Decks Categories Archives

Do you have a composite deck but don’t know how to properly take care of it? Because composite decks are made from wood byproducts (i.e. wood chips, sawdust) and plastics, they require less maintenance work than other wood decks. These types of decks come in a variety of styles, colors, and grains to choose from.

Taking care of your deck isn’t a hard process at all. The first thing you should do is to grab a broom and dustpan and begin sweeping your deck. Sweeping frequently will help keep your deck clean. As you’re sweeping, make sure to sweep all of the debris off of your low-maintenance deck. Pick up any leaves or sticks that might be stuck within the cracks of your deck board. Composite decking material cannot be sanded nor refinished so if you see any stains on the deck, be sure to address them quickly so that they can be removed.

Composite Deck Cleaning

Next, scrub your deck with soap and hot water or composite deck cleaner. Use a deck brush while scrubbing the surface of your composite deck. The deck brush that you use should have soft bristles to make your deck even smoother.

Finally, rinse off your low-maintenance deck using the water hose. Make sure all of the soap’s residue is removed. If your composite deck has any marks on it, use nail polish remover, rubbing it in a circular motion, on a wet cotton ball to get it off. Once finished, allow your deck to dry.

Miles Bradley Building and Remodeling, INC specializes in building composite decks. If you’re interested or have any questions, contact us at any one of our locations.

The months of January and February can be rough, weather-wise. When deciding on a new deck for your home, there are a number of things to keep in mind. Whether if you are looking to have a small, large, single, or multi-level deck…the possibilities are endless. As the weather begins to change, preparing and ensuring that your home and new deck will be ready for the snow and ice should be your number one priority, in regards to winter maintenance. If you are looking to invest in a new deck in Michigan, what better time to start saving than a time such as this?

How to Save For Your Dream Deck In The New Year

Depending on your deck’s size and style will determine the cost that it takes to build your deck. Planning out your deck’s cost in advance will not only keep the total price under control but will also help you build the deck of your dreams without destroying your budget. Here are some ways to help reduce the cost of your new deck:

The time is right: it’s pretty common for people to get their deck installed in the warmer months. If you schedule your installation between the months of November and March, there’s a greater chance that the rates will be a lot cheaper.

Carefully choose your wood: wood decks typically require annual maintenance, however, if you invest in a composite deck or pressure-treated wood, you will be saving time and money in the long run.

Keep it simple: simply eliminating fancy designs, curves and other features will help to reduce cost. Using things like footings and pre-made concrete piers can help, too.

Certified Deck Contractor in Michigan

If you are looking for a certified decking contractor in Michigan to install your new deck this season, contact Miles Bradley. Like our customers, we promise to provide you with exceptional workmanship and product. Finally, fill out our quote today to start planning the deck of your dreams!

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.

Safely Using a Fire Pit on Your Deck

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.

Here are some steps to take to properly protect your deck from fire or damage.

Find a safe location away from deck railings, decorations, and your home. You
want to be sure that if the wind blows the flames of your fire will not come in contact with anything that may increase the risk of starting a fire.
Never place your fire pit directly on your deck. The heat from underneath the fire pit can cause damage to the wood decking or composite decking. Damage such as warping, discoloration, or burn spots may occur. To avoid this, you can use fire pit pads, or create your barrier with patio stones. When creating a barrier, you will want to extend it about two feet in all directions from the edge of your fire pit. This will help with embers or in the event the fire pit tips over, your deck will still be protected.
Start your fire and cover with a fire pit screen. This will reduce flying embers and debris, while still allowing you to enjoy a full bonfire.

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!

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.

Spring Deck Cleaning

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:

Hose off your patio-removing the debris from your furniture is very important. This will help in the spring preparation process.
Scrape leaves-check in-between your deck boards with a putty knife.
Pressure wash-pressure washing your deck makes spring cleaning a whole lot easier. Take your time when it comes to this because if done incorrectly, it can cause damage to your decking material.
Repair your deck-if you notice something out of place, in regards to your deck, be sure to get it fixed asap.

Wood Decks vs Trex Decks

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.

Are you thinking about decorating your deck, but aren’t sure where to start? There are so many ideas to choose from, but which one is right? When it comes to transforming your deck into an outdoor living space, there is no right answer. Each deck has its own style and brings its own personality to the table. Below are a few ways to decorate your deck with the style just right for you.

Decorating your Deck

Add furniture: it’s always nice to start off with a focal point and move from there. Placing your main piece of furniture in a focal area will make it stand out more. There are an endless amount of furniture items you could play around with to see which one works best for you. Also, when it comes to deciding what colors you want to use, your options are limitless.
Make it comfy: not only should your outdoor living space look comfortable, but it should feel comfortable as well. Adding a bunch of comfy pillows always seems to do the trick.
Create privacy: creating privacy is key, especially if your home is fairly close to your neighbors. Planting a row of evergreens or planter boxes with flowers forms a privacy wall for your deck. It also adds a pop of scenery to your backyard.
Lattice wall: putting up a wooden square lattice wall on one side of the deck is in right now. Planting certain plants such as climbing roses and clematis will eventually grow up the lattice and form a fragrant wall filled with blooms.
Add water: adding a water feature to your decks, such as a water garden or fountain, creates a smooth, tranquil environment. Nothing is better than coming home after a long day of work to a peaceful atmosphere right in your backyard. Adding water is a great addition when it comes to decorating your deck.

Deck Installation

As you can see, there are many options to choose from when it comes to decorating your deck. However, choose what will make you happy. If you are currently looking for a company to do your deck installation, please call Miles Bradley or feel free to fill out our quote form. We are a full-service custom decking firm that strives to see our customers satisfied.

How to Take Care of a Composite Deck