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>

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>

Is building a pergola on an existing deck possible?

• <div><p>Yes, it’s definitely possible to build a pergola on an existing deck. All you need to do is attach the pergola support beams to the deck’s joists and build up from there. Beware that mistakes can damage your deck, so if you’re at all unsure of the process, play it safe and hire a pro for your custom build.</p></div>

Get matched with top deck maintenance specialists in Swayzee, IN

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: Should deck boards be nailed or screwed?

• <div><p>When installing deck boards, screws are generally a better option than nails. Screws offer superior holding strength over time, keeping the boards securely in place. In contrast, nails are more likely to pop out, which can create a tripping hazard. While you can use either, we recommend using 3-inch galvanized deck screws. To minimize the risk of cracking the wood, it's a good practice to drill small pilot holes before driving the screws into the deck joists.</p></div>

Q: Does the underside of a deck need to breathe?

• <div><p>Any wood deck provides some ventilation to the area below, as is the nature of that type of <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-often-should-i-inspect-my-deck.htm">deck design</a>. However, areas that experience excessive humidity and associated moisture benefit greatly from a dedicated ventilation system in the form of strip vents. This addition helps the various wood boards contract and expand evenly throughout the years and reduces the chances of twisting, warping, and buckling.</p></div>

Q: Is building a pergola on an existing deck possible?

• <div><p>Yes, it&rsquo;s definitely possible to build a pergola on an existing deck. All you need to do is attach the pergola support beams to the deck&rsquo;s joists and build up from there. Beware that mistakes can damage your deck, so if you&rsquo;re at all unsure of the process, play it safe and hire a pro for your custom build.</p></div>

Enter your zip and get matched with up to 5 pros

Need a pro for your deck maintenance project in Swayzee, IN?

Select your specific project to find the pro for you.

Verified Reviews for Deck Maintenance pros in Swayzee, IN

*The Angi rating for Deck Maintenance companies in Swayzee, IN 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 Swayzee, IN 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 May 31, 2026

Reviewed in May 2026
We were very well pleased with the service. The work was done very well and in a timely manner at a very affordable price. Would highly recommend Jax Lawncare Service!
Jax Lawncare Services
Request a quote
Reviewed in February 2026
This gentleman was very fast and efficient. Reasonable rates. Very kind to my mother who needed the maintenance done. Will definately be hiring him again the next time we need some work completed.
Pray it Forward
Request a quote
Reviewed in September 2025
Work was completed in 1 day, they replaced damage area's along with the original work promised. The company ensured all cleanup was completed the next day. The workers were very polite and professional.
Clemens Home Solutions
Request a quote
Reviewed in September 2024
CNH tree service was very professional. The man who trim my trees and remove my stamps was very skilled and used the most modern equipment. The prices were reasonable and I would definitely recommend them to anyone.
C&H Tree Services
Request a quote
Reviewed in June 2024
Recently I had an Exterior house project to stain and paint my wood home and, replace wood on the deck of my home and paint it. I went into a local paint store and was given contact information… (MyM Painting LLC.) Melin, the company owner came to my home to give me a quote for my project. A...
MyM Painting LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in January 2024
Did an amazing job, and the cleanup was excellent considering the fact that it was in the snow even shoveled our sidewalks free of charge to help out highly recommend this company definitely will be rehiring them for future projects guys are very nice. Very polite, punctual excellent crew thank...
Evergreen Tree Service & Construction
Request a quote
Reviewed in September 2023
Riley Construction did a wonderful job building me a front and back deck for my house. They were very helpful on what would look best and very affordable.
Riley Construction
Request a quote
Reviewed in April 2023
Speedy and his crew went above and beyond just the asphalt paving-they helped move a portion of my deck, shaved down a hill, took out a cracked sidewalk, and took out a tree stump! He kept in constant contact with me when the project got pushed back (due to unforeseen circumstances, not their...
Central Indiana Paving & Construction
Request a quote
Reviewed in February 2022
The service is impeccable. I really couldnâ t believe the difference in the patio. Very detail oriented and does not cut corners. If you are looking for a reliable hard working individual to provide these services to you, look no further!!
UB's Flooring & Exterior Cleaning Services
Request a quote
Reviewed in July 2016
Action Outdoor Maintenance is great. They are very responsive to inquires for service, The work they provide is timely and done each week to my satisfaction. I would highly recommend Action Outdoor Maintenance,
Action Outdoor Maintenance
Request a quote

