Which is the most environmentally friendly decking material?

• <div><p>Both aluminum and composite decking materials are environmentally friendly, with aluminum decking coming in as the most eco-friendly option. </p><p>Though <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/what-is-composite-decking.htm">composite decking</a> helps remove plastics from landfills, recycles wood, and lasts longer than traditional wood decks, it’s not recyclable and only lasts for 25 to 30 years on average. Aluminum can last well over 30 years and is almost always recyclable.</p></div>

Get matched with top deck maintenance specialists in Ellsworth, KS

Q: What is the standard spacing for spindles or balusters on a deck or stair railing?

• <div><p>Most building codes require that spindles or balusters on deck and stair railings be spaced no more than four inches apart. This safety standard, often called the '4-inch sphere rule,' is designed to prevent small children or pets from slipping through the railing. A good way to visualize this is that a 4-inch sphere should not be able to pass between two spindles. For the same safety reason, the space between the bottom rail and the deck floor should also be no more than four inches. As a general guideline, professionals often install three balusters per foot of railing. However, since specific requirements can vary by location, it is crucial to check your local building codes to ensure compliance before starting your project.</p></div>

Q: Can I use Ipe wood as pool decking?

• <div><p>Yes, Ipe wood is a popular high-end choice for pool decking. It repels water and is naturally slip-resistant. It's not susceptible to mold, mildew, or rot, either, so it lasts longer and is cleaner and more hygienic than other popular decking materials. However, remember that due to its status, it is a very high-cost wood, and you might find that an alternative would serve you just as well for significantly less. </p></div>

Q: What is the most affordable type of decking?

• <div><p>Pressure-treated lumber is one of the most affordable types of decking upfront. This material is widely available, so you can usually find pressure-treated lumber at almost any local home improvement store you visit. Keep in mind that wood requires a lot of upkeep with repainting and restaining, so any kind of wood may be more expensive in the long run than something like PVC decking.</p></div>

Q: Is it a good idea to pressure wash a wood deck?

• <div><p>Yes, pressure washing a wood deck can be a good idea as it effectively lifts ingrained dirt, mold, and mildew, improving the deck's appearance and longevity. However, it must be done carefully, as it's easy to damage the wood, especially softwoods. To pressure wash safely, use a lower pressure setting and a wide, 40-degree fan pattern nozzle (often white). Keep the nozzle at least a foot away from the wood surface and maintain constant motion, avoiding hovering in one spot to prevent gouging.</p></div>

Enter your zip and get matched with up to 5 pros

Need a pro for your deck maintenance project in Ellsworth, KS?

Select your specific project to find the pro for you.

Find Deck maintenance specialists in Ellsworth

J & D Handyman Services, LLC

4.5(

)

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

Serving Ellsworth, KS and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2022

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"Justin is a great guy. He installed 6 cellular shades, hung some complicated art work like a pro and fixed a few small things that were bugging me. Hire this guy. You will not be disappointed."

+16

Response time3 days

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Request Quote

TD Builders LLC

New to Angi

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

Serving Ellsworth, KS and surrounding areas

Approved

Experienced contractor in both residential and commercial building. Emphasis on concrete and remodel work.

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

Serving Ellsworth, KS and surrounding areas

In business since 2000

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Jason was awesome! He did a great job on our back door replacement. He made sure he did it right. I will absolutely consider him for our next project!"

Response time1 day

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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

Serving Ellsworth, KS and surrounding areas

In business since 2005

Free estimates

Offers commercial services

"Very professional & friendly. Did a great job. Cleaned up the work area very nice."

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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

Serving Ellsworth, KS and surrounding areas

In business since 2000

Free estimates

Small jobs welcome

"I hired Jesse to repair and tune my sprinkler system. He traveled to do the work and was extremely pleasant. Not only was his work thorough and efficient but very affordable. I couldn't be more pleased with the entire experience and would have no hesitation to hire Jesse again."

Response time2 hrs

Response rate100%

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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

Serving Ellsworth, KS and surrounding areas

In business since 2024

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"Caleb is professional & hardworking! He did just as asked and beyond. He was organized and considerate of us! HIGHLY recommend."

Response time50 mins

Response rate100%

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Request Quote

Superior Exteriors - Home Facebook

5.0(

)

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

Serving Ellsworth, KS and surrounding areas

In business since 2012

Free estimates

"Darin did a excellent job at painting my house, he did not miss any spots paid attention to detail I'm very happy with a job well done."

Response time6 hrs

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Request Quote

Complete Home Landscaping

3.7(

)

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

Serving Ellsworth, KS and surrounding areas

In business since 2023

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"Tyler did an excellent job Spring cleaning my landscaping beds! Mulch removal and replacement, cutting pampas grass, trimming bushes and plants. He repaired and replaced broken sprinkler heads as well. He communicated when he would be there and how long the job would take and followed up the day before to confirm. Great job at a fair price! Will definitely be contacting Complete Home Landscaping for future work and projects!"

Response time5 hrs

Response rate100%

Recommended by50%of homeowners

Request Quote

Walker's Landscaping and Maintenance

New to Angi

Deck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and Seal

Serving Ellsworth, KS and surrounding areas

In business since 2010

Free estimates

We are a locally owned and operated company that values honesty and integrity in all aspects of our business. We offer a variety of lawn care and landscaping services that are customizable to each individual property. 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!

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

Serving Ellsworth, KS and surrounding areas

In business since 2022

Free estimates

Offers commercial services

"Everything was done how I wanted and it looked great when he was finished."

Response time1 day

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Request Quote

Showing 1-10 of 14

Deck Maintenance questions, answered by experts

Most building codes require that spindles or balusters on deck and stair railings be spaced no more than four inches apart. This safety standard, often called the '4-inch sphere rule,' is designed to prevent small children or pets from slipping through the railing. A good way to visualize this is that a 4-inch sphere should not be able to pass between two spindles. For the same safety reason, the space between the bottom rail and the deck floor should also be no more than four inches. As a general guideline, professionals often install three balusters per foot of railing. However, since specific requirements can vary by location, it is crucial to check your local building codes to ensure compliance before starting your project.

Both aluminum and composite decking materials are environmentally friendly, with aluminum decking coming in as the most eco-friendly option.

Though composite decking helps remove plastics from landfills, recycles wood, and lasts longer than traditional wood decks, it’s not recyclable and only lasts for 25 to 30 years on average. Aluminum can last well over 30 years and is almost always recyclable.

Yes, Ipe wood is a popular high-end choice for pool decking. It repels water and is naturally slip-resistant. It's not susceptible to mold, mildew, or rot, either, so it lasts longer and is cleaner and more hygienic than other popular decking materials. However, remember that due to its status, it is a very high-cost wood, and you might find that an alternative would serve you just as well for significantly less.

Pressure-treated lumber is one of the most affordable types of decking upfront. This material is widely available, so you can usually find pressure-treated lumber at almost any local home improvement store you visit. Keep in mind that wood requires a lot of upkeep with repainting and restaining, so any kind of wood may be more expensive in the long run than something like PVC decking.

Yes, pressure washing a wood deck can be a good idea as it effectively lifts ingrained dirt, mold, and mildew, improving the deck's appearance and longevity. However, it must be done carefully, as it's easy to damage the wood, especially softwoods. To pressure wash safely, use a lower pressure setting and a wide, 40-degree fan pattern nozzle (often white). Keep the nozzle at least a foot away from the wood surface and maintain constant motion, avoiding hovering in one spot to prevent gouging.

The Ellsworth, KS 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.