Fence and Deck installation near me: Introduction
Adding a new deck or fence can greatly increase the enjoyment you get from your Michigan home. With the right upgrades, your outdoor living space can become a highly valued part of everyday life.
Decks extend your home’s livable area. You gain a versatile space for entertaining, dining, relaxing or playing. With the right deck design, you can seamlessly connect indoors and outdoors.
Fences enhance privacy, add aesthetic appeal and provide security. They establish boundaries while allowing you to control views. Fences also keep children and pets safely in the yard.
Upgrading your outdoor areas delivers lasting benefits. As Michigan’s short summers arrive, you’ll be glad you invested in maximizing your outdoor living. Well-built decks and fences will endure for decades when properly maintained.
This guide from Michigan Rose Construction covers key considerations when planning deck or fence projects in Michigan. Read on to learn about materials, design factors, costs and upkeep. With the right information, you can create outdoor living areas your family will enjoy for years to come.
Fence and Deck installation near me: Planning Your Deck
When planning your new deck in Michigan, the first thing to consider is how you want to use the space and how big it needs to be. Determine if the deck is mainly for entertaining or casual use. Also think about traffic flow from indoor spaces to the outdoors.
Generally, decks used mainly for grilling and dining need at least 120 square feet of clear space. For entertaining larger groups, aim for 200-300 square feet. Be sure to measure the footprint to fit your needs. Consider existing trees and landscaping so you don’t block views or have to remove mature plants later.
Think about the layout shape – a simple rectangle or L-shape often works well. Avoid narrow areas under 4 feet across or tight corners. Plan wide staircases so multiple people can pass easily. Having at least one long side of the deck creates flexibility for furniture arrangements.
Locate the deck near the home’s rear or side door for convenient access. Face the deck towards views you want to enjoy. Ensure proper drainage slopes away from the home’s foundation.
Allow ample workspace around the grill, doors, and stairways. Design the traffic flow so people don’t bottleneck near the grill or feel crowded. Having defined deck zones helps – such as a dining area and separate lounging section.
Consider adding built-in benches, planter boxes, overhead structures, and other amenities. Just be sure the overall size accommodates these features while still having open floor space.
With smart planning and layout, your new deck can perfectly suit your needs and lifestyle for years to come. Our team of deck experts can help assess your home and property to design the ideal deck space for you.
Fence and Deck installation near me: Deck Materials
When choosing materials for your new deck, you have several options to consider including wood, composite, and aluminum. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Wood
Wood is a traditional and popular choice for decking. The most common woods used are pressure-treated pine, cedar, redwood, and tropical hardwoods like ipe.
- Advantages of wood include its natural beauty, ability to be stained or painted, and relatively low cost. Wood can last 15-25 years when properly maintained.
- Disadvantages are that wood requires regular sealing, staining, or painting to protect it from the elements. It can crack, splinter, warp, and be susceptible to rot and insect damage over time.
Composite
Composite decking is made from a blend of wood fibers and recycled plastic. Brands like Trex are well-known.
- The benefits of composite are its durability, low maintenance, and resistance to moisture, stains, and insects. Composite won’t rot, warp, or splinter like wood.
- Downsides are composite can fade, stain, or get hot in direct sunlight. It’s also more expensive than pressure-treated wood.
Aluminum
Aluminum decking is durable, completely waterproof, and requires almost no maintenance.
- Aluminum is very low maintenance, resists weathering, won’t rot or rust, and has a longer lifespan than wood.
- The drawbacks are higher material costs, heat conduction making it hot underfoot in summer, and a tendency to dent. The metallic look isn’t for everyone either.
When weighing the pros and cons of each material, consider your budget, design tastes, and how much maintenance you’re willing to do. Your Michigan deck builder can help guide your material selection.
Fence and Deck installation near me: Deck Railings
Railings are a crucial safety feature for any deck. Choosing the right materials and proper height is important to protect people from falls.
