"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!"
"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."
Composite decking may never warp, or it may warp quickly. Several factors can influence the rate of warping, including the material's quality, installation method, and installation location. Generally speaking, high-quality materials that have been installed properly are drastically less prone to warping.
Yes, it’s definitely possible to build a pergola on an existing deck. All you need to do is attach the pergola support beams to the deck’s joists and build up from there. Beware that mistakes can damage your deck, so if you’re at all unsure of the process, play it safe and hire a pro for your custom build.
You do not have to dig footers for a deck as long as it meets local code and holds up to weather in your area. If you live somewhere that experiences high winds and earthquakes, you may need to dig for your deck posts. Deck blocks, post anchors with base plates, and helical pile systems are the three no-dig deck post options you can choose from if local code permits.
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.
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 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.
