How to Replace a Deck Board: Deck-Plank Replacement Made Easy

Measure the board that needs to be replaced for length and size (ex. 1×6 or 2×6), and then whatever length it is. Also know what type of wood it is (i.e., cedar, green treated). Go to your home-improvement supply center and find the board size and kind that you need. Many times, they will even cut it to length for you. Also, while you’re there, don’t forget the screws or nails you will need to install the new plank.

Tools for this job:
-tape measure
-claw style hammer
-pry bar
-cordless screw driver
-safety glasses

Now, with the correct tools you can remove the old board. If held in by nails and you can get underneath your deck, pound the old board up and out. Use safety glasses as not to get wood particles or dirt in your eyes. If the plank is held in by screws remove the screws and gently pry up the board or go underneath and pound it up and out. Make sure no old wood or fasteners are in the joists and the area for the new plank is clear. The new board can be put in place and either screwed or nailed in. Stay with what ever type of fasteners is used on the rest of your deck. Try to keep the same hole pattern as before.

The board is now in. Here is a little extra tip, most don’t know or tell you. If using cedar don’t seal or stain it right away. let it age a few weeks. In the decking industry we use to tell people to let it age a year. I don’t tell people that any more. I still tell them to let it age a month or so and then seal or paint it after cleaning it. Green treated wood needs to dry out and then can be primed and painted. These final tips are what really makes board replacement a good replacement. You want it to match as much as possible and these steps will help to ensure that.

Remember: safety first.