Should I buy a Deck or a Patio?

Should I buy a Deck or a Patio?

Have you ever wondered what the difference was between a deck or a patio? They are very similar but one might fit or look better than the other in your backyard. It is important to understand the differences between a patio and a deck in order to make an informed buying decision.

Decks are platforms made of wood or composite materials. Also, decks work best if you have a sloped yard and you want to create a flat area. Homes that sit high above the ground are also good for decks. In addition, decks can be built as high as you need them, unlike patios.

Patio Options

Patios are normally built on flat ground. They are made of wood, concrete, or flagstone. It is also possible for them to be built on a sloped lot but building it can be more costly. If your door is ground level, then many people choose to have them built instead of a deck.

When deciding to get a patio or a deck Deck or Patio built, you should consider how many people you want it to accommodate and what activities you want to do outside. This will help Miles Bradley figure out traffic flow, safety measures, and size estimates. A growing trend in the deck industry is to build a multi-level deck with steps leading down to a patio. This is a great way to enjoy the benefits of both if you still can’t decide which one to get.

Let Miles Bradley in Michigan build your next deck or patio. We have over 20 years of experience constructing decks on a variety of landscapes. We do great work and have excellent testimonials to prove it. A Miles Bradley deck comes with exceptional workmanship and is built with high-quality materials. Finally, contact Miles Bradley today to start your deck or patio project!

Deck Builder Near Me In Farmington Hills

Are you looking for a deck builder near you in Farmington Hills? Here at Miles Bradley, we build composite decks in Farmington Hills. While they are stable and dependable, they are also unmatched in beauty. With decades of experience and customer satisfaction, we are there to help you make the custom deck of your dreams.

Farmington Hills is a beautiful and prosperous Michigan city. The schools are top-of-the-line and the area is shrouded in wealth. The beautiful houses should be accompanied by beautiful custom decks! A nice deck can make or break your home, so why not aim for the best?

Why a Composite Deck?

Unlike a wood deck which shows its age over the years, low-maintenance composite decks are built to last. Composite decks are made from Trex materials that can withstand harsh Michigan weather patterns. That is why more and more homeowners are seeing the benefits of low-maintenance composite decks. They maintain their beauty for a longer amount of time and by requiring little-to-no maintenance, they are practical for anyone. Furthermore, there are several advantages to having a composite deck.

  • Environmentally Friendly

The deck boards are made from recycled materials so you will not have to worry about killing trees in order to get new wood.

  • Durability

Composite decking is designed to resist scratching, fading, staining, and mold. Also, unlike wood, composite decks are insect-proof so you have no threat of infestation or material damage.

  • Value

At first, a composite deck will be higher a cost but in the long run with way less maintenance and longer durability, you will save money.

Contact

If you are interested in building a new composite deck, contact Miles Bradley right away! We treat your home like it is our own, the care only expected of family. The best place to go for a new deck is here with our decades of experience and customer satisfaction. Finally, request a quote from us today!

New Year, New Deck

New Year New Deck

The months of January and February can be rough, weather-wise. When deciding on a new deck for your home, there are a number of things to keep in mind. Whether if you are looking to have a small, large, single, or multi-level deck…the possibilities are endless. As the weather begins to change, preparing and ensuring that your home and new deck will be ready for the snow and ice should be your number one priority, in regards to winter maintenance. If you are looking to invest in a new deck in Michigan, what better time to start saving than a time such as this?

How to Save For Your Dream Deck In The New Year

Depending on your deck’s size and style will determine the cost that it takes to build your deck. Planning out your deck’s cost in advance will not only keep the total price under control but will also help you build the deck of your dreams without destroying your budget. Here are some ways to help reduce the cost of your new deck:

  • The time is right: it’s pretty common for people to get their deck installed in the warmer months. If you schedule your installation between the months of November and March, there’s a greater chance that the rates will be a lot cheaper.
  • Carefully choose your wood: wood decks typically require annual maintenance, however, if you invest in a composite deck or pressure-treated wood, you will be saving time and money in the long run.
  • Keep it simple: simply eliminating fancy designs, curves and other features will help to reduce cost. Using things like footings and pre-made concrete piers can help, too.

