Replanking an Old Deck

Remove the old deck planks. Your method of removal will depend on whether the planks were attached with deck screws or nails. You can remove planks attached with deck screws with an electric screwdriver set to the reverse position; just unscrew the deck screws and set the old planks aside. If the planks are secured with nails, you will need to pry the boards up with a pry bar or other lever. Once the planks are free from the joists, set them aside. Inspect the ledger boards, joists and joist hangers to ensure they are sound, and pull any planking nails that remain in the joists.

Lay your new deck planks out on top of your joists without securing them in place. Rearrange the planks until you achieve the pattern you desire. Make sure there a gap of between 1/8 inch and 1/4 inch between each plank. You may need to cut some of the planks to length with a circular saw to make them fit properly.

Attach the new deck planks to the joists. Begin at one side of the deck and work your way across. Pre-drill the planks to help prevent splitting. Use an electric screwdriver to drive 2½-inch deck screws through the deck planks and into the joists or other supporting boards.

Pick up and dispose of any old fasteners, nails or deck screws as a safety precaution. Dispose of the old deck planks in accordance with your local building codes.