How hard is it to build a deck yourself?

• <div><p>Building a deck isn't too hard if you’re handy with carpentry, have the necessary tools, and are willing to put effort into it. However, other factors, such as plans, permits, and design, can be hard if you don’t have experience in those areas.</p><p>Note: You’ll need another person to help you build the deck (especially for framing and setting the beams). Building a deck yourself will be very difficult if you don’t have an extra set of hands to help.</p></div>

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Q: Do I need to sand an old deck before staining?

• <div><p>In most cases, sanding an old deck before staining it is necessary to achieve a decent finish. If your old deck has a relatively new stain finish on it and you're only doing touch-ups, you can generally skip the sanding part. However, if your goal is to make the deck look and function better, sanding first is a must. </p></div>

Q: What maintenance does a wood deck require and how often should it be done?

• <div><p>A wood deck requires annual cleaning and regular inspections for loose or broken boards, nails, and screws. It should be refinished by applying a stain or sealer every two to three years to protect the wood from water damage, rot, mildew, and sun fading. The exact frequency can depend on the climate and the deck's exposure to sun and moisture. If your deck is painted, it will need repainting approximately every 10 years. Signs that your deck needs refinishing include faded, splintering, or warping boards.</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>

Q: Why is composite decking so much more expensive than wood?

• <div><p><a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-to-install-composite-decking.htm">Composite decking</a> might cost more upfront, but it delivers value in terms of durability. Unlike wood, composite material resists common deck problems such as rotting, fading, warping, and all the other things you don&rsquo;t want a deck to do. The extra processes lead to a higher price tag, but you&rsquo;ll save big in maintenance costs down the road.</p></div>

Q: How hard is it to build a deck yourself?

• <div><p>Building a deck isn't too hard if you&rsquo;re handy with carpentry, have the necessary tools, and are willing to put effort into it. However, other factors, such as plans, permits, and design, can be hard if you don&rsquo;t have experience in those areas.</p><p>Note: You&rsquo;ll need another person to help you build the deck (especially for framing and setting the beams). Building a deck yourself will be very difficult if you don&rsquo;t have an extra set of hands to help.</p></div>

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Hog Wash

5.0(

)

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

Serving Richardton, ND and surrounding areas

In business since 2021

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"Flexible and easy to work with"

+39

Response time3 hrs

Response rate100%

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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

Serving Richardton, ND and surrounding areas

In business since 2016

Free estimates

"Freddie was wonderful to work with. She painted my daughter's bedroom and did it in a very professional manner. She was fun to deal with and really cared about the quality of work that she did. FABULOUS JOB!"

Response time4 hrs

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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

Serving Richardton, ND and surrounding areas

In business since 2016

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Quick response, flexible scheduling, clean after work completed"

Response time3 days

Recommended by85%of homeowners

Request Quote

Prominence Contracting

5.0(

)

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

Serving Richardton, ND and surrounding areas

In business since 2018

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"They have good customer service and they are one of the best company I've ever had worked with and I would use them again. They have good quality worked"

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Jerome Miller Power Washing

5.0(

)

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

Serving Richardton, ND and surrounding areas

In business since 2023

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

We have the experience and we are committed to providing quality workmanship and superior customer service on all our applications. We at Jerome Miller Power Washing\n , strive to maintain our reputation as a high quality, very service oriented company with our main focus being customer satisfaction.\n

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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ENG Curbing and Concrete

3.2(

)

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

Serving Richardton, ND and surrounding areas

In business since 2012

Free estimates

Small jobs welcome

"They worked hard, were on time, they did a great job, and we were very pleased."

