How wide can deck stairs be with two stringers?

• <div><p>Deck stairs should have at least three stringers rather than two. The recommended minimum width for stairs is 36 inches, and the <a href="https://www.nachi.org/inspecting-stair-stringers.htm">International Association of Certified Home Inspectors</a> recommends at least three cut stringers to provide sufficient support on wood decking stairs of this width. Generally, stringers should be a maximum of 16 inches apart for wood decking and 12 inches apart for more flexible composite decking.</p></div>

How hard is it to build a deck yourself?

• <div><p>Building a deck isn't too hard if you’re handy with carpentry, have the necessary tools, and are willing to put effort into it. However, other factors, such as plans, permits, and design, can be hard if you don’t have experience in those areas.</p><p>Note: You’ll need another person to help you build the deck (especially for framing and setting the beams). Building a deck yourself will be very difficult if you don’t have an extra set of hands to help.</p></div>

Get matched with top deck maintenance specialists in Mountain Home, AR

Q: Should a gate swing in or out?

• <div><p>Ideally, a gate should be able to swing both in and out. However, if it can only open in one direction, it is generally best for it to swing inward. This is often the safest option, especially for deck gates near steps, as you'll want the gate to swing away from the stairs. An inward swing also prevents the gate from opening into a public space, like a sidewalk, and can be more convenient when carrying heavy items like a wheelbarrow into a garden.</p><p>There are exceptions, however. The layout of your property may require a different approach. For example, if your property is on a slope, the gate may not be able to swing inward. You should also ensure the gate can open fully without colliding with any objects or blocking access to other areas. For a backyard garden gate where public access isn't a concern, the direction it swings is largely a matter of personal preference. Finally, always check your local building codes, as they may have specific requirements for which way a gate must swing.</p></div>

Q: Should deck boards be spaced or tight?

• <div><p>Deck boards should be spaced no more than three-eighths of an inch apart. This is enough space to allow water and small debris to pass through without collecting on the surface, but not enough to create a tripping hazard. Certain materials, like pressure-treated wood, shrink over time, so they may need less space at installation. </p></div>

Q: How hard is it to build a deck yourself?

• <div><p>Building a deck isn't too hard if you&rsquo;re handy with carpentry, have the necessary tools, and are willing to put effort into it. However, other factors, such as plans, permits, and design, can be hard if you don&rsquo;t have experience in those areas.</p><p>Note: You&rsquo;ll need another person to help you build the deck (especially for framing and setting the beams). Building a deck yourself will be very difficult if you don&rsquo;t have an extra set of hands to help.</p></div>

Q: How often do wood decks need to be replaced?

• <div><p>Wood decks need to be replaced every 10 to 15 years on average. Natural wood is highly vulnerable to infiltration and damage from moisture, which can occur rapidly due to exposure to outdoor elements. You can protect your deck and maximize its lifespan by sealing it every year or two. </p></div>

Enter your zip and get matched with up to 5 pros

Need a pro for your deck maintenance project in Mountain Home, AR?

Select your specific project to find the pro for you.

Verified Reviews for Deck Maintenance pros in Mountain Home, AR

*The Angi rating for Deck Maintenance companies in Mountain Home, AR 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 Mountain Home, AR 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 June 08, 2026

