"You can stop looking right now. You won't find a more professional, skilled, efficient, focused, hard-working painting team than Ryan and Trudy. They care about their work and it shows. They did out decks this summer and just finished painting most of the interior of our house. We couldn't be more pleased with the results - they did an excellent job (and we're pretty darn picky). Plus, they listen, they follow through, they're meticulous about cleaning up every day, and they're prompt and kind. We already have them booked for two more projects next year."
"Jaime and his crew did an excellent job in cleaning and staining my massive deck. They were very easy to work with and reasonably priced. I will use JRS again for any future home improvement needs."
"We cannot say enough good things about our treatment after hiring this team. Very Professional. We had two very Polite, and respectful young men ,Gideon and Evan , Stain our Deck and Porch. We love the final job so much! They cleaned up and left us so Happy. I would refer this company, and use them again."
"The crew was very polite and always asked me how I wanted things done. When I wasn't sure which way I wanted something they were full of excellent suggestions. Hanging doors is a tricky business and these guys didn't stop until the doors were hung perfectly. They worked hard without goofing around and were meticulous with their clean up. They also told me the least expensive way to do things to save me money rather than pad their bill. They also did a great job of crown molding for us. They are GOOD people!"
Welcome to Squid Machine, LLC! We take pride in the quality of work and customer satisfaction that we give each and every customer! We are known to pay exquisite attention to detail while making customer satisfaction our top priority. Call us today to learn more about how we can help you!
"They go the extra mile to do the job right but also they explain to you what they're doing,how and time used. I like that from a business perspective. Chris the project manager has the knowledge, the right equipment and the right aptitude."
"These guys worked their butts off, in the rain! They removed a 50ft tree and cleaned up as if they were never here! Friendly and accommodating. Thank you!"
"Dave is highly skilled. He really could do any type of job I asked. He painted with precision and cared about clean up. He also did a lot of odd jobs, I would make a list and he would just knock the list down. I could not be more pleased with his professionalism, kindness and quality of work!"
"The 3 story condo project that Preferred completed was done efficiently and professionally. I had the pleasure of meeting each associate during the project and all were courteous and professional. The quality of work was outstanding. Added value to the project for us included some deck cleaning and power washing of exterior spiral staircases. Kudos Todd to you and your staff."
"They called right away and were able to come over that day. Very friendly; and good value. Initially called them to clean out a gutter, but also had them power wash the siding. For the most part it came out well. Would definitely hire them again."
While experienced DIYers may take on the challenge, hiring a licensed professional is often the best route, especially for larger or elevated structures. A local deck contractor is typically the best pro for the job, as they have specialized experience and are knowledgeable about local building codes, ensuring your deck is built safely and designed to last. Other professionals who can build a deck include general contractors and carpenters, who may be more readily available in some regions.
The proper height for a stair riser or deck step is between four and seven inches, with seven inches often considered the most comfortable. Building your stairs to this height ensures a strain-free step position and minimizes the risk of trip and fall injuries. For optimal safety and comfort, especially on deck stairs, a rise of around seven inches should be paired with a tread depth (or run) of at least 10 to 12 inches. While it is possible to design stairs with risers up to 12 inches, this height can be challenging for children, pets, or individuals with mobility issues. Always check with your local building codes, as they may mandate specific dimensions that differ from these general recommendations.
A deck that isn’t attached to a house is called a floating or freestanding deck. These standalone decks are built near ground level, so they usually don’t need deck stairs. Some don’t even require permits. Generally speaking, building a floating deck is faster and more DIY-friendly than constructing one that’s connected to your home.
Rot loves moisture, so deck rot typically impacts the parts of a board that stay wet. This includes the underside of boards, in addition to support posts and joists. However, any part of a board can rot, given the right conditions.
No, it isn’t necessary to skirt a deck, but investing in the cost to install deck skirting can bring more value to your home. Not only does deck skirting make the deck look more complete, but it can also turn otherwise unused space beneath the deck into useful storage space.
The East Lansing, MI homeowners’ guide to deck cleaning services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Refinishing your deck is a great way to restore its appearance and fall in love with your outdoor space. Use this guide to learn how much it costs based on factors like size and type.
Learn how to clean a deck before staining to ensure long-lasting adhesion, weatherproofing, and optimum appearance of this coloring and protecting treatment.
Deck maintenance is vital to protecting a wooden deck. Cleaning, staining and sealing a deck after pressure washing will add years to its lifespan. Protect a deck by following these deck maintenance tips for cedar and other types of wood materials.