What’s the difference between a deck footing and a deck post?

• <div><p>Both deck footings and deck posts help prop up your deck. However, footings are the bottommost parts of a deck that touch the ground. They’re usually made of concrete. Posts are pieces of wood that attach to the top of the footings with brackets. They run upwards and connect to the underside of your deck to support its weight. </p></div>

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Q: How do I prepare the ground under the deck?

• <div><p>Before installing any materials under the deck for removing moisture, you should perform some prep work on the ground. Work the dirt under the deck to create a grade away from the home. A grade of at least six inches for every 10 feet works well. Do not leave a gap between the dirt and the home&rsquo;s foundation where water could pool. Once you or a contractor <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-do-i-regrade-around-my-house-foundation.htm">regrades the dirt under the deck</a>, you then can add materials over the top.</p></div>

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: Why is my deck fuzzy after pressure washing?

• <div><p>Your deck may look or feel fuzzy after pressure washing because the high-pressure spray tears some wood fibers as it removes the outer layer of dead and discolored wood. This fuzzy effect is a normal part of the pressure-washing process and will go away on its own in a few weeks. You can opt to spot-sand your deck if you&rsquo;d like to remove it more quickly.</p></div>

Q: Why is my deck leaning to one side?

• <div><p>The most likely causes of a deck leaning to one side are damaged deck posts, soil erosion, and inadequate deck footings. If you&rsquo;re not sure about the exact cause, the best option is to call a contractor <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-hire-deck-building-contractor.htm">who can build a deck</a> to inspect the damage and recommend the best way forward.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Deck Cleaning pros in Fort Pierre, SD

*The Angi rating for Deck Cleaning companies in Fort Pierre, 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 Fort Pierre, 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 August 08, 2024

Reviewed in August 2024
I would recommend them to anyone. Professional, fast and will last a long time. IÃ¢Â Â ll do it every year!
Midwest Window Washers
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Reviewed in February 2024
They were very knowledgeable and professional. They finished the project and did excellent work, the staff did an outstanding job and was very friendly. I would refer them to anyone based on our experience.
JM&M Construction LLC
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Reviewed in January 2024
We had 5 beautiful new windows installed and couldn't be more pleased.
Renewal by Andersen of Rapid City
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Reviewed in May 2023
Quick response. Professional quality of work.
ALO Radon
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Reviewed in June 2021
Justin & Ashley weâ re very friendly and super good to work with! I definitely would hire them again.
Garage Door Pros
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Reviewed in November 2020
He does good work, professional and very knowledgeable.
Dakota Builders, LLC
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Reviewed in September 2017
Do not hire this company. They make you think that they are local but the company is actually located in Beresford SD. Also, we had an agreement with Shawn that we would pay for the work at completion. I received bills from the Beresford office demanding money each month and trying to add...
TODD'S ELECTRIC SVC
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Reviewed in May 2015
He did an awesome job. He is a good guy.
Krueger Contracting
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Reviewed in May 2015
They did not do a good job. I had to replace my whole septic system because of the poor work they did.
Wheelhouse Plumbing
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Reviewed in May 2015
They were excellent and lovely.
ANDERSON CONTRACTORS INC
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Find Deck cleaning pros in Fort Pierre

BKWood Carpentry

4.7(

)

Serving Fort Pierre, SD and surrounding areas

In business since 2016

Free estimates

Small jobs welcome

"Blaine did a great job on the deck. It looks very good. It was very well built and it's super strong. :) Would not hesitate to hire Blaine again."

Response time2 hrs

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Dakota Petriwood

New to Angi

Serving Fort Pierre, 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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Aldinger Construction

New to Angi

Serving Fort Pierre, SD and surrounding areas

In business since 2005

With business starting in 2005, Aldinger Construction has been building a reputation of great customer service and top notch workmanship. We take pride in our work and it shows. You will see what separates us from our competition with every project we complete. We take the time to listen to our clients in order to give them the best options available for their project. Our customers love that we are fast and efficient without ever compromising quality. Please keep in mind that your remodeling project is an investment in the future of your home. Why not work with the best? Feel free to contact us for an appointment.\n

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Big Time Movers

New to Angi

Serving Fort Pierre, SD and surrounding areas

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

* 5 star ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ \n White glove Movers / transport /freight / junk removal *\nWe offer the best service ‼️\n⚫️Furniture \n⚫️ Packing\n⚫️Assemble\n⚫️ Car hauling\n⚫️Affordable prices\n⚫️Provide Packing\n⚫️Free Qoutes\n\nTreat each member as family?\n\nLocal & Long distance?\n\nNo Job to Big or Small ‼️\n\nCall Now ? 863-266-1850\n\n\nThe big time movers are here to make your moving experience peaceful in calm ? -Any assembly, dissassembly, all moving pads straps, dollys & travel time ALL INCLUDED IN PRICE\n-NO HIDDEN FEES\n-We offer "free haul away", we will take any unwanted furniture at NO ADDITIONAL COST TO YOU!!\n-We do both residential & commercial moves\n-Proffessional & Honest\n-Punctual & Reliable\n-We offer furniture protection (you only pay extra for supplies)\n-We move apartments, homes, offices, warehouses & even malls!\n-We offer junk removal services (enough to fill a pick-up truck, van, or box truck)\n-Long or short distance moves

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Deck Cleaning questions, answered by experts

Both deck footings and deck posts help prop up your deck. However, footings are the bottommost parts of a deck that touch the ground. They’re usually made of concrete. Posts are pieces of wood that attach to the top of the footings with brackets. They run upwards and connect to the underside of your deck to support its weight.

Before installing any materials under the deck for removing moisture, you should perform some prep work on the ground. Work the dirt under the deck to create a grade away from the home. A grade of at least six inches for every 10 feet works well. Do not leave a gap between the dirt and the home’s foundation where water could pool. Once you or a contractor regrades the dirt under the deck, you then can add materials over the top.

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.

Your deck may look or feel fuzzy after pressure washing because the high-pressure spray tears some wood fibers as it removes the outer layer of dead and discolored wood. This fuzzy effect is a normal part of the pressure-washing process and will go away on its own in a few weeks. You can opt to spot-sand your deck if you’d like to remove it more quickly.

The most likely causes of a deck leaning to one side are damaged deck posts, soil erosion, and inadequate deck footings. If you’re not sure about the exact cause, the best option is to call a contractor who can build a deck to inspect the damage and recommend the best way forward.

The Fort Pierre, SD homeowners’ guide to deck cleaning services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

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Deane Biermeier
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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.
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Mar 17, 2026Mar 17, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Pressure Wash a Deck? [2026 Data]
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Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 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.
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How to Clean Decking Safely and Naturally
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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.