Is vinyl decking cheaper than wood?

• <div><p>It depends on the type of wood. The average <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-it-cost-build-deck.htm#additional-costs">cost to build a deck</a> out of pressure-treated lumber is <b>$15 to $25 per square foot</b>, but more affordable varieties such as bamboo and cedar cost less at around <b>$3 to $10 per square foot</b>. However, when comparing the cost of vinyl decking versus wood decking, it’s important to also consider ongoing maintenance costs. For example, most woods require regular sealing to keep them protected against weather and rot.</p></div>

Do you need to prime composite decking before painting?

• <div><p>It’s best to prime composite decking before painting. This promotes better paint adhesion, helps create a smooth finish, and can mean the paint job will last longer. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application, allow ample primer drying time before painting (typically 24 to 48 hours), and thoroughly clean the deck boards to promote the best adhesion. </p></div>

Top 10 Best Deck maintenance specialists in Lowell, VT

Q: What happens if you build a deck without a permit?

• <div><p>Building a deck without a permit could lead to fines for both the homeowner and the contractor. The exact penalties will depend on your state and municipal building laws. You might also be required to remove the deck and apply for a permit before you can build another. While it might be tempting to skip the permit to save a few bucks, it&rsquo;ll cost you much more if you&rsquo;re caught.</p></div>

Q: Do I need to sand a deck before repainting?

• <div><p>Always sand a deck before repainting so the wood is smooth and ready for paint. While you do not need to fully remove paint before repainting, sanding helps remove any areas with weather and sun damage. Sanding also helps remove chipped or flaking paint and opens the wood pores to improve paint adhesion.</p></div>

Q: Do I need to sand an old deck before staining?

• <div><p>In most cases, sanding an old deck before staining it is necessary to achieve a decent finish. If your old deck has a relatively new stain finish on it and you're only doing touch-ups, you can generally skip the sanding part. However, if your goal is to make the deck look and function better, sanding first is a must. </p></div>

Q: Do you need to prime composite decking before painting?

• <div><p>It&rsquo;s best to prime composite decking before painting. This promotes better paint adhesion, helps create a smooth finish, and can mean the paint job will last longer. Always follow the manufacturer&rsquo;s instructions for application, allow ample primer drying time before painting (typically 24 to 48 hours), and thoroughly clean the deck boards to promote the best adhesion. </p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Deck Maintenance pros in Lowell, VT

*The Angi rating for Deck Maintenance companies in Lowell, VT 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 Lowell, VT 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 June 22, 2026

Reviewed in June 2026
JR Quality Construction did a wonderful job with deck footing repairs and siding repairs and painting for my home. They had the lower bid and finished on time. My house looks fantastic. I was required to do this by my insurance company, and JR made sure it was done on time and to their specs. I...
JR Quality Construction Inc
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Reviewed in October 2025
Sylvester property maintenance is who I call when ever I need anything! They are very responsive. I just let them know what work I want them to do and they get it done!
Sylvester's Property Maintenance
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Reviewed in January 2025
I hired him to power wash and re- stain our entire cedar cabin and deck. He was fantastic and did a great job! He was professional, reasonably priced and a pleasure to do business with! I would highly recommend his services to anyone!
Northern Vermont Pressure Washing LLC
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Reviewed in June 2024
Travis completed ground work that included leveling the back yard and putting In two stone walls. Travis also build a deck on the back of my house and installed a sliding glass door. Travis works long hours to complete projects. .
Martin Excavation
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Reviewed in January 2024
Josh and his crew did a great job enclosing my porch. He was able to match both the exterior and interior with my existing cabin so it looks beautiful. He insulated it very well so it stays warm and toasty with just an electric heater. Very happy with his workmanship!
Josh's Handyman Service
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Reviewed in June 2016
All aspects of the installation were expertly performed with excellent attention to detail. Although this type of work can be very area invasive, this was not the case. Work was completed on time and with virtually little-to-no expected clean-up repairs. We will also retain them for annual...
Peak Mechanical, LLP
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Reviewed in November 2011
Mark Frohman of Total Home Services is an absolute pleasure to work with -- intelligent, knowledgeable, energetic and most important RELIABLE as can be. From the usual home maintenance duties, to custom repairs and improvements, Mark can cover all your needs promptly and economically.
Total Home Services of Vermont
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Reviewed in December 2010
The routine cleaning went fine, although it seemed a bit expensive. A few days later we found oil leaking on the floor from one of the heat pumps, so took a sample into the office to see if it was normal or a problem and were told that someone should come out to the house to evaluate. When he...
FRED'S PROPANE & HEATING INC
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Find Deck maintenance specialists in Lowell

Vermonty Demolition & Construction LLC

5.0(

)

Serving Lowell, VT and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2025

Emergency services offered

Warranties offered

"Monty was very knowledgeable and quick to help us. We are new home owners and he was very patient with all our questions. I would recommend him to anyone and we will be hiring him again."

Response time2 days

7 neighbors recently requested a quote

Serving Lowell, VT and surrounding areas

Approved

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

Small jobs welcome

"I was very pleased with the work he did, he has a nice way of explaining things , I sure I will hire him again for other projects when needed he is a very pleasant person to deal with. Tank you Scott for being such a nice guy ."

