Author: John Langlois

How To Keep Your Deck Warm

Posted on by John Langlois

Even on cold nights, it can be fun and relaxing to bundle up and head outside. The fall and winter air is fresh and brisk. It’s invigorating. With a little investment, you can add a heating element to your deck, making it a year-round space to gather and enjoy. We’re going to share a few ways you can keep your deck warm enough to enjoy all year round, even during some of the coldest months.

Fire Pit

Huddle around a fire pit built into your deck. There are different choices available, from kits to free-standing iron bowls. Most are either gas or wood-burning. But, whatever choice you make, they’ll keep you toasty and your deck warm all winter long. 

Fire/heater table

Fire tables serve a dual purpose. They look beautiful while keeping you toasty. These come in so many varieties of shapes and sizes, just go with the look you like best. 

Space Heaters

Maybe having a fire burning on your deck makes you nervous. Electric space heaters with infrared bulbs are the perfect alternative. There are outdoor space heaters that you can place around a seating area to keep you warm. There are also heaters that can be permanently installed onto your deck. 

Chimineas

A chiminea is a cool fire feature usually made out of ceramic or clay. You can place it on your deck, but make sure it’s stable. Add a screen and a chimney extension for smoke-free warmth to sit by. 

Hot Tub

So, maybe you don’t want to add a heating element to your deck. But, another way to enjoy the outdoors in the cold is to step into a warm, bubbling hot tub. It doesn’t matter if it’s snowy or cold when you’re chilling in a hot tub. Make sure you bundle up to go back inside, though. 

Just because it’s cold out doesn’t mean you can’t hang out on your deck, especially once you have a way to heat things up. 

Need to build a deck first? Call Titan Decks. Now through February 1, 2020, we’re giving 15% off all new deck builds. Get your free estimate scheduled today. 

How To Enjoy Your Deck During The Winter

Posted on by John Langlois

Your deck is the center of family life during the summer. You work, rest, and play on your treasured outdoor living space. But then the cold harshness of a Michigan winter sets in, and you watch the snow accumulate on the deck railings. You may long for those warm months, but did you know you could still find ways to enjoy your deck, even during the winter?

Winterizing Your Deck

Whether your deck is made of composite or real wood, it needs to be taken care of so it can continue to take care of you. Regardless of what season you plan to use it, your deck needs to be winterized in order to lengthen its lifespan. 

Winter weather wreaks havoc on decks, especially if it is not taken care of properly. Here are a few steps you can take to maintain your deck:

  • Apply a protective finish prior to winter weather. 
  • Remove any noticeable mildew or mold
  • Clear off any clutter
  • Consider covering with a tarp
  • Use a broom (it’s more gentle on the composite) to remove snow and ice accumulation

Using Your Deck During The Winter

Michigan is a winter wonderland. Unless we are having one of our notorious mild winters, or until you have to shovel heavy snow off your driveway. There’s absolutely no reason you can’t enjoy the benefit of your deck, even when the snow and temperatures are falling. 

  • Add warmth: Firepits, patio heaters, or other outdoor heat sources can transform your deck into a cozy gathering spot. Roast marshmallows, drink hot chocolate, and breathe in the crisp air. With any type of fire, make sure it is raised above the deck surface to protect not only your deck but your home as well. 
  • Cover it up: Consider adding an awning close to your fire pit or outdoor fireplace. Throw a weather-proof seating arrangement down and you’ve got a great space to enjoy. 
  • Light it up: Adding colorful holiday lights to your deck will give it a festive feel all winter long. Make sure the lights you use are indoor/outdoor for the best results. 
  • Take a dip: Installing a hot tub on your deck will bring year-round enjoyment. Especially during the winter. It’s cold outside, but it’s warm in that jacuzzi. Have some thick towels or robes waiting for when you’re ready to get out. 
  • Remain the grillmaster: Just because it’s cold and snowy doesn’t mean you can’t grill up some kabobs, steaks, fish, or whatever is on the menu. Keep a shovel nearby, just in case you need to forge a little path to that grill. 
  • Come sled away: Maybe your yard doesn’t have a hill. The stairs, covered in a thick blanket of snow, can create a great makeshift ramp.

Turn Your Deck Into An Ice Rink

Your deck can become THE winter hotspot, guaranteed to bring all the kids to your yard.  Just add skates and hot chocolate, and it’s a wrap.

