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TRUSTED BY DORCHESTER, MA HOMEOWNERS

  • Average homeowner rating star icon4.5
    Average homeowner rating
  • Verified reviews icon55
    Verified deck maintenance services reviews

Find Deck maintenance specialists in Dorchester

Avatar for Double O Pressure Washing
Double O Pressure Washing
5.0(
52
)
Deck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and Seal

Serving Dorchester, MA and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2022

Free estimates

Offers commercial services

"Oliver was professional and courteous. He power washed my pool area and 3 decks. It came out better than I could have expected. Everything looks brand new. His pricing fair and reasonable. I would definitely refer him to friends and family."
Before
Before
Beautiful after
Beautiful after
28 neighbors recently requested a quote
Recommended by48%of homeowners
Avatar for Square Services
Square Services
4.6(
29
)
Deck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and Seal - For Business

Serving Dorchester, MA and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2017

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"I had a front deck refinished. Carmen was fantastic, always answered the phone when I called and returned emails promptly. She s very professional and an asset to her business. Work guys were very polite, on time and kept work area very clean. Job was satisfactorily done."
Response time2 days
Response rate86%
Recommended by100%of homeowners
Avatar for Ruiz Landscaping
Ruiz Landscaping
4.4(
33
)
Deck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and SealDeck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and Seal - For Business

Serving Dorchester, MA and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2017

Free estimates

Warranties offered

"I have been very happy with all of their work. They are always easy to contact and I get a fast response. Their yard work is top notch and their workers are very professional with my wife and my kids. It is clear they have a lot of experience with lawn maintenance and tree service. Flavio has always done a good job and cut me a fair deal."
Additional Photos
Additional Photos
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Additional Photos
Additional Photos

+6

Response time1 day
Response rate100%
4 neighbors recently requested a quote
Avatar for DRP Handymen
DRP Handymen
5.0(
7
)
Deck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and Seal

Serving Dorchester, MA and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2010

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"I went to The Geek Squad and Office Max, not only were their prices absolutely insane, but even with a consult they were not able to repair my computer issue ....DRP Handymen were prompt, professional and fixed my computer for WAY less than I imagined, Ive already started speaking to DRP regarding other projects in my home- I will most certainly hire DRP again"
Modern Kitchen
Before
Fondation
New Shed
Repainted stairs

+14

Response time1 day
Recommended by100%of homeowners
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Deck Maintenance questions, answered by experts

Building codes for deck railings can vary by location, so it's important to consult your local regulations before construction. Generally, a guardrail is required for any deck that is more than 30 inches above the ground.

For residential properties, the standard minimum height for a deck railing is 36 inches. However, some states and municipalities have stricter requirements; for example, California and Washington mandate railings that are at least 42 inches high. Therefore, a 42-inch railing is not considered too high and may be required in your area or chosen voluntarily for additional safety.

In addition to height requirements, codes also specify other safety features, such as the maximum spacing between balusters to ensure they are close enough to prevent a child from squeezing through.

The best direction for a gate to swing depends on its location and purpose, but swinging inward is the general rule. An inward swing is often considered safer, prevents the gate from opening into public spaces like a sidewalk, and may be required by local building codes.

There are exceptions and specific considerations. If your property is on a slope, an inward swing might not be possible. For a deck gate, it's safest to have it swing away from any steps. In a backyard, the direction can be a matter of preference, though an inward swing can be helpful when carrying heavy items like a wheelbarrow into a garden.

Regardless of direction, ensure the gate can open fully without hitting any objects or blocking spaces. While an inward swing is standard, a gate that can swing both in and out offers the most flexibility if your setup allows for it.

You do not have to dig footers for a deck as long as it meets local code and holds up to weather in your area. If you live somewhere that experiences high winds and earthquakes, you may need to dig for your deck posts. Deck blocks, post anchors with base plates, and helical pile systems are the three no-dig deck post options you can choose from if local code permits.

Rot loves moisture, so deck rot typically impacts the parts of a board that stay wet. This includes the underside of boards, in addition to support posts and joists. However, any part of a board can rot, given the right conditions. 

You can nail or screw composite decking, but 3-inch decking screws are the better fastener choice. Unlike nails, decking screws won’t back out of the composite material over time. There’s also little danger of splitting composite material when driving screws, so you don’t need to pre-drill holes unless otherwise recommended by your decking manufacturer.

The Dorchester, MA homeowners’ guide to deck maintenance services

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