Get matched with top deck cleaning pros in White Hall, WV

Whether you need a permit depends on the deck design and local regulations. Most areas mandate a building permit if the deck is over a specific height or if it's attached to a pre-existing structure. Shorter, freestanding decks may not require a permit, but you should check with local zoning ordinances and your homeowners association for specifics.

If you have wood decking, there are several common deck problems that you might encounter. For example, your natural wood boards may fade over time due to things like sunlight, weather, and debris. On top of that, some types of wood decking can rot, grow mold, and attract destructive pests—including termites, carpenter ants, and woodpeckers.

Building a deck is often worth the investment, not only because it provides more utility to your yard and gives you more space to entertain but also because decks tend to add value to your home. Keep in mind that second-story decks often require concrete footings, which means they will bump up your property taxes, while decks built on the first story generally don’t require a permanent foundation and won’t affect your taxes. Even with the tax increase, decks are usually a good investment in the long run.

Applying too much sealer to a deck might seem like extra protection, but it can cause more harm than good. Wood is a porous material with a limited capacity to absorb liquids. When you go overboard with sealer, the excess can't soak in and instead forms a film on the surface. This leftover layer is prone to peeling, cracking, and trapping moisture, ultimately defeating the purpose of sealing in the first place.