Replacing a section of decking boards can seem like a daunting task, but with the right preparation and tools, it can be accomplished by most DIYers. Proper planning and attention to safety are key when taking on this project.

Materials Needed

Before starting, make sure you have all the necessary materials:

• Replacement deck boards – Use the same type of wood as your existing deck, in the same dimensions. Pressure-treated lumber is ideal for outdoor durability.
• Deck screws – Stainless steel or coated deck screws are best. Make sure the length matches the thickness of your deck boards.
• Drill/drivers – A cordless drill/driver will make driving screws much easier. Have a selection of drill bits on hand.
• Pry bar – Used to pry up old deck boards. Get one with at least 18-24 inches of leverage.
• Hammer – Useful for tapping boards into place and removing nails. A hammer with a smooth face won’t mar wood.
• Saw – A circular saw or hand saw to cut replacement boards to length.
• Safety equipment – Gloves, eye protection, knee pads, etc. Be prepared to work safely.
• Additional supplies – Tape measure, speed square, level, wood filler, sandpaper.

Prepping the Work Area

Before removing any deck boards, make sure your work area is prepped:

• Clear area under and around the deck. Remove or protect any items that could be damaged by falling debris.
• Inspect joists, beams, posts. Look for rot or structural issues that need to be addressed before replacing decking.
• Mark boards to be replaced by running a chalk line across the boards. This will be your cut line when removing boards.
• Have a clear path to move old boards away and bring new boards in place.

Removing Damaged Deck Boards

Once prepped, start removing damaged boards:

• Remove screws/nails from boards being replaced using the pry bar and/or hammer.
• Use pry bar to gently lift the edges of boards to break them free. Go slowly to avoid splitting wood.
• Once freed, slide boards out and stack neatly off the deck. Discard broken boards.
• Inspect underlying structure once boards are removed. Make any necessary repairs before continuing.
• Remove nails/screws from joists. Use a flat pry bar to avoid damaging joists.
• Sweep area clean. Vacuum any remaining debris so new boards can lie flush.

Cutting Replacement Deck Boards

Measure carefully and cut replacement boards to size:

• Measure the total length needed to fill the open section. Mark cutting lines on new boards.
• Cut boards to length with circular saw. Use a speed square to ensure perfect 90° cuts.
• Test fit boards in opening. Make minor adjustments to length with hand saw as needed.
• Cut boards to staggered lengths if ending at joists. This prevents obvious seams.
• Pre-drill boards near ends to prevent splitting when driving screws.

Installing New Deck Boards

Once cut, it’s time to install the fresh decking boards:

• Apply dabs of construction adhesive to joists where new boards will be placed.
• Position first board against edge of existing decking. Leave a 1/8″ gap for drainage.
• Drive screws through board’s upper edge into joists using drill/driver. Sink screws just below surface.
• Butt next board tightly against first board. Fasten it with screws into joists. Repeat across opening.
• Make sure boards are flush across tops. Tap with hammer if one side is slightly high.
• Use scrap pieces of deck board to fill any remaining small gaps.
• Countersink all screws and fill with wood filler. Sand smooth when dry.

Finishing Touches

Once the new section is installed, finish up the project:

• Vacuum any remaining sawdust or debris from deck and surrounding area.
• Use a damp cloth to wipe down the decking. Allow the new boards to dry completely.
• Apply stain, sealer, or other finish if desired to match the appearance of existing decking.
• Let finish fully cure as directed before returning furniture or heavy items onto the deck.
• Inspect entire deck for loose screws, nails, or damaged boards. Make any needed repairs.

With careful planning and preparation, you can successfully replace a section of deck boards. Proper installation and finishing will help the repair blend seamlessly with the rest of your deck. Taking the time to do the job right will add many more years of life to your deck.

Frequently Asked Questions About Replacing Deck Boards

Replacing part of your deck can bring up many questions for first-timers. Here are answers to some of the most common queries:

How many deck boards can I replace at once?

It’s best to limit sections being worked on to 5-6 feet at a time. This prevents excessive flexing or movement that could compromise the remaining structure. Work in manageable sections.

What is the easiest way to remove old deck screws?

Set a power drill on reverse and use a compatible screwdriver bit to back screws out gently. This usually works better than prying boards or stripping screw heads.

Should I stagger the ends of my replacement boards?

Yes, staggering the new boards creates a more pleasing, natural look. It also strengthens the deck by eliminating a long seam line.

Can I use composite decking for only part of my deck?

It is possible but not ideal. The new and old materials can look mismatched. Composite and natural wood expand/contract differently.

How do I match new decking to weathered wood?

You can apply a stain or gray weathering agent to new boards to visually match old boards that have grayed from sun exposure.

What is the best way to cut deck boards?

Use a power miter saw if you have access to one. A circular saw with a straight edge also works well. Make sure the blade is sharp.

Should replacement decking go perpendicular or parallel to the house?

Run the new boards in the same direction as existing boards. If the deck was built correctly, water will run off properly.

How much spacing should there be between deck boards?

Allow 1/8″ spacing between boards. This lets water drain through gaps while preventing large debris from falling between.

