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    Verified deck and porch services reviews

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Avatar for Straka Contracting LLC

Straka Contracting LLC

4.93(
138
)
Approved Pro

Straka Contracting LLC

4.93(
138
)
Approved Pro
Super Service Award
Customers say: Quality work
Recommended by 98% of Angi customers
Recommended by 98% of HomeAdvisor customers
2002 years of experience

I started Straka Contracting over a decade ago in Howard County after having gained considerable experience in all areas of home improvement. Much of that know-how came from working with my father who has been in the trade since the 1960s. Today we serve the central Maryland area with a full array of services including remodeling, additions, decks, fencing, roofing, skylights, siding, windows, doors, gutters and gutter guards. Straka Contracting is dedicated to quality work and we offer a guarantee to back it up on every job. What’s more, when I take on work I am personally involved from beginning to end, making sure things are done properly. Karel Straka, Owner Straka Contracting

"Karel Straka has helped me on and off with construction items on my townhouse for almost twenty years, making major changes to my deck and patio among other things. I find him easy to work with, very thorough, trusty-worthy, reliable and affordable. Sometimes I submit my own design, and he always does it better."

Ken M on January 2025

I started Straka Contracting over a decade ago in Howard County after having gained considerable experience in all areas of home improvement. Much of that know-how came from working with my father who has been in the trade since the 1960s. Today we serve the central Maryland area with a full array of services including remodeling, additions, decks, fencing, roofing, skylights, siding, windows, doors, gutters and gutter guards. Straka Contracting is dedicated to quality work and we offer a guarantee to back it up on every job. What’s more, when I take on work I am personally involved from beginning to end, making sure things are done properly. Karel Straka, Owner Straka Contracting

"Karel Straka has helped me on and off with construction items on my townhouse for almost twenty years, making major changes to my deck and patio among other things. I find him easy to work with, very thorough, trusty-worthy, reliable and affordable. Sometimes I submit my own design, and he always does it better."

Ken M on January 2025


Avatar for R&L Pressure Washing Painting and Decking

R&L Pressure Washing Painting and Decking

4.75(
616
)
Approved Pro

R&L Pressure Washing Painting and Decking

4.75(
616
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quick response
Recommended by 90% of Angi customers
Recommended by 90% of HomeAdvisor customers
2002 years of experience

Please call or text at (240) 784-6079 to reach an estimator directly. Thanks again for visiting our page and we look forward to serving you! 15 years experience working in DC, Maryland and Virginia areas. We provide detailed power washing of your home including; Siding, Patios, Driveways, Decks, Fences, Walkways, Stone Walls and Structures. Additional services offered; Stain and Sealer for wood fences, painting, decks and patios. We used special products that don't damage any windows or furniture. They are environmentally safe and do not kill any plants or grass. Our professional staff provide years of experience with a great attention to detail when using our pressure washing equipment. We stand behind our prices to be the best in the area and our quality is second to none. We also do interior & exterior painting, kitchen, bathrooms & basement remodeling, our business have close to 600 “A" reviews, the winner of the prestigious Angie's List Super Service Award for 6 years in a row, you can rest assured that our experience and excellent reputation will result in an experience that no other contractor can give you. We pride ourselves on being the standard by which other contractors are measured, we pay attention to every detail of your job. We appreciate your business and you satisfaction is our main priority. Quick and free estimates $275 Home Pressure Washing(2500 Sq ft...) $325 Deck Pressure W & Sealer (200 Sq ft ...) Click coupon for details. Thank you for visiting our profile! Feel free to email [email protected] to schedule any projects in advance.

"I had an excellent experience with R & L. They were on time, very professional, and completed the job with detail. The paint came out smooth and even, and they cleaned everything afterword. The price was fair. I'm very satisfied and would definitely hire them again. "

