How wide can deck stairs be with two stringers?

• <div><p>Deck stairs should have at least three stringers rather than two. The recommended minimum width for stairs is 36 inches, and the <a href="https://www.nachi.org/inspecting-stair-stringers.htm">International Association of Certified Home Inspectors</a> recommends at least three cut stringers to provide sufficient support on wood decking stairs of this width. Generally, stringers should be a maximum of 16 inches apart for wood decking and 12 inches apart for more flexible composite decking.</p></div>

What are the disadvantages of PVC decking?

• <div><p>PVC decking might be long-lasting, but this synthetic material lacks the natural aesthetic or sustainability of wood decking. If you want to match your decking to your new garden furniture or just freshen up the faded surface, it’s not usually possible to paint PVC decking. When comparing<a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/pvc-vs-composite-decking.htm"> PVC to composite decking</a>, PVC is pricier and more prone to warping in hot regions.</p></div>

Can a cedar deck increase your home's value?

• <div><p>A cedar deck can increase your home's value if the project is executed well. The value added by a deck is influenced by factors such as location, materials, and craftsmanship. In regions with warmer climates, decks are particularly desirable, enhancing outdoor living spaces.</p><p>The key to getting the most value out of your investment, both in terms of home value and personal enjoyment, is to make sure your deck is built to exacting standards. You should consult with a <a href="https://www.angi.com/nearme/deck-builders/">professional deck builder</a> to get the best results and the highest ROI. </p></div>

Top 10 Best Deck maintenance specialists in Underhill, VT

Q: Do decks need to be primed before painting?

• <div><p>Unless you&rsquo;re using a 2-in-1 formula or painting over an existing coat of paint, it pays to <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/quick-primer-interior-painting.htm">apply a coat of primer</a> ahead of your new paint. Decks see a lot of footfall and exposure to extreme and sudden temperature changes and moisture levels. The primer promotes better paint adhesion, moisture repellency, and a smoother finish, which means you&rsquo;ll often need fewer coats of paint. </p></div>

Q: What is the best material or fill to put under a deck?

• <div><p>While you can use various materials like sand or even just soil, gravel is widely considered the best option to put under a deck. It provides excellent drainage and is resistant to water, fire, and pests. Gravel also helps anchor the soil to prevent erosion during heavy rain and acts as a built-in weed blocker, reducing regular upkeep. Furthermore, it is simple to spread, available in various textures and tones, and adds a polished look that complements any deck design.</p></div>

Get matched with top deck maintenance specialists in Underhill, VT

Underhill homeowners rate deck maintenance specialists in our network

4.8

(18 reviews)

Need a pro for your deck maintenance project in Underhill, VT?

Select your specific project to find the pro for you.

Verified Reviews for Deck Maintenance pros in Underhill, VT

*The Angi rating for Deck Maintenance companies in Underhill, 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 Underhill, 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 25, 2025

Reviewed in June 2025
We had a 12x30 deck built. Eric was very professional and knowledgeable. He paid close attention to detail and is a hard worker. He was very good about asking our opinions throughout the process. Very competitive rates. Will keep him in mind for any upcoming projects.
Eric's Services
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Reviewed in March 2025
Red Lion did an excellent job with our deck. The team was great to deal with, very professional and delivered the deck on time and on budget. I plan to work with Red Lion on future projects.
Red Lion Construction, LLC
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Reviewed in November 2024
Spencer was great. He figured out what the problem was and created a very simple, solid solution that connected the deck and steps to the house. The result is really solid. We could not be happier.
Baker Contracting
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Reviewed in July 2023
Gavin Williams did a superb job on our deck, power washing and refinishing with waterproof stain. Very pleased with the job and highly recommend the quality of work!
Empirical Renovations LLC
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Reviewed in June 2023
I have nothing but praise with TJL Construction. They are Knowledgeable, professional, honest and very hardworking. They installed our deck in just 5 days and it turned out great! Highly recommended...
TJL Construction
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Reviewed in June 2023
Protech Contracting team were patient, respectful, and professional. They completed the deck painting job to my full satisfaction. I’d like to hire them again to paint my garage door frames.
Pro-Tech Contracting, LLC
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Reviewed in May 2023
Jack was super polite and did an amazing job with not only the deck but a second project we asked him to do for us. We would highly recommend jack for any project you have that needs to be done around the house.
Jack's Construction and Handyman Services LLC
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Reviewed in August 2021
My deck looks amazing! Joe really worked with me and we discussed the pros and cons of different layouts/dimensions. Additionally, he provided options for the materials used that would impact the budget- So I could choose what was best for the project and budget (with the understanding of the...
Marcone Construction, LLC
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Reviewed in July 2021
Everything Property Maintenance did a fantastic job cleaning our home and we look forward to having them come clean on a regular basis.
Everything Property Maintenance, LLC
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Reviewed in May 2021
The work was amazing, weâ ve asked for Signature Tradesman to return and put on our deck. Best contractor you could have !
Signature Tradesman, LLC
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Find Deck maintenance specialists in Underhill

Vermonty Demolition & Construction LLC

5.0(

)

Serving Underhill, 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

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Northern Oakes Property Management LLC

4.4(

)

Serving Underhill, VT and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2024

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Excellent work! Done professionally and quickly. Will definitely continue to use Northern Oakes!!!"