Materials
There are several common deck railing materials to choose from:
- Wood – Classic and natural looking, wood railings like cedar are attractive but require regular maintenance such as sealing and staining. Pressure-treated pine is very durable. Make sure to use decay-resistant wood.
- Vinyl – PVC vinyl is affordable and low maintenance. It won’t rot, splinter or need painting. Vinyl comes in many colors and styles to suit your deck.
- Metal – Wrought iron, steel and aluminum are very strong options. Metal railings have a contemporary look and come in different colors and finishes. Aluminum is lightweight but sturdy.
- Cable – Stainless steel cable infill creates an open, airy feel. The cables require posts and top/bottom rails. This modern style works with many deck aesthetics.
- Glass – Railings with tempered glass infill panels provide safety with great views. The glass requires metal or wood posts and rails. It’s a pricey but beautiful option.
Height
Deck railing height must meet your local residential building code, usually 36 to 42 inches tall. This helps prevent falling accidents. Measure from the finished deck flooring surface, not the joists. For stairs, railing height on open sides should be 34 to 38 inches measured vertically from the stair nosings. Confirm exact requirements with your city building department before installing deck railings.
Deck Stairs
When installing deck stairs, it’s crucial to follow local building codes for safety. Most codes require stair treads to be a minimum depth of 10 inches. Riser height (space between steps) should be no more than 7.75 inches. Stairways wider than 36 inches require railings on both sides.
Grip-able stair railings are mandatory. These graspable rails must be 1.25-2 inches wide to allow a handhold while climbing up and down stairs. Railings should be 34-38 inches above the leading edge of treads.
Landings are required at the top and bottom of stairs, measuring 36 inches deep and as wide as the stairs. This provides a flat area for transitioning between vertical and horizontal surfaces.
Stairways with 4 or more risers require lighting. Switches at top and bottom allow lights to be turned on before entering stairs. Outdoor stair lighting must be rated for wet locations.
Following stair codes isn’t just about passing inspections. Proper stair dimensions and features like railings, lighting, and landings prevent slips, trips, and falls. Building safe stairs should be the top priority for any deck builder.
Fence and Deck installation near me: Lighting Your Deck
Proper lighting is crucial for enjoying your deck day and night. Carefully planning the lighting will create an inviting space for relaxation, dining and entertaining. There are two main types of deck lighting to consider – ambient and task.
Ambient Lighting
Ambient lighting provides overall illumination for the entire deck. This creates a comfortable atmosphere for spending time outside after sunset. Ambient lighting is often soft and subtle, such as:
- String lights
- Lanterns
- Post lights
- Uplighting
String lights are a popular ambient lighting choice. White bulb or bistro-style lights hung above create a cozy feeling. For a more dramatic look, consider hanging Edison-style filament bulbs.
Lanterns and post lights placed around the deck perimeter provide attractive ambient light. Opt for black, bronze or other dark finishes that won’t distract from the natural environment during the day.
Uplighting placed along the side of the house or posts casts a gentle glow for ambient lighting. Use uplights with adjustable heads to aim the light where needed.
Task Lighting
Task lighting illuminates specific areas of the deck where activities will take place. This is important for grilling, dining, reading and more. Task lighting options include:
- Pendant lights
- Recessed lights
- Under rail lighting
- Step lighting
Pendant lights hung above the grill or dining table offer direct illumination for cooking and eating after sunset. Opt for dimmable pendant lights to control the brightness as needed.
Recessed lighting built into the deck ceiling or railing provides targeted task lighting. These are more discreet than pendant lights.
Under rail lighting placed beneath the deck railing shines light directly down to the deck floor. This is an unobtrusive option for task lighting.
LED step lighting installed on stairs or steps increases visibility and safety when navigating the deck at night.
Properly blending ambient and task lighting creates the ultimate backyard oasis to enjoy day or night. Consult with a deck builder to plan the perfect lighting design.
Fence Materials
When choosing materials for your new fence, you have several good options to consider. Each material has its own advantages and tradeoffs.
