How do you make a deck gate not sag?

• <div><p>You can use a few different tactics to prevent your deck gate from sagging. Aside from using strong, rot-resistant woods, introducing a diagonal element—such as a tension rod or solid piece of wood to act as a brace—across the gate will offer better support. You can also use rigid joists to prevent the gate from sagging.</p></div>

How long should I season my deck before staining?

• <div><p>It’s important to make sure the wood on a new deck is properly seasoned. Seasoning a deck is simple: Once you build it (or have a pro do so), just leave it alone so it can acclimate to the environment. If you don’t give the deck proper seasoning time before staining, the stain can lock in any lingering moisture and cause mold, rot, and other moisture issues down the road. Give the wood at least four to eight weeks to season before you stain.</p></div>

Get matched with top deck cleaning pros in Alexandria, SD

Q: Can I use deck pier blocks as an alternative to traditional deck footings?

• <div><p>Yes, deck pier blocks can be used as an alternative to traditional deck footings, particularly for small or low-to-the-ground decks. Unlike poured concrete and buried post footings, deck blocks don&rsquo;t require digging or pouring. However, their use is regulated by local building codes, and they may not be permitted in areas prone to high winds, earthquakes, or hurricanes. Always consult your local building codes before choosing them for your deck project.</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>

Q: Does a composite or Trex deck increase home value?

• <div><p>Yes, adding a composite deck, such as one made from Trex, can significantly increase your home's value. It is a valuable home renovation for recouping costs, with some estimates for return on investment (ROI) ranging between 60% and 70%. More recently, Remodeling's 2024 Cost vs. Value Report suggests a deck addition has an ROI of 82.9%, with an average resale value of nearly $14,600. A new deck makes your yard more functional, enhances the landscape's aesthetic, and can entice prospective buyers. The investment may have a higher return if the deck adds usable square footage to the property.</p></div>

Q: How long should I season my deck before staining?

• <div><p>It&rsquo;s important to make sure the wood on a new deck is properly seasoned. Seasoning a deck is simple: Once you build it (or have a pro do so), just leave it alone so it can acclimate to the environment. If you don&rsquo;t give the deck proper seasoning time before staining, the stain can lock in any lingering moisture and cause mold, rot, and other moisture issues down the road. Give the wood at least four to eight weeks to season before you stain.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Deck Cleaning pros in Alexandria, SD

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

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

Last update on June 01, 2026

Reviewed in June 2026
Tim trimmed some big branches over hanging our house and was very professional. Would highly recommend him for any tree project you might have.
TNT Tree Service
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Reviewed in June 2025
We needed 3 custom built-in bookshelves and Linden did a fantastic job getting us exactly what we needed! He is professional, prompt, communicative and easy to work with. Craftsmanship was outstanding. He takes great pride in his work and we would definitely recommend him to others!
Deckers
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Reviewed in January 2024
Marlin came and installed our dishwasher when he said he was going to come and do it, and he did a good job! He quoted us a price, and that was the price he charged us. We would have him come and do work for us again!! Well done!!
Marlons Repair
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Reviewed in March 2023
He was easy to work with, good at listening what we wanted and open to changes.
TT Electric, LLC
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Reviewed in February 2023
Our experience with SD Windows and Doors was very positive. They were professional and did an absolutely beautiful job with our project. They were also very knowledgeable and helpful. We would highly recommend them to anybody.
South Dakota Window & Door, LLC
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Reviewed in April 2021
Great quality work everytime. We have hired them manu times.
J & C Construction
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Reviewed in December 2020
Good work, good service and he's one that will always do his best.
Caleb Wipf
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Reviewed in June 2020
Harlan was professional, polite, and honest. He completed everything in a timely matter, payed attention detail, worked well with all the requirements we needed to abide by, and he did everything himself! Most of the other contractors I had reached out were not willing to follow the guidelines...
Dillon's Dakota Excavating Service
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Reviewed in June 2020
Ryan was great to work with especially since I had concerns about water lines in the tree roots. Ryan took care of all the locate requirements and checked in regularly with me. He will be hired to do some more trees for us!
Focus Land Management
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Reviewed in April 2014
They were conscientious of keeping everything else clean and did a great job. Also, the price they quoted me on the phone was how much they charged me.
Country Comfort
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Find Deck cleaning pros in Alexandria

Buckets & Brushes

4.6(

)

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

Serving Alexandria, SD and surrounding areas

In business since 2010

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"We are so thankful for Dan and his team. We had nearly our entire house painted and are very satisfied with his work! Dan cares about his work and the custom satisfaction."

