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>

What is the standard height and width of deck stairs?

• <div><p>Most building codes list a minimum width of <b>36 inches</b> and a maximum height of <b>7¾ inches</b>. However, for the most comfort and spaciousness, you’ll want to aim for a width of at least 48 inches and a height of 7 inches. Again, it’s always a good idea to base your numbers off steps that you already use comfortably. </p></div>

Get matched with top deck maintenance specialists in Rio Dell, CA

Q: What is the best base for a ground-level or floating deck?

• <div><p>The best base materials for a ground-level or floating deck are typically gravel and crushed stone (also known as landscaping rocks). These options are inexpensive, provide excellent drainage, prevent weeds, and help minimize moisture buildup, which reduces shifting and rotting. For added stability and to evenly distribute the weight, you can use concrete deck blocks or pavers. While more expensive, concrete blocks and pavers offer a sturdier base than gravel or crushed stone alone.</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: How many coats of stain on a deck?

• <div><p>Two coats of stain are ideal for the best protection and aesthetic appeal. However, if your decking is made of particularly dense hardwood, you may only need one coat. If you want an intense color, two coats are ideal. </p></div>

Enter your zip and get matched with up to 5 pros

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

Select your specific project to find the pro for you.

Verified Reviews for Deck Maintenance pros in Rio Dell, CA

*The Angi rating for Deck Maintenance companies in Rio Dell, 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 Rio Dell, 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 February 16, 2026

Reviewed in February 2026
I had the privilege to commercially fall timberwith Dan for over five years on the West Coast. He is a very hard-working, high integrity get it done type of a person. If you decide to call him to do a job you will not be disappointed. I?m sure of that.
Tower Mountain Tree Service
Request a quote
Reviewed in March 2025
Bowens? handyman exhibited exceptional professionalism and respect throughout the entire service. His time management skills were impeccable, ensuring that the task was completed efficiently. The handyman demonstrated a high level of expertise in the specific task at hand, ranging from porch...
Bowen Handyman Service
Request a quote
Reviewed in December 2024
Very professional service from all workers and owners of this company. The work perfor.ed was top quality work and all work was done in a timely manner. These guys left the property leaving no debris. I highly recommend for anyone who needs foundation work to give these guys a call
K2V Concrete, Inc.
Request a quote
Reviewed in May 2024
This is a small family owned business that cares about your family's health. They treated my house and they did an amazing job. My oldest son has asthma and now he can breath. No more headaches. They kept me updated all throughout the process and checked in after they left. Thank you pure...
North State Pure Maintenance
Request a quote
Reviewed in March 2023
He is an excellent carpenter, he does finish the work, he is excellent in everything he does. He is a great contractor.
Cameron Reeves-Unlicensed Contractor
Request a quote
Reviewed in January 2023
Good communication, professional and Thorough work done. No stress for me. They took care of all of my concerns in a timely manner!
Kahoalii Koncrete
Request a quote
Reviewed in October 2021
R&M were prompt. they did some maintenance and diagnosed my problem. I asked them if they wanted to be paid and the said not until the job was completed. I am currently waiting for parts.
R&M Duct Solutions
Request a quote
Reviewed in January 2021
I wanted to get my full deposit back from my landlord so I hired the carpet cleaning crew to clean my carpets and they were amazing made my carpets so fresh and clean smelling like citrus! I almost didn't want to move out after they were so clean! I laid on my carpet and felt the carpet was...
A-1 Cleaning Service, LLC - Facebook
Request a quote
Reviewed in November 2016
Although initially trying to get an estimate and get the job scheduled was frustrating and difficult (I learned through trial and error that emailing and leaving a message on the answering machine was futile - Always contact via cell phone!) everything else was great. I was referred to Moore's...
MOORE'S ROOFING & SVC
Request a quote
Reviewed in July 2013
He's awesome! He has a couple of different crews. One crew come in to mow, edge, cleanup, and blow everything down. The other one is a maintenance crew that comes in to prune, weed and do whatever needed to be done. Actually, they come here every week.
J & G Lawn & Garden
Request a quote

Find Deck maintenance specialists in Rio Dell

Mega Power Electric, Inc

5.0(

191

)

Serving Rio Dell, 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

Serving Rio Dell, CA and surrounding areas

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Joshua is great! I purchased the toilets at Home Depot and arranged for Joshua to pick them up. Well HD Lancaster location only had two of the HE toilets that I wanted, so the 3rd toilet was picked up in the HD Palmdale store. Joshua did all this with pleasure. He was on time, work was completed superbly and cleanup was on point. I will always call on Joshua for my Handyman needs..."

Recommended by96%of homeowners

Request Quote

Kuhno's Roof and Surface Cleaning

New to Angi

Serving Rio Dell, 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

Deck Maintenance questions, answered by experts

The best base materials for a ground-level or floating deck are typically gravel and crushed stone (also known as landscaping rocks). These options are inexpensive, provide excellent drainage, prevent weeds, and help minimize moisture buildup, which reduces shifting and rotting. For added stability and to evenly distribute the weight, you can use concrete deck blocks or pavers. While more expensive, concrete blocks and pavers offer a sturdier base than gravel or crushed stone alone.

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.

Two coats of stain are ideal for the best protection and aesthetic appeal. However, if your decking is made of particularly dense hardwood, you may only need one coat. If you want an intense color, two coats are ideal.

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.

Most building codes list a minimum width of 36 inches and a maximum height of 7¾ inches. However, for the most comfort and spaciousness, you’ll want to aim for a width of at least 48 inches and a height of 7 inches. Again, it’s always a good idea to base your numbers off steps that you already use comfortably.

The Rio Dell, 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

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.
Mitchell Grant
•
May 30, 2026May 30, 2026
How Much Does a Floating Deck Cost? [2026 Data]
Discover floating deck cost estimates, including average prices, installation factors, and ways to save. Learn what impacts your floating deck cost.
Scott Dylan Westerlund
•
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 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.
Angi
•
May 21, 2026May 21, 2026
How to Hire Someone to Seal a Deck
Learn how to hire a qualified deck sealing contractor. Find reputable pros, ask the right questions, and protect your deck investment.
Scott Dylan Westerlund
•
May 22, 2026May 22, 2026
18 Essential Deck Terms to Know When Working on Your Staining Project
It's important to know the right terminology when taking on the task of staining your deck. Take a look at the deck maintenance terms every homeowner should know.