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>

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Q: How long do you have to stay off a deck after sealing?

• <div><p>For the best results, stay off of your deck for at least 48 hours after sealing it. Giving the sealant at least two full days to cure ensures it can fully penetrate the wood, giving you the most protection from sun and weather damage later on. Walking on the deck too soon can prevent it from properly curing and cause your deck to weather prematurely.</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 need handrails on a deck that is 16 inches off the ground?

• <div><p>You typically don&rsquo;t need a railing and handrails on a deck that&rsquo;s less than 30 inches from the ground. However, consider adding them regardless. Railings provide additional safety for you and your guests who use your deck&mdash;plus, railings give the deck a more finished look than it would have without them.</p></div>

Q: Is composite decking better than real wood?

• <div><p>Whether composite decking is better than wood depends on your priorities, especially regarding budget and maintenance. Composite decking offers superior longevity (30 to 50 years) and durability, and it is low-maintenance, requiring no sanding, staining, or sealing. In contrast, wood decks typically last 10 to 30 years and need refinishing every few years. While the upfront cost of composite is higher than wood, the reduced maintenance can lead to long-term savings. If a lower initial cost is the primary factor, wood is the more affordable choice.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Deck Cleaning pros in Westwood, CA

*The Angi rating for Deck Cleaning companies in Westwood, CA 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 Westwood, CA 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 July 12, 2025

Reviewed in July 2025
Smoothly and the job was completed to my satisfaction
Bay Valley Paving
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Reviewed in November 2024
Concrete Unlimited installed a septic tank and septic bed, trenched and installed a long water line, removed and hauled stumps, made log decks, cleared slash, graded and prepped our cabin site, artfully placed rocks and boulders that were uncovered in the process. Our remote lot had many...
Concrete Unlimited
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Reviewed in December 2023
Balke's Roofing is a highly professional company. They were quick, efficient, easy to work with and cooperative when it came to helping me file an insurance claim. I would highly recommencd them.
BALKES ROOFING INC
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Reviewed in October 2022
Chris was reliable, professional, and had great attention to detail. He painted the exterior, and interior and refinished the deck of our cabin, and it transformed the look of the entire cabin. I would highly recommend Chris and Huckins Painting.
Huckins Painting
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Reviewed in March 2022
Last Fall, we had two large trees cut down and removed from our property. Their work and cleanup were excellent. We will be calling them again!
Lemaster Tree Service
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Reviewed in April 2017
Jim was very kind and was genuinely concerned about future problems that may arise due to the size of project we were tackling. Work was very clean and professional looking. We were delayed quite some time on parts that were ordered and took three weeks to arrive. I wouldn't hesitate in...
Jim Conrad Electric
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Reviewed in September 2011
Overall it went great! They were prompt with the estimate and I was very happy with the service. They were very nice and professional. Best of all, they did a great job cleaning up after themselves when they were done.
FOUR SEASONS ROOFING
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Reviewed in December 2010
Glen called the same night I made the request and he showed up the next day. Glen called early in the morning to confirm he was on his way and he was even a little early which was great! Glen was very clean and professional and took great care when coming a going. He also explained what was...
Glen Granthem
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Reviewed in September 2007
Mark and his crew were on the job promptly and worked very efficiently to accomplish a difficult painting project. They came to work quite promptly and were very cooperative and friendly. We found Mark to be responsive and professional and he and his crew were willing to take on additional...
Dickinson Enterprises
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Find Deck cleaning pros in Westwood

Huckins Painting

5.0(

)

Deck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and Seal

Serving Westwood, CA and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2022

Free estimates

Customers say: Quick response

"Chris was reliable, professional, and had great attention to detail. He painted the exterior, and interior and refinished the deck of our cabin, and it transformed the look of the entire cabin. I would highly recommend Chris and Huckins Painting."

Response time1 day

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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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 Westwood, 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 Westwood, CA and surrounding areas

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"It went very well.
"

Recommended by96%of homeowners

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

Serving Westwood, CA and surrounding areas

In business since 2004

Free estimates

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

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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 Westwood, 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.

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Deck Cleaning questions, answered by experts

For the best results, stay off of your deck for at least 48 hours after sealing it. Giving the sealant at least two full days to cure ensures it can fully penetrate the wood, giving you the most protection from sun and weather damage later on. Walking on the deck too soon can prevent it from properly curing and cause your deck to weather prematurely.

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.

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.

You typically don’t need a railing and handrails on a deck that’s less than 30 inches from the ground. However, consider adding them regardless. Railings provide additional safety for you and your guests who use your deck—plus, railings give the deck a more finished look than it would have without them.

Whether composite decking is better than wood depends on your priorities, especially regarding budget and maintenance. Composite decking offers superior longevity (30 to 50 years) and durability, and it is low-maintenance, requiring no sanding, staining, or sealing. In contrast, wood decks typically last 10 to 30 years and need refinishing every few years. While the upfront cost of composite is higher than wood, the reduced maintenance can lead to long-term savings. If a lower initial cost is the primary factor, wood is the more affordable choice.

The Westwood, CA 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
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Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 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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Aug 3, 2026Aug 3, 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.
Scott Dylan Westerlund
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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.
Jenna Jonaitis
•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 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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Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 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.
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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.