6 Sloped Backyard Ideas on A Budget
Discover 6 budget-friendly “sloped backyard ideas” to transform your outdoor space! Unlock the potential of your sloped yard with us. Explore more ideas now!
Creative Retaining Wall Ideas for Sloped Backyards
Discover innovative and practical retaining wall ideas for sloped backyards to revamp your outdoor space. Find inspiration and tips to transform your yard now!
Discover the Beauty and Durability of Exposed Aggregate Concrete Patios in Michigan
Exposed Aggregate Concrete Introduction Michigan homeowners looking to enhance their outdoor living spaces often turn to exposed aggregate patios for their unique beauty and durability. This decorative concrete finish has become increasingly popular for its ability to combine robust functionality with aesthetic appeal. Whether you’re renovating your backyard or constructing a new patio area, exposed aggregate offers a stylish yet practical solution that stands up to Michigan’s variable weather conditions. Exposed Aggregate Concrete Patio Ideas 1. Classic Gray Aggregate: A timeless choice, classic gray aggregate provides a sleek look that complements any modern or traditional home exterior. 2. River Rock Aggregate: For a touch more natural charm, incorporating river rock aggregate can create a more organic look, blending seamlessly with garden areas or landscaped paths. 3. Polished Pebble Finish: Ideal for a more refined and smooth appearance, polished pebbles offer a sophisticated flair, perfect for entertaining areas or quiet garden retreats. 4. Multi-Colored Aggregate: Utilize a blend of different stone colors to add depth and interest to your patio. This is particularly effective in larger areas, where a burst of color can bring vitality to the space. 5. Border Designs: Combining exposed aggregate with plain or stamped concrete borders can define the space and add an extra layer of customization. Understanding Exposed Aggregate Concrete Patios Exposed aggregate is a form of decorative concrete achieved by removing the top layer of cement paste and revealing the underlying aggregate (sand, pebbles, stones). This surface is not only attractive but also slip-resistant, making it an ideal choice for patios, driveways, and walkways. Installation Process: The process involves pouring concrete mixed with special aggregates, then carefully removing the top layer of cement to expose the beautiful and rugged textures of the aggregate beneath. It requires precision and professional expertise to ensure the surface is uniform and durable. Maintenance: Exposed aggregate is low maintenance, requiring just periodic sealing to maintain its color and protect against wear and tear. Regular cleaning with a hose and a mild detergent will keep it looking fresh. Read more: Best Small Patio Ideas and Stamped Concrete Patios Pros and Cons of Exposed Aggregate Concrete Patios Pros: Cons: You may also like to read: Outdoor Fire Pit Conclusion Exposed aggregate Concrete patios offer a perfect blend of durability and aesthetic appeal, making them an excellent choice for enhancing outdoor living spaces in Michigan. With a variety of finishes and designs available, homeowners can easily find a style that fits their landscape and personal taste. Ready to transform your outdoor space with the beauty of exposed aggregate concrete? Contact Michigan Rose Construction today! Our team of experts specializes in exposed aggregate patio installations, ensuring a high-quality finish that enhances your home’s exterior. Don’t wait, start planning your dream patio with us today and enjoy a beautiful, long-lasting outdoor area tailored to your needs. Call us (734) 307-2019 or visit our website to get started! For more details, visit Michigan Rose Construction Facebook Page.
