Tag: Deck

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. 

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!

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.

How To Choose The Right Deck Builder

Posted on by John Langlois

The time has come to either replace your deck or have one built. You’re hoping to add value to your home and expand your outdoor living space. One of the most cost-effective ways to do that is by adding a deck. There are so many deck builders in the metro Detroit area which can make the seemingly simple task of finding the right deck contractor quite overwhelming. Make it easy by following our tips for choosing the right deck builder for you. 

Research

Do a little digging into the type of deck you want, whether composite or wood. Once you decide on the type of material your deck will be made from, do a little research on design. You can find inspiration on Pinterest, Instagram, or Google images. While you’re at it, play detective and check out the project pages of prospective decking companies to see the type of work they’ve done. 

Referrals

Referrals are often the best way to find your deck builder. Ask around, see who your coworkers, friends, and family are using. Leveraging the people you are connected to can help you narrow and shorten your search. 

Reviews

Just by typing the name of a decking company into a search engine, you can pull up current and past reviews. Hit up your social platforms. Ask your network if anyone has had firsthand experience working with your top three or five decking company choices. 

Things in reviews to notice are:

  • Are the negative reviews just petty or serious problems
  • What reviewers are saying about the workers
  • Was the company reliable

In-person

Meeting with different deck builders is always advisable. These people and their crew are going to be working on your home for a couple of days, minimum. You should have a good feeling about them. Have a conversation to get an idea of the type of person your potential deck builder is. Go with your gut. 

Some questions to ask a deck builder during your meeting are: 

  • How do you handle unforeseen circumstances like schedule changes, weather, stress?
  • Do you pull the permits or will I have to? (Tip: a good company will always handle the permits themselves).
  • What is the projected timeline for completion?
  • Is your crew one you have always worked with or are they subcontractors or freelancers?
  • How many decks like mine have you built?

Estimates

One of the easiest determining factors is cost, along with what’s included within that price. Maybe some deck builders throw in lighting for free, while others will only produce the quoted work. In the end, the estimates you get from various deck builders will help you decide which one to go with.

End your search for a deck builder today. Contact Titan Decks and schedule your free consultation. 

How To Know When It’s Time For A New Deck

Posted on by John Langlois

A healthy wood or composite deck is a happy one. It doesn’t matter how well your deck is built, or what it’s made from, it is still outside and unprotected from all the elements. Catching any issues early on may prevent the need for a complete deck replacement. 

What To Look For When Self Inspecting

A routine inspection is necessary in order to maintain the lifespan of your deck. At the very least, you need to use a screwdriver or awl and take a look at how it’s faring, once per year. 

  • The posts: These are what hold up your structure. Look for any water damage or wood rot. One or two could easily be replaced. But, if you see issues with all of the posts then it may be time to think about getting a new deck.
  • The joists: Joists make sure your build is stable. Because they are difficult to replace, damage to the joists means you may need a new deck. 
  • The railing: Before entertaining on your deck, it’s good practice to ensure the security of the rails. If they are unsteady or rotting, it’s a potential hazard. 
  • The ledger board: This is what secures the deck to your house. If it’s pulling away in any areas, then it can collapse. 
  • The age: Decks over 5 years old should be inspected professionally. 

Sagging

If your deck is sagging, there could be a structural issue. A damaged substructure or beams can be the culprit. If either of those are the cause, then consider having a new one installed. 

Cracking

Wood decks are exposed to the elements all year round. When the wood starts splintering, warping,  or cracking, and no amount of sealer makes it look any better, that’s a sign your deck needs to be replaced. 

Rotting

Rotting wood is damp, soft, and structurally unsound. When one or two pieces have rot, that means the rest of the adjoining boards will closely follow in its footsteps. Replacing those rotten pieces may save the deck, but it is a warning sign that a new deck may be the safest route. 

Nails popping

An occasional nail pop is natural. But, if you’re noticing that several nails aren’t staying in place, even after a session with a hammer, this could mean the boards need to be replaced. 

Termite invasion

These pesky insects burrow into the wood and cause it to hollow out, which makes your wood planks more prone to rotting. If you don’t get rid of the termites, the problem they cause will worsen. 

Wood or composite, decks need an annual inspection to keep it healthy. If you’ve noticed any of the issues stated above, then it is time to bring in a professional to help you determine if your deck is salvageable or needs replacing. 

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