To turn your deck into an ice rink:

  • Lay down a large tarp, creating borders so water doesn’t immediately escape when added.
  • Secure the tarp using bricks or an equally heavy object to hold it down.
  • Fill the tarp with a few inches of water from your garden hose. Doing it all at once will create a smoother surface. 
  • If the surface seems lumpy, add a little bit of hot water to smooth it out.  
  • For any cracks, just fill in with snow and smooth it over. 
  • Allow it to freeze. 
  • When you aren’t using the ice rink, consider lightly covering it with another piece of tarp. 

That’s it. 

Super easy to do and will provide hours of fun for the family. If it snows, just use a broom or a light shovel to sweep it clear. 

Disclaimer: a weathered deck may not be able to support this adventure. Make sure your deck is in good condition before considering turning your deck into an ice rink because it has the potential to be hazardous. 

If enjoying the Michigan winters is something you’d prefer from inside your house, then consider having a deck cover professionally installed. 

If you’re in the market for a deck refresh or new build, contact Titan Decks today for a free estimate. Get 15% off your new deck build, now through February 1st.

Winter Is The Perfect Time To Build Your Deck

Posted on by John Langlois

Guess what? You absolutely do not have to wait till spring to have your new deck built. Would you believe us if we told you that winter was actually the perfect time to build your deck? It is! Hear us out. We’re going to present some compelling evidence why you should consider having your deck built this winter. 

Build Your Deck In The Winter To Get A Head Start On Spring

Getting your deck built during the winter means, when spring comes, you can start using it immediately. And you won’t even have to wait for appointment availability or worry about finding a contractor who is able to take on your project. 

Not to mention, winter is a sort of off time for deck builders. This is beneficial for you because you’ll have more options when it comes to finding the right contractor for your decking project. 

Save Some Money

Many contractors offer winter build incentives. Take Titan Decks, for example. We’re giving you 15% off your deck if you choose to build during the winter. It’s a win-win for both of us. You’re helping us keep our employees working, and we’re helping you get the deck you want at a discounted price. 

A Winter Deck Build Will Get Your Project Done Faster

Warmer months are much busier for builders. Their schedules fill up quickly. Many deck builders have an 8-10 week wait to start a project in the spring and summer months.

Depending on the size of your deck, building during the winter may only have a 4-6 week completion time. 

Pulling Permits Will Be Quicker

Winter is a quiet time for builders, which means it’s equally quiet for your city office. Turn around time for permits during the spring and summer can take weeks. But, during the winter, the wait time is cut much shorter. 

Have We Convinced You?

So you see, it’s faster and cheaper to have your deck built in the winter. And, you’ll have so much more time to enjoy your deck once the weather warms up. Come March, you’ll completely miss the rush of people clamoring to get their deck built. 

To build your deck this winter, you can contact us to schedule your free estimate. As we mentioned earlier in this article, we are taking 15% off any new deck build scheduled between November and February so act now, our slots are already filling up and we don’t want you to miss out on this great offer. Financing options are available.  

The Anatomy Of A Deck

Posted on by John Langlois

Decks are awesome outdoor spaces that add so much entertainment and enjoyment value to a home. But, what actually goes into a deck? What is the anatomy of a deck?

In this article, we will explain all of the components of your deck. 

The Parts Of A Deck

Whether you choose a composite or wood deck, there are many moving parts that go into building the structure. 

Essentially, your deck is a floor supported by different parts to make it structurally sound and secure to the ground.

The following terms are all critical or important features and components of your deck.

Deck Anatomy Keywords

Footings: These are columns that support the posts that hold up your deck. 

Post Base Bracket: Connectors are usually metal and attach your posts to the footings. They hold up the base of the posts in order to protect them from any potential water damage. 

Ledger: A wood board that will attach to your house to support the side of your deck. 

Posts: 4X6 pieces of wood that support the frame of your deck. They may also serve as railing on your deck. 

Beams/Girders: Timber attached horizontally. These support the deck joists. 

Joist hangers: These metal fasteners secure the joist to the ledger. 

Joist: Timber attached to the beams. These joists support your deck.

Rim joist: These are wood pieces around the exterior portion of your deck. It’s the frame of the structure. 

Bridging/Blocking: To keep the joists from moving, these short pieces of wood are positioned between the joints to provide strength. 

Decking: The flooring that makes up your deck. 

Railing System: Railings are not just for safety, but also add visual appeal to the deck. 

Stringers: The treads for the stairs are supported by these long, diagonal pieces of wood. 

Stair railing system: All the pieces of the railing, from spindles, handrails, balusters, and more. 

