Decks, Patios, Porches and Docks - frozen screws

I am replacing the boards on my deck as they have become splintery and old. Is there a way to renew them without replacing? I have pressure washed and sealed/stained for years with no lasting improvement. Could I sand? Also, if I replace, there are over 1200 screws in the deck, many of which are frozen and will not come out. Any suggestions on how to remove them without ripping out the foundation?

I can't think of a good way to renew the boards. Sounds like they are pressure treated. These have a tendancy to warp and split as they age, even with sealing. You could try sanding. I have a neighbor who attacks his deck every season with a belt sander with course grit paper. That will take the high points and some of the splinters off.

There's no easy way to get the screws out. If they are deck screws, they are a tough, course thread, meant to stay in place. Obviously, try using a screw gun first. Be sure it's a good one, with high torque. If the heads are stripped, then you'll have to pull them out. You could try using a "cat's paw". This is a pry bar used for removing nails from the face of the board. After you get the first couple of boards up, then use a flat pry bar to pry between the boards and the joists. Take your time to minimize damaging the joists.

Can you get underneath, and hammer upwards?

If only the topside of the deck boards shows wear.. you can take them off and flip them over so the "down" side is up. much cheaper than total replacement and the side that usually faces down is typically in much better condition because less standing water and traffic and UV light hits it.


Hope this helps---Josh