Can you build your own deck?

• <div><p>It is possible to build your own deck, but it’s typically better to leave the work to a decking professional. Decks can be exceptionally complicated, especially if you want a wrap-around or <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/second-story-deck-ideas.htm'">second-story deck</a>, and you don’t want to risk making an expensive or dangerous mistake. It’s usually better to hire a decking pro who can pull permits and build a structurally sound deck that will last for decades and provide the maximum return on investment.</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 Caruthersville, MO

Q: Can you build your own deck?

• <div><p>It is possible to build your own deck, but it&rsquo;s typically better to leave the work to a decking professional. Decks can be exceptionally complicated, especially if you want a wrap-around or <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/second-story-deck-ideas.htm'">second-story deck</a>, and you don&rsquo;t want to risk making an expensive or dangerous mistake. It&rsquo;s usually better to hire a decking pro who can pull permits and build a structurally sound deck that will last for decades and provide the maximum return on investment.</p></div>

Q: What is the standard spacing for spindles or balusters on a deck or stair railing?

• <div><p>Most building codes require that spindles or balusters on deck and stair railings be spaced no more than four inches apart. This safety standard, often called the '4-inch sphere rule,' is designed to prevent small children or pets from slipping through the railing. A good way to visualize this is that a 4-inch sphere should not be able to pass between two spindles. For the same safety reason, the space between the bottom rail and the deck floor should also be no more than four inches. As a general guideline, professionals often install three balusters per foot of railing. However, since specific requirements can vary by location, it is crucial to check your local building codes to ensure compliance before starting your project.</p></div>

Q: Can I use deck pier blocks as an alternative to traditional deck footings?

• <div><p>Yes, deck pier blocks can be used as an alternative to traditional deck footings, particularly for small or low-to-the-ground decks. Unlike poured concrete and buried post footings, deck blocks don&rsquo;t require digging or pouring. However, their use is regulated by local building codes, and they may not be permitted in areas prone to high winds, earthquakes, or hurricanes. Always consult your local building codes before choosing them for your deck project.</p></div>

Q: Where do deck boards often rot first?

• <div><p>Rot loves moisture, so deck rot typically impacts the parts of a board that stay wet. This includes the underside of boards, in addition to support posts and joists. However, any part of a board can rot, given the right conditions. </p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Deck Maintenance pros in Caruthersville, MO

*The Angi rating for Deck Maintenance companies in Caruthersville, MO 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 Caruthersville, MO 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 01, 2026

Reviewed in July 2026
Highly recommend they are very professional and get the job done right i would definitely hire them again
J L Adams Homes
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Reviewed in April 2026
Great handyman professional, reliable, and did excellent work. Highly recommend
Double J D.D.D.D.C.
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Reviewed in April 2026
He took very good care of us and highly recommend him!
Crows Nest Tree Service, Inc.
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Reviewed in May 2025
They did an excellent job on our fence. Couldn’t have asked for friendlier people to do the job. I highly recommend Pollards.
Pollards Decks and Fences
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Reviewed in July 2024
Cameron and Noah came to us last minute and got everything ready for us to list our house! They did excellent work and I even recommended them to my realtor for her to give to her clients needing repairs/paint/etc done in the future!
Mil Con Flooring and Renovations
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Reviewed in December 2022
Happy ?? Can't wait until it's done ?
LeafFilter Gutter Protection
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Reviewed in November 2022
Friendly, on time, and efficient!
Rodriguez Tech Network
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Reviewed in September 2022
They stayed till job was done.
Handy Hands
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Reviewed in June 2022
They were on time, and very professional. The work was excellent and the cost wasn't too high
Triple R Electric
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Reviewed in December 2021
Great prices, goes above and beyond, and high-quality work.
Hallway Carpet Cleaning and Repair
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Find Deck maintenance specialists in Caruthersville

Roberson Hands

New to Angi

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

Serving Caruthersville, MO and surrounding areas

Approved

New contracting company but experience in residential, commercial, and industrial. Aiming for high quality

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Siding Repair Systems

4.5(

128

)

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

Serving Caruthersville, MO and surrounding areas

In business since 2009

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"I had some siding repair work that needed to be done. Mike and his crew did a great job. I would definitely recommend them to for any siding project."

