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>

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>

Get matched with top deck maintenance specialists in Iron Mountain, MI

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>

Q: Will an elevated deck increase a home's resale value?

• <div><p>Yes, an elevated deck can increase a home's resale value. Homeowners can expect a 65% return on investment from the cost of a second-story deck installation. For example, if you spend $5,000 to install a second-story deck, that deck will add $3,250 to the value of your home.</p></div>

Q: Should deck boards be spaced or tight?

• <div><p>Deck boards should be spaced no more than three-eighths of an inch apart. This is enough space to allow water and small debris to pass through without collecting on the surface, but not enough to create a tripping hazard. Certain materials, like pressure-treated wood, shrink over time, so they may need less space at installation. </p></div>

Q: Should a gate swing in or out?

• <div><p>Ideally, a gate should be able to swing both in and out. However, if it can only open in one direction, it is generally best for it to swing inward. This is often the safest option, especially for deck gates near steps, as you'll want the gate to swing away from the stairs. An inward swing also prevents the gate from opening into a public space, like a sidewalk, and can be more convenient when carrying heavy items like a wheelbarrow into a garden.</p><p>There are exceptions, however. The layout of your property may require a different approach. For example, if your property is on a slope, the gate may not be able to swing inward. You should also ensure the gate can open fully without colliding with any objects or blocking access to other areas. For a backyard garden gate where public access isn't a concern, the direction it swings is largely a matter of personal preference. Finally, always check your local building codes, as they may have specific requirements for which way a gate must swing.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Deck Maintenance pros in Iron Mountain, MI

*The Angi rating for Deck Maintenance companies in Iron Mountain, 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 Iron Mountain, 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 January 20, 2026

Reviewed in January 2026
Remodel upper and lower, home maintenance on exterior, furnace in 30 x 38 shop, new garage overhead door and entry door. Concrete flatwork.
RSK CONSTRUCTION LLC
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Reviewed in November 2024
Very pleased with the work ethic displayed and especially their honesty. My siding looks great. IÃ¢Â Â d recommend them to anyone!
MMR Contracting
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Reviewed in September 2023
Got the job done fast and efficiently! My house was immaculate afterwards! 10/10 recommend! Thank you Krystal!
Sunshine Cleaning Services LLC
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Reviewed in September 2023
Vary good work for the money
All Day Asphalt Sealcoating and Repairs, LLC
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Reviewed in January 2023
It went very well and they had good quality work. They did a quick and fast job.
RC Custom Builders, LLC
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Reviewed in August 2022
Mr. Sade was very professional. He arrived on time. The cost was extremely reasonable. And Joe cleaned our carpeting and sofa very well! We will definitely use his services in the near future. Being we have a puppy, there were spots we could not get out of the carpet. Joe was able to remove...
Joe Sade's Carpet Cleaning Service
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Reviewed in July 2022
Awesome service and workmanship from start to finish. Tom , his crew and the office were great to work with and went the extra mile to make sure the project was done right. We would use them again and would highly recommend them to anyone needing roof work.
Timber Creek Builders, LLC
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Reviewed in January 2022
We have had Rick do several projects for us from snow removal, remodeling, landscaping, installing vinal flooring, drywall installation and painting and have found his work to be excellent. He is very meticulous in all phases of his work including cleanup after completion. I have and will...
RL Handyman Service
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Reviewed in April 2021
We are very pleased with the work performed on our gutters and downspouts by Chad and his team from Sodak LLC. Chad was particularly helpful with solving a problem with one section of existing gutter and recommended a larger size that we had his team install. His team was very efficient and...
Sodak, LLC
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Reviewed in February 2021
Did good work. Showed up quickly, got all my snow off the roof and cleaned up everything that ended up on the ground. Courteous and efficient.
Midwest Snow and Lawn Care
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Find Deck maintenance specialists in Iron Mountain

Property Services of Michigan

5.0(

)

Serving Iron Mountain, 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 Iron Mountain, 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

Serving Iron Mountain, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 1983

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"I would like to recommend Gerard for anyone who needs work done promptly. He is very professional and very efficient. He answered my email immediately and had my brakes done the same day."

Remove and Replace Storm Damaged Decking

Response time6 days

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Serving Iron Mountain, 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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Get It Done Handyman Service

5.0(

)

Serving Iron Mountain, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 2019

Free estimates

"He was very punctual, efficient, and professional! He also was very reasonably priced!"

Response time4 days

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Serving Iron Mountain, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 2020

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

With over 5 years of experience in the hauling industry, CN Hauling & More is your industry expert in Delta county and the surrounding areas. We pride ourselves on our extreme professionalism and attention to detail. Our customer satisfaction guarantee will assure you are completely satisfied with our work. You can trust that we will treat your home as we would treat our own. Give us a call today, we look forward to working with you!

Response time7 hrs

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Bieber’s excavating

New to Angi

Serving Iron Mountain, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 2023

Free estimates

Offers commercial services

Biebers Lawn and Dock LLC is committed to excellence in every aspect of business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers interests, and make their concerns the basis of our business\n

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HD Exteriors & Interiors

New to Angi

Serving Iron Mountain, MI and surrounding areas

HD Exteriors & Interiors is owned and operated out of Crystal Falls, MI. We specialize in camp services as well as home services. From siding, soffit facia, roofing, decks, staining, painting, drywall, flooring, kitchen remodels, bathroom remodels, basement finishing, drop ceilings, you name. If I don't know how to do it, I know who does.

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Clear Water Drywalling

New to Angi

Serving Iron Mountain, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 2020

Free estimates

Offers commercial services

Clear Water Drywalling, is committed to excellence every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers' interests, and make their concerns the basis of our business.

Response time1 day

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Lake Effect Landscaping

New to Angi

Serving Iron Mountain, 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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Showing 1-10 of 15

Deck Maintenance questions, answered by experts

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.

Yes, an elevated deck can increase a home's resale value. Homeowners can expect a 65% return on investment from the cost of a second-story deck installation. For example, if you spend $5,000 to install a second-story deck, that deck will add $3,250 to the value of your home.

Deck boards should be spaced no more than three-eighths of an inch apart. This is enough space to allow water and small debris to pass through without collecting on the surface, but not enough to create a tripping hazard. Certain materials, like pressure-treated wood, shrink over time, so they may need less space at installation.

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.

Ideally, a gate should be able to swing both in and out. However, if it can only open in one direction, it is generally best for it to swing inward. This is often the safest option, especially for deck gates near steps, as you'll want the gate to swing away from the stairs. An inward swing also prevents the gate from opening into a public space, like a sidewalk, and can be more convenient when carrying heavy items like a wheelbarrow into a garden.

There are exceptions, however. The layout of your property may require a different approach. For example, if your property is on a slope, the gate may not be able to swing inward. You should also ensure the gate can open fully without colliding with any objects or blocking access to other areas. For a backyard garden gate where public access isn't a concern, the direction it swings is largely a matter of personal preference. Finally, always check your local building codes, as they may have specific requirements for which way a gate must swing.

The Iron Mountain, 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

Mitchell Grant
•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 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
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Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 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
•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 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
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Mar 19, 2026Mar 19, 2026
Deck Maintenance Checklists for Every Season
Keep your decking looking new with this deck maintenance checklist.
Deirdre Sullivan
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Jul 20, 2026Jul 20, 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.