Should I cover my deck with a tarp in winter?

• <div><p>Covering your deck with a breathable tarp can protect it from snow, ice, and cold winter temperatures. This is a good winterizing solution if you don’t plan to use your deck at all during the colder months. However, it might be best to skip the tarp if you’ll still be walking on your deck or using it in a limited capacity. </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 Cottonwood, CA

Q: What is the best way to sand a deck?

• <div><p>The best way to sand a deck is by cleaning it, sanding the boards and stairs with 60- or 80-grit sandpaper, and sanding the railings and posts with 80-grit sandpaper. You should sand in the direction of the wood grain to avoid damaging the timber. When sanding your deck, use medium pressure and aim for an even sand. Pressing too hard with a sander can damage decks, as most are softwoods. </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: What are the pros and cons of staining a deck?

• <div><p>There are more <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/pros-and-cons-of-staining-a-deck.htm">pros than cons when staining a deck</a>. Deck stain is more affordable than paint, it protects the wood and allows the natural textures to shine through, and it can revive the appearance of your home. However, deck stain also requires prep work (sometimes days or more), carries more upkeep than a painted deck, and can fade over time if not cared for. </p></div>

Q: What type of pro can build a deck?

• <div><p>While experienced DIYers may take on the challenge, hiring a licensed professional is often the best route, especially for larger or elevated structures. A local deck contractor is typically the best pro for the job, as they have specialized experience and are knowledgeable about local building codes, ensuring your deck is built safely and designed to last. Other professionals who can build a deck include general contractors and carpenters, who may be more readily available in some regions.</p></div>

Enter your zip and get matched with up to 5 pros

Need a pro for your deck maintenance project in Cottonwood, CA?

Select your specific project to find the pro for you.

Verified Reviews for Deck Maintenance pros in Cottonwood, CA

*The Angi rating for Deck Maintenance companies in Cottonwood, CA 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 Cottonwood, CA 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 September 12, 2026

Reviewed in September 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I highly recommend Casas Roofing! Manuel, the owner, was extremely professional, friendly, and respectful throughout the entire process. He did an amazing job on our roof, and the finished roof looks absolutely beautiful! One thing that really stood out to me was how clean and careful his...
Casas Roofing
Request a quote
Reviewed in June 2025
Byron was very quick about coming to look at my house and giving me a quote. Had him repair some holes in a closet, change out several light fixtures, and fix some baseboard. Have now used him for several odd jobs including yard maintenance and a roof/swamp cooler repair
Shasta Home & Land Solutions
Request a quote
Reviewed in September 2024
Great job on building my retaining wall, and deck! They were very professional, fast replying, worked hard, fast, and efficient! Beautiful work I would definitely hire again.
JENSEN CONCRETE
Request a quote
Reviewed in April 2024
Excellent! It took half the time I expected for Izzy and his crew to sand and stain my very large redwood deck. Everyone showed up on time and were all very respectful and professional. Izzy is even coming tomorrow to help me move some furniture back onto the deck. I consider that above and...
Perfect World Painting, Inc.
Request a quote
Reviewed in April 2024
The service was excellent, done quickly, and cleaned up great. He was very knowledgeable and was to repair more than just the broken lid he put new lids on both tanks and made sure they would last and be easy to pump for years to come. He was also able to put new code back flows on both tanks.
Reed Construction
Request a quote
Reviewed in September 2023
I was very impressed with the speed and thoroughness of the work. They did all the cleanup and I did not have to do anything but watch. Great value compared to the other bids that I got.
Carson's Tree Service - Unlicensed Contractor
Request a quote
Reviewed in May 2023
Being a homeowner it seems as if there is always something that needs repaired, replaced, or maintenance done. Super thankful for Mike making it not so dreadful. He has literally been only a phone call away at times and has been very responsive and personable. It has never felt like I was just...
AIR PRO
Request a quote
Reviewed in October 2022
There were multiple postpones on this job, no of the contractor. As soon as the materials were available my roof was done. I live 2 hours away from their main office, but that wasn't a problem. They were there for two and a half days each day they cleaned up after themselves. The workers were...
BALKES ROOFING INC
Request a quote
Reviewed in February 2022
He was professional and built a beautiful deck for us. He was very reasonably priced and did a really great job. Very friendly and worked with our schedules. Would rehire him for our next project.
Your Neighborhood Handyman - Unlicensed Contractor
Request a quote
Reviewed in September 2019
he is now superior complete homr maintenance and 24/7 emergency repairs the most on the ball person (s) tere is if it is broke he can fix it Benny will not stop or charge if he cant fix it gauranteed to beat all the other maintenance peopls bids he will gaurantee it just to get your return...
maintence person for hire
Request a quote

Find Deck maintenance specialists in Cottonwood

Mega Power Electric, Inc

5.0(

191

)

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

Serving Cottonwood, CA and surrounding areas

In business since 2000

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Mega Power Electric is an excellent company to work with. Gary and his team are knowledgeable, honest, and will go out of their way to get the job done right. We installed panels and solar battery storage unit in our home and we're reaping the benefits of being clean and green."

