Get matched with top deck cleaning pros in Goodwater, AL

Space deck handrail posts four to six feet apart. If the posts are more than six feet apart, the railing will be less able to withstand lateral forces and is more susceptible to breaking. Additionally, railing posts that are more than six feet apart may not be up to code, and you may face fines and be required to reinstall the posts to bring them up to code.

The average cost to professionally clean or pressure wash a deck is around $150, with prices typically ranging from $100 to $600. Several factors influence the final price, including the deck's size, material, condition, and how long it has been since its last cleaning. For a smaller deck of about 300 square feet, you might pay around $100. For a larger deck of 1,000 square feet or more, the cost could be closer to $300 to $400. Decks that are very dirty or haven't been cleaned in years may require more time and special detergents, which will increase the price. The deck's material also plays a role. Wood decks often cost more to clean because they require a gentle power washing technique to avoid damage. Composite decks are typically less expensive to clean, and cleaning a metal deck may cost around $100.

When sourced responsibly, the most sustainable wood decking options are timber trees like redwood, pine, Douglas fir, Nootka cypress, and Western red cedar. These tree species are fast-growing with low carbon emissions. Plus, most timber woods make durable deck materials because of their resistance to rot and decay over time. 

When deciding if you should use 2x6 or 2x8 deck joists, consider the size of the deck, joist spacing, and materials. Larger decks, larger-spaced joists, and weaker wood all require more support, meaning they need larger joists. For example, 2x8 redwood joists spaced 16 inches apart can only safely span up to 10 feet and 7 inches. On the other hand, 2x10 southern pine joists spaced 12 inches apart can be as big as 16 feet and 2 inches. If you aren’t sure what size joist is best for your project, speak with your deck builder.