26 neighbors recently requested a quote

Serving Lowell, VT and surrounding areas

In business since 2000

Free estimates

Offers commercial services

"They were very professional, very nice to have them around. It was very pleasant and I will contact them soon to get the interior house painted."

Response time9 hrs

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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R.A.M. Contracting, Inc.

3.8(

)

Serving Lowell, VT and surrounding areas

In business since 1998

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"The company representative stated to me that they only do commercial properties and not residential homes. I was not aware of that from the company's description. They did respond to my calls."

Response time1 day

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Cube Home & Commercial Inspections & Appraisal Svs

5.0(

)

Serving Lowell, VT and surrounding areas

In business since 2009

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"The inspection was complete and informative.... Issues we discoved I was able to settle with the seller before I completed the puchase."

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Last Minute House Shine

4.3(

)

Serving Lowell, VT and surrounding areas

In business since 2010

Free estimates

"Very easy to work with!"

Recommended by80%of homeowners

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Veteran Maintenance & Home Repair

2.0(

)

Serving Lowell, VT and surrounding areas

In business since 1990

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

With our more than 20 years of experience, you can't go wrong with Veteran Maintenance & Home Repair. We are ready to take on your needs, large or small! Call us today for an estimate!

+11

Serving Lowell, VT and surrounding areas

In business since 1996

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

Here at LeClair Renovations, you will be very pleased with our services. We are honest and hard working. We focus on eco-friendly building solutions whenever possibe. We strive to maintain a high level of service and quality from start to finish. Projects will be 100% to your satisfaction! Call us today for a free estimate!

+33

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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NEK Elite Lawn and Yard Services, LLC

New to Angi

Serving Lowell, VT and surrounding areas

In business since 2020

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

With over 15 years of experience, NEK Elite Lawn Care and Yard Services LLC is the reliable choice for your landscaping needs. We do it all from basic lawn maintenance to building walls for your yard and everything in between. We pride ourselves on the quality and efficiency of our work. So give us a call!

Response time40 mins

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You Want It, You Got It Construction

1.0(

)

Serving Lowell, VT and surrounding areas

In business since 2005

Welcome to You Want It, You Got It Construction. We are locally owned and operated, serving and here to serve you! We provide you with exquisite workmanship and craftsmanship. We pride ourselves on our quality of service and enjoy serving the community. We specialize in working with you the homeowner, to give you options that fit, both, your "vision" and your budget. Whether the project is large or small, we develop a carefully coordinated strategy that meets all project needs. We are dependable, affordable and most of all honest. \n\nCall You Want It, You Got It Construction today!

+17

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Showing 1-10 of 15

Deck Maintenance questions, answered by experts

Building a deck without a permit could lead to fines for both the homeowner and the contractor. The exact penalties will depend on your state and municipal building laws. You might also be required to remove the deck and apply for a permit before you can build another. While it might be tempting to skip the permit to save a few bucks, it’ll cost you much more if you’re caught.

Always sand a deck before repainting so the wood is smooth and ready for paint. While you do not need to fully remove paint before repainting, sanding helps remove any areas with weather and sun damage. Sanding also helps remove chipped or flaking paint and opens the wood pores to improve paint adhesion.

In most cases, sanding an old deck before staining it is necessary to achieve a decent finish. If your old deck has a relatively new stain finish on it and you're only doing touch-ups, you can generally skip the sanding part. However, if your goal is to make the deck look and function better, sanding first is a must.

It depends on the type of wood. The average cost to build a deck out of pressure-treated lumber is $15 to $25 per square foot, but more affordable varieties such as bamboo and cedar cost less at around $3 to $10 per square foot. However, when comparing the cost of vinyl decking versus wood decking, it’s important to also consider ongoing maintenance costs. For example, most woods require regular sealing to keep them protected against weather and rot.

It’s best to prime composite decking before painting. This promotes better paint adhesion, helps create a smooth finish, and can mean the paint job will last longer. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application, allow ample primer drying time before painting (typically 24 to 48 hours), and thoroughly clean the deck boards to promote the best adhesion.

The Lowell, VT 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

Mitchell Grant
•
May 2, 2026May 2, 2026
How Much Does a Pressure-Treated Wood Deck Cost? [2026 Data]
Looking to update your yard with a new outdoor entertaining area? Learn how much a pressure-treated wood deck costs and how to estimate your total.
Angi
•
Apr 16, 2026Apr 16, 2026
How Much Does Mahogany Decking Cost? [2026 Data]
Discover mahogany decking costs and learn about material, labor, and installation factors to budget your new deck project with confidence.
Scott Dylan Westerlund
•
May 30, 2026May 30, 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.
Jenna Jonaitis
•
Apr 5, 2026Apr 5, 2026
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.
Lawrence Bonk
•
Mar 19, 2026Mar 19, 2026
Deck Maintenance Checklists for Every Season
Keep your decking looking new with this deck maintenance checklist.
Deirdre Sullivan
•
Apr 9, 2026Apr 9, 2026
7 Best Maintenance-Free Decking Materials
Finding maintenance-free decking that works for your home, budget, and lifestyle can be challenging. This guide lists the 7 best low-maintenance deck materials.