Pergola Shade Ideas – 10 Designs for Outdoor Spaces in Michigan
Introduction Pergolas are a beautiful and functional addition to any outdoor space, offering both aesthetic appeal and practical benefits. In Michigan, where the climate can range from hot summers to chilly autumns, having a pergola can transform your backyard into a versatile outdoor living area. This blog explores ten innovative pergola shade ideas that not only enhance comfort and increase usability but also add value to your home. We will also guide you through everything you need to know about choosing and installing the perfect pergola for your Michigan home. The Basics of Pergolas Before diving into the various pergola shade ideas, it’s essential to understand what pergolas are and how they can benefit your outdoor space. A pergola is an outdoor garden feature forming a shaded walkway, passageway, or sitting area of vertical posts or pillars that usually support cross-beams and a sturdy open lattice. While pergolas are traditionally designed to support climbing plants, they also serve as a foundational structure for various shade solutions. Read more: Trending Pergola Design Ideas 10 Pergola Shade Ideas for Your Michigan Home 1. Climbing Vines One of the most natural ways to add shade and beauty to your pergola is by using climbing vines. Popular options in Canton Michigan include wisteria, ivy, and grapevines. These plants not only provide shade but also bring a burst of nature to your structure. 2. Retractable Canopies For those looking for versatility, a retractable canopy provides shade when needed and can be pulled back to enjoy the sun. This option is perfect for Michigan’s variable weather, allowing you to quickly adapt to changes in sunshine or precipitation. 3. Slatted Wood Roofs Adding a slatted wood roof to your pergola offers a more permanent solution for shade. The gaps between the slats allow light to filter through while blocking out the majority of direct sunlight. Customize the spacing between each slat based on how much sunlight you want to filter into your space. 4. Sail Shades Sail shades are a modern and stylish way to cover your pergola. These fabric canopies are anchored to the pergola frame, creating a breezy and casual look. They are also easy to install and remove, making them an excellent option for seasonal use. 5. Polycarbonate Panels For a more durable solution, polycarbonate panels can be installed on top of the pergola. These panels are weather-resistant and provide UV protection while still allowing natural light to shine through, ideal for the fluctuating Michigan climate. 6. String Lights and Fabric For those who love to entertain at night, draping fabric and stringing lights across the top of your pergola can create a magical and inviting atmosphere. This setup not only provides light but also softens the sunlight during the day. 7. Aluminum Shades Aluminum shades offer a sleek and modern look, providing excellent durability and protection from the elements. They can be adjusted to block out sunlight completely or set to let partial light through. 8. Bamboo Screening Bamboo screens can be attached to the top or sides of the pergola, adding a touch of exotic flair. This natural material is perfect for creating privacy and shading your space from the sun. 9. Outdoor Curtains Hang outdoor curtains from your pergola for a flexible and elegant shade solution. Curtains can be tied back to open up the space or drawn closed to create a private retreat. Choose weather-resistant fabrics to ensure longevity. 10. Vertical Gardens Integrate a vertical garden with your pergola for both shade and aesthetic appeal. This can be achieved by hanging planters from the rafters or installing green walls. This not only maximizes garden space but also enhances the cooling effect of your pergola. Things to Consider When Installing Pergola Shade Ideas Location Choose a location that maximizes usability and enjoyment throughout the year. Consider factors like sun exposure, wind patterns, and views. Material Select materials that can withstand Michigan’s weather conditions. Wood, metal, and PVC are popular choices, each offering different looks and levels of durability. Permits Check with your local municipality to see if you need a permit to build a pergola. This is crucial to ensure your structure is built to code and avoids legal issues. Foundation Make sure your pergola has a solid foundation. This can involve pouring concrete footings, especially in areas with frost heave in colder months. Read more: Wood Deck Installation and Walkway Ideas Conclusion Pergolas not only enhance the beauty of your outdoor spaces but also increase the functionality and enjoyment of your home. With the right design and material choices, your pergola can become a central feature of your outdoor living in Michigan. Whether you opt for climbing vines for a natural look or polycarbonate panels for durability, there’s a pergola solution for every style and need. Ready to bring these pergola shade ideas to life? Michigan Rose Construction specializes in creating custom pergola solutions that blend seamlessly with your landscape and lifestyle. Contact Michigan Rose Construction today to start designing your dream pergola and turn your backyard into the perfect outdoor retreat for all seasons! For more details, visit Michigan Rose Construction Facebook Page or you can call (734) 307-2019
