Get matched with top deck maintenance specialists in Vergennes, VT

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.

Ideally, a gate should be able to swing both in and out. However, if it can only open in one direction, it is generally best for it to swing inward. This is often the safest option, especially for deck gates near steps, as you'll want the gate to swing away from the stairs. An inward swing also prevents the gate from opening into a public space, like a sidewalk, and can be more convenient when carrying heavy items like a wheelbarrow into a garden.

There are exceptions, however. The layout of your property may require a different approach. For example, if your property is on a slope, the gate may not be able to swing inward. You should also ensure the gate can open fully without colliding with any objects or blocking access to other areas. For a backyard garden gate where public access isn't a concern, the direction it swings is largely a matter of personal preference. Finally, always check your local building codes, as they may have specific requirements for which way a gate must swing.

Materials for a second-story deck must be weather- and rot-resistant, though the specific choices will largely be determined by your budget and style preference. Pressure-treated wood is on the lower end of the price scale, but it can be customized and stained the way you like it. Composite, on the other hand, is pricier for installation and has fewer options for customization, but you’ll save money and time in the long run because it requires little maintenance.

The best material for your deck depends on several factors, including your budget, location, aesthetic preferences, and the level of maintenance you’re willing to do. Wood decking, like redwood, ipe, cedar, and pine, lasts the longest, but it’s more expensive and requires more upkeep than composite and synthetic decking.