+20

Response time6 days

Recommended by66%of homeowners

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

Serving Richardton, ND and surrounding areas

In business since 2020

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

Greetings!\n\nJ&C Adventures LLC primarily provides professional home inspection services for real estate, including certified radon inspection services with a 48-hour turnaround time, as well as drug residue testing for domiciles. We have also recently added a drone to assist with performing roof inspections and to provide aerial photography/videography focused on the needs of real estate professionals. \n\nJ&C Adventures LLC also provides licensed contractor services, specializing in general home repairs and small projects.\n\nWe are fully licensed and insured for all our services. If you're interested in one of them or have questions, please do not hesitate to contact us. We can be reached using www.facebook.com/jcadventuresllc, emailing us at [email protected], or calling/texting (701) 260-9062.

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Express Painting, LLC

New to Angi

Deck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and Seal

Serving Richardton, ND and surrounding areas

In business since 2014

Free estimates

Here at Express Painting, LLC, we specialize in all painting needs for all residential properties and homeowners. We are known to provide the best in quality of work at great prices. Our integrity, professionalism, and attention to detail set us apart from the rest. Give us a call today, we are happy to provide a free estimate and look forward to speaking with you!\n\n \n

Response time1 day

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Any and All Big or Small

New to Angi

Deck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and Seal

Serving Richardton, 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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Dan's Rain Gutter Cleaning Service

New to Angi

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

Serving Richardton, ND and surrounding areas

In business since 2005

Free estimates

Dan's Rain Gutter Cleaning Service is the premier professional contracting company offering professional handyman services to our clients in North Dakota. We are known to pay exquisite attention to detail while making your satisfaction our number one priority.\n\nPlease call us today to schedule your appointment with North Dakota's true professional at work for you!

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Showing 1-10 of 16

Deck Cleaning questions, answered by experts

In most cases, sanding an old deck before staining it is necessary to achieve a decent finish. If your old deck has a relatively new stain finish on it and you're only doing touch-ups, you can generally skip the sanding part. However, if your goal is to make the deck look and function better, sanding first is a must.

A wood deck requires annual cleaning and regular inspections for loose or broken boards, nails, and screws. It should be refinished by applying a stain or sealer every two to three years to protect the wood from water damage, rot, mildew, and sun fading. The exact frequency can depend on the climate and the deck's exposure to sun and moisture. If your deck is painted, it will need repainting approximately every 10 years. Signs that your deck needs refinishing include faded, splintering, or warping boards.

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.

Composite decking might cost more upfront, but it delivers value in terms of durability. Unlike wood, composite material resists common deck problems such as rotting, fading, warping, and all the other things you don’t want a deck to do. The extra processes lead to a higher price tag, but you’ll save big in maintenance costs down the road.

Building a deck isn't too hard if you’re handy with carpentry, have the necessary tools, and are willing to put effort into it. However, other factors, such as plans, permits, and design, can be hard if you don’t have experience in those areas.

Note: You’ll need another person to help you build the deck (especially for framing and setting the beams). Building a deck yourself will be very difficult if you don’t have an extra set of hands to help.

The Richardton, ND homeowners’ guide to deck cleaning services

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

See all articles

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.
Lauren Bongard
•
Mar 17, 2026Mar 17, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Pressure Wash a Deck? [2026 Data]
The cost to pressure wash a deck depends on its size, condition, material, and whether you DIY the job. Help set your budget with this cost guide.
Scott Dylan Westerlund
•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
Cost to Seal or Waterproof a Deck [2026 Data]
Sealing a deck is important for protecting it against the elements. Find out the cost to seal a deck, whether you DIY or hire a pro to do the job.
Jenna Jonaitis
•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
How to Clean Decking Safely and Naturally
Cleaning your deck at least once a year boosts its durability and appearance. Learn how to clean decking, whether it's wood or composite.
Lawrence Bonk
•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
How to Clean a Deck Before Staining
Learn how to clean a deck before staining to ensure long-lasting adhesion, weatherproofing, and optimum appearance of this coloring and protecting treatment.
Jenna Jonaitis
•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
Top Deck Maintenance Tips for Every Decking Material
Deck maintenance is vital to protecting a wooden deck. Cleaning, staining and sealing a deck after pressure washing will add years to its lifespan. Protect a deck by following these deck maintenance tips for cedar and other types of wood materials.