Reviewed in June 2026
Hometown remolding did a very good job removing, replacing vinyl siding, and removing our old deck and making the new deck stronger so we could put anything we want on it. We are very pleased with the work they did and we would hire them again for future projects.
Hometown Remodeling LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in March 2026
The job (deck) was not without problems but this company handle the problems with ease. The deck looks awesome and it came on budget. We would recommend this company to do work for you. In fact we have them doing more work for us.
K.T.B. SOLUTIONS, LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in November 2024
Jamon did a wonderful job putting together furniture for me. His easy going, yet professional, demeanor fit right in us. Manning's Maintenance offers lots of help, and will be asked back again.
Manning's Maintenance and Landscaping
Request a quote
Reviewed in July 2022
Due to family issues the deck had taken a very bad hit due to neglect over the last ten years whereas I hadn't got to treat it while taking care of my sick spouse and my own heart attack. Kelly worked with me to repair the deck in a cost-effective method to keep the costs down. He explained...
Ozark Tree Monkeys
Request a quote
Reviewed in April 2022
Good job! Will use again to power wash my deck.
Stone Outdoor Services
Request a quote
Reviewed in May 2021
The entire deck was demolished and rebuilt within 3 weeks. Always on time and the work is outstanding. Highly recommended!
Hometown Remodeling LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in October 2020
We hired Mr. Howell to replace an old deck and redesign and replace to fit the space better. Bill was easy to work with. His work was very precise and detailed and got the job done very quickly. We will definitely be calling him back for future projects.
Ozark Handyman
Request a quote
Reviewed in September 2020
He did both cleaned the roof and power washed our deck and railing. Very nice job and no mess left behind at a reasonable price.
Twin Lakes Roof Renew
Request a quote

Find Deck maintenance specialists in Mountain Home

Green Work Landscaping and Heat Treatments LLC

4.8(

)

Deck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and SealDeck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and Seal - For Business

Serving Mountain Home, AR and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2022

Free estimates

Offers commercial services

"I hired Dustin and Green Work Landscaping to clear and trim a few trees but I also hired him for another project I had in mind he said he could rake care of. What I found was a down to earth guy who carried himself quite professionally so after the first project was done perfectly I hired Dustin to complete the other project.He brought a very knowledgeable and professional team along who got right to work completing the job as I described it and flawlessly. I'd hire them again as I was 100% satisfied with their work,the price was right and most of all they were a trustworthy group that treated our property with respect. A 10 or 5 stars isnt enough for Dustin and his crew. Thanks Guys !"

Response time2 days

Response rate86%

10 neighbors recently requested a quote

Request Quote

Deano's Construction & Maintenance

New to Angi

Deck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and Seal

Serving Mountain Home, AR and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 1990

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

We are a local construction and maintenance company with over 30 years in the industry. Whether is replacing a ceiling fan or building you a custom deck, our team can tackle any job and ensure 100% customer sanctification guaranteed. If you want your project done right, give us a call today!

Request Quote

Dixie Power Washing, LLC

New to Angi

Deck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and Seal

Serving Mountain Home, AR and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2021

Free estimates

Offers commercial services

Rebecca is committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers interests, and make their concerns the basis of our business.\n

Request Quote

K.T.B. SOLUTIONS, LLC

4.9(

)

Deck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and SealDeck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and Seal - For Business

Serving Mountain Home, AR and surrounding areas

In business since 2024

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"The job (deck) was not without problems but this company handle the problems with ease. The deck looks awesome and it came on budget. We would recommend this company to do work for you. In fact we have them doing more work for us."

Response time10 hrs

Response rate100%

9 neighbors recently requested a quote

Request Quote

W&W Home Services & Repair LLC

5.0(

)

Deck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and SealDeck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and Seal - For Business

Serving Mountain Home, AR and surrounding areas

In business since 2025

Free estimates

Small jobs welcome

"Yes they were very nice. I did some changes with no problem and they even got a tip. and they will be coming back to do another project that I have on my porch."

Response time4 hrs

Response rate100%

Request Quote

Risher's Cleaning & Handymen

3.8(

269

)

Deck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and SealDeck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and Seal - For Business

Serving Mountain Home, 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

Deck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and Seal

Serving Mountain Home, AR and surrounding areas

In business since 2000

Warranties offered

Small jobs welcome

"Really well done. Ran to Lowe's in the middle to get some needed wood to make sure it was installed correctly. Would absolutely hire again."

Response time2 days

Response rate100%

Recommended by25%of homeowners

Deck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and SealDeck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and Seal - For Business

Serving Mountain Home, AR and surrounding areas

In business since 2000

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"He did a great job. He even fixed siding on my house that had not been nailed down. Very reliable and excellent service."