+21

Response time2 days

Recommended by85%of homeowners

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Trublue of Sioux Empire

4.3(

)

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

Serving Alexandria, SD and surrounding areas

In business since 2009

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"John and his team with Trublue did a great job on my bathroom remodel. They went above and beyond and my new bathroom looks better than I ever imaged! John came in and we had a consultation on what I was wanting in my remodel and put in his system and was able to show me exactly how it would look. They were professional, knowledgeable, clean, timely, and kept me in the loop every step of the process. Will definitely be using Trublue for future remodels."

Response time9 hrs

Response rate100%

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Mr.KnowItAll

New to Angi

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

Serving Alexandria, SD and surrounding areas

Free estimates

Small jobs welcome

Offers commercial services

We specialize in exterior renovations, landscaping, epoxy, year round maintenance, and deck staining.

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Dakota Petriwood

New to Angi

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

Serving Alexandria, SD and surrounding areas

Fence and Deck Restoration \n\n\nAt Dakota Petriwood we specialize in exterior wood care. Our restoration services include cleaning, and sealing outdoor structures such as fences, arbors, decks, and play sets.\n\nRestoring is the key to protecting the woods natural beauty and original form.\n\nBenefits of sealing your fence:\n\nWaterproofs Wood \nExtends Wood Life\nMold, Mildew, and Fungus Resistant \nPrevent Cracking and Splitting, Rotting\nPrevent Carpenter ants, and Termites\n\n(Not Sold in Stores)\n\nCall us at 605-951-0045 or visit www.dakotapetriwood.com

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Putney Wood Restoration

New to Angi

Deck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and Seal

Serving Alexandria, SD and surrounding areas

In business since 2020

Free estimates

With over 5 years of experience, Putney Wood Restoration\n is committed to excellence 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. Call us today!

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Premier Concrete Coatings LLC

New to Angi

Deck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and Seal

Serving Alexandria, SD and surrounding areas

In business since 2024

Free estimates

Offers commercial services

\nPRIEMER CONCRETE COATING is dedicated to providing our customers with the best quality and craftsmanship. We are here to build relationships with our customers and communities and to provide our employees with a great place to work. We look forward to working with you.

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Cory Reed

New to Angi

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

Serving Alexandria, SD and surrounding areas

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

Small jobs welcome

I stand on honesty and integrity and fair pricing. I am located in Sioux Falls, SD.

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Knight Handyman Services

New to Angi

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

Serving Alexandria, SD and surrounding areas

In business since 2018

Free estimates

Over 30 years experience.

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Deck Cleaning questions, answered by experts

Yes, deck pier blocks can be used as an alternative to traditional deck footings, particularly for small or low-to-the-ground decks. Unlike poured concrete and buried post footings, deck blocks don’t require digging or pouring. However, their use is regulated by local building codes, and they may not be permitted in areas prone to high winds, earthquakes, or hurricanes. Always consult your local building codes before choosing them for your deck project.

You can use a few different tactics to prevent your deck gate from sagging. Aside from using strong, rot-resistant woods, introducing a diagonal element—such as a tension rod or solid piece of wood to act as a brace—across the gate will offer better support. You can also use rigid joists to prevent the gate from sagging.

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.

Yes, adding a composite deck, such as one made from Trex, can significantly increase your home's value. It is a valuable home renovation for recouping costs, with some estimates for return on investment (ROI) ranging between 60% and 70%. More recently, Remodeling's 2024 Cost vs. Value Report suggests a deck addition has an ROI of 82.9%, with an average resale value of nearly $14,600. A new deck makes your yard more functional, enhances the landscape's aesthetic, and can entice prospective buyers. The investment may have a higher return if the deck adds usable square footage to the property.

It’s important to make sure the wood on a new deck is properly seasoned. Seasoning a deck is simple: Once you build it (or have a pro do so), just leave it alone so it can acclimate to the environment. If you don’t give the deck proper seasoning time before staining, the stain can lock in any lingering moisture and cause mold, rot, and other moisture issues down the road. Give the wood at least four to eight weeks to season before you stain.

The Alexandria, SD 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
•
Aug 3, 2026Aug 3, 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.
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.
Jill Harness
•
Mar 6, 2026Mar 6, 2026
How to Clean and Seal Your Deck in One Weekend
Knowing how to clean and seal a deck can help extend its life and keep it looking like new. This DIY guide sheds light on the best way to clean a wood deck.