Conclusion

Replacing part of your deck is very doable with proper planning, patience and the right tools. Focus on working safely, removing rotted wood completely, and installing new decking securely. Matching the appearance of existing decking boards is also important for a seamless look. With a methodical approach and attention to detail, you can successfully renew a section of decking so it looks and performs like new. Taking the time to do the job right will extend the lifetime of your deck for many more years.

How to Replace a Section of Decking Boards

Introduction

Replacing a section of decking boards is a common DIY project for homeowners with wood decks. Over time, boards can warp, splinter or become damaged. Instead of replacing the entire deck, you can often just swap out individual boards as needed. With the right preparation and techniques, this is a very manageable project for most homeowners.

In this article, we’ll walk through the full process of replacing part of your deck:

• Tools and materials required
• Removing damaged deck boards
• Prepping for new boards
• Cutting replacement decking
• Installing new decking
• Finishing the repair job

We’ll also answer some frequently asked questions about replacing decking boards. Read on to learn how to tackle this repair yourself and restore your deck.

Tools and Materials Needed

Replacing decking requires just a handful of common tools and materials:

• Pry bar – To remove existing deck boards by lifting nails
• Hammer – For tapping boards into place
• Circular saw – For cutting new boards to size
• Power drill/driver – For driving screws to install new boards
• Deck screws and nails
• Replacement decking boards – Pressure treated and same dimensions as existing
• Wood filler – For filling screw/nail holes
• Sandpaper – To smooth wood filler
• Safety gear – Gloves, eye protection, etc.

Make sure you have all necessary tools and supplies before starting the project.

Removing Damaged Deck Boards

Start by removing damaged decking boards that need replacing:

• Use the pry bar to carefully lift the boards and pull nails out of joists
• Pull boards free once all nails are removed
• Discard broken and rotted boards
• Inspect joists and framework once boards are removed
• Make any necessary structural repairs before installing new boards
• Remove any remaining nails or screws from joists
• Sweep area clean so new boards can lie flat

Work slowly when prying up boards to avoid splitting wood or damaging the surrounding decking.

Prepping for New Deck Boards

With the rotted boards removed, now you can prep for the new decking installation:

• Measure the open space left after removing boards
• Cut new pressure-treated decking boards to fit this length
• Place a few boards in the opening, without nailing yet, as a dry fit test
• Use a circular saw to trim boards to perfect length if needed
• Pre-drill boards near ends to prevent splitting
• Make sure boards align evenly across the top when fitted

Measure carefully so replacement decking fits securely without excessive gaps.

Cutting Replacement Deck Boards

For best results, carefully measure and cut all replacement boards to length before installing:

• Measure overall length needed
• Mark cutting lines on new boards with pencil
• Cut boards to size with a power miter saw or circular saw
• Make minor adjustments to board length with a handsaw
• Stagger board lengths to avoid obvious seams
• Pre-drill both ends of each board to prevent splitting

Cut replacement decking just slightly longer than measured opening to allow for expansion gaps while installing.

Installing the New Deck Boards

You’re ready to start installing fresh decking in the open section:

• Apply construction adhesive to joists where new boards will sit
• Install first board tight against edge of existing deck
• Leave a 1/8″ gap between boards for drainage
• Drive screws through upper edge of board into each joist
• Install remaining boards, maintaining 1/8″ spacing
• Use shims or taps with a hammer to align boards evenly
• Countersink all screws, fill holes with wood filler
• Let adhesive fully cure before walking on new section

Be sure to screw into each joist to securely anchor every board. Check for wobbling.

Finishing the Job

The final steps will complete your decking board replacement project:

• Sand wood filler smooth and flush with boards once dry
• Vacuum sawdust and debris from project area
• Apply stain or sealer to match appearance of old decking, if desired
• Let finish fully cure before moving furniture back
• Dispose of old boards and construction debris properly

With the right prep work, patience and care, you can replace a section of decking yourself. Proper installation will allow the repair to blend in seamlessly. Maintaining your deck will keep it safe and looking great for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many boards can I replace at once?

It’s best to limit the section being worked on to 4-5 feet. Replacing too many adjoining boards may destabilize the remaining deck.

Should I use nails or screws for new deck boards?

Most experts recommend using only screws, as they provide stronger holding power. Make sure to countersink screws.

What is the proper board spacing?

Allow 1/8″ spacing between each board for drainage. Any wider may allow debris to fall between boards.

Can I mix composite and natural wood boards?

It’s not recommended. The two materials look different and expand/contract at different rates over time when exposed to moisture and sun.

How do I get a smooth cut on boards?

Use a sharp carbide-tipped blade and cut with the saw power on. Hold boards steady and cut slowly for clean edges.

Should I apply sealer?

Sealing all exposed wood surfaces can help protect against moisture, mildew, and UV rays which can damage wood and shorten its lifespan.

Conclusion

With the right tools and preparation, replacing part of your deck is an achievable DIY project. Remove rotted boards completely, then install fresh decking securely. Proper spacing, anchoring, and finishing will help the repair blend seamlessly. Your restored deck will look great and provide many more years of outdoor enjoyment.