How long should I season my deck before staining?

• <div><p>It’s important to make sure the wood on a new deck is properly seasoned. Seasoning a deck is simple: Once you build it (or have a pro do so), just leave it alone so it can acclimate to the environment. If you don’t give the deck proper seasoning time before staining, the stain can lock in any lingering moisture and cause mold, rot, and other moisture issues down the road. Give the wood at least four to eight weeks to season before you stain.</p></div>

Get matched with top deck maintenance specialists in Grethel, KY

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: Should I put a lattice under the deck?

• <div><p>Putting lattice under a deck will create a polished look that allows for air ventilation. You can also store items underneath as the lattice provides privacy and protection from the weather. You can also put lattice under a porch to create a polished look in the front of your house.</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 long should I season my deck before staining?

• <div><p>It&rsquo;s important to make sure the wood on a new deck is properly seasoned. Seasoning a deck is simple: Once you build it (or have a pro do so), just leave it alone so it can acclimate to the environment. If you don&rsquo;t give the deck proper seasoning time before staining, the stain can lock in any lingering moisture and cause mold, rot, and other moisture issues down the road. Give the wood at least four to eight weeks to season before you stain.</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>

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Verified Reviews for Deck Maintenance pros in Grethel, KY

*The Angi rating for Deck Maintenance companies in Grethel, KY 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 Grethel, KY 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 November 20, 2024

Reviewed in November 2024
Excellent service. Will use them for all my electrical needs.
First Response Electrical
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Reviewed in July 2023
They r a good crew to have to come out an work for u they do there job an then some extra work that not included in there contract
Patriot Tree Service
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Reviewed in June 2023
I was very happy, the owner of the company was so wonderful, jumped up with everything, and it was great.
Show Us Your Junk
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Reviewed in May 2023
They removed and hauled off the junk water heater and all other junk! Not only great plumbers. They changed my wet ceiling tile, lights and mopped the water up! ð
K&S Custom Plumbing, LLC
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Reviewed in September 2022
The quality of work was excellent and they cleaned up. I would absolutely use the service again.
Big Blue Power Pressure Soft Washing lawncare & Landscaping
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Reviewed in February 2022
I was very impressed with their service. They wore shoe covers to limit the mess and cleaned up what mess they did make before leaving.
Mr. Plumber
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Reviewed in January 2022
Excellent service very professional well mannered clean would definitely hire again prices reasonable
Mizfits Plumbing
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Reviewed in October 2021
We had them remove trees and clean up did such a good job called them back to remove a few more. Great bunch of guys!
Climb High Tree Service
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Reviewed in August 2021
Paul was a pleaser to work with .. very quick at getting report back and was willing to explain the report after the inspection
iVerify Home Inspections - Home Facebook
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Find Deck maintenance specialists in Grethel

Brian Chapman

5.0(

)

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

Serving Grethel, KY and surrounding areas

In business since 2006

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"Brian Chapman is a great carpenter, he put our wooden Swingset together beautifully."

Response time2 days

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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

Serving Grethel, KY and surrounding areas

In business since 2022

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"They are hardworking and kind. Done my house and driveway in a days notice and made sure the job was done and in pristine condition."

Response time4 hrs

Response rate92%

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Bursting with pressure

3.7(

)

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

Serving Grethel, KY and surrounding areas

In business since 2015

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"Fantastic!! I will for sure see them again, in the future!! I didn't think our deck would ever look new again, but it does!! THANKS SO MUCH!!"

+15

Recommended by66%of homeowners

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C & J Handyman Service

5.0(

)

Deck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and Seal

Serving Grethel, KY and surrounding areas

In business since 2014

Free estimates

Our happy and satisfied customers recommend us to their friends and family all the time. We are proud of our reputation and we feel it has been well earned. We are also happy that we can help you feel good knowing that you are working with a reputable company that stands behind its products and services.

Response time2 hrs

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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JJ Flooring & Trim, LLC

New to Angi

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

Serving Grethel, KY and surrounding areas

In business since 2012

Free estimates

When it comes to your flooring and trim projects call on us at JJ Flooring & Trim, LLC. The cfaftsmanship and quality of work is second to none. At JJ Flooring & Trim, LLC, we take on every project as if it was there own. Call today to set an appointment with us at JJ Flooring & Trim, LLC.

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Turner Contracting

New to Angi

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

Serving Grethel, KY and surrounding areas

In business since 1985

Free estimates

Warranties offered

Turner Contracting is your best choice in Kentucky for all your building and home improvement needs! We are your one stop shop for anything from trees too roofs! We have been in business for over 30 years and we pride ourselves on quality finished projects at fair and reasonable prices! \n\nCall us today for a free estimate!

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Marshall's Contracting

New to Angi

Deck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and Seal

Serving Grethel, KY and surrounding areas

In business since 2015

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

Marshall's Contracting is a full service home repair company. We provide nothing but the highest quality craftsmanship adjusted to meet your needs. As a locally owned and family run business, we build close relationships with our clients and strive to offer the most honest, dependable, and affordable services around.

Response time3 days

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Bygums services

New to Angi

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

Serving Grethel, KY and surrounding areas

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

Warranties offered

Hello we are a family owned and operated company looking to fulfill all your home service needs. No job to big or small we do it all.

Deck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and Seal

Serving Grethel, KY and surrounding areas

In business since 2016

Free estimates

We're a well established business with over 17+ years of unmatched expertise. Customer preference and priorities are always first. We're very timely with our work and never lose attention to detail. Our goal is to satisfy & guarantee the best work to you the special customer and thank you for helping build America better!\n\n

Response time2 days

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Miller's Exterior Transformation, LLC

New to Angi

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

Serving Grethel, KY and surrounding areas

In business since 1999

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

Miller's Exterior Transformation,LLC, has been established for many years. We service the community in many projects such as deck rebuilds, porch builds and much more! You can always count on Miller's Exterior Transformation, LLC, to do the job right the first time. Call today to get your projects up and running!

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Showing 1-10 of 12

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.

Putting lattice under a deck will create a polished look that allows for air ventilation. You can also store items underneath as the lattice provides privacy and protection from the weather. You can also put lattice under a porch to create a polished look in the front of your house.

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.

It’s important to make sure the wood on a new deck is properly seasoned. Seasoning a deck is simple: Once you build it (or have a pro do so), just leave it alone so it can acclimate to the environment. If you don’t give the deck proper seasoning time before staining, the stain can lock in any lingering moisture and cause mold, rot, and other moisture issues down the road. Give the wood at least four to eight weeks to season before you stain.

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.

The Grethel, KY 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
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Deck Maintenance Checklists for Every Season
Keep your decking looking new with this deck maintenance checklist.
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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.