Wood Deck Installation – Level Up Your Backyard
Wood Deck Installation: Introduction Decks are a popular backyard addition for Michigan homeowners. The Great Lakes State’s moderate temperatures make outdoor living spaces practical for much of the year. With its abundance of forests, Michigan has a strong tradition of woodworking and carpentry. Deck building took off in the late 20th century as an affordable way to extend living areas outdoors. Today, wood decks remain a staple for Michigan households. They provide extra space for entertaining, relaxing, and connecting with nature. Wood decks are also attractive, eco-friendly options that can add value to homes. This guide will explore the benefits of wood decks and what Michigan homeowners need to know about deck installation. We’ll cover planning, materials, hiring contractors, building codes, and maintenance. With proper research and preparation, you can have a beautiful and functional wood deck that will serve your family for years to come. Wood Deck Installation Benefits Wood decks are a popular outdoor living addition for many Michigan homes. There are several key benefits that make wood the top choice for deck materials: Wood Deck Installation Planning Installing a wood deck in Michigan takes careful planning and preparation. Before starting construction, you’ll want to make several key decisions: Location Choose a deck location that fits your property and needs. Consider backyard access, views, sunlight, and privacy. Make sure the location is feasible based on property lines, trees, and other obstacles. Size & Shape Think about how you plan to use your deck. Will it be for dining, relaxing, entertaining guests? This will impact ideal size and shape. Standard wood deck sizes range from 12×12 feet up to 20×20 feet or larger. Consider multiple levels or sections too. Access Points Determine how you’ll enter/exit the deck. Having multiple access points via stairs or ramps provides convenience and flexibility. Doorways from the home and yard gates are ideal connections. Terrain Account for slopes, hills, or uneven ground. This may affect post depth, step construction, and railing height on elevated decks. Proper drainage is also crucial. Consult a contractor if the terrain is highly complex. With thoughtful planning and preparation, your dream wood deck can become a reality. Carefully considering these key factors in advance will set your deck build up for success. Wood Deck Installation Permits Building Installing a new wood deck or making major modifications to an existing deck requires obtaining permits in Michigan. This ensures your project follows local building codes and safety standards. Most municipalities in Michigan require a building permit for deck construction. The permit must be obtained before work begins. The permit application will require details about the project, including: Permit applications are submitted to your local municipal building department. Larger cities like Detroit and Grand Rapids have their own building departments that handle permits. For other areas, permits are issued by the building department of the county or township. Costs for deck permits vary by municipality but are generally $50-150 for a basic wood deck. More complex or larger decks may have higher permit fees. The permit must be posted on-site during construction. It typically takes 2-4 weeks to receive the permit after submitting the application. The building department will review the plans to ensure they meet code requirements. Some municipalities allow online permit applications to speed up the process. Obtaining the proper permits and having inspections done at key stages of construction ensures your deck is structurally sound and safe. It also protects you in case any issues arise down the road. Wood Deck Installation: Choosing Decking Materials When building a new wood deck in Michigan, you’ll need to decide which materials to use. Here are some of the main options to consider: Types of Wood Composite Decking Railings Hardware Read more: Best Deck Materials Wood Deck Installation: Hiring a Contractor Installing a wood deck is a complex project that requires expertise to be done properly. While ambitious DIYers may attempt to build a deck themselves, hiring a professional contractor is highly recommended for most homeowners. Here’s what you need to know about finding and working with a deck pro: Benefits of Hiring a Professional Pro deck builders have years of experience designing and constructing decks of all shapes, sizes, and materials. They have the skills, tools, and knowledge to: This experience virtually guarantees your satisfaction and reduces the risk of injuries, accidents, or a poorly-built deck. Professional credentials like certifications also provide peace of mind. Finding Reputable Contractors Ask neighbors, friends, or family for recommendations of deck builders they’ve used and liked. Search online for “deck contractors near me” and look for companies with a professional website, positive reviews, portfolio of past projects, and proper licensing and insurance. Visit home