Can you build your own deck?

• <div><p>It is possible to build your own deck, but it’s typically better to leave the work to a decking professional. Decks can be exceptionally complicated, especially if you want a wrap-around or <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/second-story-deck-ideas.htm'">second-story deck</a>, and you don’t want to risk making an expensive or dangerous mistake. It’s usually better to hire a decking pro who can pull permits and build a structurally sound deck that will last for decades and provide the maximum return on investment.</p></div>

Get matched with top deck maintenance specialists in Houghton, MI

Q: Can you build your own deck?

• <div><p>It is possible to build your own deck, but it&rsquo;s typically better to leave the work to a decking professional. Decks can be exceptionally complicated, especially if you want a wrap-around or <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/second-story-deck-ideas.htm'">second-story deck</a>, and you don&rsquo;t want to risk making an expensive or dangerous mistake. It&rsquo;s usually better to hire a decking pro who can pull permits and build a structurally sound deck that will last for decades and provide the maximum return on investment.</p></div>

Q: Why is composite decking so much more expensive than wood?

• <div><p><a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-to-install-composite-decking.htm">Composite decking</a> might cost more upfront, but it delivers value in terms of durability. Unlike wood, composite material resists common deck problems such as rotting, fading, warping, and all the other things you don&rsquo;t want a deck to do. The extra processes lead to a higher price tag, but you&rsquo;ll save big in maintenance costs down the road.</p></div>

Q: What ruins composite decking?

• <div><p>Although composite decking is extremely durable, it&rsquo;s also susceptible to extreme heat. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause fading, warping, and cracking. Composite also retains heat more than wood, which makes it dangerous to walk on in the summer. You can help prevent heat damage by only building with composite in shaded areas or using rugs to cover the hottest spots. </p></div>

Q: Does a deck have to be perfectly level?

• <div><p>A deck doesn&rsquo;t have to be perfectly level. Many pros even recommend a gentle slope to ensure proper drainage and increase longevity. The ideal gentle slope is about 1/8 to 1/4 inch per foot away from the property, leading water away from the home to prevent pooling and reduce the risk of damage. It also minimizes rot, mold, and other moisture-related problems. </p></div>

Q: How many steps on a deck before you need a railing?

• <div><p>Local building codes don&rsquo;t specify the number of steps a deck can have before a railing is required, mainly because stair height varies widely. Most areas require decks 30 inches or higher to have a railing. While not exact, that roughly equates to four to seven steps.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Deck Maintenance pros in Houghton, MI

*The Angi rating for Deck Maintenance companies in Houghton, MI is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Deck Maintenance needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Deck Maintenance companies in Houghton, MI is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Deck Maintenance needs.

Last update on July 03, 2026

Reviewed in July 2026
I can’t say enough good things about Olson Electric and Ron Olson. On the Friday of a holiday weekend, with a houseful of company, we discovered that our dishwasher had completely lost power. Not exactly the kind of problem you want heading into a busy weekend. I called Ron, and he came right...
RP Olson Electric, Inc.
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Reviewed in June 2026
Very Professional. Scheduled an appointment we all walked the property Called Tikky's setup an appointment and he arrived on time. We walked our property and he gave us the pros and cons of the work required. Gave us quote we accepted, setup a date. Large trees near buildings, stumps...
Tikky's Tree Service
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Reviewed in December 2024
Great contractor! Good work ethics , prompt a reliable!! Will use again
Copper Country Carpentry, LLC
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Reviewed in October 2024
David is very careful and knowledgeable about tree removal. He was able to remove a dead tree that was leaning toward my deck. No limbs fell onto the deck, and he completed the task quickly, then cleaned up and stacked the wood. When he left, there was only a bit of sawdust left. GREAT JOB:well...
Newman Tree Service
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Reviewed in June 2024
Eric is legit! He really helped me with some home projects that I didn't have the time or confidence to DIY. They answered all my questions along the way and had great communication. The work they did is superb and all the finishing details are crispy. Our space really benefited from...
Morris Property Services
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Reviewed in June 2024
Allan did my underground plumbing in my house, did a fast and good job. Highly recommend.
Eko Mechanical LLC
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Reviewed in March 2024
Great workers, fast response and did a fantastic job. Had the trees removed, limbed and bucked loaded in the chipper and cleaned up the yard afterward! Will definitely recommend them, fast friendly service, good people.
Carlson Contracting, Inc.
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Reviewed in April 2023
Mr Ramon Shanchez showed up as promised. We negotiated a good Snowbird contract from the 1st May to 1 October 2023. I have the utmost trust in Mr. Sanchez and believe he will do a superior job throughout the hot summer months here in Sebring. He will also ensure my property is taken care of and...
Sanchez Lawn Care
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Reviewed in December 2022
Very professional, cleaned the place after themselves, and it was finished under timeframe.
Alliance Realty Partners, LLC
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Reviewed in August 2019
Did an amazing job on our old deck - made it look new. Came to do the project when promised and left the area neat and clean.
SealwiZe by V.R. Holinka
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Find Deck maintenance specialists in Houghton

