What’s the difference between a deck footing and a deck post?

• <div><p>Both deck footings and deck posts help prop up your deck. However, footings are the bottommost parts of a deck that touch the ground. They’re usually made of concrete. Posts are pieces of wood that attach to the top of the footings with brackets. They run upwards and connect to the underside of your deck to support its weight. </p></div>

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Q: Is composite decking better than real wood?

• <div><p>Whether composite decking is better than wood depends on your priorities, especially regarding budget and maintenance. Composite decking offers superior longevity (30 to 50 years) and durability, and it is low-maintenance, requiring no sanding, staining, or sealing. In contrast, wood decks typically last 10 to 30 years and need refinishing every few years. While the upfront cost of composite is higher than wood, the reduced maintenance can lead to long-term savings. If a lower initial cost is the primary factor, wood is the more affordable choice.</p></div>

Q: Do you need a permit to repair deck boards?

• <div><p>No, you don&rsquo;t need a permit to repair and replace a few boards on an existing deck. However, if you&rsquo;re making structural changes to the deck or tearing down the old one and building a new one, you will likely need a permit. Check with your local municipality for the regulations and rules in your area, or ask a local contractor <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-hire-deck-building-contractor.htm">who builds decks</a> for advice.</p></div>

Q: Can professionals customize decks for unique spaces?

• <div><p>Yes, designing builds to fit space constraints and meet functional needs.</p></div>

Q: What is the best way to sand a deck?

• <div><p>The best way to sand a deck is by cleaning it, sanding the boards and stairs with 60- or 80-grit sandpaper, and sanding the railings and posts with 80-grit sandpaper. You should sand in the direction of the wood grain to avoid damaging the timber. When sanding your deck, use medium pressure and aim for an even sand. Pressing too hard with a sander can damage decks, as most are softwoods. </p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Deck Repair pros in Galata, MT

*The Angi rating for Deck Repair companies in Galata, MT 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 Galata, MT 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 July 22, 2025

Reviewed in July 2025
The entire process from start to finish was a breeze. The windows look great and the function as advertised. The installation crew was amazing. We enjoyed having them around for two days. The entire house, both inside and out, was spotless. We've received a lot of compliments from friends and...
Renewal by Andersen of Montana
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Reviewed in December 2022
These guys were horrible DO NOT HIRE THEM one of the movers stole from me a bottle of change and cologne my mother's prescriptions they were hired through movinghelp.com they broke a piece of persian tiger marble from an antique that belongs to my wife they damaged my wife's bed frame and the...
Odd Job Fellas
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Reviewed in September 2022
Be wary when looking for a plumber. I contacted Edwards Plumbing and Heating for quote to install a second shower head. I was charged an $85 service fee for the quote. Over a week later, I still have not received my quote. I contacted Edwards Plumbing and Heating to ask for a refund on...
Edwards Plumbing & Heating
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Reviewed in April 2021
Never got back to me with estimate.
805 Contracting, Inc.
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Reviewed in April 2020
Very knowledgeable and friendly. Gave us multiple options to fix the issue. Highly recommend them.
Harts Plumbers, Electricians, & HVAC Technicians
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Reviewed in February 2018
Valley plumbing was quick. They took time to explain what I needed to know about water softeners before the install to make sure I was making an informed decision. The techs were on time and very professional.
Valley Plumbing Heating & Cooling
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Reviewed in December 2017
Robert responded to my work request promptly, and with little information I was able to receive a quote. He had excellent communication on the front end of the project, while we waited on weather and scheduling. Robert and Vern did a great job patching up the exterior of the door. Great work!
Golden Wood, Inc.
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Reviewed in March 2016
They were quick and thorough
FRA Landscape and Concrete, LLC
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Find Deck repair pros in Galata

Beartracks Construction, LLC

New to Angi

Deck or Porch - Repair

Serving Galata, MT and surrounding areas

In business since 2008

We have over 20 years of experience in home repair and renovations. Customers come first, with quality and efficient work. When it comes to remodeling, deck building, and all other home repairs, Beartracks Construction, LLC, are the contractors you need. Give us a call today!