shows to meet deck builders in person and gauge their expertise. Industry associations like NADRA also offer search tools to find certified deck professionals in your area. Questions to Ask Prospects Interview at least 3 deck contractor candidates and ask questions like: Their responses will help you assess their reputation, professionalism, and fit for the job. Estimating Project Costs Deck builders will provide a free estimate after reviewing your plans and assessing the site. Expect to pay anywhere from $25-100 per square foot for a professionally built wood deck. Get at least 3 bids to compare. The final cost will depend on the deck size, materials, complexity of design, site conditions, and labor. Ask what is included and watch for hidden fees. A clear contract locks in the final price. With proper planning and an experienced deck pro, you can enjoy your new outdoor living space worry-free! See: Deck Installation Companies Wood Deck Installation: Preparing the Site Before starting construction on your new wood deck, the site needs to be properly prepared. This involves a few key steps: Clearing the Area The first step is to clear the area where you plan to build the deck. Remove any grass, plants, rocks or other debris. You’ll want a flat bare surface to work with. Use a sod cutter if needed to
Deck Installation Companies
Deck Installation Companies: Introduction Installing a new deck or repairing an existing one can greatly enhance the beauty and functionality of your outdoor living space. With its abundance of lakes and outdoor recreational opportunities, Michigan is a popular place for homeowners to install and enjoy decks. The deck building industry in Michigan has grown steadily over the past decade to meet this demand. There are now dozens of deck building companies operating across the state, from small local contractors to large installation services working statewide. They offer a range of wood, composite and other decking materials as well as railing, lighting, and accessory options to customize your deck. Most also provide repair and refinishing services for existing decks. When researching deck builders, look for licensed, insured companies who are knowledgeable about local zoning regulations and building codes. Reputable companies will provide you with a detailed quote for materials and labor as well as a projected timeline. Ask about warranties and guarantees for their workmanship. Reviews and referrals from past customers are also helpful to assess quality of service. Benefits of Hiring a Professional Deck Builder Hiring a professional to build your new deck offers several key advantages over trying to DIY or hiring a handyman. Professional deck builders have extensive experience constructing high-quality decks using proper techniques and materials. This expertise ensures your deck will be attractive, durable, and safe for years to come. Some key benefits of hiring a pro include: By hiring a professional deck construction company, you can feel confident you will get a beautifully-built and high-performing deck. Their expertise in all aspects of deck building is invaluable. Things to Look for When Hiring a Deck Builder When hiring a deck building company, there are a few key factors you’ll want to consider: Experience Reputation Licensing Top Deck Installation Companies in Michigan Michigan is home to many excellent deck building companies that can help transform your outdoor space. When looking to build or renovate a deck, it’s important to find an experienced company that provides quality craftsmanship. Based on reputation, workmanship, customer reviews and range of services, here are 10 of the top deck builders in Michigan to consider for your next project: 10. Great Lakes Decking & Fence Great Lakes Decking & Fence specializes in DECK, PATIO & PORCHES. No matter how big or small the job is, there is always a cool, refreshing way to create and personalize your OUTDOOR LIVING SPACE. And Great Lakes Decking is exactly the partner YOU WANT for any project you can dream of ~ Or, let our design team do the dreaming for you. Started locally in 1980 as a family business, the company that is Great Lakes Decking & Fence today, has developed some of West Michigan’s most carefully executed and innovative DECKS, PATIOS & PORCHES and outdoor living spaces. 9. Montell Construction They take great satisfaction in being dependable, secure, and strong at Montell Construction, a top home improvement company serving Grand Rapids and surrounding areas in western Michigan. Their longevity in the business is a result of our close ties to numerous leading manufacturers. Also, their team of highly qualified, experienced installation professionals keeps us safe because we are committed to fine craftsmanship and high-quality installations. 8. Great Lakes Deck and Fence With over 15 years of experience, Great Lakes Deck and Fence provides deck design, building, repair and staining services to homeowners throughout southeast Michigan. Their staff has expertise building all types of decks from simple, affordable designs to elaborate custom decks using the latest materials and trends. 