Is it worth sanding a deck?

• <div><p>It is definitely worth sanding a deck to ensure the wood absorbs new stain. Sanding a deck removes the outer layers of aging wood, allowing the stain to penetrate. It also gives a fresh look to the entire surface as part of the <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-to-refinish-deck.htm">deck refinishing process</a>. Without sanding, your stain or sealant is less likely to absorb into the wood. While sanding a deck is a time-intensive project, the rewards are noticeable and long-lasting.</p></div>

Are porch columns load bearing?

• <div><p>Not all porch columns are load-bearing, though they can be. Some porch columns are simply decorative. There are <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-do-i-find-out-if-column-between-foyer-dining-room-living-room-decorative-or-load.htm">ways to identify a load-bearing column</a>, like looking for visible seams and a foundation. Also, check to see if the column directly enters the ground. In some porch installations, a contractor will excavate a hole to install a column into the earth along with a buried cement base for stability.</p></div>

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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: What are common signs of rot?

• <div><p>The signs of rot depend on the type. <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/what-does-dry-rot-look-like.htm">Dry rot looks like</a> cube-shaped cracks with a fluffy white, cotton-like texture. Wood with dry rot may also have a strong, musty smell. </p><p>Signs of other types of rot include wood that looks mushy or has black spots. The wood may crumble or give way when touched.</p></div>

Q: How can I make my deck railing more child- or pet-friendly?

• <div><p>To child- or pet-proof your deck railing, look for railing systems with narrow spacing&mdash;under 4 inches&mdash;between balusters or panels. For added safety, consider installing a clear acrylic or mesh guard along the inside of the railing to prevent small limbs or paws from slipping through. Avoid horizontal rails that adventurous kids can climb like ladders. You can also add self-closing gates at stair openings to limit access.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Deck Maintenance pros in Saxton, PA

*The Angi rating for Deck Maintenance companies in Saxton, PA is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Deck Maintenance needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Deck Maintenance companies in Saxton, PA is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Deck Maintenance needs.

Last update on December 05, 2025

Reviewed in October 2025
$100,000 in damages! This company completely ruined our home!! RMS was hired to finish our modular home - including decks, metal roof, HVAC, plumbing, electrical, finishing work, & construction of block basement. The results were not just disappointing, they were catastrophic. Licensed...
RMS Contractors Group, LLC
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Reviewed in November 2024
Hoyle Contractors did an excellent job! 2 small deck replacements. Workmanship was very good; we were pleased with the results. Would recommend Charles Hoyle Contractors to anyone
Charles Hoyle Contractors
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Reviewed in July 2023
My sales man Chance Decker was there step by step in the process in getting my hail damage approved by INS never had a loss or Gap in communication stellar customer service my siding team Ralph George and Jay were fantastic very maticulas in there craft and conscientious about their work great...
MHI Roofing Florida
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Reviewed in April 2017
I am very high on the people that did my furnace work. They have a program which is really nice, it cost me about $160 a year and you pay for it in advance. Then they schedule the appointment in the spring and they come out and do your air conditioning unit. They wash it all out with the hose...
Jed Heating & Cooling Inc
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Reviewed in August 2016
I would highly recommend Gosnell Heating for any residential heating or cooling system install or maintenance. Todd Gosnell installed my HVAC system in my home back in 2013, and has returned for annual check-ups since then. They are professional, responsive and very cost competitive- if you are...
GOSNELL HEATING
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Reviewed in May 2016
It went very well. They are always very detail oriented, letting us know exactly what they are doing and how it affects the overall maintenance of our system. There are never any surprises with them, they are upfront about all costs and what is necessary.
Petrucci Heating AC & Refrigeration LLC
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Reviewed in April 2013
We have a very large deck. Mr. Hannisick and his assistant arrived on time, did a top notch job, acted professionally and listened to our concerns. The price was quite reasonable for the area cleaned. He paid attention to our water level as we live on a well. He was even willing to do a...
Pittsburgh Power Wash Co Inc
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Reviewed in July 2012
I called them since they were in my hometown to check my central airconditioner for leaks, they came out right away the first time, charged over 250.00...then they were going to put a dye cartridge in it; which they didn't have and come back out, which I had to call them after a week, which cost...
Tri County Mechanical
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Reviewed in August 2010
Although we were charged for the cleaning and maintenance, the gutters remained filled with over 2"+of sludge and an additional topping of branches, leaves, sticks and even old bits of wood. I climbed a ladder and photographed this obvious lack of neglience.
The Property Group of CT Inc
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Deck or Porch Repair

Handyman for Multiple Small Project Service

Deck, Fence, Patio or Porch Clean and Seal

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Find Deck maintenance specialists in Saxton

Fagan Property Services

Fagan Property Services

Hernandez & Sons

Hernandez & Sons

Raker Builders Co

Raker Builders Co

M & R Remodeling

M & R Remodeling

Lowry's Restoration Services

Lowry's Restoration Services

S and B Remodel

S and B Remodel

s&b construction & remodeling partnership

s&b construction & remodeling partnership

Central PA Safe Surface Technologies, LLC

Central PA Safe Surface Technologies, LLC

Flaugh's Construction and Design

Flaugh's Construction and Design

Gilded construction

Gilded construction

The Saxton, PA homeowners’ guide to deck maintenance services

Cost to Seal or Waterproof a Deck [2025 Data]

7 Best Maintenance-Free Decking Materials

How to Clean Decking Safely and Naturally

Who Should You Hire to Replace Your Porch Columns?

Why Is My Wood Stain Not Drying? What’s Causing the Issue and How to Fix It

Why Is My Deck Stain Peeling? What’s Going Wrong and How to Fix It

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