Fall, also known as “bonfire and hoodie season” is quickly approaching as we close out our first week of September. Family and friends will gather around fire pits sharing stories, laughter, and making unforgettable memories. It is important to remember throughout all of the fun, that safety still has to be a top priority.
It is recommended that fire pits be used in areas that are open and away from decks or homes. With portable fire pits becoming more and more popular, it is becoming more frequent for homeowners to begin using a fire pit on their deck space. It is important to remember that both wood decking and composite decking are flammable and can be damaged from the heat if your decking space is not properly protected.
Since you are starting a fire on a wood surface, it is important to take extra precautions. Something as small as an ember can cause your deck to catch fire. Be sure to have a fire extinguisher and hose readily available in the unfortunate event that does occur.
Don’t have a deck? Are you looking to improve the value of your home by having a new deck built? Contact us today!
Are you looking for a brand-new composite deck for your dream backyard? You have a few choices on what to make your deck out of. Trex, the world’s number one decking brand, TimberTech, America’s number one in premium decking, or original wood, an easy material to use that is the go-to for many people.
Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages, so we cover the great Trex vs Timbertech debate.
Trex is an eco-friendly decking material. Unlike wood, Trex decks come will not rot, split, swell, or crack from insect infestation. And because the color is ingrained within the material, Trex does not require repainting, annual staining, or sealing.
TimberTech is number one in premium decking. These decks are durable enough to withstand almost anything your family, friends, and the elements throw at them. They do not require any staining or sealing in their long-lasting life in your backyard.
Wood decks are the original design that many flocks to in the spring and summer months. Even though wood is in need of replacement every couple of years, wooden decks are easy to construct at a reasonably affordable price. Unfortunately, this resource is scarce and can lead to deforestation. It also splits and splinters with age. So, perhaps wood is not the best option for today’s standards.
Trex is by far the best and most reliable brand to use when constructing a deck. Your deck will last for years to come with Trex as its construction base. You can make the deck of your dreams in the color of your choice. So why wait?
Contact Miles Bradley Decks today to get a free quote! We can make your deck in any color you choose. Our main seller is Trex but we can do whatever you’d like most on your favorite deck. So, let’s make your dreams a reality, call us today or contact us through our form!
Add more elegance to your life. Get a pergola addition to your home today!
If you’ve never experienced the luxury and bougies of a pergola, you’re missing out! Pergolas are a beautiful way to increase your outdoor living space. In addition to beautiful design, they also provide a shady garden feature to walkways, decks, or outdoor sitting areas.
While we may highlight the practical uses, adding a pergola to your home will increase your home’s resale value in the long run. If you’re unsure of what a pergola is, let us explain them. Pergolas are known for their vertical pillars that support either cross beams or open lattice. The most common sight on a Pergola is climbing vines, hanging lights, or curtains, all of which make the pergola stand out and look beautiful.
Pergolas are wonderful because not only do they enhance your outdoor space, but they are also functional as well. They add an extra usable space on your deck or garden that can provide a layer of shade between you and the hot summer sun. If your Pergola is big enough, entertaining your guests in a cozy and warm environment will make your next dinner party feel fabulous. Being able to lounge under the shade on your porch or back deck is a wonderful feeling. In addition to letting you be outside longer and more comfortably, pergolas add more to your home’s value as well.
The biggest difference between a gazebo and a pergola is that gazebos are almost always shaped like an octagon with a roof over top. Pergolas do not have covered roofs and are generally square with exposed beams.
A Trellis is different from a pergola in that it consists of latticework that is attached to a structure for vines to climb on. Whereas a pergola has larger columns and (most popularly) has horizontal planks of wood on top.
Arbors are small archways that can be used for climbing plants to use as lattice as they grow. While pergolas and arbors both have the same vine climbing feature, pergolas are much biggest and more structurally sound.
No matter what kind of structure you’re looking for in your backyard Miles Bradley can help! We have been building pergolas, gazebos, and trellises for our clients in South East Michigan for over 25 years. We’ve had clients from Brighton, Livonia, to Farmington Hills and Southfield. So why wait? Get a free quote on your next project today!
A wood deck can really show its age over the years. Also, the maintenance to maintain your wood deck can be more than a little annoying. That is why more and more homeowners are seeing the benefits of composite decks. Composite decks made from Trex materials can maintain the beauty of the deck for years to come with little to no maintenance. There are several advantages to a composite deck over a wood deck and we will cover a few.
Wood decks need constant upkeep each season. From sanding to staining there is almost always maintenance that is needed. Where a composite deck would just need some soap and water to clean it up once a year. In addition to being durable and low maintenance, a composite deck made with Trex materials has a 25-year fade and stain warranty. Another benefit of a composite deck is its durability.
Composite decking is designed to resist scratching, fading, staining, and mold. Also, a composite deck is insect-proof. Another factor is the aesthetics of a composite deck. With a multitude of color choices, and a natural look homeowners can really choose the exact look they are going for. Environmentally friendly is another aspect of these decks. The deck boards themselves are made from recycled materials.
Finally, the value is another added benefit. Initially, a composite deck may be higher but in the long run with way less maintenance and longer durability, you will save money. If you in search of an experienced composite deck builder then look no further than Miles Bradley. We have built hundreds of composite decks throughout the years all over Michigan and Illinois. You can visit our portfolio of decks here.
Give us a call today in the Detroit area at 248-478-8660 or for the Chicago area at 847-920-7601 and see what Miles Bradley can do for you!
This past winter was one to remember. Not only was it one of the coldest winters we’ve had in a long time, but it was also one of the snowiest winters, too. It seemed as if every day there was something going on with the weather. If it wasn’t snowing, it was hailing–if it wasn’t hailing, it was windy. The list goes on and on…
With the ongoing commotion of all of the recent winter storms, there really hasn’t been any time to keep your deck in tip-top shape until now. Spring is in full course and these helpful tips, it’ll help you learn how to properly clean and maintain your deck for this season.
Too many homeowners nowadays think that spring deck maintenance is all about cleaning. I mean, sure, a great deal involves that, however, what they don’t realize is that maintenance is all about systems, structures, and appliances. Checking to make sure that your deck, patio, porch, and stairs are cleaned is also something one should be aware of when it comes to spring deck cleaning.
Here are some spring deck maintenance and cleaning tips to make this transition a smooth one:
Deciding between wood decks and Trex decks has its pros and cons. First and foremost, wood decking requires a lot of cleaning, sanding, and staining. It’s easy to get worn out and can create splinters. Trex decks, however, do not require much maintenance. These types of decks are made from 95% of recycled materials and resist warping, weathering and even, insects. Low-maintenance decks, such as Trex decks, will be a better investment in the long run.
If you are looking for a decking contractor to help design your dream deck or if you are looking for more information regarding spring deck maintenance and cleaning, contact Miles Bradley today. We even give out free quotes! We look forward to hearing from you soon.