How hard is it to build a deck yourself?

• <div><p>Building a deck isn't too hard if you’re handy with carpentry, have the necessary tools, and are willing to put effort into it. However, other factors, such as plans, permits, and design, can be hard if you don’t have experience in those areas.</p><p>Note: You’ll need another person to help you build the deck (especially for framing and setting the beams). Building a deck yourself will be very difficult if you don’t have an extra set of hands to help.</p></div>

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Q: Should deck color be lighter or darker than house?

• <div><p>Choosing whether your deck should be lighter or darker than your house is a matter of personal preference, as there is no right or wrong answer. However, considering the pros and cons of each can help guide your decision. Darker colors are often chosen because they show less dirt, footprints, and marks from daily wear, making them easier to keep clean. On the other hand, lighter deck colors tend to stay cooler in the summer. From a design perspective, using a deck color that contrasts with your home's exterior can help make the deck a more defined and distinct feature. Consulting color theory can also make the process of choosing a complementary house and deck color combination easier.</p></div>

Q: What are the problems with wood decking?

• <div><p>If you have wood decking, there are several <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/5-common-deck-problems-and-solutions.htm">common deck problems</a> that you might encounter. For example, your natural wood boards may fade over time due to things like sunlight, weather, and debris. On top of that, some types of wood decking can rot, grow mold, and attract destructive pests&mdash;including termites, carpenter ants, and woodpeckers.</p></div>

Q: Should deck boards be nailed or screwed?

• <div><p>When installing deck boards, screws are generally a better option than nails. Screws offer superior holding strength over time, keeping the boards securely in place. In contrast, nails are more likely to pop out, which can create a tripping hazard. While you can use either, we recommend using 3-inch galvanized deck screws. To minimize the risk of cracking the wood, it's a good practice to drill small pilot holes before driving the screws into the deck joists.</p></div>

Q: How hard is it to build a deck yourself?

• <div><p>Building a deck isn't too hard if you&rsquo;re handy with carpentry, have the necessary tools, and are willing to put effort into it. However, other factors, such as plans, permits, and design, can be hard if you don&rsquo;t have experience in those areas.</p><p>Note: You&rsquo;ll need another person to help you build the deck (especially for framing and setting the beams). Building a deck yourself will be very difficult if you don&rsquo;t have an extra set of hands to help.</p></div>

Q: Can you add a railing to a deck?

• <div><p>Yes, adding railing to a deck is a great way to improve safety and your home&rsquo;s aesthetic appeal. Railings can be constructed from wood, metal, or composite, and there are plenty of choices regarding design and style. Always consult local building codes before starting any building project&mdash;there are often requirements regarding spacing and height that can differ slightly from place to place.</p></div>

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Jerome Miller Power Washing

5.0(

)

Serving Herreid, SD and surrounding areas

In business since 2023

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

We have the experience and we are committed to providing quality workmanship and superior customer service on all our applications. We at Jerome Miller Power Washing\n , strive to maintain our reputation as a high quality, very service oriented company with our main focus being customer satisfaction.\n

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Dakota Petriwood

New to Angi

Serving Herreid, 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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TH Painting and Designs

New to Angi

Serving Herreid, SD and surrounding areas

In business since 2022

Free estimates

Offers commercial services

TH's Paining and Designs 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.\n

Response time2 hrs

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Stahlman Kustom Karpentry

5.0(

)

Serving Herreid, SD and surrounding areas

In business since 2016

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"He is the best! Amazing at what he does."

Response time3 hrs

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Hatfield's Handyman Services

New to Angi

Serving Herreid, SD and surrounding areas

In business since 2021

We pride our company on reliability, great communication, integrity, and quality work. We are experts in our trade and will do our best to keep you as educated as we can on your particular task or project. We look forward to earning your business! Book with us online or feel free to give us a call today!

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TJS Maintenance Service

New to Angi

Serving Herreid, SD and surrounding areas

In business since 2000

Free estimates

Offers commercial services

TJS Maintenance Service 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.

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Oak Construction

New to Angi

Serving Herreid, SD and surrounding areas

In business since 2021

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

Oak Construction 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.

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Aldinger Construction

New to Angi

Serving Herreid, 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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PTB Home Improvment Services

New to Angi

Serving Herreid, SD and surrounding areas

In business since 2020

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

We are a locally owned and operated company that values honesty and integrity and treats your home as if it were our own. We offer a variety of Handyman/ Improvement services that are customizable to each individual project. You will find us to be competitively priced, paying close attention to the details of each and every project that we are involved with. We look forward to building lasting relationships and guarantee your satisfaction!\n

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Deck Cleaning questions, answered by experts

Choosing whether your deck should be lighter or darker than your house is a matter of personal preference, as there is no right or wrong answer. However, considering the pros and cons of each can help guide your decision. Darker colors are often chosen because they show less dirt, footprints, and marks from daily wear, making them easier to keep clean. On the other hand, lighter deck colors tend to stay cooler in the summer. From a design perspective, using a deck color that contrasts with your home's exterior can help make the deck a more defined and distinct feature. Consulting color theory can also make the process of choosing a complementary house and deck color combination easier.

If you have wood decking, there are several common deck problems that you might encounter. For example, your natural wood boards may fade over time due to things like sunlight, weather, and debris. On top of that, some types of wood decking can rot, grow mold, and attract destructive pests—including termites, carpenter ants, and woodpeckers.

When installing deck boards, screws are generally a better option than nails. Screws offer superior holding strength over time, keeping the boards securely in place. In contrast, nails are more likely to pop out, which can create a tripping hazard. While you can use either, we recommend using 3-inch galvanized deck screws. To minimize the risk of cracking the wood, it's a good practice to drill small pilot holes before driving the screws into the deck joists.

Building a deck isn't too hard if you’re handy with carpentry, have the necessary tools, and are willing to put effort into it. However, other factors, such as plans, permits, and design, can be hard if you don’t have experience in those areas.

Note: You’ll need another person to help you build the deck (especially for framing and setting the beams). Building a deck yourself will be very difficult if you don’t have an extra set of hands to help.

Yes, adding railing to a deck is a great way to improve safety and your home’s aesthetic appeal. Railings can be constructed from wood, metal, or composite, and there are plenty of choices regarding design and style. Always consult local building codes before starting any building project—there are often requirements regarding spacing and height that can differ slightly from place to place.

The Herreid, 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
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How Much Does Deck Refinishing Cost? [2026 Data]
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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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Cost to Seal or Waterproof a Deck [2026 Data]
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How to Clean Decking Safely and Naturally
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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.
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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.