Certified Deck Contractor in Michigan

If you are looking for a certified decking contractor in Michigan to install your new deck this season, contact Miles Bradley. Like our customers, we promise to provide you with exceptional workmanship and product. Finally, fill out our quote today to start planning the deck of your dreams!

Get a New Pergola This Summer

Pergolas designed and built by Miles Bradley

Add more elegance to your life. Get a pergola addition to your home today!

If you’ve never experienced the luxury and bougies of a pergola, you’re missing out! Pergolas are a beautiful way to increase your outdoor living space. In addition to beautiful design, they also provide a shady garden feature to walkways, decks, or outdoor sitting areas.

While we may highlight the practical uses, adding a pergola to your home will increase your home’s resale value in the long run. If you’re unsure of what a pergola is, let us explain them. Pergolas are known for their vertical pillars that support either cross beams or open lattice. The most common sight on a Pergola is climbing vines, hanging lights, or curtains, all of which make the pergola stand out and look beautiful. 

Why should I get a pergola?

Pergolas are wonderful because not only do they enhance your outdoor space, but they are also functional as well. They add an extra usable space on your deck or garden that can provide a layer of shade between you and the hot summer sun. If your Pergola is big enough, entertaining your guests in a cozy and warm environment will make your next dinner party feel fabulous. Being able to lounge under the shade on your porch or back deck is a wonderful feeling. In addition to letting you be outside longer and more comfortably, pergolas add more to your home’s value as well.

Pergola Vs.Gazebo Vs. Arbor vs. Trellis Vs. Lattice

Pergola Vs. Gazebo

The biggest difference between a gazebo and a pergola is that gazebos are almost always shaped like an octagon with a roof over top. Pergolas do not have covered roofs and are generally square with exposed beams.  

Pergola Vs. a Trellis

A Trellis is different from a pergola in that it consists of latticework that is attached to a structure for vines to climb on. Whereas a pergola has larger columns and (most popularly) has horizontal planks of wood on top.

Pergola Vs. Arbor

Arbors are small archways that can be used for climbing plants to use as lattice as they grow. While pergolas and arbors both have the same vine climbing feature, pergolas are much biggest and more structurally sound.

No matter what kind of structure you’re looking for in your backyard Miles Bradley can help! We have been building pergolas, gazebos, and trellises for our clients in South East Michigan for over 25 years. We’ve had clients from Brighton, Livonia, to Farmington Hills and Southfield. So why wait? Get a free quote on your next project today!

May is Michigan Deck Safety Month

Michigan Deck Inspection Checklist

Getting your deck’s ledger, framing, and hardware checked can help you avoid any future pains

Miles Bradley Building is participating in deck safety awareness all throughout the month of May in Michigan. With all the storms that have been rolling through, you never know if your deck has sustained any damage from falling debris or regular wear and tear. Letting your old wooden unsealed deck rot doesn’t make your time outside enjoyable or safe.

This point especially rings true for all the DIYers out there who may have missed a step or safety code when building their deck. Getting a professional deck inspection will not only give you peace of mind but will ensure that your investment will pay off in the long run. We encourage everyone to get their old deck regularly inspected by a licensed professional to ensure that they are safe and up to code.

Over the years, code requirements for decks have changed. Older decks may not be built to adhere to today’s code requirements and can cause a safety hazard. One example of an overlooked Some older decks were not built using the correct deck tension hardware which can cause ledger failures.

Code requirements were established to protect the consumer and any future buyers of the consumer. Repairing an old wooden deck can be costly, and in some cases replacing a deck may be the only option. That’s why getting an inspection can help you catch any problems before they start.

Schedule Your Michigan Deck Inspection

As a supporter of NADRA or the North America Deck and Railing Association, we are highly qualified deck builders that can provide a deck inspection for you.  Miles Bradley has the training, expertise, and special knowledge to provide deck inspections and repair your damaged deck. We can help repair and replace your old deck with new composite deck materials that can stand the test of time.  All decks that we construct are up to code and will pass any inspection with flying colors.

Contact us now or get a free quote on your next professional deck inspection!