Licensed Deck Contractors near me: Why You Should Hire a Contractor for Your Deck
Licensed Deck Contractors near me: Backyard decks are incredibly popular in Michigan. In fact, over 65% of homes in the state have some type of deck for outdoor entertaining and relaxation. With spring and summer right around the corner, you may be thinking about building a new deck or sprucing up your existing one. Hiring a professional, licensed deck installation contractor is highly recommended for this type of home project.
This article provides a list of the top 5 licensed deck contractors in Michigan. We’ll also cover important factors like checking credentials, cost and budget, design trends, and maintenance. Our goal is to equip you with the knowledge to find the best deck pro for your job and end up with results you’ll love.
Benefits of Hiring a Licensed Deck Contractor
Hiring a licensed deck contractor near me provides several important benefits compared to hiring an unlicensed handyman or doing it yourself. The biggest benefit is avoiding injuries and accidents with proper construction methods and materials. Licensed contractors have the expertise to build a structurally sound deck that meets local building codes. They use high-quality decking materials and hardware designed for longevity. A deck that is not properly supported or built with substandard wood can be dangerous and collapse under weight.
Licensed contractors have passed exams and met experience requirements for their state. This ensures they have the right knowledge and skills to safely build a quality deck. They keep up with current building codes and construction best practices. Licensed deck builders also carry liability insurance and worker’s compensation for employees. This protects homeowners financially if someone were to get injured on the job. With a licensed contractor, you gain peace of mind knowing your new deck is built safely by qualified professionals.
How to Check a Contractor’s License
When hiring a deck contractor, it’s important to verify their license status. Here are some tips:
- Look up the contractor’s license number on your state’s licensing board website. Most states have an online license lookup where you can confirm the contractor has an active license in good standing.
- Call the state licensing board to double check the status if you can’t find the license online. Ask them to confirm if there have been any complaints or disciplinary actions taken against the contractor’s license.
- Search online for reviews of the contractor. Check sites like Yelp and the Better Business Bureau to see what past customers have said. Look for any concerning complaints about poor workmanship or unfinished jobs.
- Ask the contractor for references from past deck jobs and speak to those customers about their experiences.
Taking these steps helps ensure you hire a deck pro who is properly licensed and in good standing before they start work on your home. This helps avoid potential issues down the road.
Questions to Ask a Deck Contractor
When interviewing deck contractors, you’ll want to ask the right questions to determine if they are the right fit for your project. Here are some key questions to ask:
How long have you been in business? An established company with years of experience is ideal. This demonstrates they have a proven track record and the skills to properly build and finish a deck.
How many projects like mine have you completed? Look for a contractor who has extensive experience building decks similar to yours. Custom decks with detailed finishes require specialized expertise.
What materials and brands do you use? High-quality decking materials like pressure-treated lumber, composite, or tropical hardwoods will withstand the elements. Make sure they work with reputable brands and offer warranties on materials.
Do you handle the permit process? Many municipalities require permits for deck building. A knowledgeable contractor will handle the permitting process for you. This ensures the deck meets all code requirements.
What is the timeline and process? Professional contractors will outline the full project timeline, from planning and permits to construction and cleanup. Expect regular progress updates and communication throughout the process.
Asking these key questions helps you evaluate expertise, experience, workmanship and customer service. A contractor who can confidently answer these questions is likely a good choice for your deck project.
Top 5 Licensed Deck Contractors in Michigan
Michigan Rose Construction
Michigan Rose Construction is a licensed deck contractor located in Detroit, Michigan. They have been building beautiful decks for over a year and are known for their craftsmanship and attention to detail.
Michigan Rose Construction offers all aspects of deck building including design, permitting, demolition of old decks, framing, decking material installation, railings, stairs, lighting, and more. They work with a variety of materials including wood, composite decking, aluminum, and PVC.
“We couldn’t be happier with the new deck that Michigan Rose Construction built for us. The whole team was professional, skilled, and a pleasure to work with from start to finish,” said a recent customer.
Deck Masters
Located in Grand Rapids, Deck Masters is a licensed deck construction company that has been building decks for over 20 years. They specialize in custom wood and composite decks and also offer 3D design renderings. Deck Masters handles everything from permits to demolition to maintenance.
Great Lakes Decks
Great Lakes Decks, located in Traverse City, is known for their artistry and carpentry skills. They customize every deck to match the homeowner’s vision and lifestyle. Their crew has over 50 years of combined experience constructing stunning decks throughout northern Michigan.
Arrow Decks
Serving Lansing and mid-Michigan, Arrow Decks is a licensed and insured deck construction company. They offer expertise in low maintenance and environmentally friendly decking products. Arrow Decks provides free consultations and estimates.
Wolverine Decks
Wolverine Decks has been a licensed deck builder in the Ann Arbor area for over 10 years. They handle small residential decks up to large commercial deck projects. Wolverine Decks is recognized for sustainable and long-lasting deck construction.
Cost and Budget
The cost of building a new deck can vary significantly based on the materials used, size, and complexity of design. However, most sources estimate the average cost to be between $15-40 per square foot for materials and labor. This means a basic 12×12 foot deck would cost $2,160-$5,760.
Some of the main factors that affect deck building costs include:
- Materials – Composite decking, ipe wood, and redwood tend to be more expensive than pressure-treated pine. The railing system, fasteners, and hardware will also impact material costs.
- Size – Larger decks require more materials and labor time, driving up the overall price. Multi-level decks are also more complex and expensive to build.
