Get matched with top deck cleaning pros in Crandon, WI

Most building codes require that spindles or balusters on deck and stair railings be spaced no more than four inches apart. This safety standard, often called the '4-inch sphere rule,' is designed to prevent small children or pets from slipping through the railing. A good way to visualize this is that a 4-inch sphere should not be able to pass between two spindles. For the same safety reason, the space between the bottom rail and the deck floor should also be no more than four inches. As a general guideline, professionals often install three balusters per foot of railing. However, since specific requirements can vary by location, it is crucial to check your local building codes to ensure compliance before starting your project.

Your deck may look or feel fuzzy after pressure washing because the high-pressure spray tears some wood fibers as it removes the outer layer of dead and discolored wood. This fuzzy effect is a normal part of the pressure-washing process and will go away on its own in a few weeks. You can opt to spot-sand your deck if you’d like to remove it more quickly.

Yes, you can draw your own deck plans in many cases. However, you must know your local building codes and be familiar with carpentry principles. Even then, it's always best to run your plans by a professional contractor with experience building decks, whether you choose to DIY some of the build or not.

When installing deck boards, screws are generally a better option than nails. Screws offer superior holding strength over time, keeping the boards securely in place. In contrast, nails are more likely to pop out, which can create a tripping hazard. While you can use either, we recommend using 3-inch galvanized deck screws. To minimize the risk of cracking the wood, it's a good practice to drill small pilot holes before driving the screws into the deck joists.