Is it worth sanding a deck?

• <div><p>It is definitely worth sanding a deck to ensure the wood absorbs new stain. Sanding a deck removes the outer layers of aging wood, allowing the stain to penetrate. It also gives a fresh look to the entire surface as part of the <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-to-refinish-deck.htm">deck refinishing process</a>. Without sanding, your stain or sealant is less likely to absorb into the wood. While sanding a deck is a time-intensive project, the rewards are noticeable and long-lasting.</p></div>

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Q: Which way should a gate swing, in or out?

• <div><p>The best direction for a gate to swing depends on its location and purpose, but swinging inward is the general rule. An inward swing is often considered safer, prevents the gate from opening into public spaces like a sidewalk, and may be required by local building codes.</p><p>There are exceptions and specific considerations. If your property is on a slope, an inward swing might not be possible. For a deck gate, it's safest to have it swing away from any steps. In a backyard, the direction can be a matter of preference, though an inward swing can be helpful when carrying heavy items like a wheelbarrow into a garden.</p><p>Regardless of direction, ensure the gate can open fully without hitting any objects or blocking spaces. While an inward swing is standard, a gate that can swing both in and out offers the most flexibility if your setup allows for it.</p></div>

Q: How many steps on a deck before you need a railing?

• <div><p>Local building codes don&rsquo;t specify the number of steps a deck can have before a railing is required, mainly because stair height varies widely. Most areas require decks 30 inches or higher to have a railing. While not exact, that roughly equates to four to seven steps.</p></div>

Q: How often and at what time of year should I clean my deck?

• <div><p>It is recommended to clean your deck once or twice a year to prevent the accumulation of dirt, debris, mold, and mildew. The ideal times for cleaning are in the spring and fall. A spring cleaning removes grime that has built up over the winter, preparing your deck for summer use. A fall cleaning washes away messes from summer activities, preventing them from setting into the wood over the winter. The exact frequency can depend on factors such as how often the deck is used, its exposure to pollen, and whether salt was used on it during the winter. Regular cleaning helps protect the wood and its finish from damage.</p></div>

Q: Do you have to dig footers for a deck?

• <div><p>You do not have to dig footers for a deck as long as it meets local code and holds up to weather in your area. If you live somewhere that experiences high winds and earthquakes, you may need to dig for your deck posts. Deck blocks, post anchors with base plates, and helical pile systems are the three no-dig deck post options you can choose from if local code permits.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Deck Cleaning pros in Dermott, AR

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

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

Last update on October 08, 2025

Reviewed in October 2025
Apple Tree service was fantastic, great owner and staff, work was well done, professional, clean up was excellent. The amount of time Apple Tree Service used to get the job done was unbelievable, these guys put in work. The tree height desired was cut perfect, will recommend to friends and...
Apple Tree Services
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Reviewed in December 2024
Very professional and got the job done fast. Would recommend and will be using them again.
Pro Lite Electric
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Reviewed in May 2024
Michael C, Jesse K, and Nathan R
West Shore Home Wilmington
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Reviewed in September 2023
Office personnel and service techs very friendly and professional and customer oriented.
Garage Doors of Greenville, LLC
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Reviewed in August 2022
This is the second time I used them to fix a main water leak. The only thing that could make my experience better is if they paid me. These young men were fast, efficient and cleaned up like it never happened. OUTSTANDING - 5 Stars doesnâ t express their work well enough
Charter Plumbing, LLC
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Reviewed in February 2022
Great professionalism and service but a little high on the hourly rate
Natural State Pool and Spa
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Reviewed in December 2021
SheÃ¢Â Â s very good at what she does and knowledgeable about the computers, phones,tablets, and iPads/iPods!! I would recommend her to anyone who needs/wants her to check out their device.
V's Phone and PC Repair
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Reviewed in March 2020
Phillip didn't cut corners anywhere. He was very courteous, polite, and his crew handled themselves well! He was very courteous, knowledgeable, and he delivered on the details of the job as long as they were up to code. He was a nice person to work with, is very clean, well organized and his...
Phillip Stringfellow
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Reviewed in September 2019
Did an amazing job!! Priced very fair. Punctual, and cleaned up so well after finishing job . I would recommend them to anyone. Very polite and the roof is beautiful!!
Bubba Lees Roofing
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Reviewed in August 2010
The workers cleaned the rugs well and did a good job.
TOUCH OF CLASS BY CLEAN AND FRESH
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Find Deck cleaning pros in Dermott

Cypress River construction

New to Angi

Serving Dermott, AR and surrounding areas

Approved

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

Warranties offered

Here at Cypress River Construction we offer a wide variety of trades and crafts! From fencing, painting, new builds, full remodels, or roofs! We are fair and believe in honest work, we offer a warranty with our work!

1 neighbors recently requested a quote

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Memphis Aero Cleaning Solutions

5.0(

)

Serving Dermott, AR and surrounding areas

In business since 2023

Free estimates

Small jobs welcome

"My inquiry was responded to quickly and they were able to work around my schedule. Looks brand new. The results were beautiful. They showed up on time and were respectful of the property."

Steeple Base - Algae, Bird Droppings no more!

Pink coloring to see where its spraying.

+11

Response time2 days

Recommended by75%of homeowners

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Risher's Cleaning & Handymen

3.8(

269

)

Serving Dermott, AR and surrounding areas

In business since 1993

Free estimates

"It was good. I called them in the morning and they came later that day. They did a good job. They were professional and clean."

