How do you make a deck gate not sag?

• <div><p>You can use a few different tactics to prevent your deck gate from sagging. Aside from using strong, rot-resistant woods, introducing a diagonal element—such as a tension rod or solid piece of wood to act as a brace—across the gate will offer better support. You can also use rigid joists to prevent the gate from sagging.</p></div>

When is a railing required on a deck?

• <div><p>Building codes vary by location, and you should always consult local codes before planning construction. Generally speaking, however, <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/railing-requirements-for-deck.htm">railing requirements</a> stipulate that decks more than 30 inches off the ground need railings for safety purposes. These railings usually need to be at least 36 inches tall, although California and Washington require rails to be 42 inches or taller.</p></div>

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Q: What safety improvements do professionals make during repairs?

• <div><p>Professionals enhance safety by addressing structural issues, securing loose components, and using non-toxic materials. They ensure compliance with building codes and conduct thorough inspections to identify potential hazards. Their expertise minimizes risks, making the home safer during and after repairs.</p></div>

Q: How can I make my deck railing more child- or pet-friendly?

• <div><p>To child- or pet-proof your deck railing, look for railing systems with narrow spacing&mdash;under 4 inches&mdash;between balusters or panels. For added safety, consider installing a clear acrylic or mesh guard along the inside of the railing to prevent small limbs or paws from slipping through. Avoid horizontal rails that adventurous kids can climb like ladders. You can also add self-closing gates at stair openings to limit access.</p></div>

Q: Should you nail or screw deck boards?

• <div><p>You can either nail or screw deck boards according to your preference. We recommend using 3-inch galvanized deck screws in this guide because screws offer superior holding powder over time. If you&rsquo;re using screws, you can minimize the risk of cracking the boards by drilling small pilot holes before securing the boards to the deck joists. </p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Deck Maintenance pros in Clayton, AL

*The Angi rating for Deck Maintenance companies in Clayton, AL is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Deck Maintenance needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Deck Maintenance companies in Clayton, AL is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Deck Maintenance needs.

Last update on October 25, 2025

Reviewed in June 2024
Yesterday Cody from Ace Foundation Specialist came to the house to do the annual maintenance of the drainage system. We were very pleased with his work. He was very thorough, professional, and knowledgeable. He took his time and had such a pleasant attitude during the two hours of service in...
Ace Foundation & Recovery Specialist, LLC
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Reviewed in December 2021
It did not go well at all. I had hired them before and had no problems with very small 1 day jobs. But when I agreed to let them do all of the work to remodel an entire house the problems began. Their work showed problems and I found materials missing from my home. They committed to having all...
Watkins Home Improvement
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Reviewed in December 2016
Fantastic - We have a large home (about 70 squares of shingles). This 4 man team removed (and cleaned up after themselves) the old roof, replaced sections of rotten decking, added the new roof and completed the total job in 4 days. Not one penny was paid until the job was finished and we were...
Apex Roofing & Restoration
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Reviewed in September 2013
Customer was greeted promptly and professionally. Reviewed requested repair work requested. Customer was advised of approximate cost and time of repair. Associate also reviewed for any potential maintenance work needed on vehicle. Customer wait time was less than 1 hour.
Jim Burke Nissan
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Reviewed in March 2012
The experience overall was satisfactory. I will definately use this company again. Hopefully round 2 of the annual maintenance program will go just as well.
Mainline Heating & Air Inc
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Reviewed in October 2011
Honda did the maintenance on my car that was required for the number of miles on my car. They told me my brakes were bad and needed to be replaced. I then took my car to an Express Oil Change as I thought I would save myself money on the brake repair. However, I was then told at Express that...
Tameron Honda Birmingham
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Get matched with top deck maintenance specialists in Clayton, AL

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Deck or Porch Repair

Handyman for Multiple Small Project Service

Deck, Fence, Patio or Porch Clean and Seal

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Find Deck maintenance specialists in Clayton

R&M Building and Remodeling

R&M Building and Remodeling

Darts maintenance and management llc

Darts maintenance and management llc

FairDeal LLC

FairDeal LLC

A & P Services

A & P Services

A & S contruction

A & S contruction

Ogle Contractors

Ogle Contractors

Elrod Renovations

Elrod Renovations

Alfred's flooring and remodeling

Alfred's flooring and remodeling

Artisan Remodelimg and Tile LLC

Artisan Remodelimg and Tile LLC

Capstone Construction LLC

Capstone Construction LLC

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