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If you have a deck, you probably love it and use it often. However, if your deck is more of an unfinished accessory than a fully functional outdoor space, it might be time to consider remodeling it. A successful deck renovation will increase the value of your home and make you enjoy this part of your property all the more. Addressing small problems before they become big issues is essential for any household. As such, a deck remodel is the perfect opportunity to tackle these concerns before they grow into something much worse. Remodeling a deck can seem like an expensive proposition, but there are plenty of ways to keep costs down while still creating something that will impress friends and family for years to come. Here are some great reasons why you should consider remodeling your deck:


Improve Safety

One of the best reasons to remodel your deck is to improve safety. A deck is a large surface that is exposed to the elements, making it prone to rot and decay over time. Rotting wood is dangerous for deck-goers, as it can lead to a deck collapse. Fortunately, replacing one or more boards is an inexpensive repair that can greatly improve the safety of your deck. Beyond wood rot, decks are also a hazard for young children and animals. Most decks aren't equipped with safety features, such as edge rails, designed to keep little ones from falling off. Remodeling your deck is a great opportunity to install these essential features to keep your loved ones safe and sound.


Increase Curb Appeal

Curb appeal is the first impression that someone has of your home when they walk or drive by. By remodeling your deck, you not only improve safety, but you also enhance your deck's appearance, thus improving its curb appeal. There are many ways to do this, but a few simple ideas include adding color, incorporating plants and flowers, and installing a new deck surface. Installing a new deck surface is a great way to increase curb appeal, as many types of decking can be customized to match the style of the home. If your deck is made of wood, there are many synthetic decking options that can be stained to match the color of your home. New decking materials like composite wood, metal, and synthetic materials can be customized to match your home’s style and color. This type of customization is not possible with traditional wood materials, so it’s a great way to add an improved look to your deck.


Add Functionality

You might consider remodeling your deck to add functionality to this outdoor space. While most decks are designed for outdoor dining and relaxation, you can take things a step further by installing a built-in grill, outdoor fireplace, and outdoor seating. Adding these features is a great way to add value and enjoyment to your deck, while also helping to extend the outdoor entertaining season. What if you don’t have the space for these additions? No problem! You can easily expand the deck to accommodate these new items. Expanding your deck is an affordable and easy way to increase functionality. You can also take this opportunity to incorporate a new design into your deck.


Repair and Replace Rotting Wood

Beyond just adding new boards, you can remodel your deck by replacing rotting wood. While this is an easy repair, it’s best to do this before the wood has become so decayed that it’s no longer safe to walk on. If you’re not sure what’s causing the wood to rot, you can hire a contractor to inspect and assess the situation. In some cases, you may need to replace the entire deck if the rot is too extensive. Replacing the deck is an ideal time to incorporate new materials and a new design. If you have the budget and time, replacing the entire deck is an ideal solution. However, you can also just replace the rotten planks with new materials. Remodeling your deck is the perfect opportunity to tackle any decaying wood that threatens the safety of your deck.


Install a Rail for Safety

Even if you replace the rotting wood on your deck, you won’t solve the problem of dangerous edges. While you can install edging around the perimeter of your lawn to keep little ones from wandering into the yard, there’s nothing on your deck to prevent young children from falling off. Installing a safety rail along the edges of your deck is an easy way to prevent accidents and keep your loved ones safe. Depending on the design of your deck, installing a rail may be easy or difficult. For example, if your deck has an elevated design, you can’t just nail a rail to the deck boards. Instead, you must first attach the railing to the posts, then install the posts. This remodel can easily cost thousands of dollars, but there are ways to keep costs low.


Add New Features and Amenities

If your deck is small and has no extra features, you can remodel it to add amenities like a grill, seating, or a fire pit. If your deck is larger, you can still incorporate these features, but you might want to expand the deck to provide enough space for these items. Expanding your deck is an ideal solution for homeowners with limited space. If you’d like to add a new design to your deck, now is the time. If you’d rather keep the same design, you can add amenities like a seating area and fire pit. Adding amenities to your deck will provide more outdoor entertaining options and extend the outdoor season.


Conclusion

There are many reasons to consider remodeling your deck. By addressing small problems before they become big issues, you can prevent costly repairs and extend the life of your deck. Plus, a successful deck renovation will increase the value of your home and make you enjoy this part of your property all the more. If you’re not sure where to start with your deck renovation project, start with a deck design. This will help you visualize exactly how the finished product will look and make it easier to budget and plan. From there, you can decide which repairs and additions are right for you and your deck.