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>

What other materials can I use instead of composite decking?

• <div><p>Composite decking boards aren't your only options for building a deck. There are several other <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/good-material-key-long-lasting-decks.htm">types of materials for decks</a>, including wood and aluminum decking. Wood decking comes in many different wood species, offering natural beauty and classy timelessness to your yard. Aluminum is a lightweight, water-resistant, and low-maintenance material that is also non-slip. </p></div>

Get matched with top deck maintenance specialists in Eros, LA

Q: What is the best way to sand a deck?

• <div><p>The best way to sand a deck is by cleaning it, sanding the boards and stairs with 60- or 80-grit sandpaper, and sanding the railings and posts with 80-grit sandpaper. You should sand in the direction of the wood grain to avoid damaging the timber. When sanding your deck, use medium pressure and aim for an even sand. Pressing too hard with a sander can damage decks, as most are softwoods. </p></div>

Q: How much does it cost to build a second-story deck?

• <div><p>The cost to build a second-story deck averages $4,800, though the actual price could range as low as $420 to upwards of $16,000. While labor costs range between 35% and 50% of the total project cost, the materials and complexity of design will ultimately lead you to save or spend more money on this home addition.</p></div>

Q: How should stair stringers be attached to a deck?

• <div><p>There are several methods for attaching stair stringers to a deck. The best way is to bolt the stringers to the deck joists using three carriage bolts in a triangular pattern. This method offers the sturdiest fit for stairs that won&rsquo;t budge. Alternatively, attach the stringers to the deck rims using lag bolts or to the posts using adjustable slope hangers.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Deck Maintenance pros in Eros, LA

*The Angi rating for Deck Maintenance companies in Eros, LA 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 Eros, LA 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 17, 2026

Reviewed in May 2026
This was my first time using Angie’s list. Put in the request for lawn maintenance, and Damien called me in less than 10 minutes. No other contractor reached out within 48 hours. I knew Damien was the man for the job. Came by my house and took a look at everything, and he offered to go above and...
Forever Grateful Contractor
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Reviewed in August 2023
I lost my husband about four months ago. He always took care of the maintenance on the house and making decisions of who to hire. I was terrified, not knowing anything about replacing a roof. These guys came to my rescue. First, they won my trust, showing respect and empathy. They walked me...
Charles Fontana Roofing Inspections
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Reviewed in July 2023
Brian and his team did an amazing job painting my front porch and two exterior doors, sealing my back deck, and building a staircase with a pathway off of my deck. It all looks great and he was very professional through the whole process. His price was fair for the work he did and it was all...
Reed's Home Improvement (Bryan Reed LLC)
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Reviewed in May 2023
Very professional. Made sure I was satisfied. Am very pleased. And will continue to use Precision Mowing & Maintenance Services.
Precision Mowing & Maintenance Services
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Reviewed in July 2022
He did a great job washing the house, porches, deck, and driveway. Very friendly and efficient. We recommend Justin to anyone needing these services
E&C Power Washing
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Reviewed in June 2022
I requested Justin Perkins to come by and look at our roof for hail damage. He showed up promptly got up there stated yes ,we did have damage. Worked with the adjuster and insurance company. Within a week Nela's crew showed up ,Tarps put out ,they took care not...
NELA Roofing
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Reviewed in May 2020
Wyatt Jordan provides high quality mowing and maintenance services for a fair price. He is attentive to our specific needs and requests. I would highly recommend Jordan Lawn.
Exterior Solutions
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Reviewed in October 2017
Fantastic! Repaired all the issues. He was prompt and it only took a couple of hours from the time I called when he showed up at my door. Professional and courteous. Will definately use again. The cost was reasonable and I even purchased a maintenance plan.
Ferguson's Heating and Air Conditioning LLC
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Reviewed in September 2017
He did a bad a** job on my deck.They suck. They put the deck all the way to the front of the house and they did the main line and I signed off on it and it f#**#$% blew. He said well you signed off on it and I said you're the expert. They did not stand by their word. They were on a waterline and...
Ray's Home Improvement LLC
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Reviewed in April 2013
.They came out in February to give a quote. They were going to tear a deck down and replace it. I was pretty impressed. I was recommended to them by a friend at work. We are probably going to go with him as the price is right. They don't do really fancy stuff. They do basic decks. That is...
Ready Decks
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Find Deck maintenance specialists in Eros

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

Serving Eros, LA and surrounding areas

In business since 1980

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"Great service, clean work, nice guys!"

