Can you build your own deck?

• <div><p>It is possible to build your own deck, but it’s typically better to leave the work to a decking professional. Decks can be exceptionally complicated, especially if you want a wrap-around or <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/second-story-deck-ideas.htm'">second-story deck</a>, and you don’t want to risk making an expensive or dangerous mistake. It’s usually better to hire a decking pro who can pull permits and build a structurally sound deck that will last for decades and provide the maximum return on investment.</p></div>

Get matched with top deck maintenance specialists in La Barge, WY

Q: Which is less expensive, a deck or a patio?

• <div><p>Decks are generally more expensive to build because they require elevating and railings. The difference between decks and patios is that decks are elevated, while patios are usually on the ground level. Plus, decks are usually made of wood and need more maintenance than most patios. However, <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/deck-vs-patio-which-works-better.htm">decks and patios</a> serve the same purpose, providing outdoor space for you to enjoy.</p></div>

Q: Can you build your own deck?

• <div><p>It is possible to build your own deck, but it&rsquo;s typically better to leave the work to a decking professional. Decks can be exceptionally complicated, especially if you want a wrap-around or <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/second-story-deck-ideas.htm'">second-story deck</a>, and you don&rsquo;t want to risk making an expensive or dangerous mistake. It&rsquo;s usually better to hire a decking pro who can pull permits and build a structurally sound deck that will last for decades and provide the maximum return on investment.</p></div>

Q: How deep should footings be for a ground-level deck?

• <div><p>Footings for ground-level decks need to be at least 12 inches deep, and some areas require them to be even deeper. A standard range for deck footings is anywhere from 12 to 48 inches. The minimum footing depth is determined by an area&rsquo;s frost line and soil conditions. If you&rsquo;re unsure how deep to install deck footings, check local building codes to find the minimum footing depth in your area. </p></div>

Q: How much does it cost to fix a sinking deck?

• <div><p>The <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-it-cost-repair-deck.htm">cost to repair a deck</a> is between <b>$900 and $3,500</b>, depending on the cause and extent of the damage. For example, fixing a sinking deck caused by pest damage can cost between $200 and $600, while replacing sinking boards costs between $500 and $4,000.</p></div>

Q: Should a gate swing in or out?

• <div><p>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.</p><p>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.</p></div>

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CH Carpentry

5.0(

)

Deck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and Seal

Serving La Barge, WY and surrounding areas

In business since 2022

Free estimates

Offers commercial services

"Andres did everything right! He returned calls promptly, arrived on time, finished on time, he and his helpers were professional, SKILLED, and cleaned up really well. I was pleasantly surprised by how awesome he and his crew performed."

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Deck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and Seal

Serving La Barge, WY and surrounding areas

In business since 2023

Free estimates

Small jobs welcome

"Matt responded to my request quickly, and was able to come that same day. After inspecting my crawl space, he discovered I had a long-standing water leak that had run into the insulation under the house, and was degrading the foundation. He fixed the leak; removed and hauled away the soaked insulation; installed new insulation; reinforced the foundation where it had started to crunble; ran a French drain away from the foundation in case of future leaks; and treated mold on the floor joists. Matt is very good at what he does, reasonably priced and easy to work with. I would highly recomend him."

+49

Response time3 hrs

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Diamond Custom Design Build

4.0(

)

Deck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and SealDeck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and Seal - For Business

Serving La Barge, WY and surrounding areas

In business since 2008

Free estimates

Warranties offered

"Dutch & helper, Mike,arrived as promised . Work proceeded on schedule , only to be interupted by heavy rains. Work quality is very good. Some problems were encoutered but Dutch was ready with the solutions bringing peace of mind and high standards. Many frends & neighbors have stopped by to view our new deck and have been very impressed. The heavy snows we get in western Wy. will prove the real quality of the work. If all is well come springtime I will give a FIVE STAR rating."

+14

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Bear Country Builders 1, Inc.

New to Angi

Deck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and SealDeck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and Seal - For Business

Serving La Barge, WY and surrounding areas

In business since 2004

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

Bear Country Builders 1, Inc., is committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers interests, and make their concerns the basis of our business.

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RangeLand Services LLC

New to Angi

Deck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and Seal

Serving La Barge, WY and surrounding areas

In business since 1999

Free estimates

We are a locally owned and operated company that values honesty and integrity and treats your home as if it were our own. We offer a variety of Fencing Services that are customizable to each individual project. You will find us to be competitively priced, paying close attention to the details of each and every project that we are involved with. We look forward to building lasting relationships and guarantee your satisfaction!\n\n

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In A Pinch Handyman

New to Angi

Deck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and Seal

Serving La Barge, WY and surrounding areas

In business since 2016

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

In A Pinch Handyman is locally owned and operated In Evanston. We are full service handyman business with over 22 years in the home improvement trade. We are honest and reliable and we specialize in all types of commercial and residential handyman work. For a free in home estimate please call us today and ask about our special rates.

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Deck Maintenance questions, answered by experts

Decks are generally more expensive to build because they require elevating and railings. The difference between decks and patios is that decks are elevated, while patios are usually on the ground level. Plus, decks are usually made of wood and need more maintenance than most patios. However, decks and patios serve the same purpose, providing outdoor space for you to enjoy.

It is possible to build your own deck, but it’s typically better to leave the work to a decking professional. Decks can be exceptionally complicated, especially if you want a wrap-around or second-story deck, and you don’t want to risk making an expensive or dangerous mistake. It’s usually better to hire a decking pro who can pull permits and build a structurally sound deck that will last for decades and provide the maximum return on investment.

Footings for ground-level decks need to be at least 12 inches deep, and some areas require them to be even deeper. A standard range for deck footings is anywhere from 12 to 48 inches. The minimum footing depth is determined by an area’s frost line and soil conditions. If you’re unsure how deep to install deck footings, check local building codes to find the minimum footing depth in your area.

The cost to repair a deck is between $900 and $3,500, depending on the cause and extent of the damage. For example, fixing a sinking deck caused by pest damage can cost between $200 and $600, while replacing sinking boards costs between $500 and $4,000.

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.

The La Barge, WY homeowners’ guide to deck maintenance services

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