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 is a deck not attached to a house called?

• <div><p>A deck that isn’t attached to a house is called a floating or freestanding deck. These standalone decks are built near ground level, so they usually don’t need deck stairs. Some don’t even require permits. Generally speaking, <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-to-build-floating-deck.htm">building a floating deck</a> is faster and more DIY-friendly than constructing one that’s connected to your home. </p></div>

How hard is it to build a deck yourself?

• <div><p>Building a deck isn't too hard if you’re handy with carpentry, have the necessary tools, and are willing to put effort into it. However, other factors, such as plans, permits, and design, can be hard if you don’t have experience in those areas.</p><p>Note: You’ll need another person to help you build the deck (especially for framing and setting the beams). Building a deck yourself will be very difficult if you don’t have an extra set of hands to help.</p></div>

Top 10 Best Deck maintenance specialists in Wells, ME

Q: What happens if you put too much stain on a deck?

• <div><p>Ultimately, overapplication of stain can compromise the deck's appearance, durability, and longevity. It may result in an uneven finish, with excess stain pooling, dripping, or drying into thick patches. It can also obscure the wood's natural grain and texture, detracting from the desired aesthetic. Moreover, excessive staining may not fully penetrate the wood, leading to poor adhesion and premature wear. Additionally, thick layers of stain are prone to peeling, cracking, and blistering as they struggle to bond with the surface. </p></div>

Q: Which is better, composite or PVC decking?

• <div><p>Both composite and PVC decking are excellent alternatives to wood. However, while composite is moderately priced and lasts around 30 years, PVC costs more and lasts longer. PVC is also more durable, though both materials are more durable than wood decking. Ultimately, the choice between composite and PVC decking will come down to your budget and preferences. </p></div>

Q: What is a deck not attached to a house called?

• <div><p>A deck that isn&rsquo;t attached to a house is called a floating or freestanding deck. These standalone decks are built near ground level, so they usually don&rsquo;t need deck stairs. Some don&rsquo;t even require permits. Generally speaking, <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-to-build-floating-deck.htm">building a floating deck</a> is faster and more DIY-friendly than constructing one that&rsquo;s connected to your home. </p></div>

Q: How hard is it to build a deck yourself?

• <div><p>Building a deck isn't too hard if you&rsquo;re handy with carpentry, have the necessary tools, and are willing to put effort into it. However, other factors, such as plans, permits, and design, can be hard if you don&rsquo;t have experience in those areas.</p><p>Note: You&rsquo;ll need another person to help you build the deck (especially for framing and setting the beams). Building a deck yourself will be very difficult if you don&rsquo;t have an extra set of hands to help.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Deck Maintenance pros in Wells, ME

*The Angi rating for Deck Maintenance companies in Wells, ME 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 Wells, ME 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 04, 2025

Reviewed in September 2025
The two guys were amazing that did the deck work. The finished project was more than I thought it would be. It’s great. We’re also going to be using them in the spring for another piece of the deck to be fixed. I would definitely refer them to somebody else.
B&B Builders
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Reviewed in June 2025
Lance was very professional and very knowledgeable, he more than exceeded our expectation. Very nice deck in record time , definitely recommend Paradise construction for all of your upcoming projects, thanks Lance
Paradise Construction LLC
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Reviewed in August 2024
The contractor paid careful attention to detail throughout the project. Since it was a rebuild project several unplanned situations arose and he offered several different solutions to resolve the issue. He was e creepily easy to work with and very flexible with scheduling and the result was a...
Island Pond Decks & Docks LLC
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Reviewed in July 2024
Gavin did an excellent job replacing rotted wood on my deck, including wood railings. He is very competent, professional and completed the work in a timely manner. J. Dyer
Gavin Liscombe Residential Construction
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Reviewed in July 2024
He said the deck replacement would take two weeks. It only took him 6-7 days to complete the job (12'x 16' deck). Next week he's building steps for our back door. Mama likes...
Aubrey & Son Home Improvement
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Reviewed in November 2023
Removed old deck and replaced with a new deck twice the size, very happy with the project, they did an amazing job would hire them again! They walked me through every step and listened to what I wanted, they were professional and they cleaned up the work area each day. I love my new deck and...
Swanick Builders
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Reviewed in June 2023
We needed a deck floor and railing. They scheduled the job quickly and got the job done in a timely manner. Their quality of work was excellent. We would definitely refer them to anyone and use them again in the future.
KCM Construction
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Reviewed in April 2023
Install Sod, make garden beds and design back deck.
Green Formula
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Reviewed in March 2023
They came on Friday to measure the Dock. The pressure treated wood and rotted and the joists beneath had warped. They came again Saturday morning replaced the warped joists and replaced the deck with a composite material. They completed the job by 3pm. And will come back Monday to remove the old...
F&L Construction Group
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Reviewed in September 2022
We also had all the paint on the rear deck and side porch removed and then repainted. . Very pleased with the quality of the work done.
Phoenix Home Painting, LLC
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Find Deck maintenance specialists in Wells

Casabela Home Improvement

4.9(

)

Serving Wells, ME and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2005

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Flavio did a fabulous job updating my back deck with low maintenance decking and railings. Very neat worket( kibsite clean at the end of each workday."

