Your deck is where summer BBQs come to life, where the kids splash about in the pool, and where you unwind with a cold drink after a long day. But when your deck starts showing its age with wobbly boards, splintered timber, or that mysterious sag that wasn't there last season, it's time to give it some TLC.

Australia's harsh climate can be brutal on outdoor timber, and decking cops the worst of it. From scorching summer heat to torrential downpours and everything in between, your deck battles the elements year-round. The good news is that most decking problems can be sorted with the right approach and a skilled tradie who knows their stuff.

What are some common decking issues?

Decking problems don't just appear overnight. They're usually the result of our unpredictable Aussie weather, regular wear and tear, or sometimes just poor initial installation. Spotting these issues early can save you a heap of cash down the track.

• Loose or squeaky boards: These are probably the most common decking issue homeowner’s deal. You'll notice them when you're walking across your deck and hear that telltale creak or feel a board give way slightly under your feet. This usually happens when the screws or nails have worked loose over time, or when the timber has expanded and contracted with temperature changes
• Cracked or splintering timber: These can end up being a pain in your foot (literally) if not fixed early on
• Wood decay: You might notice soft spots in the timber, discoloration, or even mushrooms growing on your deck. These are red flags that need immediate attention
• Wobbly railing: These can be extra dangerous if you have children or elderly family relying on your deck’s railings for support
• Staining: This is often a sign that your deck's protective coating has worn away, leaving the timber vulnerable to more serious damage. What starts as a cosmetic issue can quickly become a structural one if left unchecked

Is it worth repairing your decking or getting a full refurbish?

This is the million-dollar question, isn't it? Whether or not you can get away with a simple repair or if it’s a larger job depends on a few key factors:

• Extent of damage: If you're dealing with isolated issues, like a few loose boards or wobbly railing, repairs are usually the smart choice. Widespread wood rot or structural damage may require a larger refurbish
• Age of deck: Decks typically last 15-20 years with proper maintenance, but Australia's climate can accelerate wear and tear. If your deck is older than this, it might be a sign to start fresh
• Your budget and needs: Your lifestyle matters in this decision too. Are you planning to stay in your home for years to come? Do you love entertaining outdoors? A full refurbish might be worth the investment. But if you're thinking about selling in the next few years, strategic repairs might be the smarter financial move

Maintaining your deck after a repair

Once your deck is back in top shape after a repair, keeping it that way doesn't have to be a massive chore. A little regular maintenance goes a long way toward preventing those expensive problems from cropping up again.

• Cleaning: Regular cleaning is your first line of defence against further deck damage. This includes giving it a sweep every week, and going over it with a deck cleaner every couple of months
• Check your deck every quarter: Look for loose screws, new cracks, or any signs of wear and tear. Catching problems early means cheaper fixes
• Reapply protective coatings: Depending on your deck's exposure to weather and the type of coating used, you might need to re-stain or re-oil every 12 to 24 months. It sounds like a hassle, but it's much cheaper than replacing rotted boards
• Address any issues quickly: That one loose or splintered board might not seem urgent right now, but you’d rather get things repaired before anyone gets hurt

Benefits of hiring a pro for decking repair

Calling in the professionals for decking repair is always the smarter move, and here are some reasons why:  

• Safety: Professional tradies have the right equipment, experience, and insurance to handle decking repairs safely. They also know how to spot potential hazards that might not be obvious to the average Aussie
• Lasting repairs: A skilled decking repairer will give you top-notch workmanship that will allow you to enjoy your deck for years to come
• Knowledge of building codes and standards: These change over time, and your tradie will be up to date with these regulations, making sure your repairs are compliant with the law
• Timesaving: What might take you an entire weekend (and probably a few choice words) can often be completed by a professional in a few hours. Plus, you won't need to hire or buy tools you might not use again, and you won't risk making costly mistakes
• Peace of mind: Most reputable tradies stand behind their work with warranties, giving you protection if something goes wrong

How to hire a decking repair specialist

Finding the right tradie for your decking repair doesn't have to be a headache. With the right approach, you can connect with skilled professionals who'll get the job done properly.

• Get multiple quotes: Obtaining at least 3 quotes is the best way to go. This gives you a good sense of the going rate for your specific job and lets you compare different approaches
• Check licences and insurance. Any professional working on your property should have the appropriate licences for their trade and current public liability insurance. Don't be shy about asking for proof: legitimate tradies will be happy to provide it
• Read up on recommendations: Photos of completed jobs can give you good idea of the quality you can expect. Online recommendations are also really great to see the tradies quality of work
• Ask about warranties: A confident professional will stand behind their work and offer some form of warranty on both materials and workmanship. Make sure you understand what's covered and for how long

The easiest way to connect with trusted, licenced decking repair specialists is through hipages. Simply post your job via our get quotes button, and we'll connect you with up to three qualified tradies in your area who are ready to complete your job. You can read recommendations on our platform too and choose the professional who's the right fit for your needs and budget.

Don't let a damaged deck put a dampener on your outdoor lifestyle. Whether you need a quick repair or a complete refurbishment, the right tradie can have your deck ready for your next barbecue in no time.