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>

Should lattice touch the ground?

• <div><p>Lattice should not touch the ground, as it creates a possibility for rot and a <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-to-pest-control-termites.htm">termite infestation</a>. It’s best to leave a gap of 3 or 4 inches at the bottom for airflow and to keep the wood dry. You can add stones, bricks, or other decorative pieces to conceal the bottom of the lattice if desired.</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>

Get matched with top deck maintenance specialists in Herreid, SD

Q: Does insurance cover wood rot?

• <div><p>Wood rot is not normally covered by insurance except in rare cases when it results from a covered event like a burst pipe. Wood rot is categorized as gradual, preventable damage, so most insurance policies won&rsquo;t pay for claims to repair wood rot damage. Check your policy to find out if wood rot is covered before making a claim. </p></div>

Q: Does the underside of a deck need to breathe?

• <div><p>Any wood deck provides some ventilation to the area below, as is the nature of that type of <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-often-should-i-inspect-my-deck.htm">deck design</a>. However, areas that experience excessive humidity and associated moisture benefit greatly from a dedicated ventilation system in the form of strip vents. This addition helps the various wood boards contract and expand evenly throughout the years and reduces the chances of twisting, warping, and buckling.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Deck Maintenance pros in Herreid, SD

*The Angi rating for Deck Maintenance companies in Herreid, SD 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 Herreid, SD 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 November 21, 2025

Reviewed in January 2023
I had an amazing experience from start to finish with my new custom home build with full landscaping. The house is exactly what was planned for and is beyond our expectations. For the landscape I had a paver patio, gazebo, deck, hot tub, fire pit, stone table, outdoor kitchen, sod with...
SD Alternative Services Corp
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Reviewed in January 2022
I hired Nate to install new windows, siding, and doors as wells as build two decks with one pergola and one covered roof. His work was good when he showed up with the exception of the trim and siding around the bay window. This work was not good at all. The trim didn't follow the window and...
RiverBend Contracting, LLC
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Reviewed in September 2014
Not only did the owner of Marso Lawn Service call back (a rare thing these days with too many contractors) when I called and left a message about needing our lawn aerated, but he called yet again when he needed to reset the appointment rather than leaving me hanging. Then when he came to our...
Marso Lawn Service
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Reviewed in September 2013
I got one person (Tyson the owner) along with 4-5 guys that looked like and acted like they were hired off the corner and no knowledge of how to roof properly. During the tear off they didn't put down any tarps there for still picking nails out of the yard. The shingles were just thrown off roof...
Nawanna Construction
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Reviewed in July 2013
The contractor, was on time, performed the work exactly as I asked, his price was exactly as he quoted, he cleaned up inside and outside my home. He was also able to fix a sagging pergola on my deck that was not on my original request for work, AND he did it the next day. Both jobs completed...
K & K Construction
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Find Deck maintenance specialists in Herreid

Lamb Painting

5.00(

)

Lamb Painting

5.00(

)

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

Lamb Painting is a residential and commercial painting contractor providing high quality custom painting and related services to clients in the Northern Black Hills area who seek quality, value and integrity when they hire a painting contractor. We specialize in residential and commercial, custom painting. We also provide carpentry, drywall and general construction services. We’re in the business of protecting your property and the relationship we have with you. The best craftsmanship and products will be used on your project, which provides real value with a long lasting and attractive result.

Deck Maintenance questions, answered by experts

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 deck refinishing process. 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.

Lattice should not touch the ground, as it creates a possibility for rot and a termite infestation. It’s best to leave a gap of 3 or 4 inches at the bottom for airflow and to keep the wood dry. You can add stones, bricks, or other decorative pieces to conceal the bottom of the lattice if desired.

Wood rot is not normally covered by insurance except in rare cases when it results from a covered event like a burst pipe. Wood rot is categorized as gradual, preventable damage, so most insurance policies won’t pay for claims to repair wood rot damage. Check your policy to find out if wood rot is covered before making a claim.

Any wood deck provides some ventilation to the area below, as is the nature of that type of deck design. However, areas that experience excessive humidity and associated moisture benefit greatly from a dedicated ventilation system in the form of strip vents. This addition helps the various wood boards contract and expand evenly throughout the years and reduces the chances of twisting, warping, and buckling.

Not all porch columns are load-bearing, though they can be. Some porch columns are simply decorative. There are ways to identify a load-bearing column, 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.

The Herreid, SD homeowners’ guide to deck maintenance services

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

See all articles

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Oct 13, 2025Oct 13, 2025
Cost to Seal or Waterproof a Deck [2025 Data]
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Who Should You Hire to Replace Your Porch Columns?
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Mar 13, 2025Mar 13, 2025
Why Is My Deck Stain Peeling? What’s Going Wrong and How to Fix It
If you’re stuck wondering why your deck stain is peeling prematurely, use this guide to troubleshoot the problem and find a long-lasting solution.