+38

Response time5 days

Response rate91%

2 neighbors recently requested a quote

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Wendell's Construction & Handyman Service

5.0(

)

Serving Underhill, VT and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 1984

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"Wendell was so unbelievably helpful with getting my couch inside and making some small adjustments to the entryway to make it fit! He left everything as he found it and was so professional and helpful"

10 neighbors recently requested a quote

Recommended by50%of homeowners

Serving Underhill, VT and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2025

Free estimates

"Job was done to garage door opening. We are very satisfied with the work that was done."

Response time7 hrs

Response rate100%

32 neighbors recently requested a quote

Serving Underhill, VT and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2025

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

We work extremely hard for the owner and always have the owner's best interest at heart. Our long term vision is for us to become a go to general contractor with capabilities to do multiple types of projects.

Serving Underhill, VT and surrounding areas

In business since 2000

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"My fault. Didn't contact him for over a year after purchasing this. He never responded after contact. I guess that meant it was too long after purchase. As I said, MY FAULT.
"

Custom handicap bathroom with oval floor level shower in an old house with custom built pocket doors and barn board walls

Recommended by72%of homeowners

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Vermont Pressure Washing - Home Facebook

4.6(

)

Serving Underhill, VT and surrounding areas

In business since 2007

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"These guys did a totally thorough and professional job. They explained what they needed to do, did it in spades, cleaned up, and put thigns back. Great value - worth every penny."

+21

Response time3 days

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Maintenance Management

4.6(

)

Serving Underhill, VT and surrounding areas

In business since 1971

"Fantastic - great service and quality, and very good price. Will use again and again."

Recommended by50%of homeowners

Request Quote

Reliable Handyman Solutions

4.2(

)

Serving Underhill, VT and surrounding areas

In business since 2012

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"He was prompt,explained my options with the project I needed done. And returned the next day and did the job."

Recommended by95%of homeowners

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Wendell's Construction & Handyman Service

5.0(

)

Serving Underhill, VT and surrounding areas

In business since 1984

Free estimates

"The stair railing is perfectly matched and connected to the lower section of the railing. It has some intricate turns and corners around a landing . It is beautiful--better than what I had hoped for! Wendell was very responsive, easy to schedule, efficient and enjoyable to talk with while he was working in my home. Would definitely call on him for future work."

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Request Quote

Showing 1-10 of 33

Deck Maintenance questions, answered by experts

Unless you’re using a 2-in-1 formula or painting over an existing coat of paint, it pays to apply a coat of primer ahead of your new paint. Decks see a lot of footfall and exposure to extreme and sudden temperature changes and moisture levels. The primer promotes better paint adhesion, moisture repellency, and a smoother finish, which means you’ll often need fewer coats of paint.

Deck stairs should have at least three stringers rather than two. The recommended minimum width for stairs is 36 inches, and the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors recommends at least three cut stringers to provide sufficient support on wood decking stairs of this width. Generally, stringers should be a maximum of 16 inches apart for wood decking and 12 inches apart for more flexible composite decking.

PVC decking might be long-lasting, but this synthetic material lacks the natural aesthetic or sustainability of wood decking. If you want to match your decking to your new garden furniture or just freshen up the faded surface, it’s not usually possible to paint PVC decking. When comparing PVC to composite decking, PVC is pricier and more prone to warping in hot regions.

A cedar deck can increase your home's value if the project is executed well. The value added by a deck is influenced by factors such as location, materials, and craftsmanship. In regions with warmer climates, decks are particularly desirable, enhancing outdoor living spaces.

The key to getting the most value out of your investment, both in terms of home value and personal enjoyment, is to make sure your deck is built to exacting standards. You should consult with a professional deck builder to get the best results and the highest ROI.

While you can use various materials like sand or even just soil, gravel is widely considered the best option to put under a deck. It provides excellent drainage and is resistant to water, fire, and pests. Gravel also helps anchor the soil to prevent erosion during heavy rain and acts as a built-in weed blocker, reducing regular upkeep. Furthermore, it is simple to spread, available in various textures and tones, and adds a polished look that complements any deck design.

The Underhill, 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
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May 2, 2026May 2, 2026
How Much Does a Pressure-Treated Wood Deck Cost? [2026 Data]
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•
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•
Apr 16, 2026Apr 16, 2026
How Much Does Mahogany Decking Cost? [2026 Data]
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•
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.
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7 Best Maintenance-Free Decking Materials
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