Frequently Asked Questions

Constant moisture from rain causes wood to stay damp longer, creating ideal conditions for rot to develop in boards, posts, and joists. Cedar and pressure-treated lumber resist decay differently, but both eventually deteriorate when water penetrates cracks or pooled areas. Horizontal surfaces like deck boards and fence caps fail faster because they hold moisture instead of shedding it.

Stair gates at top and bottom landings prevent falls, while corner guards on sharp furniture edges reduce injury risk in open spaces where children move between rooms quickly. Anchoring tall furniture like bookcases and dressers stops tip-over accidents. Each home's layout determines which access points, climbing risks, and fall zones need the most attention during assessment.

Spring growth starts earlier here due to mild, wet conditions, so trimming and weeding work begins in March or April depending on the season. Overgrowth accelerates through summer, making recurring maintenance every 4-6 weeks practical for most properties. Fall cleanup before heavy rain prevents matted debris and keeps planting areas orderly through winter.

Repair addresses isolated damage like one rotted post, a few broken boards, or loose gate hardware without replacing the entire structure. Replacement makes sense when rot affects multiple posts, the fence line sags continuously, or more than half the boards need attention. Age, wood condition, and the extent of visible deterioration guide the decision.

Press a screwdriver into suspected boards—soft, spongy wood that dents easily indicates rot beneath the surface that cleaning won't fix. Surface dirt, mold, and discoloration come off with pressure washing if the wood stays firm. Splintering, cracks wider than a quarter-inch, or boards that flex underfoot signal structural wear beyond cosmetic cleaning.

Trimming controls overgrown shrubs, hedges, and smaller ornamental trees to improve yard access, clear walkways, and maintain sight lines around the property. Work focuses on shaping growth, removing branches that block pathways or windows, and keeping plantings proportional to the space. Hazardous tree removal and large tree work fall outside standard residential trimming scope.

Weeding removes competing plants that drain nutrients and create visual clutter, while mulch suppresses future weed growth and gives beds a finished appearance. Mulch also helps soil retain moisture during dry summer stretches, reducing stress on plantings. The combination keeps landscaped areas orderly longer than weeding alone, especially during Seattle's active growing season.

Concrete walkways, driveways, and patios handle higher pressure without damage, making them ideal for removing built-up grime and weather staining. Composite and wood decks require lower pressure to avoid surface gouging or splintering. Some painted surfaces and softer materials aren't suitable for pressure washing—surface type determines the appropriate cleaning method and pressure level.

Walls need repair work like drywall patching, texture matching, and sanding before paint goes on, or imperfections show through the finish. Furniture gets moved or covered, and trim requires cleaning or light sanding for proper paint adhesion. Skipping prep results in visible flaws, poor coverage, and shorter-lasting results regardless of paint quality.

Rotted trim, siding, or fascia boards need replacement before painting, or new paint simply covers deteriorating wood that continues failing underneath. Carpentry prep includes installing solid wood, caulking gaps, and priming bare surfaces so paint bonds correctly. Addressing wood damage first prevents paint failure and wasted effort on surfaces that won't hold a finish.

The number of damaged components, wood type needed for replacement, and whether posts require concrete work all influence pricing. Accessible damage costs less to repair than rot hidden under decking or below ground level. Material availability, the extent of carpentry work, and how much surrounding structure needs attention to match existing construction also affect total repair scope.

Pressure washing removes surface dirt, organic growth, and most weather-related grime, but oil stains, rust, and deep discoloration often remain because they've penetrated the concrete. Results depend on stain type, how long it's been there, and the concrete's porosity. Cleaning restores a noticeably cleaner appearance even when some stubborn marks persist.