Uzma F on November 2025

Please call or text at (240) 784-6079 to reach an estimator directly. Thanks again for visiting our page and we look forward to serving you! 15 years experience working in DC, Maryland and Virginia areas. We provide detailed power washing of your home including; Siding, Patios, Driveways, Decks, Fences, Walkways, Stone Walls and Structures. Additional services offered; Stain and Sealer for wood fences, painting, decks and patios. We used special products that don't damage any windows or furniture. They are environmentally safe and do not kill any plants or grass. Our professional staff provide years of experience with a great attention to detail when using our pressure washing equipment. We stand behind our prices to be the best in the area and our quality is second to none. We also do interior & exterior painting, kitchen, bathrooms & basement remodeling, our business have close to 600 “A" reviews, the winner of the prestigious Angie's List Super Service Award for 6 years in a row, you can rest assured that our experience and excellent reputation will result in an experience that no other contractor can give you. We pride ourselves on being the standard by which other contractors are measured, we pay attention to every detail of your job. We appreciate your business and you satisfaction is our main priority. Quick and free estimates $275 Home Pressure Washing(2500 Sq ft...) $325 Deck Pressure W & Sealer (200 Sq ft ...) Click coupon for details. Thank you for visiting our profile! Feel free to email [email protected] to schedule any projects in advance.

"I had an excellent experience with R & L. They were on time, very professional, and completed the job with detail. The paint came out smooth and even, and they cleaned everything afterword. The price was fair. I'm very satisfied and would definitely hire them again. "

Uzma F on November 2025


Avatar for Tony's Power Washing and Window Cleaning

Tony's Power Washing and Window Cleaning

4.94(
53
)
Approved Pro

Tony's Power Washing and Window Cleaning

4.94(
53
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quick response
Recommended by 100% of Angi customers
Recommended by 100% of HomeAdvisor customers
2014 years of experience

We are the last outdoor maintenance company you will ever need! Tony's Power Washing & Windows Cleaning is a local family owned and operated company specialized in power washing, window cleaning, deck maintenance and gutter cleaning. If it's outside, we'll make it shine! Give us a call to talk about how we can improve the look of your home today! ** for this month we are offering, house siding power washing up to 2.500 sq for $329.00 **

"Excellent. Great job cleaning and removing the red clay from the property."

m d on June 2025

We are the last outdoor maintenance company you will ever need! Tony's Power Washing & Windows Cleaning is a local family owned and operated company specialized in power washing, window cleaning, deck maintenance and gutter cleaning. If it's outside, we'll make it shine! Give us a call to talk about how we can improve the look of your home today! ** for this month we are offering, house siding power washing up to 2.500 sq for $329.00 **

"Excellent. Great job cleaning and removing the red clay from the property."

m d on June 2025


Avatar for AROCON Roofing & Construction

AROCON Roofing & Construction

4.51(
1,357
)
Approved Pro

AROCON Roofing & Construction

4.51(
1,357
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quality work
2008 years of experience
Free onsite estimate

AROCON offers superior services at an affordable price because we are your Maryland & Virginia contractor. We service all of Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Carroll, Dorchester, Frederick, Howard, Harford, Montgomery, Prince George's, Queen Annes, Talbot, Wicomico, and Worchester Maryland counties, as well as Fairfax, Arlington, Loudoun, Fauquier, and Prince William, Virginia counties and parts of Southern Pennsylvania. Instead of focusing on completing as many jobs as possible, AROCON focuses on providing quality work and getting to know our customers. This allows us to provide high quality, customized results and unparalleled customer service without adding extensive overhead or expenses. For all of your Roofing & Construction needs, you can count on our experienced team at AROCON Roofing & Construction. We service all of Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Carroll, Frederick, Howard, Harford and Montgomery counties, including parts of Prince George's county and Southern Pennsylvania. Call us today to make Home Improvement, Simplified. #rooftuneup.

"They quoted half of the other two we got quotes from. Work was scheduled a couple weeks later and done in a day."

Katrina B on October 2024

AROCON offers superior services at an affordable price because we are your Maryland & Virginia contractor. We service all of Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Carroll, Dorchester, Frederick, Howard, Harford, Montgomery, Prince George's, Queen Annes, Talbot, Wicomico, and Worchester Maryland counties, as well as Fairfax, Arlington, Loudoun, Fauquier, and Prince William, Virginia counties and parts of Southern Pennsylvania. Instead of focusing on completing as many jobs as possible, AROCON focuses on providing quality work and getting to know our customers. This allows us to provide high quality, customized results and unparalleled customer service without adding extensive overhead or expenses. For all of your Roofing & Construction needs, you can count on our experienced team at AROCON Roofing & Construction. We service all of Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Carroll, Frederick, Howard, Harford and Montgomery counties, including parts of Prince George's county and Southern Pennsylvania. Call us today to make Home Improvement, Simplified. #rooftuneup.

