Recommend a deck board removal tool

[Rarified27]

Did a search and actually found nothing on this topic. So...

Ideally, something with a long handle and the ability to rock on the joist while the forks lift the deck board so most of the effort is from the arms, saving the back from constant bending. Looking at 1500+sq ft (yes, 1500) of decking to remove and would like to not be delayed extensive fatigue.

Honey Badger, Duckbill Deck Wrecker, Bull Bar, what has worked well for you and why?

 

[nafterclifen]

I used the Duckbill Deck Wrecker on a 240 sq ft deck and it worked great. I was able to repurpose all but 1 board (it broke) for another project. It's certainly not the easiest work but it's the right tool for the job. I can't see how you'd easily do it without one. Very stout tool, by the way. Weighs about 7.5 lb

 

[cdeer001]

Did you see these?
https://plasticinehouse.com/best-deck-board-removal-tool/

Deck board removal tools

www.contractortalk.com

 

[Rarified27]

The Duckbill looks like the best option, but seems to be completely unavailable right now. Might be forced to grab the Crescent version.

 

[Kscardsfan]

Well in the volunteer fire department we just used chainsaws or Sawzalls. But I’m guessing you want something a little more precise.

 

[StillTooManyHobbies]

OP and nafterclifen are both in or near eastern PA according to profiles, maybe a loan could be worked out?

 

[dunnhead]

I built my own in the shape of a cross. The cross member goes across 2 joists and the short point of the long member goes under the deck board. Just push down the long arm to lift up the deck board.

I'd recommend using 2x6 yellow pine (rather than SPF lumber) for strength. I had around 250 sq ft of deck to remove. It worked well and was basically free since I was using scrap material.

1500 sq ft is a lot of deck though, and a commercially available one may be worth it.

If you decide to try it, it's kind of like this:

 

[Skiff Builder]

Couple questions for OP.
Existing deck wood or composite?
Are you trying to save the old decking?
How high is the deck off the ground?
Nailed or screwed?

 

[Skiff Builder]

On demo's where your trashing old boards, I've used a regular 42" crow bar and a 6' digging bar. No kneeling. You use the next deck board as a fulcrum.

https://www.lowes.com/pd/Truper-Tru...PsWUZ4phNv1ocWGnhWhoCVQAQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds

 

[Joebklyn]

Get the Duckbill Deck Wrecker. It is THE tool for demoing decks. Your back will thank you.