When a defined repair fits
An isolated damaged board or stair part may call for a focused repair if the surrounding system remains suitable. The proposal should identify the defect, its cause and the correction. Repeated decay in one location can indicate a water-management detail that also needs attention.
A limited repair is not a general statement about the whole deck’s condition. Ask what was inspected and what remains outside the scope. If the deck moves, a guard is loose or a house connection appears damaged, avoid relying on surface appearance while a qualified assessment is pending.
When resurfacing is a reasonable candidate
Resurfacing replaces walking boards while keeping a suitable structure. That requires more than noting that the joists are still present. Their condition, spacing, connections and compatibility with the new product need review. New borders or diagonal boards can add framing requirements.
Some concealed findings become clear only after removal. Explain how extra work is documented and authorized before the old surface comes off. Include railings, stair transitions and fascia in the comparison so a board-only allowance does not disguise an incomplete scope.
When a full replacement becomes useful
Widespread damage, unsuitable supports or major layout changes can make replacement the suitable project. A new roof or enclosure can also change loads enough to require a substantially different structure. A rebuild lets those decisions be coordinated from the foundation upward.
Compare options on the parts that remain and the finished deck’s use rather than a fixed age cutoff. The written proposal should show what comes down, what can remain and how the completed deck meets the intended use.