"They quoted half of the other two we got quotes from. Work was scheduled a couple weeks later and done in a day."

Katrina B on October 2024


Avatar for Deck and Shed Pros

Deck and Shed Pros

4.76(
294
)
Approved Pro

Deck and Shed Pros

4.76(
294
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Super punctual
Recommended by 92% of Angi customers
Recommended by 92% of HomeAdvisor customers
1984 years of experience

Deck and Shed Pros is a locally owned and operated company dedicated to providing our customers with the finest quality Deck and Shed construction possible. We employ the most skilled craftsmen, take pride in our work, use the finest materials available, and are always striving to improve. We at Deck and Shed Pros understand we are building a structure that will be enjoyed for many years to come and there is no need to compromise with your deck. Our thoughtful and knowledgeable sales team will work with you to customize your dream deck and have many solutions that will help provide safety, storage, economy, and utility for your deck. We are a fully insured company. Visit our website http://deckandshedpros.com

"We had contacted Jim at “Deck and Shed Pros” to build and install a shed at our home, which was the fourth project we engaged Deck and Shed Pros with this year. Like all the previous projects, which included a new deck, French door installation, and our bay window repairs, the shed selection, build, ground prep, and final installation was an excellent experience. We are very impressed with the quality of the shed construction and the implementation of the ground preparation. Considering total installed cost, quality, and delivery schedule, I would highly recommend Deck and Shed Pros for your home projects."

Robin B on November 2025

Deck and Shed Pros is a locally owned and operated company dedicated to providing our customers with the finest quality Deck and Shed construction possible. We employ the most skilled craftsmen, take pride in our work, use the finest materials available, and are always striving to improve. We at Deck and Shed Pros understand we are building a structure that will be enjoyed for many years to come and there is no need to compromise with your deck. Our thoughtful and knowledgeable sales team will work with you to customize your dream deck and have many solutions that will help provide safety, storage, economy, and utility for your deck. We are a fully insured company. Visit our website http://deckandshedpros.com

"We had contacted Jim at “Deck and Shed Pros” to build and install a shed at our home, which was the fourth project we engaged Deck and Shed Pros with this year. Like all the previous projects, which included a new deck, French door installation, and our bay window repairs, the shed selection, build, ground prep, and final installation was an excellent experience. We are very impressed with the quality of the shed construction and the implementation of the ground preparation. Considering total installed cost, quality, and delivery schedule, I would highly recommend Deck and Shed Pros for your home projects."

Robin B on November 2025


Avatar for Home Breakthrough LLC

Home Breakthrough LLC

4.55(
179
)
Approved Pro

Home Breakthrough LLC

4.55(
179
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quality work
2004 years of experience
Free onsite estimate

Home Breakthrough is a local, family owned home remodeling business. Francisco and Honika Victoriano, combine old-word craftsmanship with contemporary building techniques to create extraordinary new living spaces. They take great pride in the home renovation work they do. The remodeling contractors at Home Breakthrough have a strong reputation for delivering high quality construction and home renovation projects, working with diligence and honesty. The Victorianos have built their remodeling business & reputation over the years by providing excellent work at highly competitive prices. 14-15 workers. Cost is determined by the job. Free design consultations. No travel charges. No service charges. May contact through email. Award winning .

"I have been using the team at home breakthrough for years. At this point they fully remodeled my basement including adding a new bathroom/wet bar. As well as a huge overhaul of my main floor bath and laundry room. The quality of their work is outstanding. I also love their quote structure. They start with a labor number and give you an idea of what materials will cost but it’s essentially a chose your own adventure on how high end you want to go on features etc and they are very helpful to guide you on the way as well as have great experts to point you to on cabinets, fixtures, tile, countertops etc to help you achieve your vision. Look forward to having them back for my next project!"

Scott A on March 2025

Home Breakthrough is a local, family owned home remodeling business. Francisco and Honika Victoriano, combine old-word craftsmanship with contemporary building techniques to create extraordinary new living spaces. They take great pride in the home renovation work they do. The remodeling contractors at Home Breakthrough have a strong reputation for delivering high quality construction and home renovation projects, working with diligence and honesty. The Victorianos have built their remodeling business & reputation over the years by providing excellent work at highly competitive prices. 14-15 workers. Cost is determined by the job. Free design consultations. No travel charges. No service charges. May contact through email. Award winning .

