Do I need to stain Ipe decking?

• <div><p>No, you don't need to stain Ipe decking, although you can if you want to change the color. You will, however, need to apply a UV coating if you don't want the natural color to fade. Speak to a <a href="https://www.angi.com/nearme/deck-staining/">deck staining specialist near you</a> to discuss the best options if you want to stain your decking. And remember that you’ll need to seal your Ipe wood deck annually to protect it from scratches and Mother Nature. </p></div>

Get matched with top deck repair pros in Hettinger, ND

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: What are the problems with composite decking?

• <div><p>The problems with composite decking include a high rate of expansion and contraction from temperature swings. This characteristic can cause boards to split, delaminate, or peel. In addition, significant movement can cause shrinking, warping, twisting, and bending. For this reason, you should minimize moisture and ensure proper airflow below your deck. </p></div>

Q: What are the disadvantages of eco-decking?

• <div><p>While eco-friendly decking, also called composite decking, is a win for the environment because it consists of recycled materials, it has trade-offs. These sustainable options often come with steeper price tags, lack natural wood's warm look, and can become uncomfortably hot under full sun. Some composite materials can also become slick when wet, posing a potential hazard.</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>

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Hellman & Sons Landscaping, LLC

5.0(

)

Serving Hettinger, ND and surrounding areas

In business since 2016

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Very professional and easy to work with. They were knowledgeable and helpful with questions and did a tremendous job on the install."

Response time6 hrs

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Serving Hettinger, ND and surrounding areas

In business since 2014

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

We are a locally owned and operated company that values honesty and integrity in all aspects of our business. Our major focus is on the quality our work and producing outstanding results. We are committed to creating a level of value unmatched by any of our competitors. We look forward to building lasting relationships with our clients and guarantee your satisfaction!\n

Serving Hettinger, ND and surrounding areas

In business since 2007

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"it was done in a timely manner"

+12

Response time2 days

Response rate86%

Recommended by60%of homeowners

Serving Hettinger, ND and surrounding areas

In business since 2011

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Anthony is great to work with. Responds quickly to phone calls and text messages."

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Millers Contracting LLC

New to Angi

Serving Hettinger, ND and surrounding areas

In business since 2016

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

We take great pride in our experience, expertise, quality and customer service that we provide to meet your needs. It is our mission to provide excellent workmanship and complete customer satisfaction from start to 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 a professional manner. Our reputation is based on service, safety and quality, regardless of how large or small the job.

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Any and All Big or Small

New to Angi

Serving Hettinger, ND and surrounding areas

In business since 2016

Free estimates

At Any and All Big or Small, our company is based on the belief that our customers' needs are of the utmost importance. Our team is committed to meeting those needs. We welcome the opportunity to earn your trust and deliver you the best service. No job is too big or too small for our experienced team. \n

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Oak Construction

New to Angi

Serving Hettinger, ND and surrounding areas

In business since 2021

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

Oak Construction 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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Happy Homes Contracting LLC

New to Angi

Serving Hettinger, ND and surrounding areas

In business since 2022

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 start to 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.

Request Quote

Woodys Construction

New to Angi

Serving Hettinger, ND and surrounding areas

In business since 2020

Free estimates

At Woodys Construction we pride ourselves on being the best home improvement company in the area. \nWe've built an excellent reputation for customer satisfaction by providing quick estimates, a great attention to detail, and competitive pricing. \nBeing a screened and approved professional gives you the peace of mind you need to allow us to give your home the attention it deserves. Call us today and let's get started!

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Mittleider Services

New to Angi

Serving Hettinger, ND and surrounding areas

In business since 2022

Free estimates

We are a locally owned and operated company. We value honesty and integrity in all aspects of our business. \nWe offer a variety of home improvement services that are customized to each individual project. \nWe pride ourselves on the quality of our work, as well as our commitment to outstanding results. \nWe look forward to building lasting relationships with our clients and guarantee your satisfaction!

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Showing 1-10 of 11

Deck Repair questions, answered by experts

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.

The problems with composite decking include a high rate of expansion and contraction from temperature swings. This characteristic can cause boards to split, delaminate, or peel. In addition, significant movement can cause shrinking, warping, twisting, and bending. For this reason, you should minimize moisture and ensure proper airflow below your deck.

While eco-friendly decking, also called composite decking, is a win for the environment because it consists of recycled materials, it has trade-offs. These sustainable options often come with steeper price tags, lack natural wood's warm look, and can become uncomfortably hot under full sun. Some composite materials can also become slick when wet, posing a potential hazard.

No, you don't need to stain Ipe decking, although you can if you want to change the color. You will, however, need to apply a UV coating if you don't want the natural color to fade. Speak to a deck staining specialist near you to discuss the best options if you want to stain your decking. And remember that you’ll need to seal your Ipe wood deck annually to protect it from scratches and Mother Nature.

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.

The Hettinger, ND 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
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May 30, 2026May 30, 2026
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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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.
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•
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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.
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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
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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.