Do you need to remove deck boards but don’t want to damage them? There are a few ways to do this without damaging the boards.
How to remove nails and reuse deck boards
Use a prybar
Assuming the nails are driven in at an angle and not flush against the board, you can try prying the nails out with a prybar. Remember to keep your fingers away from the blade!
Use a hammer
Before you start, make sure that the deck is clean and free of any dirt, rocks, or other debris. This will help to ensure the best results.
Hammer the nails directly into the wood. Be sure to drive them all the way in, as this will make them more stable. You can use a level to ensure that the boards are perfectly flush with one another.
Once the nails are in, use a nail gun to secure them. This will give you a much cleaner and neater finish.
Use a screwdriver
If you are using a screwdriver, make sure that it is the correct size for the screws that are holding the deck boards in place. If the screws are too big, the screwdriver will just slip off the head of the screw. If the screws are too small, the screwdriver will either break the screw or strip the head of the screw.
1. Find the screws that are holding the deck boards in place.
2. Remove the screws with your screwdriver.
3. Carefully pull the deck boards out of the hole that the screws were holding them in.
4. Replace the deck boards in the hole, and screw the screws back in place.
5. Enjoy your newly repaired deck!
Use a chisel
There are several ways to remove deck boards without damage. The most common and easiest way is to use a chisel. First, mark the position of the board you want to remove. Then, use the chisel to remove the board. Be careful not to damage the surrounding wood.
Use a saw
If you don’t have a saw, you can use a hammer and a chisel to remove the deck boards. Make a shallow cut into the wood with the chisel, then use the hammer to drive the chisel out from under the deck board. Pry the deck board off the joists with a screwdriver.
Conclusion
If you want to remove deck boards with nails without damaging them, use a hammer and a chisel. Start by punching a hole in the deck board about 1-inch from the edge. Use the hammer to drive the chisel into the hole, moving it around the circumference of the board. Keep a close eye on the board as you work, and if it starts to split, stop and use the hammer to finish the job.
