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: Can I pressure wash my own deck?

• <div><p>It is possible to <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-to-power-wash-deck.htm">pressure wash your deck</a>, but it&rsquo;s usually best to leave the work to a professional for two main reasons. First, power washers are expensive, and you can avoid high upfront costs by hiring a deck washing pro instead. Second, you must be careful to use the correct setting to avoid damaging your deck material. You can only clean soft woods like pine with a wide spray and a low pressure; otherwise, the water will leave unpleasant marks on your deck. Hard woods, composite material, and metal can stand up to increasingly higher water pressures.</p></div>

Q: How many coats of stain on a deck?

• <div><p>Two coats of stain are ideal for the best protection and aesthetic appeal. However, if your decking is made of particularly dense hardwood, you may only need one coat. If you want an intense color, two coats are ideal. </p></div>

Q: Should a gate swing in or out?

• <div><p>Ideally, a gate should be able to swing both in and out. However, if it can only open in one direction, it is generally best for it to swing inward. This is often the safest option, especially for deck gates near steps, as you'll want the gate to swing away from the stairs. An inward swing also prevents the gate from opening into a public space, like a sidewalk, and can be more convenient when carrying heavy items like a wheelbarrow into a garden.</p><p>There are exceptions, however. The layout of your property may require a different approach. For example, if your property is on a slope, the gate may not be able to swing inward. You should also ensure the gate can open fully without colliding with any objects or blocking access to other areas. For a backyard garden gate where public access isn't a concern, the direction it swings is largely a matter of personal preference. Finally, always check your local building codes, as they may have specific requirements for which way a gate must swing.</p></div>

Q: Can I draw my own deck plans?

• <div><p>Yes, you can draw your own deck plans in many cases. However, you must know your local building codes and be familiar with carpentry principles. Even then, it's always best to run your plans by a professional contractor with experience building decks, whether you choose to DIY some of the build or not.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Deck Cleaning pros in Dell Rapids, SD

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Last update on December 12, 2025

Reviewed in December 2025
Brock did an excellent job building our new deck! I absolutely love it! We are looking forward to sitting on the deck when the weather gets warm and enjoying retirement. Thanks Brock!
Ultimate Flooring & Contracting
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Reviewed in April 2025
We recently had all the windows in our house replaced through Mad City. We were so impressed with the entire experience, from sales to completion! The windows are amazing quality, and we could tell a difference in our house within an hour of getting home. And in an old, slightly off kilter...
Mad City Windows & Baths
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Reviewed in December 2024
Corey did an amazing job with spring and fall clean-up and weekly mowing for my mother's lawn. He paid great attention to detail and was always dependable and flexible. I would highly recommend him for all lawn care services. Corey also blew out the AC unit and cleaned the dryer vent. Upon...
Triple T Trailer Rentals
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Reviewed in November 2023
The crew was great when building our shed. Fast, friendly and cleaned up the work site when done. I only wish they were closer so we could have them build a new shed for us since we have since moved.
Smith Construction
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Reviewed in September 2023
RT Handyman did an excellent job creating the vision we had for our main level remodel. TJ is very detail oriented and a perfectionist! He walked us through each area of the remodel to discuss details including price, time for completion and what to expect throughout the process. RT Handyman and...
RT Handyman LLC
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Reviewed in May 2023
Timothy was very courteous a true professional. Job was done perfectly and the mess all cleaned up.
Prairie Hands
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Reviewed in March 2023
We were remolding the inside of a flip house that we had bought. They came in and got it started. They tore everything up from walls, to cabinets to flooring and roofing. They did an outstanding job cleaning it up and making sure that there was no damage to anything we did not want removed...
SD Alternative Services Corp
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Reviewed in September 2022
We were very pleased with Connelly Flooring. Travis was responsive, returned phone calls, text messages and emails. They started project when it was scheduled, showed up on time, cleaned up after themselves, and kept us informed of progress. Travis had creative flooring ideas and completed...
Connelly's Flooring
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Reviewed in August 2022
They cleaned up the job afterward and I didn't find anything at all where you usually find nails after projects like these are done. He did a really good job.
A&E Remodeling
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Reviewed in May 2022
The service and work that have been done have been really professional and clean.
Premier Cleaning and Lawn
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Find Deck cleaning pros in Dell Rapids

Neighborhood Handyman LLC

5.0(

)

Serving Dell Rapids, SD and surrounding areas

Approved

Super Service Award Winner

In business since 2024

Free estimates

Small jobs welcome

"BH Handyman, was very professional, explained the work he was going to do, and is very flexible. He did a great job and I recommend him."