7. Eagle Construction Family-owned and operated, Eagle Construction has installed thousands of decks in Michigan over their 35+ years in business. They handle the entire process from permitting to demolition to building stylish new decks customized to each home. Their craftsmen pay close attention to detail and building code compliance on every job. 6. Decks by Design Decks by Design serves Ann Arbor and surrounding communities with quality deck building and outdoor living space construction. They are known for their beautiful, long-lasting composite and natural wood decks designed to enhance leisure time outdoors. Free consultations and estimates. 5. Great Lakes Decks With an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, Great Lakes Decks constructs and repairs residential decks across Michigan. Their staff has over 25 years combined experience framing, designing and installing wooden and composite decks to suit their client’s lifestyle, budget and home style. 4. Premier Decks Premier Decks offers full-service deck building in Grand Rapids and West Michigan. They handle everything from permitting and demolition to deck construction and cleanup. Their team pays close attention to detail, provides frequent project updates and works diligently to exceed customer expectations. 3. ABC Deck Company ABC Deck Company is a family-owned business that has been building and repairing decks in Michigan for over 20 years. They are licensed, insured, and specialize in all aspects of deck construction including design, demolition, framing, railing installation, staining, sealing, and repair. Some of the services offered by ABC Deck Company include: ABC Deck Company stands out for their craftsmanship, attention to detail, and excellent customer service. They have an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. Some of their recently completed projects include a multi-level deck with built-in benches and planters, an elevated deck with cable railings, and an intricate curved deck. Homeowners rave about their beautiful results and professionalism through the entire process. 2. Michigan Construction Co. Michigan Construction Co. is a leading deck builder serving customers across the state of Michigan. With over 15 years of experience, they have established a reputation for craftsmanship and customer satisfaction. Overview Michigan Construction Co. was founded in 2007 by two brothers passionate about carpentry and design. They started out building decks for friends and family before officially launching their deck building business. Today they employ a talented team of carpenters and designers to bring clients’ deck visions to life. No project is too big or small for their team. Services Michigan Construction
Trending Pergola Design Ideas this 2024
Discover the latest trending pergola design ideas for 2024 and elevate your outdoor space. Contact Michigan Rose for expert advice and design options now!
Deck Installation near me in Michigan
Deck Installation near me | Why Install a New Deck in Michigan With warmer weather arriving, you may be thinking about how to better enjoy the outdoors in Michigan. One popular option is adding a new deck to your home. In fact, the demand for deck installations has been growing steadily across the U.S. According to the National Association of Home Builders, the number of new decks constructed each year increased by over 50% from 2011 to 2021. If you’re considering a new deck installation this year, Michigan is a great place to do it. The state’s temperate climate enables you to enjoy a deck for much of the year. A deck also increases your home’s value and provides an excellent spot for entertaining or relaxing outdoors. Benefits of a New Deck Adding a new deck to your home can provide numerous benefits that make it a worthwhile investment. Here are some of the top reasons to have a deck installed: Key Considerations for Deck Installation Installing a new deck in Michigan can be an exciting project that adds valuable living space and beauty to your home. However, it’s important to carefully consider several factors before starting your deck installation: Budget The cost of a new deck can vary widely based on the size, materials, and complexity of the design. Most standard wooden deck installations range from $25-$45 per square foot. More intricate multi-level deck designs with added features usually start at $45 per square foot. Composite and other decking materials are generally more expensive. Be sure to get multiple quotes and determine your budget upfront. Materials Decking materials are a top consideration, as they impact appearance, durability and maintenance. The most popular options are pressure-treated lumber, cedar, redwood, composite decking, and plastic/PVC deck boards. Each has pros and cons regarding pricing, lifespan, and aesthetics. Discuss options with deck contractors to determine the best fit. Permits Most areas require permits for deck construction, which ensures code compliance for safety. Research local regulations, acquire required permits from your city or county building department, and have work inspected. Reputable deck builders can provide guidance on permits. Contractor Hiring a professional, licensed deck construction contractor is highly recommended. They handle design, permits, materials, and build a code-compliant deck properly the first time. Check