Treads and risers: These cover the open spaces between each stairway tread. 

Fascia: A band, or ribbon, made of wood that wraps around the border of the deck. 

In Conclusion

Not all decks include all the same parts. It will depend on what type of deck you’re installing, and where it’s located. 

Now that you know the terms and deck anatomy, you’ll be able to follow along with the conversation your contractor is having with their crew!

Speaking of contractors, if you’re looking to have a deck built, give Titan Decks a call for a free in-home estimate. 

Ways To Enjoy Your Deck In Cooler Weather

Posted on by John Langlois

Just because it’s getting chilly doesn’t mean you have to avoid being out on your deck. Enjoy more good times on your deck, even in cooler weather. 

We have some great ideas so you can enjoy fall and early winter weather from the comfort of your deck. 

Cozy It Up

Add blankets, rugs, pillows! Those accessories add a pop of color. They also make the area a comfortable place to drink hot chocolate and watch the sunset (or rise). The cozier the space, the longer you’ll want to stay.

Turn Up The Heat

Adding some warmth with a gas fire table/pit, heat lamps, or space heaters will keep you comfy all fall and winter. Imagine watching the snowfall from your deck, and not even noticing the cold. You could even have an outdoor fireplace built to roast marshmallows year round!

Add Some Pretties

Wreaths, pumpkins, mums, and other fall flowers give a festive fall feel to your deck. Get fall colored accessories for your deck furniture, and an outdoor rug to match. Just add people and spiced drinks, and you’re good to go. 

Just Add Light

Days get shorter but your deck can still shine bright with lighting. Candles, string lights, or LED lighting, are all great options for adding a relaxing or festive feel to your deck in cooler weather. And, it allows you to stay planted on that cozy couch, wrapped in a blanket, sipping on your drink of choice. 

Let The Good Times Roll

A little competition keeps the blood pumping and your body warm. With a rowdy game of cornhole, football, or giant Jenga, you’ll bring all the neighbors to your yard. Also, check out these great suggestions from Good Housekeeping. 

Cover It Up

With some sort of cover over your deck, you’re more likely to stay outdoors longer. A roof cover, gazebo, awning, or any other covering will create a cozy space where you can hang out and enjoy the scenery. 

The end of summer doesn’t mean you have to stop enjoying your deck. With the right touches, it can bring you year-round enjoyment. 

DIY Outdoor Deck-orating Ideas

Posted on by John Langlois

New or old, sometimes your deck needs a little somethin’ somethin’ to add more appeal. You don’t have to spend a bazillion dollars on outdoor decor, either. You can spice up your deck on a budget by DIY-ing some design elements that makes your space as unique as you. 

Where To Shop For Outdoor Decor

We all know that online is the safest place to shop for anything right now. But, when things go back to some semblance of normal, and they will, shopping for those who like to touch and feel prior to purchasing will be easier. 

In the meantime, depending on what you’re looking for, you can check out:

And of course, there’s Amazon. 

Don’t forget to look for small businesses in your area who may carry cool and unique outdoor decor items to display proudly on your deck or patio. 

Shade Structures

Depending on your budget, pergolas and gazebos can be professionally built. Or, you can find kits and build them yourself. 

Whichever direction you choose, shade structures not only add some, well, shade. They can also create a dramatic effect depending on how you choose to decorate. Think fairy lights and curtains!

Furniture Facelift

If you already own sturdy furniture that’s in decent condition, consider giving those pieces a makeover. 

Metal furniture may need some rust removal before spray painting it back to perfection. Wood, on the other hand, might need some sanding and refinishing. Top it off with all-weather paint or stain. 

Plastic furniture can also be modernized. Hose off all the debris, sand the surface with 0000 fine steel wool, apply a primer made for plastic, and paint away. 

Enjoy your newly updated, outdated outdoor furniture!

Plant Privacy

Decks are usually wide open spaces. But, you can create privacy quite simply by using plants. 

Create some sort of border with tall potted plants. Consider ones you can bring indoors during cooler months. 

A trellis-like structure firmly planted within a deep planter will allow you to grow vines. This can create a beautiful and colorful border wall to make separate spaces on your deck. Or, place it in an area that’s too open to neighbors, and suddenly they can’t see they’re missing out on evening cocktails at your house. 

Add Color With Outdoor Decor

A great way to add splashes of color to your deck is by adding indoor-outdoor decor, pillows, and rugs. 

Rugs are also a good way to separate spaces. For example, the dining area of your patio may have one rug, while the seating area has another. 

