Thread: repair old deck or replace with pavers?

I'm trying to figure out what course of action to take in regard to my deck. I have a large deck, 30X14 that attaches to another 30X20 section deck with a semi inground pool. However, the deck needs a lot of work. The paint is peeling, boards need to be replaced and so does the pool liner. We have been in the house for about two years and only plan to stay for about 5-8 years. We need to address this issue and I'm trying to figure if the deck and pool bring value to the house. Will I decrease the value of the house if I remove the deck/pool and replace it with pavers? How do I determine what will bring more value to my house or will it just be a wash?

DJ,

Your asking a great question and you should have recieved a few different responses by now. However, my response will be the obviouse. True value is determined by the home buyer and I would need to know what market you are currently living in as well. Say for instance it's a slow market, then the potential to miss a buyer that has had a pool in the past and hates maintaining the structure (as it sounds with you) might wish to move on and buy your nieghbor's home with the freshly added pavement. It's all perspective in these slow markets or in an agressive sellers market for that matter. How much are you planning on spending on this venture? If you respond, I will further the explination with my opinions on what the appraiser would determine the value to be.

To fix the deck the labor would be about $1,000, $500 for new wood, paint/stain $500. The new pool liner will cost about $1,000. It will cost around $2,500 to $3,000. I think this should this is the high end. To install the pavers removal of deck $800, labor for install $2,500 and materials about $2,200, misc $500 for a total of $6,000. Please note we have been in the house for two years and will be for about 5-6 more years. The yard is a bit loud because we back up to one additional house followed by a highway. I think the deck takes the yard up a bit much, pool a plus for kids (us). I have been told by many the deck is nice, but I personaly prefer pavers. The pavers would also allow me to put in a second legal egress window in the basement. However, I dont' want to waste money, but also enjoy my yard.

If you are going to be there 5 or 6 more years make the yard yours and enjoy it.