When is a railing required on a deck?

• <div><p>Building codes vary by location, and you should always consult local codes before planning construction. Generally speaking, however, <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/railing-requirements-for-deck.htm">railing requirements</a> stipulate that decks more than 30 inches off the ground need railings for safety purposes. These railings usually need to be at least 36 inches tall, although California and Washington require rails to be 42 inches or taller.</p></div>

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Q: Is it less expensive to repair or replace a deck?

• <div><p>In most cases, repairing a deck costs much less than replacing it. Deck repairs cost around $2,000 on average, while the cost of deck replacement is at least $7,900. Repairing involves fixing issues like loose boards or small cracks, which requires less material and labor. If the deck has extensive damage, though, the cost of repairs can add up quickly, and it may be more cost-effective to replace the deck entirely.</p></div>

Q: How long should deck boards last?

• <div><p>How long deck boards last largely depends on the type of wood and if it's treated or not. Untreated boards last anywhere from ten to 30 years, assuming proper care and maintenance. Treated boards can last up to 50 years. Composite boards also tend to last longer than pure wood boards.</p></div>

Q: How can I make my deck railing more child- or pet-friendly?

• <div><p>To child- or pet-proof your deck railing, look for railing systems with narrow spacing&mdash;under 4 inches&mdash;between balusters or panels. For added safety, consider installing a clear acrylic or mesh guard along the inside of the railing to prevent small limbs or paws from slipping through. Avoid horizontal rails that adventurous kids can climb like ladders. You can also add self-closing gates at stair openings to limit access.</p></div>

Q: Do you need to winterize a screened-in porch?

• <div><p><a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-to-winterize-a-screened-in-porch.htm">Winterizing a screened-in porch</a> can help extend its life and prevent damage to your porch, furniture, and decor. Removable winterization methods like vinyl panels or vinyl sheeting will allow you to fully enjoy your porch in warmer weather while protecting it from damage over the winter. </p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Deck Maintenance pros in Rosholt, SD

*The Angi rating for Deck Maintenance companies in Rosholt, 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 Rosholt, 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 18, 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 Rosholt

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

Building codes vary by location, and you should always consult local codes before planning construction. Generally speaking, however, railing requirements stipulate that decks more than 30 inches off the ground need railings for safety purposes. These railings usually need to be at least 36 inches tall, although California and Washington require rails to be 42 inches or taller.

In most cases, repairing a deck costs much less than replacing it. Deck repairs cost around $2,000 on average, while the cost of deck replacement is at least $7,900. Repairing involves fixing issues like loose boards or small cracks, which requires less material and labor. If the deck has extensive damage, though, the cost of repairs can add up quickly, and it may be more cost-effective to replace the deck entirely.

How long deck boards last largely depends on the type of wood and if it's treated or not. Untreated boards last anywhere from ten to 30 years, assuming proper care and maintenance. Treated boards can last up to 50 years. Composite boards also tend to last longer than pure wood boards.

To child- or pet-proof your deck railing, look for railing systems with narrow spacing—under 4 inches—between balusters or panels. For added safety, consider installing a clear acrylic or mesh guard along the inside of the railing to prevent small limbs or paws from slipping through. Avoid horizontal rails that adventurous kids can climb like ladders. You can also add self-closing gates at stair openings to limit access.

Winterizing a screened-in porch can help extend its life and prevent damage to your porch, furniture, and decor. Removable winterization methods like vinyl panels or vinyl sheeting will allow you to fully enjoy your porch in warmer weather while protecting it from damage over the winter.

The Rosholt, SD homeowners’ guide to deck maintenance services

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

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