+32

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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

Serving Cottonwood, CA and surrounding areas

In business since 2021

Free estimates

Small jobs welcome

"Really reasonable guy. He did a great job painting the inside of our home. My wife had him paint the exterior of the house after he did the interior."

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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

Serving Cottonwood, CA and surrounding areas

In business since 2001

Free estimates

"The badly damaged railings are done and very well done. I had several "handymen" work on them who realy did more harm than good. McNally is pleasant to deal with, a good workerand did an excellent job. Thank you. I'll not hesitate to contact you again when I need more help. Thanks again, M. Bolin."

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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

Serving Cottonwood, CA and surrounding areas

In business since 2004

Free estimates

"We did not use his services, therefore I can not rate nor recommend. Thanks."

Request Quote

Kuhno's Roof and Surface Cleaning

New to Angi

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

Serving Cottonwood, CA and surrounding areas

Free estimates

Small jobs welcome

Offers commercial services

Kuhno’s Roof & Surface Cleaning Services\nWe specialize in restoring the look and life of your home with professional roof and exterior cleaning.\nOur roof cleaning service safely removes buildup and stains to bring your roof back to life while helping protect it from long-term damage.\nWe also offer power washing and surface cleaning for driveways, sidewalks, patios, and other exterior areas.\nUsing professional equipment and careful techniques, we remove dirt, mildew, and grime to leave your property looking fresh and well maintained.\nOur goal is simple: affordable, reliable, and high-quality cleaning services that make your home stand out.\nFirst-time customers can even receive a free small surface cleaning with their first service.\n✔ Roof Cleaning\n✔ Driveways & Sidewalks\n✔ Patios & Exterior Surfaces\n✔ Affordable Prices\n✔ Free Small Surface Cleaning for First-Time Customers\nGive your home the clean it deserves.\nContact Kuhno’s Roof & Surface Cleaning Services today for a free estimate.

Request Quote

Petty's Handyman Service

New to Angi

Deck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and Seal

Serving Cottonwood, CA and surrounding areas

In business since 2016

Free estimates

We're a locally owned and operated company. We value honesty and integrity in all aspects of our business. We offer a variety of Home Improvement services that are customizable to each individual project. We specialize in handyman/carpentry work and a variety of related service and repair projects. We pride ourselves on the quality of our work as well as our commitment to outstanding results. We look forward to building lasting relationships with our clients and guarantee your satisfaction!

Request Quote

Deck Maintenance questions, answered by experts

Covering your deck with a breathable tarp can protect it from snow, ice, and cold winter temperatures. This is a good winterizing solution if you don’t plan to use your deck at all during the colder months. However, it might be best to skip the tarp if you’ll still be walking on your deck or using it in a limited capacity.

The best way to sand a deck is by cleaning it, sanding the boards and stairs with 60- or 80-grit sandpaper, and sanding the railings and posts with 80-grit sandpaper. You should sand in the direction of the wood grain to avoid damaging the timber. When sanding your deck, use medium pressure and aim for an even sand. Pressing too hard with a sander can damage decks, as most are softwoods.

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.

There are more pros than cons when staining a deck. Deck stain is more affordable than paint, it protects the wood and allows the natural textures to shine through, and it can revive the appearance of your home. However, deck stain also requires prep work (sometimes days or more), carries more upkeep than a painted deck, and can fade over time if not cared for.

While experienced DIYers may take on the challenge, hiring a licensed professional is often the best route, especially for larger or elevated structures. A local deck contractor is typically the best pro for the job, as they have specialized experience and are knowledgeable about local building codes, ensuring your deck is built safely and designed to last. Other professionals who can build a deck include general contractors and carpenters, who may be more readily available in some regions.

The Cottonwood, CA 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
•
Aug 31, 2026Aug 31, 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.