How Do You Repair A Rotting Deck Joist?
Wooden decks are subject to deterioration from weather and pests, no matter what wood was used in their construction or how it is finished. This is especially true for joists because they stay wet longer after a rain and water tends to collect between them and the decking boards. They also provide a shady home for termites and other pests. You can replace the rotting joists one by one after you remove the decking. If the rot is extensive, you may want to consider replacing them with pressure-treated wood. Remove one board at a time. If the boards are screwed in, use a drill to remove the screws and lift off each board in turn. Pry up boards that are nailed down by first hooking the pry bar under the board and prying it up about 1/2 inch, then hooking the pry bar around the nail head and pulling the nail out. Use a piece of wood to lever the pry bar so you don’t damage the decking. Remove as many boards as is necessary to completely uncover the rotted joists. If the joists are hung from