"I have been using the team at home breakthrough for years. At this point they fully remodeled my basement including adding a new bathroom/wet bar. As well as a huge overhaul of my main floor bath and laundry room. The quality of their work is outstanding. I also love their quote structure. They start with a labor number and give you an idea of what materials will cost but it’s essentially a chose your own adventure on how high end you want to go on features etc and they are very helpful to guide you on the way as well as have great experts to point you to on cabinets, fixtures, tile, countertops etc to help you achieve your vision. Look forward to having them back for my next project!"

Scott A on March 2025


Avatar for TrueDecks

TrueDecks

4.70(
330
)
Approved Pro

TrueDecks

4.70(
330
)
Approved Pro
Super Service Award
Customers say: True professional
Recommended by 92% of Angi customers
Recommended by 92% of HomeAdvisor customers
1999 years of experience

DeckMaster Inc. is now operating under a new revamped trademark name TrueDecks®. Same family-owned and operated business, same services, same quality, a new unique nationwide name. We have been in business for over 20 yrs providing deck, fence, patio construction, restoration and maintenance services. We are also the founders of the PressureLess cleaning & preservation system using a low pressure washing method. We are also specialize in all types of composite (Trex, Fiberon, Timbertech, Azek,etc) and exotic materials. 30 Employees. Cost is determined by the job. No travel charges. Additional phone - 240-685-1730

"We have been so pleased with the whole process. From the estimate with Fernando, to the professional and friendly Office staff, to Selvin and his crew who rebuilt the deck. The communication was timely and easy. You all made making payments simple. The quality of the materials and workmanship were beyond expected. The only delay was due to me not reading an email so I apologize for that. Selvin and his crew were so nice and professional. There were no delays. Even the clean up was done within 24 hrs of the completion. Our deck is now beautiful but more importantly, safe to use. Oh, and the stair lights are amazing!! Thank you all for a great experience."

Lisa G on June 2025

DeckMaster Inc. is now operating under a new revamped trademark name TrueDecks®. Same family-owned and operated business, same services, same quality, a new unique nationwide name. We have been in business for over 20 yrs providing deck, fence, patio construction, restoration and maintenance services. We are also the founders of the PressureLess cleaning & preservation system using a low pressure washing method. We are also specialize in all types of composite (Trex, Fiberon, Timbertech, Azek,etc) and exotic materials. 30 Employees. Cost is determined by the job. No travel charges. Additional phone - 240-685-1730

"We have been so pleased with the whole process. From the estimate with Fernando, to the professional and friendly Office staff, to Selvin and his crew who rebuilt the deck. The communication was timely and easy. You all made making payments simple. The quality of the materials and workmanship were beyond expected. The only delay was due to me not reading an email so I apologize for that. Selvin and his crew were so nice and professional. There were no delays. Even the clean up was done within 24 hrs of the completion. Our deck is now beautiful but more importantly, safe to use. Oh, and the stair lights are amazing!! Thank you all for a great experience."

Lisa G on June 2025


Avatar for FA Outdoor Spaces

FA Outdoor Spaces

5.00(
18
)
Approved Pro

FA Outdoor Spaces

5.00(
18
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quick response
Recommended by 100% of Angi customers
Recommended by 100% of HomeAdvisor customers
1979 years of experience

FA Outdoor Spaces is a large exterior home improvement company servicing Northern Virginia, DC and Maryland. With roots in Design and Build having serviced our clients at our sister company FA Design Build, we bring 45+ years of professionalism to every project we undertake. We have teams dedicated to each region ready to serve you. We specialize in all things Outdoors, like Trex & Timber Tech composite decking for new builds, deck reflooring/rerailing, deck enclosures, three season rooms, sunrooms, patios and fencing — all backed with a lifetime installation warranty you won’t find anywhere else.