Recommended by89%of homeowners

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A-1 Cleaning Solutions, LLC

4.9(

)

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

Serving Caruthersville, MO and surrounding areas

In business since 2014

Free estimates

"Did a good job. Cleaned up afterwards. Very professional service. I would recommend this company for your power washing needs."

Response time1 day

Response rate87%

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Butlers Lawn and Garden

4.5(

)

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

Serving Caruthersville, MO and surrounding areas

In business since 2025

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Very professional , he did exactly what I needed him to do , plus went the extra mile and cleaned up some extra for me. I would highly recommend Butler's Lawn and Garden , they did a great job and I would use them again , thank you guys"

Response time2 days

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

Serving Caruthersville, MO and surrounding areas

In business since 2010

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"We had Ricky complete many jobs around the house. He repaired and installed trim pieces around the roofing edge, repaired siding, painted from porch posts, installed electrical outlets inside and outside the house and installed additional breakers, along with lights in the garage. All jobs were completed professionally and on time. He cleaned up all job sites when finished. He paid close attention to the quality of work and the craftsmanship was spectacular! We are already talking to him about future jobs around the house"

Response time9 hrs

Response rate90%

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Millers Custom Construction

5.0(

)

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

Serving Caruthersville, MO and surrounding areas

In business since 2024

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"I’m very satisfied with Sean and his crew. Very professional. Nice mattered young men. After starting the job they ran into more issues. Communicated with me on issues and price. I would recommend them to any one needed help. And I will be calling them for future projects."

Response time2 hrs

Response rate87%

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Williams Pressure Washing & Landscaping

5.0(

)

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

Serving Caruthersville, MO and surrounding areas

In business since 2020

Free estimates

Small jobs welcome

"He is very reliable and sticks with it until the job is done."

Response time30 mins

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Littles Home Remodeling

5.0(

)

Deck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and Seal

Serving Caruthersville, MO and surrounding areas

In business since 2012

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"Satisfaction Guaranteed. People person for sure. He is very detailed in the best way! He will jump in there and do it for the customer at anytime!"

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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JGs Handyman And Remodeling

New to Angi

Deck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and Seal

Serving Caruthersville, MO and surrounding areas

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

Small jobs welcome

The helper you didn’t know you needed.

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Patterson Renovations

3.3(

)

Deck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and Seal

Serving Caruthersville, MO and surrounding areas

In business since 2008

Free estimates

"Very trustworthy, really good value, and he is a man of his word. He cleaned up during and after the job was completed, and I would recommend this company."

Response time2 hrs

Response rate86%

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Showing 1-10 of 28

Deck Maintenance questions, answered by experts

It is possible to build your own deck, but it’s typically better to leave the work to a decking professional. Decks can be exceptionally complicated, especially if you want a wrap-around or second-story deck, and you don’t want to risk making an expensive or dangerous mistake. It’s usually better to hire a decking pro who can pull permits and build a structurally sound deck that will last for decades and provide the maximum return on investment.

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.

Most building codes require that spindles or balusters on deck and stair railings be spaced no more than four inches apart. This safety standard, often called the '4-inch sphere rule,' is designed to prevent small children or pets from slipping through the railing. A good way to visualize this is that a 4-inch sphere should not be able to pass between two spindles. For the same safety reason, the space between the bottom rail and the deck floor should also be no more than four inches. As a general guideline, professionals often install three balusters per foot of railing. However, since specific requirements can vary by location, it is crucial to check your local building codes to ensure compliance before starting your project.

Yes, deck pier blocks can be used as an alternative to traditional deck footings, particularly for small or low-to-the-ground decks. Unlike poured concrete and buried post footings, deck blocks don’t require digging or pouring. However, their use is regulated by local building codes, and they may not be permitted in areas prone to high winds, earthquakes, or hurricanes. Always consult your local building codes before choosing them for your deck project.

Rot loves moisture, so deck rot typically impacts the parts of a board that stay wet. This includes the underside of boards, in addition to support posts and joists. However, any part of a board can rot, given the right conditions.

The Caruthersville, MO homeowners’ guide to deck maintenance services

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May 2, 2026May 2, 2026
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