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Avatar for The Wash Doctor
The Wash Doctor
4.7(
15
)

Serving Empire, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 2020

Free estimates

Warranties offered

"Careful sanding and painting of deck. That deck refinishing done by Vitali was tops. Although weather and employee shortage delayed the project, Jimmy made up for it by communicating well and in a reasonable way. He provided updates as each job before mine on the list was completed, so that I could estimate when it was my turn. I plan to remain their customer."
Vyverberg Home
Vyverberg Home
Vyverberg Home
Vyverberg Home
Vyverberg Home

+54

Response time1 day
Recommended by100%of homeowners
Avatar for Liquid Roofing and Construction
Liquid Roofing and Construction
4.5(
15
)

Serving Empire, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 2004

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"I hired them to re-roof my home and in conversation I mentioned I need to have my asphalt driveway sealed, not even knowing they do this work too. They asked me if they could bid on the driveway project too. This all happened in a short timeframe and I was very impressed by their timeliness and quality of work. The owner came and inspected the roof after completion and asked me to look at it with him. We climbed up the ladder and he explained everything and answered my questions. I was thoroughly impressed and want to hire them again for additional work this summer."
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+51

Recommended by100%of homeowners
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Deck Maintenance questions, answered by experts

Building codes for deck railings can vary by location, so it's important to consult your local regulations before construction. Generally, a guardrail is required for any deck that is more than 30 inches above the ground.

For residential properties, the standard minimum height for a deck railing is 36 inches. However, some states and municipalities have stricter requirements; for example, California and Washington mandate railings that are at least 42 inches high. Therefore, a 42-inch railing is not considered too high and may be required in your area or chosen voluntarily for additional safety.

In addition to height requirements, codes also specify other safety features, such as the maximum spacing between balusters to ensure they are close enough to prevent a child from squeezing through.

Both aluminum and composite decking materials are environmentally friendly, with aluminum decking coming in as the most eco-friendly option. 

Though composite decking helps remove plastics from landfills, recycles wood, and lasts longer than traditional wood decks, it’s not recyclable and only lasts for 25 to 30 years on average. Aluminum can last well over 30 years and is almost always recyclable.

There are more pros than cons when staining a deck. Deck stain is more affordable than paint, it protects the wood and allows the natural textures to shine through, and it can revive the appearance of your home. However, deck stain also requires prep work (sometimes days or more), carries more upkeep than a painted deck, and can fade over time if not cared for. 

When sourced responsibly, the most sustainable wood decking options are timber trees like redwood, pine, Douglas fir, Nootka cypress, and Western red cedar. These tree species are fast-growing with low carbon emissions. Plus, most timber woods make durable deck materials because of their resistance to rot and decay over time. 

The best direction for a gate to swing depends on its location and purpose, but swinging inward is the general rule. An inward swing is often considered safer, prevents the gate from opening into public spaces like a sidewalk, and may be required by local building codes.

There are exceptions and specific considerations. If your property is on a slope, an inward swing might not be possible. For a deck gate, it's safest to have it swing away from any steps. In a backyard, the direction can be a matter of preference, though an inward swing can be helpful when carrying heavy items like a wheelbarrow into a garden.

Regardless of direction, ensure the gate can open fully without hitting any objects or blocking spaces. While an inward swing is standard, a gate that can swing both in and out offers the most flexibility if your setup allows for it.

The Empire, MI homeowners’ guide to deck maintenance services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.