Response time8 hrs

Recommended by55%of homeowners

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Dakota Maintenance, Inc.

4.6(

)

Serving Dell Rapids, SD and surrounding areas

In business since 1997

Free estimates

Small jobs welcome

"They also installed grab bars in the shower. They always do a good job, are friendly, and clean up."

+58

Response time1 day

Response rate93%

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Midwest Window Washers

5.0(

)

Serving Dell Rapids, SD and surrounding areas

In business since 2023

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Through and tidy and shift"

Response time4 hrs

Recommended by33%of homeowners

Serving Dell Rapids, 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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Rains' handyman services

5.0(

)

Serving Dell Rapids, SD and surrounding areas

In business since 2022

Free estimates

Warranties offered

"Did a great job and always on time. Polite and friendly."

Response time8 hrs

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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A1 seamless Rain Gutters inc.

4.8(

)

Serving Dell Rapids, SD and surrounding areas

In business since 2011

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Ryan was very attentive and responded to all my questions in a timely basis. His bid to reshingle my roof was very competitive, however, I ended up hiring a family member of someone I work with that gave me a very deep discount."

Response time6 days

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Trublue of Sioux Empire

4.3(

)

Serving Dell Rapids, 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 time8 hrs

Response rate94%

18 neighbors recently requested a quote

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Euro Design Home Improvement

4.2(

)

Serving Dell Rapids, SD and surrounding areas

In business since 2003

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"Alex was great to work with. He responded quickly with an estimate and had the work completed a just a couple of days after that. Friendly, professional, fast. Would definitely recommend him to others and I will use for future projects."

Response time2 days

Recommended by87%of homeowners

Serving Dell Rapids, SD and surrounding areas

In business since 2020

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Quinn, from Handymen, was on time and extremely professional. He solved and corrected an electrical problem that had been an issue for several years. His honesty was very appreciated as he could have said, with our second issue, the entire faucet needed to be replaced. Instead he fixed it with a tightening and replacement of a piece that he had available with him. His work was completed quickly at an extremely reasonable cost. I highly recommend HardyHands Handymen."

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Gentry Construction And Homes LLC

3.0(

)

Serving Dell Rapids, SD and surrounding areas

In business since 2020

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Replaced deck carpet a replaced new deck railings. Did a very good job. He made sure the job was done correctly. He was very good to work with and friendly."

Response time12 hrs

Response rate99%

Recommended by25%of homeowners

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Showing 1-10 of 22

Deck Cleaning questions, answered by experts

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.

It is possible to pressure wash your deck, but it’s usually best to leave the work to a professional for two main reasons. First, power washers are expensive, and you can avoid high upfront costs by hiring a deck washing pro instead. Second, you must be careful to use the correct setting to avoid damaging your deck material. You can only clean soft woods like pine with a wide spray and a low pressure; otherwise, the water will leave unpleasant marks on your deck. Hard woods, composite material, and metal can stand up to increasingly higher water pressures.

Two coats of stain are ideal for the best protection and aesthetic appeal. However, if your decking is made of particularly dense hardwood, you may only need one coat. If you want an intense color, two coats are ideal.

Ideally, a gate should be able to swing both in and out. However, if it can only open in one direction, it is generally best for it to swing inward. This is often the safest option, especially for deck gates near steps, as you'll want the gate to swing away from the stairs. An inward swing also prevents the gate from opening into a public space, like a sidewalk, and can be more convenient when carrying heavy items like a wheelbarrow into a garden.

There are exceptions, however. The layout of your property may require a different approach. For example, if your property is on a slope, the gate may not be able to swing inward. You should also ensure the gate can open fully without colliding with any objects or blocking access to other areas. For a backyard garden gate where public access isn't a concern, the direction it swings is largely a matter of personal preference. Finally, always check your local building codes, as they may have specific requirements for which way a gate must swing.

Yes, you can draw your own deck plans in many cases. However, you must know your local building codes and be familiar with carpentry principles. Even then, it's always best to run your plans by a professional contractor with experience building decks, whether you choose to DIY some of the build or not.

The Dell Rapids, 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
•
May 30, 2026May 30, 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
•
May 30, 2026May 30, 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
•
Apr 10, 2026Apr 10, 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
•
Apr 8, 2026Apr 8, 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
•
Apr 5, 2026Apr 5, 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.