Decking Repair London

Decking repair costs vary considerably depending on the scope. Minor repairs — replacing a few split or loose boards, tightening fixings, spot treatment — typically cost between £150 and £400. Moderate repairs involving multiple board replacements or one or two joist repairs usually run from £400 to £1,200. Extensive restoration work covering widespread board replacement, multiple structural repairs and full re-treatment can range from £1,200 to £3,000 or more. We provide detailed, itemised quotes after a proper assessment — not estimates over the phone.

The key question is whether the sub-frame — joists, posts and the main frame — is structurally sound. If the frame is in good condition and only the surface boards are damaged or worn, repair is almost always the better choice. If posts or multiple joists are compromised, or if more than 60% of the deck is in poor condition, replacement may be more economical. We give you an honest assessment and our genuine recommendation, not one that favours the more expensive option.

Yes, we repair both timber and composite decking. Composite board replacement is typically more straightforward than timber because the boards are more consistent — the challenge is sourcing a matching colour and profile, particularly on older installations where a specific product may no longer be available. We will let you know at assessment stage whether a close match is achievable.

Common signs include boards that feel soft or spongy underfoot, visible dark discolouration or black staining, boards that crumble when probed, a musty or earthy smell around the deck, and boards or fixings that have begun to lift or separate. Sub-frame rot is often less visible — a wobble in the deck, posts that flex slightly, or boards that feel unstable in a localised area are worth investigating. If in doubt, we are happy to come and take a look.

In many cases, yes. Individual joist replacement is a routine part of deck repair work. We remove the affected boards above the damaged joist, replace the joist with matching material, treat the surrounding frame and relay the boards. The key requirement is that the posts and main structural frame are still sound. If multiple joists are affected or the frame itself is compromised, the calculation changes — which is why a proper structural assessment matters.

We source replacement timber to match the species and profile of your existing boards as closely as possible. On a recently installed deck, the match will typically be very close. On an older deck that has weathered significantly, new boards will look visibly different until they have had time to weather too — which is a natural and expected outcome. We are honest about this upfront so you can set appropriate expectations. In some cases, re-oiling or treating the whole deck after the repair can help even out the appearance.

Minor repairs — a handful of boards and some fixings — can often be completed in a single day. More involved repairs, including joist work and full re-treatment, typically take two to three days. Full deck restoration on a larger structure may take three to five days. We give you a realistic timeline with the quote and keep you informed throughout — we understand that having tradespeople in your garden for an extended period is not ideal.

Yes. Deck stair and handrail repairs are a regular part of our work. Loose or wobbly handrails, rotted stair stringers, split or missing treads and unstable post fixings are all issues we address. Stairs and handrails are safety-critical elements — a handrail that pulls away from the post or a tread that gives underfoot is a genuine hazard, and we treat these repairs with appropriate urgency.