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>

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Q: Can you build a deck and not attach it to the house?

• <div><p>Yes. Freestanding or floating decks are exactly what the name implies&mdash;structures with their own support beams. You can <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-to-build-a-deck.htm">build a deck yourself</a> and place it next to a house for the illusion of a connected deck without the hassle. Or you can construct it in a separate part of your yard for a dedicated outdoor entertainment space. For the purpose of removing a freestanding deck, the steps are the same as an attached deck, but you don&rsquo;t have to cut the deck away from the home. </p></div>

Q: What’s the difference between pressure-treated decking and other decking types?

• <div><p>Pressure-treated wood contains preservatives that give the material internal protection from rot and pests. Untreated lumber won&rsquo;t last more than a few years unless you choose a more expensive wood, like cedar, that naturally stands up well to moisture. Composite decking can outlast wood but is more expensive and doesn&rsquo;t look as natural. Keep in mind that you&rsquo;ll need to seal any exterior wood product to protect it from the elements and other forms of external damage.</p></div>

Q: What’s the average cost to replace a 20-by-20-foot deck?

• <div><p>Expect to spend around $10,000 to $11,000 to replace a 20-by-20-foot deck. Using high-end materials like composite or exotic hardwoods can drive up the cost, as can custom features and design elements. You can also expect to pay more than average if your deck replacement requires a site evaluation or if you need the work done during the busy season.</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 do I prepare the ground under the deck?

• <div><p>Before installing any materials under the deck for removing moisture, you should perform some prep work on the ground. Work the dirt under the deck to create a grade away from the home. A grade of at least six inches for every 10 feet works well. Do not leave a gap between the dirt and the home&rsquo;s foundation where water could pool. Once you or a contractor <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-do-i-regrade-around-my-house-foundation.htm">regrades the dirt under the deck</a>, you then can add materials over the top.</p></div>

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National Property Inspections

4.7(

)

Serving Ganado, AZ and surrounding areas

In business since 2006

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"I chose them because the pitch man convinced me they were the best and they were $260 while others I called were $300 and adding termite inspection was $325 and his was included in the $260. On Monday morning at 8am of the planned inspection day, we found the 'current' owner had not turned the electricity on thus, the inspection could not take place. We were emailed the bill would be an additional $65 for the trip charge as it was a good 100 miles round trip and our error, not theirs. I felt bad so I accepted the additional charge. There went my saving a buck. Next we were emailed a new appointment day, Thursday at 11am. The inspector arrived Thursday at 8am. Needless to say, it confused my whole day arriving three hours early. The inspector really did a good job, explaining everything to me so that I understood. Then he presented me with a $325 bill that we had agreed on and I paid. It being early in the morning I wasn't thinking clearly but later I called the business office and said - "Since we have an email stating 11am and the inspector showed up at 8am, your mistake, so I should get my $65 back from the trip charge when it was our mistake." The business office wanted nothing to do with that idea. The $65 was for the extra time and mileage, she said. What about the disruption to my schedule showing up at the wrong time. It didn't matter. Every other time I spoke with the woman in the office she was very kind but suddenly she wasn't any more. Because they strictly wouldn't change the bill when it was their fault and because they are so far away, I will not use this company again.
"

Recommended by85%of homeowners

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AZ Fab and Restoration

4.5(

)

Serving Ganado, AZ and surrounding areas

In business since 2021

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"It went exactly as planned. Adan Montoya was very communicative, helpful and patient throughout the project. He is friendly, fair, conscientious and hard working."

+10

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Paint and Stain Experts

5.0(

)

Serving Ganado, AZ and surrounding areas

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"It was good. They did a good job. They communicate with me well and very upfront with me."

+15

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Shay's Power Wash

New to Angi

Serving Ganado, AZ and surrounding areas

In business since 2023

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

Zacherys 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.

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BVR Handyman

New to Angi

Serving Ganado, AZ and surrounding areas

In business since 2008

Free estimates

BVR Handyman is committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty and responsibility in all of our jobs. We are a locally owned and operated business with more than 5 years of experience serving Farmington, NM and surrounding areas. There is no job too big, or too small for our team. Call today and let us put our experience to work for you!

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Triangle Painting & Decoration

New to Angi

Serving Ganado, AZ and surrounding areas

In business since 1975

Triangle Painting & Decorating is a client-focused company that strives to ensure the highest level of customer satisfaction\n

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Deck Cleaning questions, answered by experts

Yes. Freestanding or floating decks are exactly what the name implies—structures with their own support beams. You can build a deck yourself and place it next to a house for the illusion of a connected deck without the hassle. Or you can construct it in a separate part of your yard for a dedicated outdoor entertainment space. For the purpose of removing a freestanding deck, the steps are the same as an attached deck, but you don’t have to cut the deck away from the home.

Pressure-treated wood contains preservatives that give the material internal protection from rot and pests. Untreated lumber won’t last more than a few years unless you choose a more expensive wood, like cedar, that naturally stands up well to moisture. Composite decking can outlast wood but is more expensive and doesn’t look as natural. Keep in mind that you’ll need to seal any exterior wood product to protect it from the elements and other forms of external damage.

Expect to spend around $10,000 to $11,000 to replace a 20-by-20-foot deck. Using high-end materials like composite or exotic hardwoods can drive up the cost, as can custom features and design elements. You can also expect to pay more than average if your deck replacement requires a site evaluation or if you need the work done during the busy season.

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.

Before installing any materials under the deck for removing moisture, you should perform some prep work on the ground. Work the dirt under the deck to create a grade away from the home. A grade of at least six inches for every 10 feet works well. Do not leave a gap between the dirt and the home’s foundation where water could pool. Once you or a contractor regrades the dirt under the deck, you then can add materials over the top.

The Ganado, AZ 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

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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.