How do I flatten a cupped deck board?

• <div><p>To flatten a cupped deck board, start by ensuring it’s dry. Then, try flipping the board over so the cupped side faces down and reattach it. If that’s not possible, you can use screws to pull it tighter to the joists or plane the edges slightly to reduce the cup. It’s best to replace severely cupped boards.</p></div>

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Q: What is the difference between a deck and a porch?

• <div><p>While the terms deck and porch are often used interchangeably, they are two distinct structures. A porch is a covered structure, usually attached to the front of a home, that offers protection from the elements. In contrast, a deck is an open, uncovered platform, often attached to the back or side of a home. Because porches have a roof, they typically require less maintenance than decks, but both features need regular cleaning and repairs to stay in good condition.</p></div>

Q: Can you build a deck around a fire pit?

• <div><p>Yes, you can build a deck around a fire pit, as long as it is safely enclosed, meets code requirements, and is at least 15 feet away from your home. You&rsquo;ll want to ensure you have a heat-resistant barrier between the fire pit and your deck to prevent any structural damage and fires. A galvanized ring surrounded by pavers, brick, or stone makes for a beautiful, safe, and sturdy design.</p></div>

Q: Why is my deck fuzzy after pressure washing?

• <div><p>Your deck may look or feel fuzzy after pressure washing because the high-pressure spray tears some wood fibers as it removes the outer layer of dead and discolored wood. This fuzzy effect is a normal part of the pressure-washing process and will go away on its own in a few weeks. You can opt to spot-sand your deck if you&rsquo;d like to remove it more quickly.</p></div>

Q: How do I flatten a cupped deck board?

• <div><p>To flatten a cupped deck board, start by ensuring it&rsquo;s dry. Then, try flipping the board over so the cupped side faces down and reattach it. If that&rsquo;s not possible, you can use screws to pull it tighter to the joists or plane the edges slightly to reduce the cup. It&rsquo;s best to replace severely cupped boards.</p></div>

Q: What is the best way to clean your decking?

• <div><p>The best way to clean your decking is to clear debris from the gaps between the boards, sweep the surface, rinse it, apply cleaner, rinse again, and let it dry fully. A homemade deck cleaner made of two gallons of warm water and 1/2 cup vinegar is a simple cleaning solution for both wood and composite decking. You can sprinkle baking soda on any spots with mold or mildew, then scrub the area and rinse clean. </p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Deck Maintenance pros in Rawlings, MD

*The Angi rating for Deck Maintenance companies in Rawlings, MD 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 Rawlings, MD 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 September 19, 2025

Reviewed in September 2025
Once again, Rebel has helped me with a problem. Last time, he repaired my deck. This time, he sanded the cabinet so the new stove would fit in. And the results really look good. Rebel needs to get a bit more organized with time but he does such a good job that I'm not terribly concerned. And...
Killian Enterprises llc
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Reviewed in October 2024
Very nice and fast working crew I love my new deck very much and love that it is family owned
E AND E EXTERIORS LLC
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Reviewed in September 2024
These guys were amazing from start to finish. Gave me a free estimate and a very reasonable price for the project. They got the work done in a very timely manner, always asked if I had any questions and worked very hard to give me what I was looking for. I will definitely be calling them for...
Castillo Construction
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Reviewed in January 2022
Green Future Construction was one of few landscaping companies that would do our entire project holistically -- regrading side and rear yards and integrating and building a new deck within the plan. All parts of the business work seamlessly with other parts. Our main contact, Anthony Martone,...
Green Future Construction
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Reviewed in July 2018
Excellent communication, excellent response to my needs. Will continue to use for bi-weekly maintenance.
Larue Property Services
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Reviewed in June 2018
Whitehorse Woodworks was contacted (along with several other companies) about building a deck on the backside of my home. Lowell listened to what I was looking for in a deck, provided suggestions and recommendations for what would suit my needs. He also provided the best estimate. He then...
Whitehorse Woodworks
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Reviewed in May 2018
Before contacting them, I was shopping around and was very surprised to some contractors lack of knowledge. When I came across this company and the reviews they got, I decided to give them a try and I was very pleased with their work. Diaz seems to be knowledgeable and pleasant to work with....
Speedy Repairs
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Reviewed in April 2012
I wanted to try this place after hearing good reviews from friends. The first time I went was just for general maintenance and I was told I "needed" about $800 worth of other repairs. When I got the breakdown it turned out all I truly needed were two new tires (which were much cheaper elsewhere...
RED RIDGE AUTO REPAIR
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Reviewed in March 2012
Honesty they did not provide the service they were going to provide. We got them because we had just finished leveling out our yard and putting a deck on. We were having difficulties in grass growing under the tree. I called them to help us to get grass to grow under the tree and thicken it up...
TruGreen Lawn Care - 5820
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Reviewed in March 2012
They are excellent and I have used them for years. I am on an annual maintenance agreement with them. I think their prices are average and they were here right away the next morning after I called. They have done other work for me in the past and I will use them again in the future.
Good Shepard HVAC
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Find Deck maintenance specialists in Rawlings