reviews, credentials, examples of past work, and get a written contract. Steer clear of unlicensed contractors who cut corners. Investing in a quality deck company helps avoid issues down the road. How Much Does a Deck Installation Cost? Installing a new deck can be a significant investment, but it also adds valuable outdoor living space and appeal to your home. The cost of a deck installation depends on several factors: Top 5 Deck Installers in Michigan When it comes to installing a new deck in Michigan, it’s important to choose an experienced and reliable deck builder. Here are 5 of the top deck installation companies in Michigan: Michigan Rose Construction Michigan Rose Construction is a highly recommended deck builder serving homeowners throughout Michigan. They have over a year of experience constructing beautiful and functional decks using the highest quality materials. Their team pays close attention to detail and works closely with clients to create the perfect outdoor living space. Michigan Rose Construction handles the entire process from design to permitting to installation. Powell’s Home Improvements Powell’s Home Improvements has over 30 years of experience in the building industry. Our specialties are replacing old decks and constructing decks out of wood and composite materials. Railing installation is another area of expertise for us. Uniquely Unique Building and Remodeling Uniquely Unique is committed to customer satisfaction. We will be fully transparent throughout the entire process with no hidden agenda. We will treat your home like our own and will give you the quality project you deserve. We will give you an absolutely free consultation and help you through every step, from start to finish. Sunny Construction LLC We are a small business with many years of experience under our belt. Guaranteed to satisfy your needs with affordable prices! Let’s us help you build your dream home! JDZ Construction JDZ Construction Company specializes in construction projects of all types. We specialize in Roofing, Remodeling, Tiling, Drywall, Windows, Doors, Siding, and more. We proudly provide services to Lenawee, Hillsdale, Jackson and surrounding areas. Contact us anytime for a free estimate. Financing options available. Spray foam insulation Why Choose Michigan Rose Construction? When it comes to deck installation in Michigan, you can’t go wrong with Michigan Rose Construction. With over 15 years of experience building stunning decks across the state, they have the expertise to construct the outdoor space of your dreams. Michigan Rose Construction sets themselves apart in a few key ways: Years of Experience The team at Michigan Rose Construction has been designing and building exceptional decks since 2005. Their many years in the industry means they have the skills and knowledge to handle any deck project, no matter how complex. You can trust them to get the job done right. Great Reviews Don’t just take our word for it. Michigan Rose Construction has over 100 five-star reviews from satisfied customers. People rave about their attention to detail, clear communication, and beautiful final products. They have an excellent reputation for quality craftsmanship. Pictures of Past Work The company showcases stunning photos of decks they’ve built so you can see examples of their artistry. Whether you want a simple, elegant deck or a showstopping multilevel design, their portfolio proves they can deliver. Various Deck Types Michigan Rose has experience constructing all kinds of decks: ground level, elevated, multi-tier, composite materials, wood, and more. Their expertise allows them to bring virtually any deck design to life flawlessly. When it comes to deck installation in Michigan, your search stops at Michigan Rose Construction. Call today for a quote! Deck Materials When choosing materials for your new deck, you have several options to consider including treated wood, cedar, and composites. Each material has its own advantages
Licensed Deck Contractor near me
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: 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: 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
Paver Walkway – Tips for a Perfect Pathway
Introduction Does your Michigan home lack that certain curb appeal? Cracked concrete paths leaving an eyesore first impression? Here in the Mitten State, the freeze-thaw cycle can wreak havoc on traditional walkways. But fear not, homeowners! Paver walkways offer a stylish and durable solution built to withstand Michigan’s toughest weather conditions. In this blog, we’ll delve into the many reasons why paver walkways are the perfect choice for your Michigan home. We’ll explore the benefits of pavers over traditional materials, the design possibilities they offer, and how they can add value and functionality to your property. So buckle up and get ready to transform your entryway from mundane to magnificent! Paver Walkways Paver walkways are paths made from individual pavers or blocks rather than poured concrete. Pavers are available in a variety of shapes, styles, colors, textures and materials to fit any landscape design. Compared to poured concrete, paver walkways offer many benefits: The most popular paver materials are: The shape