◆ Service · Chicago & nearby suburbs
Fencing & Deck Care
Wood fences and decks take a beating from Chicago weather. We clean, prep and stain or seal wood surfaces when weather allows the finish to cure properly.
◆ Why it matters
Why it helps
Protects the wood
A maintained finish helps wood resist moisture and sun.
Weather-timed
Scheduled for dry stretches with suitable temperatures.
Proper prep
Cleaning and drying before any finish goes on.
Matches the property
Stain tones chosen to complement hardscape and the home.
◆ Our process
How it works
- 01Wood condition walkthrough
- 02Finish and color selection
- 03Cleaning and drying time
- 04Stain or sealer application
- 05Final inspection
◆ What you get
What's included
- Surface cleaning
- Stain or sealer application
- Protection of nearby plants and hardscape
- Cleanup
- Re-coat timing advice
Photos from our jobs
◆ Timing & conditions
When this work is done best.
Wood work and exterior wood cleaning need dry stretches and moderate temperatures.
Best window
- • Late spring through early fall suits fence and deck repairs, cleaning and finishing.
- • Finishing is best on dry wood with several dry days in the forecast.
Workable window
- • Structural repairs can proceed in cooler weather; coatings generally cannot.
- • Post setting depends on the ground being unfrozen and diggable.
Weather
- • Cleaning and finishing are rescheduled around rain and heavy dew.
- • Very hot, direct sun can affect how coatings lay down, so shaded scheduling is used where possible.
Site conditions we check
- • Wood condition — some boards and posts need replacement rather than cleaning.
- • Grade contact and moisture at the base of posts.
- • Property line and permit questions for fence work.
- • Whether the existing finish must be removed before a new one is applied.
When we postpone
- • Wet wood that has not dried after rain or washing.
- • Frozen ground during post setting.
- • Structures with damage that makes cleaning or coating pointless until repairs are done.
How to prepare
- • Clear furniture, grills and planters from decks.
- • Secure pets during fence work when gates are open.
- • Confirm colour and finish choices before the visit.
Aftercare
- • Keep traffic and furniture off newly finished surfaces for the interval we specify.
- • Expect to reapply exterior finishes periodically; how often depends on exposure.
- • Keep soil and mulch pulled back from wood at grade.
Why timing matters: Exterior wood work only holds up when the wood is dry and the temperature suits the material. Waiting for the right stretch is cheaper than redoing it.
Timing guidance is general for the Chicago area. Every property is different, and this service is not the right fit for every site or every season. We confirm suitability, timing and scope during an on-site assessment before any work is scheduled.
See the full Chicago Property Care Calendar →◆ Common questions
Fencing / Deck: what people ask
- How much does fencing / deck cost?
- J.E.M doesn't list set prices because every property is different. Estimates are free — request one below or call (773) 798-8148.
- What affects the estimate?
- Mainly square footage, current condition of the wood, prep work, and stain choice.
- Does J.E.M need to see the property first?
- Yes. For this work J.E.M looks at the site in person before recommending a fix or giving a price.
- Which areas do you serve?
- Chicago and nearby suburbs, including Chicago, Naperville, Hinsdale, Oak Brook, Burr Ridge, Clarendon Hills and more. J.E.M comes to your property — the full list of towns is in the footer.
- How do I get started?
- Use the estimate form on this page or call (773) 798-8148. Sending a request is not a booking — J.E.M will contact you to confirm details and timing.
◆ Free estimate
Request an estimate or visit for fencing / deck.
Commercial or apartment property? Use the commercial estimate form.
◆ Ready when you are
Ready for a free estimate?
Free estimates for homes and businesses in Chicago and nearby suburbs.