Best deck maintenance specialists near Garden City, UT

Yes, Ipe is more expensive than Trex decking—both in terms of materials and installation (plus, Ipe trees are endangered). On average, Ipe decking costs $10 to $25 per square foot, while Trex decking costs $5 to $12 per square foot. Because Ipe is harder to work with, the price of installation is higher, too. For Ipe decking, you’ll pay between $20 and $45 per square foot for labor. However, with Trex decking, the labor costs range from $8 to $22 per square foot.

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.

A random orbital sander is best for sanding a deck because it is easier to handle than other power sanders and is less likely to damage the wood. Most decks are made of types of softwood, so a gentler sanding process is essential to prevent permanent blemishes. For example, belt sanders can gouge softwoods.

Yes, snow should be removed from a deck to protect it from damage caused by moisture and heavy loads. Shovel the snow off of your deck regularly once it is more than four inches deep. Avoid using salt, which can damage your deck.