and pattern possibilities are endless with pavers. The most common paver styles are square, rectangular, hexagonal, circular and tumbled. Planning Your Paver Walkway Installing a paver walkway requires careful planning and preparation to ensure it lasts for years to come. Here are some key factors to consider: Drainage and Slope Proper drainage is critical for a long-lasting paver walkway. Water should drain away from the house and off the sides of the path. A slight slope of 1/8 to 1/4 inch per foot is ideal. Use a level and stakes to mark the slope. Avoid overly steep slopes which can lead to erosion. Width Consider the walkway’s purpose when planning the width. A main path to the front door should be 36-48 inches wide. Narrower 18-24 inch paths work well for garden walkways. Wider walkways allow two people to walk comfortably side-by-side. Base Preparation Proper base preparation is crucial. Excavate at least 6 inches deep and add a 4-inch gravel base. Compact the gravel and level it before installing 1-2 inches of sand. This provides drainage and a solid foundation for the pavers. Careful planning for drainage, width, and base preparation makes for a long-lasting, functional paver walkway you’ll enjoy for years. Prepare the base properly before installing pavers. Paver Walkway Patterns Paver walkway patterns add visual interest and style to your outdoor space. Choosing the right pattern is an important design decision that impacts the overall look, cost, and installation complexity of your walkway. Here are some of the most popular paver patterns to consider: Herringbone The herringbone pattern features rectangular pavers placed in an interlocking arrangement that resembles a herringbone pattern. Pavers are laid at 45 or 90 degree angles to each other in alternating rows. Pros: Cons: Basketweave Basketweave patterns feature rectangular pavers woven in an over-under pattern resembling a basket weave fabric. Each paver is laid perpendicular to the adjacent pavers. Pros: Cons: Stacked Bond Stacked bond patterns feature pavers stacked in a grid or running bond pattern with continuous straight joints. Rectangular pavers are laid in straight rows off-set by half a paver length each row. Pros: Cons: The pattern you select can increase material and labor costs, especially for more intricate layouts like herringbone that require cutting pavers and precision installation. Simple patterns like stacked bond tend to be the most budget-friendly options. Consulting a professional installer can help weigh the pros and cons of each pattern for your specific project. Paver Walkway Borders When installing a paver walkway, an important consideration is choosing borders to contain the pavers. There are several options for paver borders, each with their own pros and cons. Concrete Borders Concrete makes a durable and long-lasting border for paver walkways. Concrete borders are installed by digging a trench around the perimeter of the walkway, adding rebar for reinforcement, and pouring concrete into the trench. Pros: Cons: Plastic Borders Plastic lawn edging comes in flexible strips that can be installed around the edges of a paver walkway. These plastic borders are easy to work with and bend to create curved borders. Pros: Cons: Metal Borders Metal strips like aluminum and galvanized steel can be installed around paver walkways to create a border. These metal lawn edging strips provide a clean finish. Pros: Cons: Stone Borders Using stone or brick to create borders is a classic choice for paver walkways. Stones like granite cobblestones or bricks are arranged around the edges. Pros: Cons: For most paver walkways, concrete makes the best border option due to its strength, durability, and clean edges. Plastic or metal borders can also be good choices if looking for easier installation or a more affordable option. The border you choose will depend on your budget, design preferences, and how much labor you can provide for installation. Choosing the Right Pavers When it comes to choosing pavers for your walkway, you have several material options to consider including concrete, brick, and natural stone. Each paver material has its own unique properties, advantages, and disadvantages that are important to weigh when deciding what will work best for your project. Concrete Pavers Concrete pavers are a popular choice for many homeowners due to their affordability and durability. Concrete pavers are man-made from a mixture of cement, aggregate, and other materials. The biggest advantage of concrete pavers is their low cost compared to other paver options. They can withstand heavy foot traffic without cracking or chipping. Concrete pavers also come in a diverse range of shapes, styles, colors, and textures to choose from. On the downside, concrete pavers are more prone to staining from leaves, soil, and other organic materials. They may also fade over time from sunlight exposure. Additionally, concrete does not provide the same natural beauty as real stone or brick. Brick Pavers Brick pavers have a classic, timeless look that fits well with many home design styles. Bricks come in a variety of colors like red, brown, grey, and tan. They are very durable against cracking and chipping. Brick pavers can last 50 years or longer
