Get matched with top deck cleaning pros in Colts Neck, NJ

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.

An above-ground pool with a deck can increase your home's value by as much as 4% to 7%, but it depends on your local climate, potential buyers, and the size and condition of your pool. Some buyers see a pool as a liability instead of a luxury, especially if it's at the end of its life span. In general, it's best to add a pool and deck to your property if it will bring you enjoyment—not because it raises the value of your home.

No. In most cases, it’s not colder or freezing temperatures that affect decking materials but the amount of moisture that seeps into the materials as a result. For example, wood decking material is more likely to suffer from rot or decay when exposed to excess moisture from snow or ice. An extreme change in temperature can cause wood to expand or contract, but only if it’s not properly treated beforehand.

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.