Do you need to prime composite decking before painting?

• <div><p>It’s best to prime composite decking before painting. This promotes better paint adhesion, helps create a smooth finish, and can mean the paint job will last longer. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application, allow ample primer drying time before painting (typically 24 to 48 hours), and thoroughly clean the deck boards to promote the best adhesion. </p></div>

Get matched with top deck maintenance specialists in Houghton, MI

Q: What’s the average cost to replace a 20-by-20-foot deck?

• <div><p>Expect to spend around $10,000 to $11,000 to replace a 20-by-20-foot deck. Using high-end materials like composite or exotic hardwoods can drive up the cost, as can custom features and design elements. You can also expect to pay more than average if your deck replacement requires a site evaluation or if you need the work done during the busy season.</p></div>

Q: Do you need to prime composite decking before painting?

• <div><p>It&rsquo;s best to prime composite decking before painting. This promotes better paint adhesion, helps create a smooth finish, and can mean the paint job will last longer. Always follow the manufacturer&rsquo;s instructions for application, allow ample primer drying time before painting (typically 24 to 48 hours), and thoroughly clean the deck boards to promote the best adhesion. </p></div>

Q: Is it necessary to skirt a deck?

• <div><p>No, it isn&rsquo;t necessary to skirt a deck, but investing in the cost to install deck skirting can bring more value to your home. Not only does deck skirting make the deck look more complete, but it can also turn otherwise unused space beneath the deck into useful storage space.</p></div>

Q: Should decks be painted or stained?

• <div><p>Whether to paint or stain a deck depends on your personal preference for appearance and budget. Stain provides a natural look with a range of undertones, is typically less expensive, and may only require one coat, but it does not last as long as paint. Paint offers a sleeker finish with a virtually unlimited color palette. Both options will protect your deck from outdoor elements like rain, snow, and general wear and tear.</p></div>

Q: How long does a pressure-treated decking last?

• <div><p>Pressure-treated decks last 15 to 20 years on average, but with proper maintenance, you could get 40 to 50 years of value from yours. Reseal your deck every one to two years, and replace old or rotted wood as soon as possible to avoid structural damage. Where you live plays a role in the lifespan of your deck. Intense sunlight, rainfall, wind, and hail can reduce the deck&rsquo;s lifespan.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Deck Maintenance pros in Houghton, MI

*The Angi rating for Deck Maintenance companies in Houghton, 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 Houghton, 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 July 03, 2026

Reviewed in July 2026
I can’t say enough good things about Olson Electric and Ron Olson. On the Friday of a holiday weekend, with a houseful of company, we discovered that our dishwasher had completely lost power. Not exactly the kind of problem you want heading into a busy weekend. I called Ron, and he came right...
RP Olson Electric, Inc.
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Reviewed in June 2026
Very Professional. Scheduled an appointment we all walked the property Called Tikky's setup an appointment and he arrived on time. We walked our property and he gave us the pros and cons of the work required. Gave us quote we accepted, setup a date. Large trees near buildings, stumps...
Tikky's Tree Service
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Reviewed in December 2024
Great contractor! Good work ethics , prompt a reliable!! Will use again
Copper Country Carpentry, LLC
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Reviewed in October 2024
David is very careful and knowledgeable about tree removal. He was able to remove a dead tree that was leaning toward my deck. No limbs fell onto the deck, and he completed the task quickly, then cleaned up and stacked the wood. When he left, there was only a bit of sawdust left. GREAT JOB:well...
Newman Tree Service
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Reviewed in June 2024
Eric is legit! He really helped me with some home projects that I didn't have the time or confidence to DIY. They answered all my questions along the way and had great communication. The work they did is superb and all the finishing details are crispy. Our space really benefited from...
Morris Property Services
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Reviewed in June 2024
Allan did my underground plumbing in my house, did a fast and good job. Highly recommend.
Eko Mechanical LLC
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Reviewed in March 2024
Great workers, fast response and did a fantastic job. Had the trees removed, limbed and bucked loaded in the chipper and cleaned up the yard afterward! Will definitely recommend them, fast friendly service, good people.
Carlson Contracting, Inc.
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Reviewed in April 2023
Mr Ramon Shanchez showed up as promised. We negotiated a good Snowbird contract from the 1st May to 1 October 2023. I have the utmost trust in Mr. Sanchez and believe he will do a superior job throughout the hot summer months here in Sebring. He will also ensure my property is taken care of and...
Sanchez Lawn Care
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Reviewed in December 2022
Very professional, cleaned the place after themselves, and it was finished under timeframe.
Alliance Realty Partners, LLC
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Reviewed in August 2019
Did an amazing job on our old deck - made it look new. Came to do the project when promised and left the area neat and clean.
SealwiZe by V.R. Holinka
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Find Deck maintenance specialists in Houghton