"We have been planning to upgrade our deck from lumber to composite TREX for quite some time and FA Outdoor Spaces was the only company that offers three options for decking- refloor, facelift and new deck. Brandon Campbell and Brandon Wheatley who assisted him, understood what we were looking for an provided a proposal to upgrade the flooring, railing caps and steps by replacing the wooden boards with TREX , reinforce the foundation of the deck and steps, and re-finish the existing railings to retain the original aesthetic of the deck with a modern flooring. The cost was reasonable and there was clear communication on necessary safety improvements required to make the deck last for a long time. Veronika as project manager ensured that the work was planned and scheduled for an on time completion. Veronika’s communications were timely and detailed. She made sure we were fully satisfied with the finished work and took the extra steps to ensure the end result was perfect. The crew is very knowledgeable and hardworking and they worked through some bad weather days safely to get the work done. Very satisfied and highly recommended."

Pankaj K on July 2025

FA Outdoor Spaces is a large exterior home improvement company servicing Northern Virginia, DC and Maryland. With roots in Design and Build having serviced our clients at our sister company FA Design Build, we bring 45+ years of professionalism to every project we undertake. We have teams dedicated to each region ready to serve you. We specialize in all things Outdoors, like Trex & Timber Tech composite decking for new builds, deck reflooring/rerailing, deck enclosures, three season rooms, sunrooms, patios and fencing — all backed with a lifetime installation warranty you won’t find anywhere else.

"We have been planning to upgrade our deck from lumber to composite TREX for quite some time and FA Outdoor Spaces was the only company that offers three options for decking- refloor, facelift and new deck. Brandon Campbell and Brandon Wheatley who assisted him, understood what we were looking for an provided a proposal to upgrade the flooring, railing caps and steps by replacing the wooden boards with TREX , reinforce the foundation of the deck and steps, and re-finish the existing railings to retain the original aesthetic of the deck with a modern flooring. The cost was reasonable and there was clear communication on necessary safety improvements required to make the deck last for a long time. Veronika as project manager ensured that the work was planned and scheduled for an on time completion. Veronika’s communications were timely and detailed. She made sure we were fully satisfied with the finished work and took the extra steps to ensure the end result was perfect. The crew is very knowledgeable and hardworking and they worked through some bad weather days safely to get the work done. Very satisfied and highly recommended."

Pankaj K on July 2025


Avatar for Russett Deck Professionals Inc

Russett Deck Professionals Inc

4.88(
86
)
Approved Pro

Russett Deck Professionals Inc

4.88(
86
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quality work
Recommended by 97% of Angi customers
Recommended by 97% of HomeAdvisor customers
1992 years of experience

We are a small, family owned and operated, deck and screened porch designing/building company based in Westminster, MD. We’ve been in business since 1992 having started in the Russett community in Laurel. We do NOT use subcontractors for building our deck and screened porches. When you hire Russett Deck Professionals for your project, that’s who will be doing the designing, obtaining building permits, and the actual construction. We are specialized deck builders and only build using the best of materials on the market. When using composite or vinyl materials, we will give you the best advice we can to help you make the right choice for your deck. We do not push any particular brand of material on you just to help us. It’s your deck, it’s your choice! We will obtain any and all building permits and supply you with drawings for your HOA approvals. We are Angies List Super Service award winners for multiple years 2012-2013-2014-2015-2017- 2018-2019-2020-2021-2023

"These guys were awesome. From the planning to the building of our project. They gave us an accurate estimate. Even added an accessibility ramp at our request and fit it perfectly on the deck they built for us. They were able to start our project a week ahead of schedule and even worked in weather that was very cold. They were efficient and quick. They cleaned everything up when they were finished and I couldn’t have ask for more polite and professional service. Will definitely contact them for future projects!"

David M on February 2025

We are a small, family owned and operated, deck and screened porch designing/building company based in Westminster, MD. We’ve been in business since 1992 having started in the Russett community in Laurel. We do NOT use subcontractors for building our deck and screened porches. When you hire Russett Deck Professionals for your project, that’s who will be doing the designing, obtaining building permits, and the actual construction. We are specialized deck builders and only build using the best of materials on the market. When using composite or vinyl materials, we will give you the best advice we can to help you make the right choice for your deck. We do not push any particular brand of material on you just to help us. It’s your deck, it’s your choice! We will obtain any and all building permits and supply you with drawings for your HOA approvals. We are Angies List Super Service award winners for multiple years 2012-2013-2014-2015-2017- 2018-2019-2020-2021-2023

"These guys were awesome. From the planning to the building of our project. They gave us an accurate estimate. Even added an accessibility ramp at our request and fit it perfectly on the deck they built for us. They were able to start our project a week ahead of schedule and even worked in weather that was very cold. They were efficient and quick. They cleaned everything up when they were finished and I couldn’t have ask for more polite and professional service. Will definitely contact them for future projects!"

