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>

What maintenance does a wood deck need?

• <div><p>A wood deck needs an annual cleaning, plus refinishing every two to three years, which involves <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-to-sand-deck.htm">sanding the deck</a> and applying stain or sealer. If you have a <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-to-paint-deck.htm">painted deck</a>, you’ll need to repaint it every 10 years. You should also fix and repair loose or broken deck boards, nails, and screws. Cleaning your deck regularly and applying sealant protects the wood from the elements, water damage, rot, mildew, and fading from the sun.</p></div>

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Q: Does insurance cover wood rot?

• <div><p>Wood rot is not normally covered by insurance except in rare cases when it results from a covered event like a burst pipe. Wood rot is categorized as gradual, preventable damage, so most insurance policies won&rsquo;t pay for claims to repair wood rot damage. Check your policy to find out if wood rot is covered before making a claim. </p></div>

Q: Should you nail or screw deck boards?

• <div><p>You can either nail or screw deck boards according to your preference. We recommend using 3-inch galvanized deck screws in this guide because screws offer superior holding powder over time. If you&rsquo;re using screws, you can minimize the risk of cracking the boards by drilling small pilot holes before securing the boards to the deck joists. </p></div>

Q: Why is my deck leaning to one side?

• <div><p>The most likely causes of a deck leaning to one side are damaged deck posts, soil erosion, and inadequate deck footings. If you&rsquo;re not sure about the exact cause, the best option is to call a contractor <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-hire-deck-building-contractor.htm">who can build a deck</a> to inspect the damage and recommend the best way forward.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Deck Maintenance pros in Sterling, MI

*The Angi rating for Deck Maintenance companies in Sterling, 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 Sterling, 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 November 23, 2025

Reviewed in July 2022
Best experience ever, Dustin was easy to work with understood what we wanted. Dustin was always available when ever I and a question. The Crew that did the job were amazing & professional. you need painting look no further call Stier & Son's
Stier & Son Painting
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Reviewed in April 2021
All requested improvements were done in a safe and professional manner. We will be utilizing Mr. Thebo for future projects and have recommended him to friends and family based on our recent project success. Regards, Pennock
Tyler Thebo
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Reviewed in May 2012
II was very happy with Elysium from start to finish. I emailed them and someone got back with me right away to schedule a quote. Terry came over and walked through and addressed all my questions and concerns. He was very detailed and professional. He gave me a quote on the spot and I said I...
Elysium Painting Company
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Reviewed in July 2014
Called and left a message asking for a quote, I got a call back later that day. It was the owner who called me back he was very friendly said he could make it out the next night for an estimate. When he showed up he quoted $450, but he said if the algae came off easily he would only charge $400....
Pink Elephant Powerwashing
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Reviewed in April 2018
Jake was great to work with. Came and gave me a few quote and listened to exactly what we wanted and offered suggestions based off his experience. We are super pleased with the result. Jake and Eli worked fast and completed our deck in 3 days. Overall very pleased with the outcome and our...
Multi-Craft Construction Inc.
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Reviewed in May 2019
they came out right on time did the job, with the best equipment we seen used by power washing services, very pleased with the results, we put ourselves on their call list which they do ever year. We been a customer of theirs for the past 4 years never a problem.
Premier Reflections, LLC
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Reviewed in January 2015
Rob was very professional and did quality work. I pressed him to do the job in a specific window of time and he came through. Since I was out of town during the work he sent me pictures to show the progress. It did take a very long time to get the bill but when it came there were no...
RJD Inc
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Reviewed in March 2012
It was an older bathroom so they had a hard time finding some of the tiles but they did a very good job. They cleaned up after themselves and we are pleased with the results.
Happy Handyman Service LLC
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Reviewed in August 2008
They did a very good job. I checked the bottom of the deck - they even stained underneath the slats where people don't normally look. They were very reasonable.
ADDY'S MOBILE DETAIL
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Reviewed in July 2008
Dan estimated the job in mid March to be started the first of July because of prior commitments. Due to a great deal of rain he never got started until mid July. He took 2 1/2 days to complete the job. Again, rain slowed his progress. His work was well done. He was very easy to work with and...
DAN'S PAINTING SERVICE
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Deck or Porch Repair

Handyman for Multiple Small Project Service

Deck, Fence, Patio or Porch Clean and Seal

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Quality Carpentry Works

Quality Carpentry Works

CNT Services

CNT Services

Artsquatch's Power Washing, Paint, and Stain

Artsquatch's Power Washing, Paint, and Stain

SDH DEBRIS REMOVAL & HOME IMPROVEMENTS

SDH DEBRIS REMOVAL & HOME IMPROVEMENTS

Zac's Painting

Zac's Painting

Lake State Painting

Lake State Painting

Jack and Jill of All Trades LLC

Jack and Jill of All Trades LLC

Hager's Home Improvement's

Hager's Home Improvement's

Mobile Marine

Mobile Marine

D&D Builders

D&D Builders

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