BlackRock Renovations

4.5(

)

Serving Rawlings, MD and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2021

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"Did a very good job roofing our shed. Polite, on time and professional. I will definitely hiring them again."

Response time2 days

Response rate93%

31 neighbors recently requested a quote

Serving Rawlings, MD and surrounding areas

In business since 1991

Emergency services offered

"His work was outstanding in all respects. He was completely trustworthy. His price was right in the middle of all the estimates I got. In my case he stuck to his estimate but he didn't find any unexpected damage while he was working either. He did the job in 4 hours less than quoted maximum time frame. I'd have no hesitation in recommending his services are using his services again.
"

Recommended by94%of homeowners

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Crellin Handyman Services

4.6(

)

Serving Rawlings, MD and surrounding areas

In business since 2020

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Peter is very responsive and thorough. I will definitely be calling him again for future maintenance and repairs. Highly recommend."

+20

Response time10 hrs

Recommended by93%of homeowners

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Detailed Precise Handyman

5.0(

)

Serving Rawlings, MD and surrounding areas

"Bret did an awesome job on pressure washing the house and deck, he stained the deck and replaced some boards and it looks brand new. Very happy with results. Would recommend"

+20

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Serving Rawlings, MD and surrounding areas

In business since 2006

"Cyress Construction was very nice to deal with, prompt and efficient in every way! Thank you Dion!!!!!"

Recommended by83%of homeowners

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Deck Maintenance questions, answered by experts

While the terms deck and porch are often used interchangeably, they are two distinct structures. A porch is a covered structure, usually attached to the front of a home, that offers protection from the elements. In contrast, a deck is an open, uncovered platform, often attached to the back or side of a home. Because porches have a roof, they typically require less maintenance than decks, but both features need regular cleaning and repairs to stay in good condition.

Yes, you can build a deck around a fire pit, as long as it is safely enclosed, meets code requirements, and is at least 15 feet away from your home. You’ll want to ensure you have a heat-resistant barrier between the fire pit and your deck to prevent any structural damage and fires. A galvanized ring surrounded by pavers, brick, or stone makes for a beautiful, safe, and sturdy design.

Your deck may look or feel fuzzy after pressure washing because the high-pressure spray tears some wood fibers as it removes the outer layer of dead and discolored wood. This fuzzy effect is a normal part of the pressure-washing process and will go away on its own in a few weeks. You can opt to spot-sand your deck if you’d like to remove it more quickly.

To flatten a cupped deck board, start by ensuring it’s dry. Then, try flipping the board over so the cupped side faces down and reattach it. If that’s not possible, you can use screws to pull it tighter to the joists or plane the edges slightly to reduce the cup. It’s best to replace severely cupped boards.

The best way to clean your decking is to clear debris from the gaps between the boards, sweep the surface, rinse it, apply cleaner, rinse again, and let it dry fully. A homemade deck cleaner made of two gallons of warm water and 1/2 cup vinegar is a simple cleaning solution for both wood and composite decking. You can sprinkle baking soda on any spots with mold or mildew, then scrub the area and rinse clean.

The Rawlings, MD 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

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Apr 10, 2026Apr 10, 2026
What Is Composite Decking and Is It Right for Your Outdoor Space?
Composite decking is made of synthetic and natural materials and tends to last longer than wood. Learn what composite decking is and its pros and cons.