Learning Center

A new construction home is one of the best times to build a deck — blank canvas, fresh foundation, no tear-out. But it also introduces a specific set of considerations that don’t apply when you’re replacing an old deck on an established property. Here’s what to know before you start planning.

If you’ve ever come home to find a collection of small colored flags dotting your lawn before a deck project, you’ve met MISS DIG 811. Here’s what the flags mean, why we call Miss Dig for you before we build a deck, and what to know about what the flags don’t cover.

If your deck is elevated — an under-deck drainage system can transform what’s below into a dry, finished outdoor room. Here’s what’s available, how the two systems differ, and what you can do with the space once it’s protected.

Let’s face it — Michigan gets dark early! Deck lighting extends your outdoor season, improves safety, and adds real ambiance to evening gatherings. Here’s what to know before you design a deck lighting package.

Building a deck yourself is genuinely possible for the right homeowner with the right skills. But it’s worth being honest about what’s actually involved before you commit — and where professional installation tends to pay for itself.

Heat mitigation technology in composite decking is one of the most misunderstood features on the market. Here’s what it actually does, when it matters, and what your color choice has to do with it.

Spring is deck season — but first, it needs a good cleaning. Here’s how to do it right for both wood and composite decks, with tips on pressure washing, cleaners, staining, and spotting problems in advance.

Carpenter bee damage to wood decks is something our crew sees more and more often across Washtenaw County. Owner Josiah Shurtliff shares what we’re finding in the field, and what homeowners can do about it.

Screened porch, three-season room, or four-season addition — what’s the difference, and which is right for your family? We break it down clearly so Ann Arbor homeowners can choose the outdoor living space that fits their lifestyle and budget.

Your deck is looking tired, but does it need a full rebuild or just a fresh surface? We walk homeowners through the key signs that point toward resurfacing vs. replacement, and explain exactly how we evaluate the decision.

Wood or composite — which deck is better for the planet? The honest answer is: it depends. We break down the real environmental trade-offs of cedar, pressure-treated pine, and composite decking so you can choose with confidence.

Composite vs. Wood Decks: Which Material Is Right for Your Ann Arbor Home? Highlights from this article: Composite decking (like Trex or TimberTech) can cost more up front, but it rewards with low maintenance, strong warranties, and lasting good looks….