Response time1 day

27 neighbors recently requested a quote

Recommended by95%of homeowners

Serving Wells, ME and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 1995

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Bart responded quickly to my request for an estimate to seal coat my driveway. He came and said he could do the work in 2 to 3 weeks. Within 2 weeks he set the date and time. He arrived on time and did his work carefully and efficiently. He answered all my questions. Very satisfied!!"

Response time7 hrs

Response rate85%

33 neighbors recently requested a quote

Serving Wells, ME and surrounding areas

Approved

Super Service Award Winner

In business since 2005

Free estimates

Small jobs welcome

"Steve and his crew did a fantastic job painting the exterior of my house. They made such significant progress everyday it looked much easier to paint our home than it actually was. I especially appreciate the attention to detail and professional pride Steve and the crew displayed. They pointed out the little things they still needed to accomplish after I thought a section was complete. Meticulous translates to professional."

Response time6 hrs

78 neighbors recently requested a quote

Recommended by70%of homeowners

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Been There Fixed That Handyman Service

4.6(

)

Serving Wells, ME and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2015

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"This man is good at what he does. My past handyman experience is less than stellar. But Rick and I have already discussed a couple possible projects for the future."

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Jack of All Trades Handyman Services

3.6(

)

Serving Wells, ME and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2023

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"great job plowing my driveway, AND he came back after the street plows blocked me in to remove snow at the end of my driveway! I would recommend him to everyone"

+61

Response time2 days

Serving Wells, ME and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2022

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"He is a hard worker, reliable and has a lot of knowledge."

Response time9 hrs

2 neighbors recently requested a quote

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Serving Wells, ME and surrounding areas

Approved

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

Warranties offered

"Derek from Boldcoast Exteriors worked patiently with my wife to pick the perfect color roof. Everyone loves it. He was always available to answer questions. Once decided, the work was done quickly and meticulously. We are very happy with this company and plan to use them for future projects."

63 neighbors recently requested a quote

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DRS Builders LLC

New to Angi

Serving Wells, ME and surrounding areas

Approved

I have been an active professional in carpentry/construction for 5 years. I take pride in completing high quality work in a timely manner. I am always grateful for all business earned and make sure to take care of the clients property as if its my own and so I am diligent in keeping the work area clean and leaving it clean. The work I can accomplish for you includes framing, interior & exterior trim, decks, window and door installation, flooring and custom wood work. Thanks for your time thus far and look forward to working with you!

5 neighbors recently requested a quote

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That's Easy Home Repair

New to Angi

Serving Wells, ME and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2024

Small jobs welcome

Brett Tishim is dedicated to providing our customers with the best quality and craftsmanship. We are here to build relationships with our customers and communities and to provide our employees with a great place to work. We look forward to working with you!

+20

Request Quote

Hansen Contracting

New to Angi

Serving Wells, ME and surrounding areas

Approved

Hansen Contracting has more than 25 years of experience for all of your contracting needs. We specialize in new residential construction as well as general home remodeling.

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Showing 1-10 of 69

Deck Maintenance questions, answered by experts

Ultimately, overapplication of stain can compromise the deck's appearance, durability, and longevity. It may result in an uneven finish, with excess stain pooling, dripping, or drying into thick patches. It can also obscure the wood's natural grain and texture, detracting from the desired aesthetic. Moreover, excessive staining may not fully penetrate the wood, leading to poor adhesion and premature wear. Additionally, thick layers of stain are prone to peeling, cracking, and blistering as they struggle to bond with the surface.

Both composite and PVC decking are excellent alternatives to wood. However, while composite is moderately priced and lasts around 30 years, PVC costs more and lasts longer. PVC is also more durable, though both materials are more durable than wood decking. Ultimately, the choice between composite and PVC decking will come down to your budget and preferences.

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.

A deck that isn’t attached to a house is called a floating or freestanding deck. These standalone decks are built near ground level, so they usually don’t need deck stairs. Some don’t even require permits. Generally speaking, building a floating deck is faster and more DIY-friendly than constructing one that’s connected to your home.

Building a deck isn't too hard if you’re handy with carpentry, have the necessary tools, and are willing to put effort into it. However, other factors, such as plans, permits, and design, can be hard if you don’t have experience in those areas.

Note: You’ll need another person to help you build the deck (especially for framing and setting the beams). Building a deck yourself will be very difficult if you don’t have an extra set of hands to help.

The Wells, ME 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

Mitchell Grant
•
May 2, 2026May 2, 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.
Angi
•
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.
Scott Dylan Westerlund
•
May 30, 2026May 30, 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.
Jenna Jonaitis
•
Apr 5, 2026Apr 5, 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.
Lawrence Bonk
•
Mar 19, 2026Mar 19, 2026
Deck Maintenance Checklists for Every Season
Keep your decking looking new with this deck maintenance checklist.
Deirdre Sullivan
•
Apr 9, 2026Apr 9, 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.