Tie all the colors together with some toss pillows on your recently refurbished furniture and you have a place no one will ever want to leave!

There’s nothing better than hanging out on your deck during the warmer months. And, with a little elbow grease and creativity, it can be the most inviting place in your home!

Freshen Up Your Front Porch

Posted on by John Langlois

Is your front porch looking a bit neglected? Is it not bringing you joy? There are some quick and easy ways to freshen up that tired front porch. Give your house a little facelift with the following ideas. 

Fresh Paint

Repainting your entire house can get costly. But, you can still give your house even more appeal by simply painting the door. Pick a color that pops yet doesn’t clash with the rest of your home’s exterior. It’s an easy and affordable way to add personality. 

New Lights

It seems like no big deal, but front porch lights not only light up the front of your house, but it can also add extra visual appeal. If your lights are dull and boring, a new fixture may add a little light in your life. 

House Numbers

Add an artistic flair to your front porch with cool house numbers. You can find these on sites like Etsy or Home Depot. Drop them over your door, or alongside it. Anywhere it’s easily noticeable. There are so many fun and funky designs available to add instant character to your front porch refresh. 

Door Knocker

A touch as unique as your personality, door knockers can be straightforward or ornate. Modern, or antique. You can find cool ones at antique shows or home and garden shops. They’re fun too look at and also fun for guests to use. 

Flowers and Plants

Depending on the size of your front porch, add a splash of color with plants in interesting pots. Add containers of flowers around your front walkway if you don’t have room on the porch. You could also choose hanging plants for a burst of beauty. Spray paint old planters for a new and fresh look. 

Seats and Swings

If you have the room, create a cozy seating space. Or, hang a porch swing. If new porch furniture is out of your price range, look on Facebook marketplace, or go to garage sales. Older furniture could always be refreshed along with your porch. Just add an indoor/outdoor rug and colorful couch cushions and curl up with a good book!

Welcome Mat

A new welcome mat layered on top of a cool outdoor rug can give your front porch a new focal point. Flank with a couple of plastic plants in planters. You’ll have a year-round look and never have to worry about the plants dying. 

Door Decor

For that final touch, just add a floral wreath to your front door. They’re so inviting while changing the entire look of your door. You can make your own, there are plenty of patterns on Pinterest. Just search “wreath patterns”, or you can hit up your local arts and crafts store. Or, buy one already made from your local home and garden or gift shop.  

To give your house a little lift and maximize your home’s curb appeal, changing up your front porch may be all it needs. 

If you’d like to update the structure of your front porch, give Titan Decks a call. 

How To Prevent Mold From Invading Your Deck

Posted on by John Langlois

Decks can get mold and mildew which can make the surface dangerously slippery. Composite decking is not impervious to mold any more than wood is. Learn how it forms on decks, and how you can prevent mold. 

How Does Mold Form?

Mold is also known as mildew, algae, fungus, and other names. It’s a little microscopic floating organism that grows and spreads once it finds a food source. When talking about outdoor mold, the food source is generally fallen pollen or leaf debris. If the source is left too long, mold spores attack…and hey, they’re really hungry. 

The mold finds a home in all the nooks and crannies of your deck and grows. 

  • Mold thrives in damp areas
  • It needs pollen, dirt, and debris to grow
  • It loves moderate temperatures
  • Mold will “hibernate” when it gets cold, and become active once the weather warms
  • It hides in shady areas
  • Mold avoids full sunlight

Prevent Mold On Your Deck

The most effective preventative of mold growth is keeping your deck clear of debris. It’s not 100% guaranteed to keep mold at bay because it can be a sneaky little devil. But, if you make a weekly habit of sweeping and washing your composite or wood deck, you can slow down mold or mildew growth. 

  • Do not powerwash if your deck has a mold problem. It can stuff the mold further into those crevices and create a bigger problem.
  • Use a cleaner if using a power washer.
  • If at all possible, build a deck where it gets direct sunlight–ultraviolet rays are mold spore kryptonite. 
  • If possible, clear away trees or low-hanging branches
  • Allow a gap between boards for irrigation and draining

Choose Composite Decking Materials To Avoid Mold

Decking materials are susceptible to mold if not properly treated. However, natural woods are more apt to collect those pesky spores because of the natural grain. 

Composite materials, although they still can get mold, are a solid choice. They’re virtually immune to warping and splinters. Plus, bees don’t congregate and bugs won’t burrow. Those are two of the many other reasons to choose composite over wood, by the way!