Jarman Property Services LLC

4.6(

)

Deck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and Seal

Serving Houghton, MI and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2021

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Showed up like scheduled and went right to work. Very personable. Would recommen."

Response time1 day

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Property Services of Michigan

5.0(

)

Deck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and SealDeck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and Seal - For Business

Serving Houghton, 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(

)

Deck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and Seal

Serving Houghton, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 1993

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"I did not hire them. I cannot afford them at this time."

Response time1 day

Response rate93%

Recommended by84%of homeowners

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Mil-Vet Pro Services LLC

5.0(

)

Deck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and SealDeck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and Seal - For Business

Serving Houghton, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 1983

Emergency services offered

Credit card accepted

Underwater & Topside Construction & Demolition, Inspection, Repairs.\nMilitary Veteran Provided Residential, Commercial & Marine Services\nMobile Welding and Fabrication

+12

Deck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and SealDeck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and Seal - For Business

Serving Houghton, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 2021

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"Pretty good job. Did not have the equipment to be able to get everything I requested. Friendly service and decent rates although was not the best at the communication of project delays."

Response time8 hrs

Recommended by75%of homeowners

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Lake Effect Landscaping

New to Angi

Deck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and Seal

Serving Houghton, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 2023

Free estimates

We're a locally owned and operated company that values honesty and integrity and treats your home as if it were our own. Our services are customized to the individual project, paying close attention to the details of each project that we're involved with. We pride ourselves on the quality of our work as well as our commitment to outstanding results. We look forward to building lasting relationships and guaranteeing your satisfaction!

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Deck Maintenance questions, answered by experts

Expect to spend around $10,000 to $11,000 to replace a 20-by-20-foot deck. Using high-end materials like composite or exotic hardwoods can drive up the cost, as can custom features and design elements. You can also expect to pay more than average if your deck replacement requires a site evaluation or if you need the work done during the busy season.

It’s best to prime composite decking before painting. This promotes better paint adhesion, helps create a smooth finish, and can mean the paint job will last longer. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application, allow ample primer drying time before painting (typically 24 to 48 hours), and thoroughly clean the deck boards to promote the best adhesion.

No, it isn’t necessary to skirt a deck, but investing in the cost to install deck skirting can bring more value to your home. Not only does deck skirting make the deck look more complete, but it can also turn otherwise unused space beneath the deck into useful storage space.

Whether to paint or stain a deck depends on your personal preference for appearance and budget. Stain provides a natural look with a range of undertones, is typically less expensive, and may only require one coat, but it does not last as long as paint. Paint offers a sleeker finish with a virtually unlimited color palette. Both options will protect your deck from outdoor elements like rain, snow, and general wear and tear.

Pressure-treated decks last 15 to 20 years on average, but with proper maintenance, you could get 40 to 50 years of value from yours. Reseal your deck every one to two years, and replace old or rotted wood as soon as possible to avoid structural damage. Where you live plays a role in the lifespan of your deck. Intense sunlight, rainfall, wind, and hail can reduce the deck’s lifespan.

The Houghton, MI 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

Scott Dylan Westerlund
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Aug 31, 2026Aug 31, 2026
Cost to Seal or Waterproof a Deck [2026 Data]
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How Much Does a Pressure-Treated Wood Deck Cost? [2026 Data]
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How Much Does Mahogany Decking Cost? [2026 Data]
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Top Deck Maintenance Tips for Every Decking Material
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7 Best Maintenance-Free Decking Materials
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