Get matched with top deck maintenance specialists in Alma, MI

Q: Is it worth sanding a deck?

• <div><p>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 <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-to-refinish-deck.htm">deck refinishing process</a>. 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.</p></div>

Q: Should deck boards be nailed or screwed?

• <div><p>When installing deck boards, screws are generally a better option than nails. Screws offer superior holding strength over time, keeping the boards securely in place. In contrast, nails are more likely to pop out, which can create a tripping hazard. While you can use either, we recommend using 3-inch galvanized deck screws. To minimize the risk of cracking the wood, it's a good practice to drill small pilot holes before driving the screws into the deck joists.</p></div>

Q: Does a deck have to be perfectly level?

• <div><p>A deck doesn&rsquo;t have to be perfectly level. Many pros even recommend a gentle slope to ensure proper drainage and increase longevity. The ideal gentle slope is about 1/8 to 1/4 inch per foot away from the property, leading water away from the home to prevent pooling and reduce the risk of damage. It also minimizes rot, mold, and other moisture-related problems. </p></div>

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: Can you build a deck for $5,000?

• <div><p>Yes, it is possible to build a small, basic deck for $5,000, particularly if you use less expensive materials and a simple design. To stay within this budget, consider a size under 10x12 feet and use affordable materials like pressure-treated wood or cedar. While the general cost for deck building ranges from $4,350 to $12,560, with an average around $8,200, some projects can be completed for as little as $4,350. You can also save on labor costs by doing the work yourself, but be aware that mistakes could end up costing more than hiring a professional. A contractor may have a higher upfront cost, but they can ensure a safe, stable deck that will last.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Deck Maintenance pros in Alma, MI

*The Angi rating for Deck Maintenance companies in Alma, MI 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 Alma, MI 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 19, 2026

Reviewed in May 2026
I would recommend Jeffries Tree Removal to anyone in a heartbeat! Professional, did an awesome job removing two huge trees from our backyard, very close to our house, so glad we decided on him , very fair price to.
Jeffries Tree Removal
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Reviewed in February 2026
Integrity Roofing & Restoration showed up within hours of my phone call to give an estimate. The crew returned the next day to start the job. It was completed within the expected time frame. They were polite, respectful, and friendly throughout the process. I would highly recommend them.
Integrity Roofing & Restoration
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Reviewed in August 2025
Recently hired High-Line Tree Service to remove two massive, hard-to-reach trees from my property—and I couldn’t be more impressed. From start to finish, their team was professional, efficient, and incredibly skilled. These weren’t easy trees to take down, but they handled the job with precision...
Highline Crane and Tree Service
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Reviewed in March 2024
Dan Smith, the owner of Red Oak Stump Removal is a great businessman. He showed up on time, did a great job, cleaned up the entire area after he was done and was very reasonably priced. I would highly recommend calling Red Oak for any of your stump removal needs.
Red Oak Stump Grinding
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Reviewed in September 2023
Steve was professional, courteous, and proficient. The lawn and maintenance looked nice when finished. Iâ d recommend this company for fast, friendly service at a reasonable price.
Futuristic Gardens
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Reviewed in April 2023
The service was good and they were on schedule, everything was fine. They were friendly and they diagnosed the problem and they were able to adjust it.
Mobile Water Systems
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Reviewed in April 2023
Job started off on the wrong foot with them being off a day but the install crew of Kirk/Steven made up for it with the extra work they had to put in to make it right and to make sure that we would be happy with the overall results
Holland Heating & Cooling Inc
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Reviewed in October 2022
They did a great job removing a fallen tree on my property. Also there great on price and customer service.
Marvin's Lawn Care
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Reviewed in June 2022
Mark came out and evaluated our needs. He gave a fair estimate and plans to complete the work next week (weather permitting)!
Rangel's Waterproofing & Construction
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Reviewed in May 2022
He has made our boat float again with other alterations. He also welded and fixed our bent clothes line poles like they were new. I highly recommend him for any job.
Dave's Welding Services
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Find Deck maintenance specialists in Alma

Central Michigan Power Wash

4.9(

)

Serving Alma, MI and surrounding areas

Approved

Super Service Award Winner

In business since 2024

Free estimates

Small jobs welcome

"Excellent service. Very professional. Very reasonable pricing. Love the results. Looks like new!!"

