What is a deck not attached to a house called?

• <div><p>A deck that isn’t attached to a house is called a floating or freestanding deck. These standalone decks are built near ground level, so they usually don’t need deck stairs. Some don’t even require permits. Generally speaking, <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-to-build-floating-deck.htm">building a floating deck</a> is faster and more DIY-friendly than constructing one that’s connected to your home. </p></div>

Can you build your own deck?

• <div><p>It is possible to build your own deck, but it’s typically better to leave the work to a decking professional. Decks can be exceptionally complicated, especially if you want a wrap-around or <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/second-story-deck-ideas.htm'">second-story deck</a>, and you don’t want to risk making an expensive or dangerous mistake. It’s usually better to hire a decking pro who can pull permits and build a structurally sound deck that will last for decades and provide the maximum return on investment.</p></div>

Get matched with top deck cleaning pros in Aplington, IA

Q: What is the life expectancy of a PVC deck?

• <div><p>A quality, well-maintained PVC decking can last 30 to 50 years. It&rsquo;s known for being one of the most durable <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/types-of-decks.htm">types of decking</a> materials, with composite decking having a 25- to 30-year average lifespan and some softwood deckings only lasting 10 to 15 years. Luxury hardwood decks like Ipe may last longer than PVC decking, but they can cost more and require more maintenance.</p></div>

Q: What is a deck not attached to a house called?

• <div><p>A deck that isn&rsquo;t attached to a house is called a floating or freestanding deck. These standalone decks are built near ground level, so they usually don&rsquo;t need deck stairs. Some don&rsquo;t even require permits. Generally speaking, <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-to-build-floating-deck.htm">building a floating deck</a> is faster and more DIY-friendly than constructing one that&rsquo;s connected to your 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 happens if you build a deck without a permit?

• <div><p>Building a deck without a permit could lead to fines for both the homeowner and the contractor. The exact penalties will depend on your state and municipal building laws. You might also be required to remove the deck and apply for a permit before you can build another. While it might be tempting to skip the permit to save a few bucks, it&rsquo;ll cost you much more if you&rsquo;re caught.</p></div>

Q: Can you build your own deck?

• <div><p>It is possible to build your own deck, but it&rsquo;s typically better to leave the work to a decking professional. Decks can be exceptionally complicated, especially if you want a wrap-around or <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/second-story-deck-ideas.htm'">second-story deck</a>, and you don&rsquo;t want to risk making an expensive or dangerous mistake. It&rsquo;s usually better to hire a decking pro who can pull permits and build a structurally sound deck that will last for decades and provide the maximum return on investment.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Deck Cleaning pros in Aplington, IA

*The Angi rating for Deck Cleaning companies in Aplington, IA 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 Aplington, IA 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 March 01, 2024

Reviewed in March 2024
Great! Had it done in a timely matter ! Also cleaned the work area very efficiently!
Tree Surgeon
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Reviewed in August 2021
They arrived on time and did a great job on tree trimming. Everything was cleaned up. I would hire them again.
E&H Maintenance and Tree Services
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Reviewed in April 2021
Only one person. Had him clean the carpet and sofa. Did not move anything and used my water and dumped used water in the yard. Not a professional cleaning machine. The cost was overpriced for what he did. The sofa was still covered with dog hair and the carpet stayed wet for 24 hrs after he...
Spick & Span Cleaning Service
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Reviewed in January 2019
I called him and he was very prompt, got the job done, cleaned up their mess. It was absolutely fantastic.
ProCrafters Roofing
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Reviewed in June 2018
Real fast, cleaned up everything after they were done, good job.
Ackerman Steel Roofing
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Reviewed in January 2018
FANTASTIC!!! Got more than expected, professional service, and Bernd always checks in if anything else is needed. Always there for us even 6 years after he did the project! Very reasonable, and thoughtful! Every day he explained what was going on, and worked very clean with his work. Beat That!
Bernd's Pond
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Find Deck cleaning pros in Aplington

American Power Washing, LLC

4.5(

)

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

Serving Aplington, IA and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2014

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"Very thorough, methodical Power wash of house made a great difference in appearance of housr"

Response time11 hrs

Response rate95%

18 neighbors recently requested a quote

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Brennan Construction and Remodeling

New to Angi

Deck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and Seal

Serving Aplington, IA and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2024

Free estimates

Offers commercial services

We are a locally owned and operated company that values honesty and integrity in all aspects of our business. Our major focus is on the quality our work and producing outstanding results. We are committed to creating a level of value unmatched by any of our competitors. We look forward to building lasting relationships with our clients and guarantee your satisfaction!

