The Perfect Deck for Michigan Weather: Why Miles Bradley is Your Top Choice

The Perfect Deck for Michigan Weather

Michigan’s unpredictable weather can make outdoor living a challenge—but with a deck built by Miles Bradley, you can enjoy your backyard no matter the season. As the region’s leading deck contractor, Miles Bradley combines deep expertise with a personal touch, creating custom decks that stand up to rain, snow, and sunshine while transforming your outdoor space into a true sanctuary.

Miles Bradley understands Michigan’s harsh freeze-thaw cycles and how they can cause average decks to crack, warp, and suffer. Our team has decades of experience selecting the best materials and using time-tested construction techniques.  We focus our deck design on longevity, even in Michigan’s toughest conditions. When you work with Miles Bradley, you can relax knowing your deck is crafted to last.

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Understanding Michigan’s Deck Challenges

Building a deck in Michigan comes with unique obstacles due to the state’s unpredictable climate. Homeowners have to contend with wide temperature swings—from -20°F in winter to 100°F in summer—as well as heavy snow, frequent rain, and high humidity. Lake-effect weather can make conditions even more intense, leading to increased moisture and temperature fluctuations.

One of the toughest hurdles is the freeze-thaw cycle. As water seeps into deck materials and freezes, it expands, which can cause cracking, warping, and long-term structural damage. In addition, humidity near the Great Lakes raises the risk of mold and rot (primarily with traditional wood).

To keep your deck looking great and performing well year after year, it’s crucial to choose materials that resist moisture, withstand temperature shocks, and prevent fungus or rot. Thoughtful design and quality construction techniques—such as ensuring proper drainage and spacing—will go a long way toward extending your deck’s lifespan.

Composite Decking: The Michigan MVP

Composite decking is the gold standard in Michigan, and Miles Bradley has mastered the installation of leading brands like Trex and TimberTech. With an eye for detail and many years of experience, your composite deck will withstand moisture, resist cracking, and look gorgeous for years. And, without the upkeep headaches!

Miles Bradley’s composite decks offer slip resistance for wet springs and snowy transitions, and their team will help you find styles that match both your home and your lifestyle. It’s an investment that pays off in durability and beauty.

Pressure-Treated Lumber

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly deck, Miles Bradley sources and installs premium pressure-treated lumber. We use wood treated with modern preservatives and select boards with the right grain and strength to minimize warping and rot. In addition, you’ll get expert advice on annual maintenance, so your deck looks great from year to year.

Premium Options: Hardwoods and PVC Made Easy

Dreaming of ipe or mahogany? Want the ultimate in weather resistance with a PVC deck? Miles Bradley has extensive experience with specialty woods and advanced synthetics, handling everything from sourcing to installation. Their expertise ensures your premium deck will handle Michigan’s climate and add value and style to your home.

Smart Deck Design Features for Michigan Living

small decks are multi-functional

Covered Areas For Year-Round Use

Miles Bradley specializes in deck designs that keep you comfortable all year. Their custom covered zones, roofs, and pergolas protect your dining and lounge areas from rain or baking sun. Retractable awnings, outdoor fans, and built-in heaters are all part of Miles Bradley’s portfolio, letting you enjoy your deck spring, summer, or fall.

Cozy Fire Features

Extend your outdoor season with a fire pit or built-in fireplace, designed and safely installed by Miles Bradley.  We’ll help position these features for maximum comfort and safety. You’ll be able to enjoy warmth, ambiance, and memorable evenings, no matter the chill.

Multi-Level Decks for Unique Michigan Yards

Miles Bradley knows Michigan’s landscapes—and how to make the most of them with multi-level decks. Create distinct zones for entertaining, relaxing, or playing with designs that fit sloped yards and optimize drainage. Their signature built-in benches, storage, and custom railings ensure style meets function, even in challenging spots.

Ready to Transform Your Home? Choose Miles Bradley

Building the perfect deck means trusting true experts. Miles Bradley combines skill, service, and local knowledge to deliver results that last. From your first consultation to the final walkthrough, you’ll enjoy a stress-free process and a deck that fits your home and lifestyle.

Start your project now with Miles Bradley, and by next season, you’ll be relaxing, entertaining, and making memories on the best deck in the neighborhood—rain, shine, or snow.

Winterize Your Deck Composite or Wood

Winterizing Your Composite or Wood DeckIt’s that time of year again where the weather is getting colder and we have to start thinking about winterizing our composite or wood decks. Especially in the harsh Michigan Winters, deck owners have to make sure to take all the necessary precautions to ensure the longest life for composite and wood decking. But what is the best way to winterize your deck?

How To Winterize Your Deck

  • Clean your deck before Winter arrives.

By cleaning your deck before the snow starts accumulating, you can avoid the hassle of removing long-standing dirt and grime from your deck when the snow melts in the Spring. If you leave dirt on your deck, especially wood, for long periods of time then you risk discoloration and stains on the decking.

  • Inspect your deck for any weaknesses.

Make sure that you check your deck for any weaknesses before the first snowfall. If you have loose screws, lifting boards, or any cracks, heavy snows and extra pressure could make the problem much worse. Call Miles Bradley to get a free estimate before the deck sustains real damage.

  • Trim tree branches that hang over your deck. 

It’s always better to be safe than sorry. If you trim your overhanging tree branches before a bad storm hits, you have no chance of sustaining damage to your deck from a heavy branch cracking and falling on it. This is a simple precaution that could save you lots of money.

  • Consider removing furniture from the deck.

You may want to relocate your furniture to the attic or a shed during the Winter. This will protect the furniture’s quality and keep it in its best condition for the Spring. Also, it will prevent rust spots and mildew from forming on the decking surrounding the furniture.

For any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact us! As your trusted local deck builder, we are happy to address any concerns that you may have about winterizing your composite or wood deck.