"I hired Pro Builder. Exceptional deck work! They are evident in every detail. The team demonstrated skill and precision, transforming our outdoor space into a functional and visually stunning area. Communication was clear, timelines were met, and the end result exceeded our expectations. Highly recommend for anyone seeking top-notch deck construction. Thank you Pro Builder."
"Cesar and his crew just finished a remodel of my master bathroom. This is the second major project completed in my home by CSZ (prior kitchen remodel) and once again they exceeded my expectations. Cesar worked with me along the way to come up with the perfect design to ensure all my requirements were met. He is knowledgeable and his attention to detail is second to none. The CSZ crew, Armondo and Benjamin were also a pleasure to work with. They are knowledgeable, trustworthy, and hardworking. They also did an exceptional job cleaning up at the end of each work day. My dog even loves them! I highly recommend CSZ Construction. They will most certainly be back for future projects in my home!"
"The work was excellent. You can't tell the difference of the old wall (1939). I would highly recommend them for work. Was done fast. Left the area clean. Was very impressed. Will definitely be using them again!"
"Freddy and his team are great. They are organized, neat and cleaned up once job was completed. They did a great job pairing my foyer and hallways which contained many detailed moldings. Highly recommended!"
"We hired Tito & Sons to do our new deck and they did a fabulous job. Showed up every day and worked very hard. They did a great job. Very pleased and clean. Respected property."
Semcore 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.
At Rowe Renovations LLC, we take pride in delivering reliable, detail-focused renovation services with professionalism and care. We specialize in home improvement projects including painting, flooring, trim work, railings, kitchen and bathroom updates, and general renovations. Our goal is to provide quality craftsmanship, honest communication, and results homeowners can feel confident in. We treat every project like it’s our own home — with attention to every detail.
Yes, pressure washing a wood deck can be a good idea as it effectively lifts ingrained dirt, mold, and mildew, improving the deck's appearance and longevity. However, it must be done carefully, as it's easy to damage the wood, especially softwoods. To pressure wash safely, use a lower pressure setting and a wide, 40-degree fan pattern nozzle (often white). Keep the nozzle at least a foot away from the wood surface and maintain constant motion, avoiding hovering in one spot to prevent gouging.
Deck boards should be spaced no more than three-eighths of an inch apart. This is enough space to allow water and small debris to pass through without collecting on the surface, but not enough to create a tripping hazard. Certain materials, like pressure-treated wood, shrink over time, so they may need less space at installation.
In most cases, there should be a small gap between the house and the deck, usually no more than ½ to ¾ of an inch. This space allows water and moisture to flow through instead of pooling against the side of your house. It also lets flashing protect your siding from runoff, which is one of the most common issues with decks.
You typically don’t need a railing and handrails on a deck that’s less than 30 inches from the ground. However, consider adding them regardless. Railings provide additional safety for you and your guests who use your deck—plus, railings give the deck a more finished look than it would have without them.
The proper height for a stair riser or deck step is between four and seven inches, with seven inches often considered the most comfortable. Building your stairs to this height ensures a strain-free step position and minimizes the risk of trip and fall injuries. For optimal safety and comfort, especially on deck stairs, a rise of around seven inches should be paired with a tread depth (or run) of at least 10 to 12 inches. While it is possible to design stairs with risers up to 12 inches, this height can be challenging for children, pets, or individuals with mobility issues. Always check with your local building codes, as they may mandate specific dimensions that differ from these general recommendations.
The Union, NJ homeowners’ guide to deck cleaning services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
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.
Learn how to clean a deck before staining to ensure long-lasting adhesion, weatherproofing, and optimum appearance of this coloring and protecting treatment.
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.
