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GuideA deck or fence adds usable outdoor living space, privacy and curb appeal — and both are among the most popular outdoor projects. Choosing the right materials and building (or maintaining) them properly is the difference between a feature that lasts decades and one that rots and sags in a few years. Here's what to know.
The big decision is material. Pressure-treated wood is affordable and classic but needs regular sealing and staining and will weather over time. Cedar is naturally more rot-resistant and beautiful but still needs upkeep. Composite and PVC cost more upfront but need far less maintenance and last longer — no staining, no rot. Weigh upfront cost against years of maintenance.
A proper deck starts below the surface: footings below the frost line for stability, a code-compliant frame and ledger attachment to the house (a bad ledger connection is a serious safety failure), then decking, railings and stairs to code. Railing height and spacing, stair construction and attachment all have safety rules. This structural foundation is why deck building rewards a skilled pro.
Decide the fence's purpose — privacy, security, pets, boundaries, or looks — since it drives height, material and style. Before building, confirm property lines (a survey prevents disputes), check local bylaws and height limits, and locate underground utilities before digging posts. Proper post setting (depth, concrete, spacing) is what keeps a fence standing straight for years.
Decks often need a permit (especially above a certain height or attached to the house) and must meet code for safety; fences may have height and placement rules and should respect property lines. Skipping permits can cause problems at resale and safety risks. Confirming property lines and bylaws first prevents costly disputes and do-overs.
Wood decks and fences need regular cleaning and resealing or staining (typically every 1–3 years) to prevent rot, cracking and greying — this is the single biggest factor in how long they last. Composite needs only occasional cleaning. Catching and replacing a rotted board or wobbly post early prevents bigger repairs. Pressure washing before resealing gives the best result.
Many deck and fence issues — a few boards, a leaning section, loose railings — are repairs, not replacements. Replace when rot or structural problems are widespread or safety is compromised. On Genie, deck and fence building, repair and sealing go to vetted, insured pros at a quoted or upfront price, with the work captured and protected until it's done.
Every task in this guide is something you can book on Genie — vetted, insured pros at an upfront price:
Pressure-treated wood and cedar are cheaper upfront but need regular sealing and staining; composite and PVC cost more but need far less maintenance and last longer. Weigh the upfront cost against years of upkeep.
Decks often need a permit (especially above a certain height or attached to the house) and must meet safety code; fences may have height and placement rules. Confirm bylaws and property lines first to avoid disputes and do-overs.
Clean and reseal or restain it regularly (typically every 1–3 years) to prevent rot, cracking and greying — it's the biggest factor in lifespan. Catch and replace rotted boards or wobbly posts early.