Jarman Property Services LLC

4.6(

)

Deck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and Seal

Serving Houghton, MI and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2021

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Showed up like scheduled and went right to work. Very personable. Would recommen."

Response time1 day

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Property Services of Michigan

5.0(

)

Deck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and SealDeck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and Seal - For Business

Serving Houghton, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 2007

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"He gave me a quote and did exactly what he said he was going to do. He was clear about to procedure and what he needed to do. It was nice and clean after the service, I didn't have to do any touch ups or clean ups. I was so happy with the results, I hired him to complete resurface my driveway."

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Preferred Power Wash, LLC

3.8(

)

Deck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and Seal

Serving Houghton, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 1993

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"I did not hire them. I cannot afford them at this time."

Response time1 day

Response rate93%

Recommended by84%of homeowners

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Mil-Vet Pro Services LLC

5.0(

)

Deck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and SealDeck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and Seal - For Business

Serving Houghton, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 1983

Emergency services offered

Credit card accepted

Underwater & Topside Construction & Demolition, Inspection, Repairs.\nMilitary Veteran Provided Residential, Commercial & Marine Services\nMobile Welding and Fabrication

+12

Deck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and SealDeck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and Seal - For Business

Serving Houghton, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 2021

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"Pretty good job. Did not have the equipment to be able to get everything I requested. Friendly service and decent rates although was not the best at the communication of project delays."

Response time8 hrs

Recommended by75%of homeowners

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Lake Effect Landscaping

New to Angi

Deck, Fence, Patio or Porch - Clean and Seal

Serving Houghton, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 2023

Free estimates

We're a locally owned and operated company that values honesty and integrity and treats your home as if it were our own. Our services are customized to the individual project, paying close attention to the details of each project that we're involved with. We pride ourselves on the quality of our work as well as our commitment to outstanding results. We look forward to building lasting relationships and guaranteeing your satisfaction!

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Deck Maintenance questions, answered by experts

It is possible to build your own deck, but it’s typically better to leave the work to a decking professional. Decks can be exceptionally complicated, especially if you want a wrap-around or second-story deck, and you don’t want to risk making an expensive or dangerous mistake. It’s usually better to hire a decking pro who can pull permits and build a structurally sound deck that will last for decades and provide the maximum return on investment.

Composite decking might cost more upfront, but it delivers value in terms of durability. Unlike wood, composite material resists common deck problems such as rotting, fading, warping, and all the other things you don’t want a deck to do. The extra processes lead to a higher price tag, but you’ll save big in maintenance costs down the road.

Although composite decking is extremely durable, it’s also susceptible to extreme heat. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause fading, warping, and cracking. Composite also retains heat more than wood, which makes it dangerous to walk on in the summer. You can help prevent heat damage by only building with composite in shaded areas or using rugs to cover the hottest spots.

A deck doesn’t have to be perfectly level. Many pros even recommend a gentle slope to ensure proper drainage and increase longevity. The ideal gentle slope is about 1/8 to 1/4 inch per foot away from the property, leading water away from the home to prevent pooling and reduce the risk of damage. It also minimizes rot, mold, and other moisture-related problems.

Local building codes don’t specify the number of steps a deck can have before a railing is required, mainly because stair height varies widely. Most areas require decks 30 inches or higher to have a railing. While not exact, that roughly equates to four to seven steps.

The Houghton, MI homeowners’ guide to deck maintenance services

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

See all articles

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Aug 31, 2026Aug 31, 2026
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Top Deck Maintenance Tips for Every Decking Material
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