- Design – Decks with elaborate designs, built-in benches, planter boxes, lighting, and intricate railings will cost more than simple rectangular decks.
- Labor – Hiring a professional, licensed deck builder will be more expensive than doing it yourself. Labor costs account for 50-60% of the total project cost.
To get the best value, it’s recommended to get quotes from 3-4 licensed deck contractors before deciding on one. Quotes allow you to compare costs for similar projects, taking into account materials, size, design, and labor. Be sure to get itemized quotes breaking down material and labor expenses.
This gives you a good baseline for budgeting and choosing the right deck builder for your project and budget. Keep in mind that cheaper isn’t always better when it comes to deck construction. Paying more for quality materials and an experienced deck builder is often worth the investment in the long run.
Deck Design Trends
When it comes to deck design, there are several trends homeowners should consider:
Popular Decking Materials
Composite decking has become increasingly popular in recent years. Made from a mix of wood fibers and recycled plastic, composites provide the look of natural wood with increased durability and less maintenance. Composites resist moisture, fading, staining, scratching and mold growth better than natural wood. However, some homeowners still prefer real wood for its beauty, texture and environmentally-friendly sourcing. Woods like cedar and redwood are naturally rot-resistant.
Incorporating Lighting and Audio
Outdoor lighting and audio systems can extend enjoyment of your deck into the evening. LED deck lights installed in rails, steps and overhead allow safe use after dark. Speakers integrated into the structure or mounted in weatherproof outdoor cabinets let you play music to set the mood. Lighting and audio can be wired or wireless for flexibility.
Low Maintenance and Durability
Today’s decks emphasize low maintenance and high durability. Using composite or pressure-treated lumber reduces rotting and insect damage. Adding a water-resistant sealer protects against moisture. Using hidden fasteners rather than exposed nails/screws gives a cleaner look. Choosing aluminum or vinyl railings and hardware prevents rust. Following local building codes ensures structural integrity over time. A well-built deck saves on continual repairs.
Read more: Best Deck Materials
Permits and Regulations
Building a new deck or remodeling an existing one requires obtaining permits and following safety regulations in Michigan. Here’s what you need to know:
Permitting Process
- Building permits are required for decks that are attached to a home or more than 200 square feet. Freestanding decks under 200 sq ft may not need a permit.
- Permit applications can be obtained from your local building department. You’ll need to submit a detailed drawing showing the deck design and measurements.
- Allow 2-4 weeks for the permit to be reviewed and approved. Your contractor can help with the permitting process.
- Once approved, the permit will be valid for 6 months to start construction. If work isn’t started in that timeframe, you may need to reapply.
Safety Regulations
Michigan has adopted the International Residential Code which specifies construction requirements for decks:
- Railings must be a minimum of 36 inches high on decks more than 30 inches off the ground. Stair railings require a graspable handrail.
- Stairs should be a minimum of 36 inches wide. Riser height and tread depth must be consistent.
- Ledger boards attaching the deck to the house must be properly flashed and secured. Proper joist sizing, beam spacing, and connections are also checked.
- Access must meet ingress/egress requirements. Means of entry/exit from decks and doors must be maintained.
Your licensed deck contractor will ensure your new deck meets all permitting and code requirements for safety.
Maintenance
Proper maintenance is key to getting the most out of your deck investment. Here are some tips:
Power Washing and Sealing
- Power wash your deck at least once a year to remove dirt, mildew, and other buildup. Pay extra attention to railings, steps, and areas that don’t get walked on often.
- Seal your deck every 1-2 years with a penetrating sealer. This protects the wood from water damage, UV rays, and pests. Apply the sealer per the manufacturer’s instructions.
Inspect for Damage
- Inspect your deck closely each spring for any signs of damage or deterioration. Look for loose nails, cracked or warped boards, railings pulling away from posts, etc.
- Check where the deck attaches to your home’s ledger board. Water getting behind here can cause extensive rot.
- Note any spongy areas on the deck’s surface, which may indicate hidden moisture damage.
Extend Your Deck’s Lifespan
- Keep plants, bushes, and tree branches trimmed back so they don’t grow against or hang over your deck.
- Install drip edge flashing along the deck’s edge if it doesn’t already have it. This guides water off the side.
- Keep furniture off one area of your deck during the wet months to let it fully dry out.
- Consider applying a mildew-resistant finish if your deck is in a damp or shady area.
Regular maintenance and inspections will help your deck last for years to come. Address any issues promptly to prevent further deterioration.
Conclusion
Building or renovating a deck is an exciting project that can greatly enhance your outdoor living space. However, it’s critical to hire a licensed professional contractor to ensure the job is done properly and safely. In this article, we covered the top 5 licensed deck contractors in Michigan that have the expertise to construct a gorgeous, high-quality deck.
When hiring a deck contractor, always verify they are licensed, insured, and have a good reputation for quality workmanship. A licensed pro like Michigan Rose Construction has undergone training and passed exams to demonstrate their competency. They understand the complex structural engineering of deck construction and stay current on the latest codes and regulations. Attempting a DIY deck comes with huge risks if you don’t have the proper knowledge and skills.
Now is the perfect time to get your deck project started with spring and summer around the corner. Call Michigan Rose Construction today to schedule a free estimate. Their team of experienced deck builders will be happy to discuss your vision, preferences and budget to design a custom deck that maximizes your outdoor living space. Investing in a professionally built deck will enhance your home’s value while providing years of enjoyment and lasting memories.
For more details, visit Michigan Rose Construction Facebook Page or you can call (734) 307-2019.
