Which is the most environmentally friendly decking material?

• <div><p>Both aluminum and composite decking materials are environmentally friendly, with aluminum decking coming in as the most eco-friendly option. </p><p>Though <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/what-is-composite-decking.htm">composite decking</a> helps remove plastics from landfills, recycles wood, and lasts longer than traditional wood decks, it’s not recyclable and only lasts for 25 to 30 years on average. Aluminum can last well over 30 years and is almost always recyclable.</p></div>

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Q: Which is less expensive, a deck or a patio?

• <div><p>Decks are generally more expensive to build because they require elevating and railings. The difference between decks and patios is that decks are elevated, while patios are usually on the ground level. Plus, decks are usually made of wood and need more maintenance than most patios. However, <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/deck-vs-patio-which-works-better.htm">decks and patios</a> serve the same purpose, providing outdoor space for you to enjoy.</p></div>

Q: What’s the difference between a deck and a terrace?

• <div><p>A deck is typically attached to a house and accessed via the back door. Decks are usually constructed from wood or composite materials. A terrace, on the other hand, is a raised platform that can be attached to or detached from the house and is typically made from a hard-paved material, such as paving stones. Terraces can be built on the ground or on the roof of a home. </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: What is the life expectancy of decking boards?

• <div><p>The life expectancy of deck boards varies widely based on the material, climate, and maintenance. Untreated wood boards typically last 10 to 30 years with proper care, while pressure-treated boards can last up to 50 years. Hardwoods generally outlast softwoods. Composite boards also tend to last longer than natural wood. Environmental factors like arid or humid climates can shorten a deck's lifespan. To extend the life of wood decking, it's important to consistently clean and seal it to protect against moisture, UV light, and insects.</p></div>

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Dale Jones Construction

New to Angi

Deck or Porch - Repair

Serving Malta, 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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Big Time Movers

New to Angi

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

Serving Malta, MT and surrounding areas

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

* 5 star ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ \n White glove Movers / transport /freight / junk removal *\nWe offer the best service ‼️\n⚫️Furniture \n⚫️ Packing\n⚫️Assemble\n⚫️ Car hauling\n⚫️Affordable prices\n⚫️Provide Packing\n⚫️Free Qoutes\n\nTreat each member as family?\n\nLocal & Long distance?\n\nNo Job to Big or Small ‼️\n\nCall Now ? 863-266-1850\n\n\nThe big time movers are here to make your moving experience peaceful in calm ? -Any assembly, dissassembly, all moving pads straps, dollys & travel time ALL INCLUDED IN PRICE\n-NO HIDDEN FEES\n-We offer "free haul away", we will take any unwanted furniture at NO ADDITIONAL COST TO YOU!!\n-We do both residential & commercial moves\n-Proffessional & Honest\n-Punctual & Reliable\n-We offer furniture protection (you only pay extra for supplies)\n-We move apartments, homes, offices, warehouses & even malls!\n-We offer junk removal services (enough to fill a pick-up truck, van, or box truck)\n-Long or short distance moves

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Allen's Siding & Windows, Inc.

New to Angi

Deck or Porch - Repair

Serving Malta, 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

Decks are generally more expensive to build because they require elevating and railings. The difference between decks and patios is that decks are elevated, while patios are usually on the ground level. Plus, decks are usually made of wood and need more maintenance than most patios. However, decks and patios serve the same purpose, providing outdoor space for you to enjoy.

A deck is typically attached to a house and accessed via the back door. Decks are usually constructed from wood or composite materials. A terrace, on the other hand, is a raised platform that can be attached to or detached from the house and is typically made from a hard-paved material, such as paving stones. Terraces can be built on the ground or on the roof of a home.

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.

Both aluminum and composite decking materials are environmentally friendly, with aluminum decking coming in as the most eco-friendly option.

Though composite decking helps remove plastics from landfills, recycles wood, and lasts longer than traditional wood decks, it’s not recyclable and only lasts for 25 to 30 years on average. Aluminum can last well over 30 years and is almost always recyclable.

The life expectancy of deck boards varies widely based on the material, climate, and maintenance. Untreated wood boards typically last 10 to 30 years with proper care, while pressure-treated boards can last up to 50 years. Hardwoods generally outlast softwoods. Composite boards also tend to last longer than natural wood. Environmental factors like arid or humid climates can shorten a deck's lifespan. To extend the life of wood decking, it's important to consistently clean and seal it to protect against moisture, UV light, and insects.

The Malta, 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
•
May 30, 2026May 30, 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
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May 30, 2026May 30, 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
•
May 30, 2026May 30, 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
•
May 22, 2026May 22, 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
•
May 5, 2026May 5, 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.