"Scott was very patient and responsive to our specific needs with fixing up our deck. We were on vacation while the work was being done and he still managed to work closely with us! He is extremely knowledgeable and was able to steer us in the right direction for what we wanted done. And the finished product is amazing! It’s like a whole new deck!"
"Fantastic job! My house looks brand new again and didn’t remember it was that color! Awesome attention to detail; my yard looks amazing! Will definitely hire again and again. Affordable too!!"
"They really did an exceptional job. The deck rebuild was a complicated job. The deck wasn’t built correctly originally so CM Contracting had to extensively modify the structure. They really did a great job. The deck looks really great, and I think I now have the strongest deck in the Lehigh Valley. The chimney work was a big concern of mine going into the job. The previous owner of the house let the chimney cap rust, and the rust stains ran down the Dryvit. It really looked bad. Chris worked with his paint supplier to get the color to match perfectly. He had Sherwin Williams out to my house on several occasions because Chris wanted it done right. It far exceeded my expectations, and now looks perfect. The caulking and power washing all went well too. I would highly recommend CM Contracting. Chris is very responsive. We would communicate often via phone or txt. His crew is great too. Very polite and friendly."
You can build an outdoor kitchen on a deck, but you should choose composite decking since it's more heat-resistant. Metal deck materials like steel and aluminum are also good choices because they're less flammable than wood. You should also consider the weight of the kitchen—make sure your deck can support it and any appliances you plan to use. You should consult a structural engineer to confirm exactly how much weight your deck can safely support when building an outdoor kitchen.
Liquid rubber is great for waterproofing, but it can damage your deck if it’s not applied correctly. First, it can trap moisture in the wood if the deck isn’t completely dry before application. Second, applying it too thickly can create a heavy, rubbery surface layer that peels and cracks under fluctuating temperatures. For the best results, ensure the wood is completely dry before application, and apply the liquid rubber in thin, even coats. A quick inspection every now and then will help you catch any issues early, keeping your deck protected and looking its best.
While the terms deck and porch are often used interchangeably, they are two distinct structures. A porch is a covered structure, usually attached to the front of a home, that offers protection from the elements. In contrast, a deck is an open, uncovered platform, often attached to the back or side of a home. Because porches have a roof, they typically require less maintenance than decks, but both features need regular cleaning and repairs to stay in good condition.
There are a variety of second-story deck privacy ideas depending on your budget and aesthetic. For starters, you might consider fencing or tall privacy railing that masks a good portion of the open deck. A pergola or an awning can provide additional cover and shade. Outdoor curtains are an easy way to add or remove privacy at your convenience, plus they’re a wallet-friendly way to decorate your deck.
It is definitely worth sanding a deck to ensure the wood absorbs new stain. Sanding a deck removes the outer layers of aging wood, allowing the stain to penetrate. It also gives a fresh look to the entire surface as part of the deck refinishing process. Without sanding, your stain or sealant is less likely to absorb into the wood. While sanding a deck is a time-intensive project, the rewards are noticeable and long-lasting.
The Emmaus, PA homeowners’ guide to deck maintenance services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
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.
Finding maintenance-free decking that works for your home, budget, and lifestyle can be challenging. This guide lists the 7 best low-maintenance deck materials.