Recommended by93%of homeowners

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

Serving Eros, LA and surrounding areas

In business since 2012

Free estimates

"He did a beautiful job. My yard looks better than it ever has. I do recommend this company."

Response time6 hrs

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Xstream Outdoor Services/Xstream Pressure Washing

5.0(

)

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

Serving Eros, LA and surrounding areas

"Great, they showed up on time and did excellent work. I will definitely be using xstream pressure washing again in the future!! Recommend highly!"

+10

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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

Serving Eros, LA and surrounding areas

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"It was very nice and did it pretty well, they did above a beyond. They were an honest individual and nice guys."

+15

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Deck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and Seal

Serving Eros, LA and surrounding areas

In business since 2018

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"He did what he said he would. did it professional and on time and for the price he quoted. I was impressed with his credentials. He definitely knew his stuff"

Response time8 hrs

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Starr's Painting & More

5.0(

)

Deck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and Seal

Serving Eros, LA and surrounding areas

In business since 1995

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"Great job .. Thanks so much painting our add on"

+33

Response time2 hrs

Response rate86%

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Bayou Southern Fencing and Decks, LLC

4.8(

)

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

Serving Eros, LA and surrounding areas

In business since 2017

Free estimates

"Very happy with the job. Materials & work is top quality."

Response time11 hrs

Response rate88%

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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

Serving Eros, LA and surrounding areas

In business since 2024

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"The work was done to my standard."

Response time6 hrs

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Request Quote

Truelove Handyman Services LLC

4.9(

)

Deck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and Seal

Serving Eros, LA and surrounding areas

In business since 2023

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"Excellent work quality. Pleasant and easy to work with. Prompt in communication. I would highly recommend Dustin for any of your Handy man needs!"

+10

Response time10 mins

Response rate86%

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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

Serving Eros, LA and surrounding areas

In business since 2006

Free estimates

"I'm the owner of Blue Heron Homes in Monroe La. Spence's Fence always takes care of our projects and we never have to worry because the do what they say. I would highly recommend them for wood fences, metal fences, gates, and screen projects."

Fence install good hope road west Monroe

Good hope road west Monroe Louisiana 71291

+12

Response time9 hrs

Response rate90%

Recommended by75%of homeowners

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Showing 1-10 of 59

Deck Maintenance questions, answered by experts

The best way to sand a deck is by cleaning it, sanding the boards and stairs with 60- or 80-grit sandpaper, and sanding the railings and posts with 80-grit sandpaper. You should sand in the direction of the wood grain to avoid damaging the timber. When sanding your deck, use medium pressure and aim for an even sand. Pressing too hard with a sander can damage decks, as most are softwoods.

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.

Composite decking boards aren't your only options for building a deck. There are several other types of materials for decks, including wood and aluminum decking. Wood decking comes in many different wood species, offering natural beauty and classy timelessness to your yard. Aluminum is a lightweight, water-resistant, and low-maintenance material that is also non-slip.

The cost to build a second-story deck averages $4,800, though the actual price could range as low as $420 to upwards of $16,000. While labor costs range between 35% and 50% of the total project cost, the materials and complexity of design will ultimately lead you to save or spend more money on this home addition.

There are several methods for attaching stair stringers to a deck. The best way is to bolt the stringers to the deck joists using three carriage bolts in a triangular pattern. This method offers the sturdiest fit for stairs that won’t budge. Alternatively, attach the stringers to the deck rims using lag bolts or to the posts using adjustable slope hangers.

The Eros, LA homeowners’ guide to deck maintenance services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

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Aug 31, 2026Aug 31, 2026
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