Get matched with top deck repair pros in Ennis, MT

The proper height for a stair riser or deck step is between four and seven inches, with seven inches often considered the most comfortable. Building your stairs to this height ensures a strain-free step position and minimizes the risk of trip and fall injuries. For optimal safety and comfort, especially on deck stairs, a rise of around seven inches should be paired with a tread depth (or run) of at least 10 to 12 inches. While it is possible to design stairs with risers up to 12 inches, this height can be challenging for children, pets, or individuals with mobility issues. Always check with your local building codes, as they may mandate specific dimensions that differ from these general recommendations.

Before installing a new railing, check the condition of the deck frame and joists, especially around the perimeter where posts attach. If boards are loose, soft, or show signs of rot, the structure may need repair. A deck pro can inspect your framing to confirm it meets load-bearing requirements.

What goes under your floating deck depends on your preferences. Some homeowners put landscaping fabric underneath their decks to prevent weeds from popping up through the boards. Others choose to build a floating deck over grass or gravel. However, it’s best not to set your deck directly on the ground. Instead, set your deck on blocks to keep it elevated enough to prevent moisture from rotting the wood.

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.