Recommended by70%of homeowners

Serving Dermott, AR and surrounding areas

In business since 2006

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Travis' roofing team showed up early and got to work. The job went quickly and professionally. The roofers were careful to clean up everything before they left. They really did a good job I had another roofer come and inspect their work and he said everything was done correctly to uphold the shingles factory warranty. Apparently many roofers cut cost by using an inferior top shingle for the ridge causing the shingle's warranty to be void.
I would use Duraplex roofing in the future.
"

+16

Recommended by91%of homeowners

Serving Dermott, AR and surrounding areas

In business since 1995

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Nice people. I would call them again for basic work if not on a tight timeline. (They have to drive in from about 90 miles away and there were several delays.) They assessed what needed to be done accurately, stayed an extra hour without charging me extra, and cleaned up. Work quality and communication were average."

Recommended by74%of homeowners

Serving Dermott, AR and surrounding areas

In business since 2012

Free estimates

Offers commercial services

"Chris has always been dependable and reasonable with his pricing. He does nice work and I would highly recommend."

Response time4 hrs

4 neighbors recently requested a quote

Recommended by66%of homeowners

Serving Dermott, AR and surrounding areas

In business since 2019

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

As experts in lawn care and ground maintenance, Finley's Lawn Care Service will exceed your expectations. With many years of experience manicuring lawns, we understand the value of quality, professionalism and responsiveness. We offer competitive pricing and look forward to serving you.

Response time2 days

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Cynthia's Cleaning Service

0.0(

)

Serving Dermott, AR and surrounding areas

In business since 2013

Free estimates

Warranties offered

Cynthia's Cleaning Service is locally owned and operated serving Greenville and the surrounding areas. We provide full service cleaning for foreclosed properties both interior and exterior, as well have custom requests for waste and junk haul off, powerwashing, gutter cleaning, and deck cleaning.

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Serving Dermott, AR and surrounding areas

In business since 2018

Free estimates

"He's got a great personality, quality and he did me right on my roof."

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Tony's Handyman Service

0.0(

)

Serving Dermott, AR and surrounding areas

In business since 1999

Free estimates

I have owned my own business for the last 4 years and have specialized in all of your carpentry needs. I can do anything that you need, handyman wise. I really appreciate being able to give you the level of service that you deserve, and pride myself on being timely and priced more than fair. I look forward to working with you in the very near future.

Recommended by50%of homeowners

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Showing 1-10 of 22

Deck Cleaning questions, answered by experts

The best direction for a gate to swing depends on its location and purpose, but swinging inward is the general rule. An inward swing is often considered safer, prevents the gate from opening into public spaces like a sidewalk, and may be required by local building codes.

There are exceptions and specific considerations. If your property is on a slope, an inward swing might not be possible. For a deck gate, it's safest to have it swing away from any steps. In a backyard, the direction can be a matter of preference, though an inward swing can be helpful when carrying heavy items like a wheelbarrow into a garden.

Regardless of direction, ensure the gate can open fully without hitting any objects or blocking spaces. While an inward swing is standard, a gate that can swing both in and out offers the most flexibility if your setup allows for it.

Local building codes don’t specify the number of steps a deck can have before a railing is required, mainly because stair height varies widely. Most areas require decks 30 inches or higher to have a railing. While not exact, that roughly equates to four to seven steps.

It is recommended to clean your deck once or twice a year to prevent the accumulation of dirt, debris, mold, and mildew. The ideal times for cleaning are in the spring and fall. A spring cleaning removes grime that has built up over the winter, preparing your deck for summer use. A fall cleaning washes away messes from summer activities, preventing them from setting into the wood over the winter. The exact frequency can depend on factors such as how often the deck is used, its exposure to pollen, and whether salt was used on it during the winter. Regular cleaning helps protect the wood and its finish from damage.

It is definitely worth sanding a deck to ensure the wood absorbs new stain. Sanding a deck removes the outer layers of aging wood, allowing the stain to penetrate. It also gives a fresh look to the entire surface as part of the deck refinishing process. Without sanding, your stain or sealant is less likely to absorb into the wood. While sanding a deck is a time-intensive project, the rewards are noticeable and long-lasting.

You do not have to dig footers for a deck as long as it meets local code and holds up to weather in your area. If you live somewhere that experiences high winds and earthquakes, you may need to dig for your deck posts. Deck blocks, post anchors with base plates, and helical pile systems are the three no-dig deck post options you can choose from if local code permits.

The Dermott, AR homeowners’ guide to deck cleaning services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

See all articles

Deane Biermeier
•
May 30, 2026May 30, 2026
How Much Does Deck Refinishing Cost? [2026 Data]
Refinishing your deck is a great way to restore its appearance and fall in love with your outdoor space. Use this guide to learn how much it costs based on factors like size and type.
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•
Mar 17, 2026Mar 17, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Pressure Wash a Deck? [2026 Data]
The cost to pressure wash a deck depends on its size, condition, material, and whether you DIY the job. Help set your budget with this cost guide.
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•
May 30, 2026May 30, 2026
Cost to Seal or Waterproof a Deck [2026 Data]
Sealing a deck is important for protecting it against the elements. Find out the cost to seal a deck, whether you DIY or hire a pro to do the job.
Jenna Jonaitis
•
Apr 10, 2026Apr 10, 2026
How to Clean Decking Safely and Naturally
Cleaning your deck at least once a year boosts its durability and appearance. Learn how to clean decking, whether it's wood or composite.
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•
Apr 8, 2026Apr 8, 2026
How to Clean a Deck Before Staining
Learn how to clean a deck before staining to ensure long-lasting adhesion, weatherproofing, and optimum appearance of this coloring and protecting treatment.
Jenna Jonaitis
•
Apr 5, 2026Apr 5, 2026
Top Deck Maintenance Tips for Every Decking Material
Deck maintenance is vital to protecting a wooden deck. Cleaning, staining and sealing a deck after pressure washing will add years to its lifespan. Protect a deck by following these deck maintenance tips for cedar and other types of wood materials.