What is the standard height and width of deck stairs?

• <div><p>Most building codes list a minimum width of <b>36 inches</b> and a maximum height of <b>7¾ inches</b>. However, for the most comfort and spaciousness, you’ll want to aim for a width of at least 48 inches and a height of 7 inches. Again, it’s always a good idea to base your numbers off steps that you already use comfortably. </p></div>

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Q: Is it a good idea to pressure wash a wood deck?

• <div><p>Yes, pressure washing a wood deck can be a good idea as it effectively lifts ingrained dirt, mold, and mildew, improving the deck's appearance and longevity. However, it must be done carefully, as it's easy to damage the wood, especially softwoods. To pressure wash safely, use a lower pressure setting and a wide, 40-degree fan pattern nozzle (often white). Keep the nozzle at least a foot away from the wood surface and maintain constant motion, avoiding hovering in one spot to prevent gouging.</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>

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: How many steps on a deck before you need a railing?

• <div><p>Local building codes don&rsquo;t specify the number of steps a deck can have before a railing is required, mainly because stair height varies widely. Most areas require decks 30 inches or higher to have a railing. While not exact, that roughly equates to four to seven steps.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Deck Repair pros in Canton, MN

*The Angi rating for Deck Repair companies in Canton, MN is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Deck Repair needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Deck Repair companies in Canton, MN is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Deck Repair needs.

Last update on June 08, 2024

Reviewed in June 2024
Very considerate & careful when power washing around flowers & lawn ornaments. I have had many compliments on how sparkling clean my house looks now after the power washing!
Dry Creek Soft and Power washing LLC
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Reviewed in May 2024
They replaced all the windows in my home, did not damage any of the original wood work. Kitchen refacing looks amazing
Mad City Windows & Baths
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Reviewed in April 2024
Facing wet basement problems is the most terrifying experience, but they handled the job, and got it done well.
Groundworks
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Reviewed in September 2023
The crew we had working on our house was amazing!! We didn’t know what we would uncover when we decided to replace our siding, soffit and gutters. This team took care of all of it and left us knowing that everything was done correctly. We would highly recommend All Craft for any of your home...
All Craft Exteriors
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Reviewed in March 2023
Goldsmithâ s work on our bathroom project exceeded our expectations! He was professional and friendly. He helped us pick out the best materials and completed the work in just two days! He left our house clean and was respectful of our family as we were at home while he worked. We couldnâ t...
Goldsmith Remodel And Design LLC
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Reviewed in March 2023
John responded quickly, and worked hard to give me a great value for my dollar.
JMAX Specialty Contracting, Inc.
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Reviewed in October 2022
Schmidt Roofing responded quickly after the insurance adjustor had assessed the damage. They worked well with our insurance provider to get us the best benefit. They provided us options of which shingles were available. The crew did an amazing job. The job was challenging because of the height...
Schmidt Roofing
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Reviewed in February 2022
As a member of the Smart Club, I appreciate the regular furnace/air conditioning check up. Chee did it this time. I often watch what home repair technicians do during their procedures because I receive a review or learn something new each time. He explained the status of the "health"...
Standard Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc.
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Reviewed in September 2021
Excellent. He was very professional, and carefully explained everything to us. We feel he did a thorough job of inspecting our home .
American Waterworks
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Reviewed in May 2021
We had her to do new house construction clean up before moving in. They did an excellent job.
Ready Maid, LLC
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Find Deck repair pros in Canton

Legacy Roofing and Construction

4.8(

)

Serving Canton, MN and surrounding areas

In business since 2009

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Josh and his crew were professional and on time. His bid came in way below other companies."

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Serving Canton, MN and surrounding areas

In business since 2025

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"James was amazing! He was in contact with us in scheduling a time to look at our project, we received an estimate by email the next day and let us know a time frame on when he could get the patio poured. He was extremely professional and the sub-contractor he hired to do our job was on-time and worked till late evening just to clean up the job site. I would definitely hire Driftless Craft for our next project!!!"

Response time3 days

18 neighbors recently requested a quote

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Renew Crew of Southeast Minnesota

New to Angi

Serving Canton, MN and surrounding areas

Welcome to Renew Crew of Southeast Minnesota. If you need gutter, siding, patio or deck cleaning in the greater Southeast Minnesota area, give us a call. Our environmentally friendly 3-step process combines pressure washing and sealing to leave your outdoor surface not only deep down clean, but protected.\n\nGive us a call and get your free estimate.

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BuildProz

New to Angi

Serving Canton, MN and surrounding areas

In business since 2012

Free estimates

Small jobs welcome

We are a small construction business with over 10+ years of experience in carpentry and construction industry. Whether your project is as simple as hanging pictures or as complicated as a new deck we got you covered! Put your trust in the Pros by choosing BuildProz.

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Mast Construction LLC

New to Angi

Serving Canton, MN and surrounding areas

In business since 2021

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

Mast Construction LLC is committed to excellence in 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.

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QualityFast

New to Angi

Serving Canton, MN and surrounding areas

In business since 2022

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

QualityFast is committed to excellence in 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.

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Caledonia Lumber Co., Inc.

New to Angi

Serving Canton, MN and surrounding areas

In business since 2024

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

We take great pride in our experience, expertise, quality, and customer service that we provide to meet the consumer's needs. It is our mission to provide excellent workmanship and complete customer satisfaction, from the start to the completion of a project. In order to understand the needs and expectations of our customers, we take great care to work and communicate with every customer in a professional manner. Our reputation is based on service, safety, and quality, regardless of how large or small the job.\n

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Deck Repair questions, answered by experts

Yes, pressure washing a wood deck can be a good idea as it effectively lifts ingrained dirt, mold, and mildew, improving the deck's appearance and longevity. However, it must be done carefully, as it's easy to damage the wood, especially softwoods. To pressure wash safely, use a lower pressure setting and a wide, 40-degree fan pattern nozzle (often white). Keep the nozzle at least a foot away from the wood surface and maintain constant motion, avoiding hovering in one spot to prevent gouging.

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.

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.

Local building codes don’t specify the number of steps a deck can have before a railing is required, mainly because stair height varies widely. Most areas require decks 30 inches or higher to have a railing. While not exact, that roughly equates to four to seven steps.

Most building codes list a minimum width of 36 inches and a maximum height of 7¾ inches. However, for the most comfort and spaciousness, you’ll want to aim for a width of at least 48 inches and a height of 7 inches. Again, it’s always a good idea to base your numbers off steps that you already use comfortably.

The Canton, MN homeowners’ guide to deck repair services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

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How Much Does Deck Replacement or Repair Cost? [2026 Data]
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How Much Does Deck Refinishing Cost? [2026 Data]
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How Much Does It Cost to Replace Deck Railings? [2026 Data]
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How to Repair a Deck: DIY Fixes from the Boards to the Railings
Deck repair is a great way to stretch your DIY muscles while keeping your deck safe and stylish. Here are the common repairs and how to tackle them.
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Jul 8, 2026Jul 8, 2026
The Ultimate Deck Repair Checklist
If your deck is in bad shape, this deck repair checklist will help you inspect, clean, maintain, and repair it without missing any vital steps in the process.