However, since composite decking is made with wood by-products, mold does find opportunities to grow, especially if your deck isn’t appropriately maintained. With the right safeguards in place, you can have a mold-free deck that lasts a lifetime. 

Call us today for your free in-home estimate for that composite deck you’ve been considering. 

Upgrade Your Deck By Adding Features

Posted on by John Langlois

Decks. Sometimes they’re purely functional, and not very exciting to look at. But, that doesn’t have to be the case. You can take the most basic deck and elevate it into a conversation piece. Learn how to take your deck from drab to fab with features you can add yourself or through a deck builder like Michigan-based Titan Decks. 

Plan Out The Spaces

Your deck can be set up similarly to how your house is. By space planning, you can create designated areas for dining and relaxing. Add an outdoor rug to the sitting area to add more depth and visual appeal. Place an outdoor dining set close to the grill and you have a functional outdoor dining room. 

If your deck has space underneath, perhaps it’s above your walkout lower level, consider adding a concrete slab for more seating and storage. 

Add Some Shade

It can get hot out there on your deck. Think about adding a shade structure such as an arbor, awning, or pergola. Not only will it create a cozy, shaded spot to protect you from those beating rays, it will also add visual interest to the area. 

A screened porch also allows you to enjoy the outdoors, with protection from the elements. 

Throw in a hot tub, and no one will ever want to leave. 

Light It Up

Add some ambiance with lighting. Lead guests up the deck stairs with a lit path. Hang string lights around your shade structure. There are so many different lighting options to give oomph to your outdoor space. 

Just Add Green

Potted flowers and vines can add that bold splash of color. Big, leafy plants can give your deck a tropical feel. Just by adding plants and flowers, you can create a deck oasis rivaling a tropical rainforest. Just add forest animals for the perfect effect. 
Whatever features you’re looking for to make your deck snappy, give Titan Decks a call. Metro-Detroit’s premier decking company located in Farmington Hills, Michigan.

Growing A Garden On Your Deck

Posted on by John Langlois

Adding garden elements to your deck gives it a highly visual appeal, as well as creating a functional addition. Whether it’s because you don’t have a backyard conducive to plant growth, or you simply want to decorate, growing a garden on your deck is fun and easy. 

Vegetable and Fruit Garden

Space isn’t an issue when growing a vegetable garden on your deck. You can purchase containers at any home or garden shop, along with the proper potting mix soil. Because vegetables are considered ‘heavy feeders’, they ingest a lot of the fertilizers which means you’ll have to add it frequently. 

Good deck-growing fruits and veggies are:

  • Tomatoes
  • Cucumbers
  • Herbs
  • Various salad greens
  • Strawberries
  • Blueberries
  • Fruit trees conducive to your climate
  • Cantaloupe
  • Watermelon

There are many other fruits and vegetables not listed that could easily be grown on your deck. 

Remember to keep them spaced out so they have room to grow, and water frequently. Then, enjoy the fruits (and veggies) of your labor. 

Flower Garden

Arranging potted plants and flowers around your deck can tie the indoors and outdoors together. Create bursts of color and peaceful green spaces by planting and arranging different shapes and sized containers of plants. 

  • First, be mindful of shade and sun areas so you’ll know what types of plants will thrive in those spots.
  • Sunny spots, you can place tropical plants and other full sun-friendly flowers. 
  • Shady spots are loved by green, leafy plants like elephant ears and coleus. 
  • If it’s scents you’re after, consider roses, jasmine, lavender, or hyacinths, to name a few. 
  • Flowering herbs such as thyme and sage are both practical and beautiful. 

All your guests will surely marvel over how your garden grows. 

Small-space Deck Gardens

Tight spaces on your deck aren’t a problem! You just need to be a little more creative in your plant placement. 

  • Hanging gardens: Suspend your plant containers. Using small pots and some rope, you can create beautiful hanging gardens that don’t take up any usable space. 
  • Repurposed ladder: An old wooden ladder can make a perfect place for potted plants. 
  • Pocket Planters: There are planters available that are hangable pockets. Hang them on a vertical surface, and add plants.
  • Stacked Planters: From large to small, stack the planters after the potting soil has been added. Grow flowering herbs or small flowers. You can also use steel tubs for this.
  • Trellis: For a nice accent piece, add a trellis with flowering vines winding its way up and around it. 

For more cool small-space garden ideas, check out this article from HGTV
In the market for a new deck so you can get your garden growing? Give Titan Decks a call and get a free in-home estimate.

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