Find Deck maintenance specialists in Swayzee

Maximus General Contracting LLC

4.4(

135

)

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

Serving Swayzee, IN and surrounding areas

In business since 2000

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"It has held up well. No further issues. Very professional.
"

Recommended by92%of homeowners

Request Quote

Legacy Window & Door LLC

4.1(

151

)

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

Serving Swayzee, IN and surrounding areas

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

Credit card accepted

"Installation went great. Very happy with the final product and will use again on my next project. Mark and Chris were very easy to work with on this project. Thanks again guys!!"

+70

Recommended by84%of homeowners

Request Quote

Bautista Landscaping Services

4.5(

)

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

Serving Swayzee, IN and surrounding areas

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"Octavio and crew arrived early and worked hard all day long. Their price was fair and their work was absolutely amazing! They completely transformed the beds on all sides of our house and planted new shrubs in one day! They cleaned up all the debris also. I am so impressed by their work ethic! I highly recommend them for any work you need to have done."

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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

Serving Swayzee, IN and surrounding areas

In business since 2012

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Couldn't be happier with their work. Roof is great, all repairs are great! Thank you, Shurco!"

Recommended by83%of homeowners

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

Serving Swayzee, IN and surrounding areas

"Does excellent work!!! Great pricing too!!! Love this dude!!"

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Request Quote

So Clean Exterior Cleaning

5.0(

)

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

Serving Swayzee, IN and surrounding areas

In business since 2023

Free estimates

Small jobs welcome

"I've never seen a small business owner do a better job. The price was absolutely reasonable. The most impressive part? He took great care to shield my landscaping from the wash so it wouldn't be ruined! I encourage anyone in need of their homes, roofs, decks washed, give them a try! You WON'T be disappointed. Owner is great to work with and did a free estimate!"

+55

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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

Serving Swayzee, IN and surrounding areas

In business since 2020

"They were on time, they did good work, were respectful they even did extra work that I asked them for."

Response time11 hrs

Recommended by66%of homeowners

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

Serving Swayzee, IN and surrounding areas

In business since 2017

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"I would hire them again as they did a good quality job for me."

+16

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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

Serving Swayzee, IN and surrounding areas

In business since 2012

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"He did a good job. He was a good communicator."

Response time2 days

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Request Quote

Zoey's Pressure Washing and Paint - Pgina inicial Facebook

3.9(

)

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

Serving Swayzee, IN and surrounding areas

In business since 2005

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"My project finished in one day. They correct the problems I found, and finished in a good quality with reasonable charge. If they can clean the mess around the house better. I would more appreciate."

Recommended by66%of homeowners

Request Quote

Showing 1-10 of 32

Deck Maintenance questions, answered by experts

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.

When installing deck boards, screws are generally a better option than nails. Screws offer superior holding strength over time, keeping the boards securely in place. In contrast, nails are more likely to pop out, which can create a tripping hazard. While you can use either, we recommend using 3-inch galvanized deck screws. To minimize the risk of cracking the wood, it's a good practice to drill small pilot holes before driving the screws into the deck joists.

Any wood deck provides some ventilation to the area below, as is the nature of that type of deck design. However, areas that experience excessive humidity and associated moisture benefit greatly from a dedicated ventilation system in the form of strip vents. This addition helps the various wood boards contract and expand evenly throughout the years and reduces the chances of twisting, warping, and buckling.

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.

Yes, it’s definitely possible to build a pergola on an existing deck. All you need to do is attach the pergola support beams to the deck’s joists and build up from there. Beware that mistakes can damage your deck, so if you’re at all unsure of the process, play it safe and hire a pro for your custom build.

The Swayzee, IN 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.