Response time10 hrs

5 neighbors recently requested a quote

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Wilson's Painting & Cleaning

5.0(

)

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

Serving Aplington, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 2016

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"They did a really good job."

+27

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Rhyno Pressure Washing

4.0(

)

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

Serving Aplington, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 2017

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"Great job. Even got stubborn algae off my skirting!! Thanks!!"

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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

Serving Aplington, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 2010

Free estimates

"They were professional. They were truthful. He did what he said he was gonna do."

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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

Serving Aplington, IA and surrounding areas

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

Offers commercial services

"Very professional, kind, easy to talk to about changes I wanted to make! Beautiful work! I?d absolutely hire Justin again!"

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Whitlock Handyman Services

4.3(

)

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

Serving Aplington, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 2021

Free estimates

"The job that I had posted was to literally dig out six telephone poles that were used on an old deck. It was a very intense job. And the way my yard is situated no backhoe. Everything was dug out by hand and tools. The only hangup he had was just I have in the manpower. They answered my ad came on Thursday to look at the job started Friday I needed it done by Sunday they finish Saturday night."

Response time3 days

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Vazquez Powerwashing, LLC

New to Angi

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

Serving Aplington, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 2023

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

At Vazquez Powerwashing, LLC, our company is based on the belief that our customers' needs are of the utmost importance. Our team is committed to meeting those needs. We welcome the opportunity to earn your trust and deliver you the best service. No job is too big or too small for our experienced team. Call today for a quote.\n\n

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Wilson's Painting & Cleaning

New to Angi

Deck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and Seal

Serving Aplington, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 2017

Free estimates

I have earned excellent reviews, working for other companies and am now working on my own. I have great attention to detail. I treat every home as if it were my own new home. I have many repeat customers and earn lots of referral work. I specialize in a variety of painting projects both small and large. I look forward to earning your business.

Response time5 hrs

Deck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and Seal

Serving Aplington, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 2019

Free estimates

Small jobs welcome

"Excellent job. Prompt service. Did a final walk through for approval. It looks great. Thank you"

Response time10 hrs

Response rate89%

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Showing 1-10 of 19

Deck Cleaning questions, answered by experts

A quality, well-maintained PVC decking can last 30 to 50 years. It’s known for being one of the most durable types of decking materials, with composite decking having a 25- to 30-year average lifespan and some softwood deckings only lasting 10 to 15 years. Luxury hardwood decks like Ipe may last longer than PVC decking, but they can cost more and require more maintenance.

A deck that isn’t attached to a house is called a floating or freestanding deck. These standalone decks are built near ground level, so they usually don’t need deck stairs. Some don’t even require permits. Generally speaking, building a floating deck is faster and more DIY-friendly than constructing one that’s connected to your 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.

Building a deck without a permit could lead to fines for both the homeowner and the contractor. The exact penalties will depend on your state and municipal building laws. You might also be required to remove the deck and apply for a permit before you can build another. While it might be tempting to skip the permit to save a few bucks, it’ll cost you much more if you’re caught.

It is possible to build your own deck, but it’s typically better to leave the work to a decking professional. Decks can be exceptionally complicated, especially if you want a wrap-around or second-story deck, and you don’t want to risk making an expensive or dangerous mistake. It’s usually better to hire a decking pro who can pull permits and build a structurally sound deck that will last for decades and provide the maximum return on investment.

The Aplington, IA 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
•
Sep 17, 2026Sep 17, 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.
Lauren Bongard
•
Oct 1, 2026Oct 1, 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.
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.
Jill Harness
•
Mar 6, 2026Mar 6, 2026
How to Clean and Seal Your Deck in One Weekend
Knowing how to clean and seal a deck can help extend its life and keep it looking like new. This DIY guide sheds light on the best way to clean a wood deck.