.
Step 1 Gather your tools and supplies
First you should gather together the necessary tools and supplies you need to replace deck planks. You will need a measuring tape, a pencil, carpenter’s square, hammer, chisel, screwdriver, deck screws, safety glasses, dust mask and circular saw.
Step 2 Identify the planks that need to be replaced and take their measurements
Next you need to do is identify which deck planks need to be replaced. Measure the length, width and thickness of the plank you want to replace. You will want to replace the deck plank with a new plank that is the same dimensions and made of the same material as the old plank. If you want to pre-stain the deck plank before you install it, use the same stain that is used on the deck and stain it at least a day before installing it on the deck.
Step 3 Remove the damaged deck planks
Use a screwdriver to loosen the screws from the deck joists. Once the screws have been loosed remove the damaged deck plank from the deck joists.
Step 4 Install the new deck plank
Use a circular saw to cut a new deck plank that matches the dimensions of the damage plank you removed. Be sure to wear your safety goggles and dust mask while operating the circular saw.
Next place the new deck plank into the space where you removed the damaged plank. Attach two screws or three screws at each joist to ensure that the new deck plank is firmly attached to the deck.
Repeat this process for any deck plank that you want to replace.
As you can see from these easy step-by-step instructions, replacing a deck plank on your deck is not a difficult job. Keeping your deck in top condition is well worth it. You will be able to enjoy your deck for many years to come.