David M on February 2025


Avatar for Betterliving Sunrooms Of The Capital Area

Betterliving Sunrooms Of The Capital Area

4.94(
50
)
Approved Pro

Betterliving Sunrooms Of The Capital Area

4.94(
50
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quick response
Recommended by 100% of Angi customers
Recommended by 100% of HomeAdvisor customers
2010 years of experience

Betterliving sunroom of the Capital area is sub division of Deck Soldier - family own business, over 14 years we spetialise in Deck building , restoration and screen porch constractions. December 2023 is time when we get opportunity to be come dealer for one of the best Sunroom manufactory -Betterliving sunrooms. Beginning of 2024 was education time. We spent 2 weeks with crew leaders on factory in PA - learning new materials and installation process. Another 2 weeks our sales team learned history of 70 years company and saw how every detail of sunroom is made, learn why Betterliving Sunrooms is best quality sunrooms on market. We proud that we build over 30 Sunrooms and screen porches in 2024 and all our customers happy with their final rooms. We sustain our business on quality and integrity. We look forward to earning your business -sunrooms (3 or 4 season , vinyl or aluminum) -screen rooms -porches -deck building -deck remodeling -deck restoration( washing, staining) -paver patio/retaining walls

"Deck Soldier (aka Betterliving) did a fantastic job of powerwashing and then sealing my deck, installing new handrails, and staining the swingset in the yard. Very pleased with their work and their professionalism."

Andrew H on October 2024

Betterliving sunroom of the Capital area is sub division of Deck Soldier - family own business, over 14 years we spetialise in Deck building , restoration and screen porch constractions. December 2023 is time when we get opportunity to be come dealer for one of the best Sunroom manufactory -Betterliving sunrooms. Beginning of 2024 was education time. We spent 2 weeks with crew leaders on factory in PA - learning new materials and installation process. Another 2 weeks our sales team learned history of 70 years company and saw how every detail of sunroom is made, learn why Betterliving Sunrooms is best quality sunrooms on market. We proud that we build over 30 Sunrooms and screen porches in 2024 and all our customers happy with their final rooms. We sustain our business on quality and integrity. We look forward to earning your business -sunrooms (3 or 4 season , vinyl or aluminum) -screen rooms -porches -deck building -deck remodeling -deck restoration( washing, staining) -paver patio/retaining walls

"Deck Soldier (aka Betterliving) did a fantastic job of powerwashing and then sealing my deck, installing new handrails, and staining the swingset in the yard. Very pleased with their work and their professionalism."

Andrew H on October 2024

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Decks and Porches questions, answered by experts

Winterizing a screened-in porch can help extend its life and prevent damage to your porch, furniture, and decor. Removable winterization methods like vinyl panels or vinyl sheeting will allow you to fully enjoy your porch in warmer weather while protecting it from damage over the winter.  

It is definitely worth sanding a deck to ensure the wood absorbs new stain. Sanding a deck removes the outer layers of aging wood, allowing the stain to penetrate. It also gives a fresh look to the entire surface as part of the deck refinishing process. Without sanding, your stain or sealant is less likely to absorb into the wood. While sanding a deck is a time-intensive project, the rewards are noticeable and long-lasting.

Yes, some rotting porch posts can be repaired rather than replaced. The decision to repair or replace a post depends on the severity of the rot; the same is true when deciding what type of repair to do, if you go that route. Repairing a porch post is usually cheaper than replacing it, but if the majority of the post is rotted, you should opt for replacement.

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.

While the chemical, copper-based coating on pressure-treated wood offers protection from rot and pests, it’s not a silver bullet. An added sealant will help protect the wood further, though sometimes the wood is treated in a way that causes premature failure, and this is largely out of your control. It’s simply a case of bad luck. Regularly inspect all your house’s wood to look for any cracks or signs of mold and mildew. Getting ahead of the problem is the key to ensuring it doesn’t grow out of control.

The Monrovia, MD homeowners’ guide to deck and porch services

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