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Killam's Get It Done Maintenance & Repairs Service Great Falls MT

New to Angi

Deck or Porch - RepairDeck or Porch - Repair - For Business

Serving Galata, MT and surrounding areas

In business since 2019

Free estimates

Killam's Get It Done is your industry expert in landscpaing the Great Falls area. We pride ourselves on our extreme professionalism and attention to detail. Our customer satisfaction guarantee will assure you we will not leave your property until you are completely satisfied with our work. Give us a call today we look forward to working with you!

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Dale Jones Construction

New to Angi

Deck or Porch - Repair

Serving Galata, MT and surrounding areas

In business since 1990

Free estimates

We pride our company on reliability, great communication, integrity and quality work. We are experts in our concrete and landscaping and will do our best to keep you as educated as we can on your particular task or project. We look forward to working with you.

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Allen's Siding & Windows, Inc.

New to Angi

Deck or Porch - Repair

Serving Galata, MT and surrounding areas

In business since 1988

Allen's Siding & Windows, Inc., is a Full Service,Owner Operated Company for over 17 years in complete exterior home improvements from custom design additions, sunrooms, patios, and decks to complete siding and window installations and repairs as well as all exterior window treatments including custom shutters and awnings. We specialize in ALSIDE ULTRAMAX Windows, which have been energy star partner for 3 years running. We work with you from start to finish with complete client focus, and professional personalized service giving superior craftsmanship with attention to each detail to ensure we create the vision you have for your home. Hire The Contractor not a Salesman. Please see our website at www.sydngys.com

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Deck Repair questions, answered by experts

Whether composite decking is better than wood depends on your priorities, especially regarding budget and maintenance. Composite decking offers superior longevity (30 to 50 years) and durability, and it is low-maintenance, requiring no sanding, staining, or sealing. In contrast, wood decks typically last 10 to 30 years and need refinishing every few years. While the upfront cost of composite is higher than wood, the reduced maintenance can lead to long-term savings. If a lower initial cost is the primary factor, wood is the more affordable choice.

No, you don’t need a permit to repair and replace a few boards on an existing deck. However, if you’re making structural changes to the deck or tearing down the old one and building a new one, you will likely need a permit. Check with your local municipality for the regulations and rules in your area, or ask a local contractor who builds decks for advice.

Yes, designing builds to fit space constraints and meet functional needs.

The best way to sand a deck is by cleaning it, sanding the boards and stairs with 60- or 80-grit sandpaper, and sanding the railings and posts with 80-grit sandpaper. You should sand in the direction of the wood grain to avoid damaging the timber. When sanding your deck, use medium pressure and aim for an even sand. Pressing too hard with a sander can damage decks, as most are softwoods.

Both deck footings and deck posts help prop up your deck. However, footings are the bottommost parts of a deck that touch the ground. They’re usually made of concrete. Posts are pieces of wood that attach to the top of the footings with brackets. They run upwards and connect to the underside of your deck to support its weight.

The Galata, MT homeowners’ guide to deck repair services

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

See all articles

Scott Dylan Westerlund
•
Aug 3, 2026Aug 3, 2026
How Much Does Deck Replacement or Repair Cost? [2026 Data]
Deck replacement costs depend on materials, any structural damage you need to fix, and more. This guide explores how much it costs to replace or repair a deck.
Deane Biermeier
•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
How Much Does Deck Refinishing Cost? [2026 Data]
Refinishing your deck is a great way to restore its appearance and fall in love with your outdoor space. Use this guide to learn how much it costs based on factors like size and type.
Timothy Moore
•
Aug 3, 2026Aug 3, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Replace Deck Railings? [2026 Data]
Old and run-down porch railings can be an eyesore and pose a risk of falling. Find out how much it costs to replace your worn out porch railings with new materials.
Angi
•
May 21, 2026May 21, 2026
How to Hire a Deck Repair Pro
Find the best deck repair pro for your project. Learn how to hire qualified contractors, what questions to ask, and credentials to verify.
Ginny Bartolone
•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
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.
Catherine Hiles
•
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.