Lots of tired boards, solid frame
If the joists, posts and ledger are sound, new boards on the existing frame may be all you need.
Services · Deck replacement
Deck replacement in the Lower Mainland
A lot of Lower Mainland decks were built from pressure-treated wood or cedar 15 to 25 years ago, and many are now at the end of their life. If boards are soft, posts are rotting at the base or the railing moves when you lean on it, it may be time to rebuild. Send one request to compare replacement quotes from up to three local builders.
- Wood deck life here about 12–20 years
- Tear-out about $800–3,500
- Option new boards only if the frame is sound
Warning signs
How serious is it?
Rot in several joists or posts
Partial reframing is possible, but once several structural parts are soft a full rebuild often costs about the same and lasts longer.
Soft ledger, sagging or a bouncy deck
Movement where the deck meets the house is the most serious sign. Avoid gatherings on the deck until a builder has checked it.
Options
The main ways builders handle it
| Option | What it is | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| New boards on the old frame | Keeps the existing footings and framing | Frames that pass a careful inspection |
| Rebuild on the same footprint | New frame and boards, same size and shape | Rotten frames where the layout still works |
| Redesign and rebuild | A new size, height, shape or stairs | Decks that never quite worked for how you live |
Local conditions
Replace the deck, or just the boards?
If the frame is solid, re-decking (new boards on the existing joists) costs far less than a full rebuild. The catch is that frames are usually as old as the boards, and they rot first where water sits: near the house and at the post bases.
A builder should probe the joists, beams, posts and ledger before quoting. If the ledger or posts are soft, a full replacement is usually the safer and better-value choice, and it lets you change the layout, height or stairs while you're at it.
What a good quote includes
- Inspection of the frame, posts and ledger
- Demolition and disposal of the old deck
- New footings, or a check of the existing ones
- Frame protection on the new joists
- Decking product and hidden or face fasteners
- Railings and stairs built to current code
- Permit if your town requires one
- Protection of siding, lawn and plants during tear-out
- Written warranty
Watch for: Re-decking quotes that don't mention checking the frame. New boards on a rotten frame won't last.
Costs
Typical deck replacement prices
| Job | Typical range | What moves the price |
|---|---|---|
| Tear-out and disposal of an old deck | $800 – $3,500 | Size, height, concrete footings |
| New boards on the existing frame | $20 – $50 / sq ft | Pressure-treated at the low end, composite at the top |
| Frame fixes found during re-decking | $500 – $2,500 | Sistering joists, blocking, post bases |
| Full rebuild, 12 × 16 ft composite | $13,500 – $25,500 | New deck price plus tear-out |
Budget ranges in CAD before GST. Your quotes are based on a site visit.
Questions
Deck replacement questions
Can I keep my old frame?
Sometimes. If the joists, beams, posts and ledger are solid, new boards on the existing frame can save a lot. A builder should check the frame carefully before quoting it.
Does replacing a deck need a permit?
In many towns, yes, especially for raised decks. Some cities, like Port Coquitlam and Maple Ridge, even require permits for repairs. Check your town's permit page.
How long does a wood deck last here?
Typically about 12–20 years for pressure-treated or cedar decking in our wet climate, depending on upkeep, shade and how well the frame was protected.
Often done together
Guides
Deck replacement by town
Metro Vancouver
- Surrey →
- Vancouver →
- Burnaby →
- Richmond →
- Delta →
- White Rock →
- Coquitlam →
- Port Coquitlam →
- Port Moody →
- New Westminster →
- North Vancouver →
- West Vancouver →
- Pitt Meadows →
Fraser Valley
Ready to compare deck replacement quotes?
Send one request and hear from up to 3 local builders.