Wood
Wood is a classic fencing material that provides both beauty and durability. Cedar and redwood are common wood choices because they resist rot, decay, and insect damage. Wood can be stained or painted and provides a traditional, natural look. It does require periodic maintenance like sealing and staining.
Vinyl
For a lower maintenance option, vinyl is a top choice. Vinyl holds up well to moisture and resists rotting, cracking, and insect damage. With a PVC polymer resin construction, it won’t warp or splinter either. Vinyl looks similar to painted wood but doesn’t need repainting. It’s available in various colors and styles.
Chain Link
Chain link fencing uses galvanized steel woven into a diamond pattern. It’s an affordable option known for its durability and security. With proper installation, chain link fences can last 20-30 years. They allow visibility and require minimal maintenance beyond occasionally tightening posts and clipping protruding wire ends. Chain link works well for pets but isn’t as decorative as other materials.
Fence and Deck installation near me: Fence Styles
Fences come in many styles, with different looks and purposes. Some popular styles include:
Privacy Fences
Privacy fences are designed to block views and noise between properties. They create a solid barrier using overlapping wooden boards, vinyl panels, or other opaque materials. Privacy fences are typically built 6 feet tall or higher. They provide security, seclusion, and boundary definition for backyards or other private areas.
Picket Fences
Picket fences feature a row of vertical boards or “pickets.” The spacing between pickets allows air and light to pass through while maintaining a decorative look. Picket fences range from 3-4 feet tall typically. They offer a classic aesthetic for front yards and clearly delineate property lines. Picket fences don’t provide complete privacy but do limit visibility.
Lattice Fences
Lattice fences incorporate a criss-crossing diagonal pattern. Thin wood or vinyl strips are arranged with gaps between them, creating an open and airy feel. Lattice fences are low profile, usually 4 feet or shorter. They provide a semi-transparent barrier that mildly obscures views. Lattice tops are also sometimes added to privacy fences for increased airflow and decoration.
Fence Gates
Fence gates are an important part of any fencing project. They provide access to your yard while maintaining security and privacy. Choosing the right gate style and size is key to complementing your fence design.
The most common types of gates are single and double gates.
Single Gates
A single gate is ideal for most side and backyard fence entrances. Single gates typically range from 3 to 5 feet wide. They allow easy passage for most people, pets, and landscaping equipment. Single gates should open outward and have sturdy gate posts to handle regular use. Consider installing a self-closing hinge to ensure the gate closes securely after each use.
Double Gates
Double gates consist of two gates attached to a single gate post. They are wider than single gates, ranging from 6 to 16 feet wide. Double gates are great for wide access points and driveways. The two gates can open inward or outward. Make sure the gates have a sturdy latching system to keep them closed and aligned properly. Consider using drop rods or gate holdbacks to secure the gates when open.
When choosing fence gates, consider the purpose, traffic, and aesthetics. Work with your fencing contractor to select the ideal gate type, size, and accessories for your home. Properly installed gates will provide security, ease of access, and enhance your fence’s curb appeal for years to come.
Conclusion
Installing a new fence or deck can greatly enhance your outdoor living space and add value to your Michigan home. With proper planning and material selection, you can create an area that is both beautiful and functional for years to come.
When undertaking a fencing or deck project, be sure to consider your budget, lifestyle needs, and local building codes. Carefully measure your yard and research the best materials for your climate. Composite decking and vinyl fencing offer durability with low maintenance.
Work with an experienced, licensed contractor like Michigan Rose Construction to ensure your project is done right the first time. Our team handles the entire process from permitting to cleanup.
Don’t wait to create the backyard retreat you’ve been dreaming of. Contact (734) 307-2019 or visit www.michrose.com today for a free quote on your deck or fence installation. Our team is ready to answer your questions and get your project started on the path to completion. Invest in lasting quality for your home. You won’t regret installing a beautifully designed deck or fence to enhance your outdoor living space.
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