Response time2 days

Recommended by88%of homeowners

Deck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and SealDeck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and Seal - For Business

Serving Mountain Home, AR and surrounding areas

In business since 2006

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"his crew was here 30 minutes early stayed till the job was done. his crew was very professional and courteous did an excellent clean up after the job We are more than satisfied and would highly recommend Travis and the guys with Duraplex very reasonably priced and very high quality materials and workmanship
"

+16

Recommended by91%of homeowners

Request Quote

W&W Home Services & Repair LLC

5.0(

)

Deck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and SealDeck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and Seal - For Business

Serving Mountain Home, AR and surrounding areas

In business since 2025

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"Yes they were very nice. I did some changes with no problem and they even got a tip. and they will be coming back to do another project that I have on my porch."

Response time3 hrs

Response rate98%

Request Quote

Showing 1-10 of 42

Deck Maintenance questions, answered by experts

Deck stairs should have at least three stringers rather than two. The recommended minimum width for stairs is 36 inches, and the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors recommends at least three cut stringers to provide sufficient support on wood decking stairs of this width. Generally, stringers should be a maximum of 16 inches apart for wood decking and 12 inches apart for more flexible composite decking.

Ideally, a gate should be able to swing both in and out. However, if it can only open in one direction, it is generally best for it to swing inward. This is often the safest option, especially for deck gates near steps, as you'll want the gate to swing away from the stairs. An inward swing also prevents the gate from opening into a public space, like a sidewalk, and can be more convenient when carrying heavy items like a wheelbarrow into a garden.

There are exceptions, however. The layout of your property may require a different approach. For example, if your property is on a slope, the gate may not be able to swing inward. You should also ensure the gate can open fully without colliding with any objects or blocking access to other areas. For a backyard garden gate where public access isn't a concern, the direction it swings is largely a matter of personal preference. Finally, always check your local building codes, as they may have specific requirements for which way a gate must swing.

Deck boards should be spaced no more than three-eighths of an inch apart. This is enough space to allow water and small debris to pass through without collecting on the surface, but not enough to create a tripping hazard. Certain materials, like pressure-treated wood, shrink over time, so they may need less space at installation.

Building a deck isn't too hard if you’re handy with carpentry, have the necessary tools, and are willing to put effort into it. However, other factors, such as plans, permits, and design, can be hard if you don’t have experience in those areas.

Note: You’ll need another person to help you build the deck (especially for framing and setting the beams). Building a deck yourself will be very difficult if you don’t have an extra set of hands to help.

Wood decks need to be replaced every 10 to 15 years on average. Natural wood is highly vulnerable to infiltration and damage from moisture, which can occur rapidly due to exposure to outdoor elements. You can protect your deck and maximize its lifespan by sealing it every year or two.

The Mountain Home, AR homeowners’ guide to deck maintenance services

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

See all articles

Scott Dylan Westerlund
•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 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.
Mitchell Grant
•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
How Much Does a Pressure-Treated Wood Deck Cost? [2026 Data]
Looking to update your yard with a new outdoor entertaining area? Learn how much a pressure-treated wood deck costs and how to estimate your total.
Angi
•
Apr 16, 2026Apr 16, 2026
How Much Does Mahogany Decking Cost? [2026 Data]
Discover mahogany decking costs and learn about material, labor, and installation factors to budget your new deck project with confidence.
Jenna Jonaitis
•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 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.
Lawrence Bonk
•
Mar 19, 2026Mar 19, 2026
Deck Maintenance Checklists for Every Season
Keep your decking looking new with this deck maintenance checklist.
Deirdre Sullivan
•
Jul 31, 2026Jul 31, 2026
7 Best Maintenance-Free Decking Materials
Finding maintenance-free decking that works for your home, budget, and lifestyle can be challenging. This guide lists the 7 best low-maintenance deck materials.