"After refinishing our deck twice on our own with mediocre results both times, we finally decided to bring in a pro - and we couldn’t be happier with that decision. 507 Decks did an outstanding job from start to finish. Communication was clear and prompt, the service was professional, and most importantly we now have a deck we can actually enjoy for years to come. If you’re in the Winona area and need deck work done right, 507 Decks is the call to make."
"Driftless Exteriors is a true one-stop shop! They pressure washed our home, cleaned the exterior windows, stained our deck, and even painted our kitchen. Everything turned out amazing!! It?s been a long time since we?ve experienced service this good.
This small business genuinely puts its customers first. From communication and scheduling to the quality of the work, they kept us updated and informed every step of the way. 5/5 stars! We would absolutely hire them again and highly recommend them to anyone looking for interior or exterior work!"
We are a locally owned and operated company that values honesty and integrity in all aspects of our business. Our major focus is on the quality our work and producing outstanding results. We are committed to creating a level of value unmatched by any of our competitors. We look forward to building lasting relationships with our clients and guarantee your satisfaction!
"The gutter cleaning was very good, but they left the mess from gutters all over patio, deck, and deck furniture. Previous cleaners have cleaned up/removed gutter contents."
"We chose not to go with Field of Dream Siding and Construction for our roofing job because when he showed up to take measurements, he didn't even get on the roof to look around. He didn't even go in the back of the house where he would have seen that there was a skylight he'd have to work around. All the other contractors who came to take measurements in order to make a bid, got on the roof and looked around. His bid was in the mid-range, so it wasn't bad, but I'm not sure what it was based on."
"Evan at Nice Job! has performed a variety of home projects for us. Nice Job! is our "go to" for getting the job done right. The work is always done in a thorough, competent, and thought-out manner. Our family is so glad to have Nice Job! there when we need them the most. Evan's friendly personality and trustworthy presence is an added plus!"
It’s important to make sure the wood on a new deck is properly seasoned. Seasoning a deck is simple: Once you build it (or have a pro do so), just leave it alone so it can acclimate to the environment. If you don’t give the deck proper seasoning time before staining, the stain can lock in any lingering moisture and cause mold, rot, and other moisture issues down the road. Give the wood at least four to eight weeks to season before you stain.
In most cases, your deck will need some form of deck footing to hold it in place, preventing moisture from rotting your wood and decreasing your deck’s lifespan. Concrete deck blocks are the most common type of footing for floating decks. Some homeowners use ground-level deck footings. For added security, consider digging and laying your ground-level footings below ground.
With proper installation and maintenance, a vinyl deck can last up to 30 years. Factors like regular cleaning, minimal wear and tear, proper installation, and the use of higher-grade materials can extend its durability. However, extreme weather conditions or neglecting maintenance might shorten its lifespan. Adhering to manufacturer recommendations for care and occasional inspections can significantly prolong a vinyl deck's longevity.
Ideally, a gate should be able to swing both in and out. However, if it can only open in one direction, it is generally best for it to swing inward. This is often the safest option, especially for deck gates near steps, as you'll want the gate to swing away from the stairs. An inward swing also prevents the gate from opening into a public space, like a sidewalk, and can be more convenient when carrying heavy items like a wheelbarrow into a garden.
There are exceptions, however. The layout of your property may require a different approach. For example, if your property is on a slope, the gate may not be able to swing inward. You should also ensure the gate can open fully without colliding with any objects or blocking access to other areas. For a backyard garden gate where public access isn't a concern, the direction it swings is largely a matter of personal preference. Finally, always check your local building codes, as they may have specific requirements for which way a gate must swing.
Composite decking requires a solid foundation, substructure, or subframe to ensure stability. This base is typically composed of posts, beams, joists, and footings. The frame's joists can be built from various materials like composite, plastic, timber, or metal, as long as the base can support the deck's weight without shifting. A professional deck builder might recommend installing the frame on a solid concrete base for added durability. The final design and materials for the substructure will depend on your budget, the type of deck, and environmental conditions.
The La Crosse, WI 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.