Response time3 hrs

1 neighbors recently requested a quote

Recommended by46%of homeowners

Request Quote

Jezak Property Management LLC

4.4(

)

Serving Alma, MI and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 1995

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Could not have been any better. I am very happy with the result."

Recommended by68%of homeowners

Serving Alma, MI and surrounding areas

Emergency services offered

Credit card accepted

"I had gutters installed on my garage. The work was done quickly and Cameron Dawson was very prompt on day of installation, also very prompt on the estimate and replying to my emails. Kings Design did an excellent job and I definitely have more jobs for them."

+49

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Hank's Painting & handyman service

4.9(

)

Serving Alma, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 2020

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Bob and his crew did a fantastic job of thorough prep work and were careful to cover everything. Paint looks great, and I am pleased"

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Jezak Property Management

4.3(

)

Serving Alma, MI and surrounding areas

Emergency services offered

Credit card accepted

"Jeff did a wonderful job painting and putting in new floors in our house. He is very friendly and got the job done quick. I would 100% recommend him!"

+77

Response time2 days

Recommended by65%of homeowners

Serving Alma, MI and surrounding areas

Emergency services offered

"Really good. Did good work. Cleaned up everything they cut down an placed the wood I wanted to keep in a easy accessible spot in my yard"

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Property Services of Michigan

5.0(

)

Serving Alma, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 2007

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"He gave me a quote and did exactly what he said he was going to do. He was clear about to procedure and what he needed to do. It was nice and clean after the service, I didn't have to do any touch ups or clean ups. I was so happy with the results, I hired him to complete resurface my driveway."

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Preferred Power Wash, LLC

3.8(

)

Serving Alma, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 1993

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"They were very responsive and everyone from the office to the field was nice and competent and has a good idea of how customer service should be. They did a great job and got our deck looking nice and new. They seemed pretty thorough and didn’t cut corners. Definitely recommend based on our experience."

Response time1 day

Response rate93%

Recommended by84%of homeowners

Serving Alma, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 2018

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"MTS construction did an outstanding job redoing some shelves I needed done for my Christmas village"

+55

Recommended by80%of homeowners

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Concrete&Chandeliers, LLC

4.8(

)

Serving Alma, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 2012

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"Dependable on time well done very happy"

Response time1 day

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Showing 1-10 of 36

Deck Maintenance questions, answered by experts

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.

When installing deck boards, screws are generally a better option than nails. Screws offer superior holding strength over time, keeping the boards securely in place. In contrast, nails are more likely to pop out, which can create a tripping hazard. While you can use either, we recommend using 3-inch galvanized deck screws. To minimize the risk of cracking the wood, it's a good practice to drill small pilot holes before driving the screws into the deck joists.

A deck doesn’t have to be perfectly level. Many pros even recommend a gentle slope to ensure proper drainage and increase longevity. The ideal gentle slope is about 1/8 to 1/4 inch per foot away from the property, leading water away from the home to prevent pooling and reduce the risk of damage. It also minimizes rot, mold, and other moisture-related problems.

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.

Yes, it is possible to build a small, basic deck for $5,000, particularly if you use less expensive materials and a simple design. To stay within this budget, consider a size under 10x12 feet and use affordable materials like pressure-treated wood or cedar. While the general cost for deck building ranges from $4,350 to $12,560, with an average around $8,200, some projects can be completed for as little as $4,350. You can also save on labor costs by doing the work yourself, but be aware that mistakes could end up costing more than hiring a professional. A contractor may have a higher upfront cost, but they can ensure a safe, stable deck that will last.

The Alma, MI 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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How to Clean Decking Safely and Naturally
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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.