Getting a deck built is a big decision to make. Consider these 2 things before getting your deck built.
Did you just want to create a snug spot in the backyard for you and your family? Design your deck to accommodate lounge chairs and a patio set based on how many people are in your family. Also, try to plan ahead for sunny spots by building a shade with greenery or build a shade.
Most decks are designed to support up to 60 pounds per square foot including the weight of the deck. Overloading it could be very dangerous. If you plan to have huge parties or heavy furniture, you may want to have a stronger supporting structure built. You also want to make sure that your deck is large enough to fit a lot of people, furniture, and appliances.
There is a wide variety of materials that you can choose to have your deck built from as well as many benefits that go along with each type of material.
Pressure- Treated Wood: This type of wood takes stains and waterproofing easily. It is also cheaper than many of the other options for deck building in Michigan or Chicago
Composite Decking: This wood-look alternative is known for its long-lasting nature and durability. You can get composite decking in a variety of colors or textures. Composite decking doesn’t splinter, crack, warp, or rot significantly reduced the need for maintenance.
PVC Cellular Decking: PVC is easy to clean and not prone to rot or termites which makes it stand out over wood. Having a cellular PVC deck built can be beneficial as it is moisture resistant and will not swell or shrink with temperature changes.
Cedar: Cedar decking has a natural insect resistance which can help eliminate termite problems that often arise in regular wood decks. Cedar is very easy to work with during installation and can be easily stained.
After selecting the material that you wish to have your deck built you then need to decide where do you want your deck or patio to be built? Can you accommodate the lifestyle that you want to live on your deck or patio? Based on this, plan how you want to build your deck in Michigan or Chicago.
Finally, contact Miles Bradley to get started on building your dream deck today!
The recent Michigan snowfall has stirred up concerns for new deck owners on how to properly maintain their deck during the winter months. We often get questions about removing the snow on your deck in the winter. As your trusted deck building company, we are happy to address any concerns that you may have about maintaining your deck in the winter.
You do not have to remove the snow from the deck. Also, we only recommend that you clear a path if the deck is connected to your house to avoid accidents.
Your deck will not collapse from the added weight from the snow. Miles Bradley builds 
high-quality low maintenance decks that are built to withstand the Michigan winter. When you mix Trex decking with our great workmanship, you get a strong deck that can handle the weight from people, furniture, or snow.
Will I mess up the deck by shoveling it?
If you plan to shovel the snow off of your deck, we recommend that you use a rubber shovel. Metal shovels can possibly scratch up your deck. When shoveling, we also recommend that you use one big stroke and run the shovel down the length of the boards.
What products are recommended to remove snow and ice?
To remove snow and ice, we recommend that you use rock salt or calcium chloride.
Finally, thanks for being a valued customer of Miles Bradley. We look forward to another great year with you. If you are in need of deck repairs or a new deck this fall or winter call 248-478-8660. In addition, you can request a quote right now!
Have you ever wondered what the difference was between a deck or a patio? They are very similar but one might fit or look better than the other in your backyard. It is important to understand the differences between a patio and a deck in order to make an informed buying decision.
Decks are platforms made of wood or composite materials. Also, decks work best if you have a sloped yard and you want to create a flat area. Homes that sit high above the ground are also good for decks. In addition, decks can be built as high as you need them, unlike patios.
Patios are normally built on flat ground. They are made of wood, concrete, or flagstone. It is also possible for them to be built on a sloped lot but building it can be more costly. If your door is ground level, then many people choose to have them built instead of a deck.
When deciding to get a patio or a deck 
built, you should consider how many people you want it to accommodate and what activities you want to do outside. This will help Miles Bradley figure out traffic flow, safety measures, and size estimates. A growing trend in the deck industry is to build a multi-level deck with steps leading down to a patio. This is a great way to enjoy the benefits of both if you still can’t decide which one to get.
Let Miles Bradley in Michigan build your next deck or patio. We have over 20 years of experience constructing decks on a variety of landscapes. We do great work and have excellent testimonials to prove it. A Miles Bradley deck comes with exceptional workmanship and is built with high-quality materials. Finally, contact Miles Bradley today to start your deck or patio project!
Are you in the market for a new deck? Does your home look like its missing something? A deck is a great way to go! Whether you’re replacing a new one or adding a deck to your home, your deck becomes part of your home and it is important to choose the right materials to use. Choosing what materials to have your deck built out of is one of the first things to decide. You have two main choices; composite wood or natural wood.
To decide which one suits better for you and your home you will need to consider four things;
When choosing natural wood you will need to stain and seal your deck every year. Composite decking requires less maintenance than natural wood material. Composite wood will need to be cleaned but will not need to be stained like natural wood.
To consider the life span on the different materials you have to assess that wooden decks can crack and splinter from weather conditions and can also get more damaged from water and rot if they are not maintained properly. To repair wood decks can be stained and replaced if necessary. Composite decks do not crack or splinter but can fade and warp. They also have a tendency to scratch and stain. To repair composite decks can replace the scratched, warped, or faded pieces.
Choosing what type of appearance you want your deck and home to have is very important. Composite deck materials are made to look like wood and vary less in appearance than natural wood. It is not stainable and if it fades it will need to be replaced rather than stained. Natural wood decks are more attractive and can add a lot of value to your property. There are many stains and types to choose from than composite deck materials and can be re-stained when the color starts to fade not have to be replaced.
The final decision is cost; Natural wood tends to be less expensive than composite deck materials.
This decision will depend on preference and what works better for you and your home, there are pros and cons to both types. Whichever you decide you, your family and guests will have a wonderful deck for years to come and we can build it for you!
Spring is in the air in the Metro Detroit area. When spring cleaning your house, don’t forget about your Michigan deck. Leaving stains or improperly cleaning your deck can lead to the warranty on your deck being voided out. Miles Bradley recommends that you watch the video below to learn the proper steps to clean your composite custom deck in Novi, Northville or all over southeastern Michigan.