Complete Deck
Guide for Metro Detroit
Everything you need to know about deck construction, renovation, and design in Southeast Michigan. From composite to cedar, we’ll help you create your perfect outdoor space.
Transform Your Outdoor Living Space
Ready to turn your backyard into the outdoor retreat you’ve always wanted? You might be looking at that old deck wondering if it’s time for a complete replacement, or maybe you’re dreaming of adding outdoor space where none exists.
Michigan homeowners love their outdoor time – when the weather cooperates. A well-designed deck extends your living space and creates the perfect spot for everything from morning coffee to summer barbecues with friends and family.
⚠️ Permits & Professional Installation Matter
Deck construction isn’t a DIY weekend project. Proper permits, structural engineering, and professional installation ensure your deck is safe, legal, and built to handle Michigan weather for decades to come.
Our Deck Services
Whether you’re starting from scratch or updating an existing deck, we’ve got you covered:
New Custom Decks
Complete design-build services with site plans and 3D renderings so you can see exactly what your new deck will look like. We handle everything from concept to completion, including all permits and inspections.
- Site plans and 3D renderings
- All permits pulled and managed
- Miss Dig coordination for utilities
- City inspector coordination (posthole, structural, final)
- Complete structural engineering
Deck Renovation & Re-decking
Give your existing deck new life with fresh decking materials, updated railings, or structural improvements. Often more cost-effective than complete replacement.
- Decking board replacement
- Structural assessments and repairs
- Railing updates and improvements
- Staining and refinishing services
- Addition of features like built-in seating
Deck Extensions & Additions
Expand your existing deck to create more outdoor living space. We can seamlessly integrate new sections with your current structure.
- Extending existing deck footprint
- Adding multiple levels
- Creating separate entertainment areas
- Integrating with existing landscaping
- Matching materials and design elements
Railings, Trellis & Features
Add finishing touches that make your deck both beautiful and functional. From safety railings to privacy screens, we handle all the details.
- Wide variety of railing options
- Trellis and privacy screens
- Built-in benches and planters
- Pergolas and shade structures
- Custom design elements
Decking Materials That Work in Michigan
Choosing the right decking material affects both appearance and maintenance for years to come:
Trex Composite Decking
The premium composite choice that combines the look of wood with modern performance. Built to handle Michigan’s weather extremes without the maintenance headaches.
✓ Pros:
- No staining or sealing required
- Excellent durability in all weather
- Fade and stain resistant
- Splinter-free surface
- 25+ year warranty options
✗ Considerations:
- Higher upfront investment
- Can get hot in direct sunlight
- Limited color changes after installation
- Expansion/contraction considerations
TimberTech Composite & PVC
Another excellent composite option offering both traditional composite and capped PVC decking for ultimate performance and style variety.
✓ Pros:
- Multiple product lines available
- Excellent scratch and stain resistance
- Realistic wood grain textures
- Low maintenance requirements
- Strong warranty coverage
✗ Considerations:
- Premium pricing for PVC options
- Color selection varies by product line
- Professional installation recommended
- Thermal expansion considerations
Pressure-Treated Lumber
The traditional choice that offers excellent value and the authentic wood experience. Perfect for homeowners who enjoy the natural aging process and don’t mind periodic maintenance.
✓ Pros:
- Most budget-friendly option
- Easy to work with and modify
- Can be stained any color
- Readily available materials
- Natural wood appearance
✗ Considerations:
- Requires regular staining/sealing
- Susceptible to weather damage
- Can warp, crack, or splinter
- Higher long-term maintenance
Cedar Lumber
The premium natural wood choice with natural resistance to insects and weather. Beautiful aging characteristics and that classic cedar aroma.
✓ Pros:
- Natural insect and rot resistance
- Beautiful grain patterns
- Pleasant natural aroma
- Ages to attractive silver-gray
- Environmentally sustainable
✗ Considerations:
- Higher material costs
- Requires periodic maintenance
- Can still weather and fade
- Limited availability during shortages
Explore Decking Options & Colors
Browse manufacturer catalogs to see styles, colors, and design inspiration:
Trex Composite Decking
You can view all Trex products on their website
TimberTech Composite Decking
You can view all TimberTech products on their website
Railing Options & Safety Features
Aluminum Railings
- Powder-coated finish resists rust
- Low maintenance requirements
- Multiple color options available
- Code-compliant spacing and height
- Excellent durability in Michigan weather
Steel Cable Railings
- Modern, minimalist appearance
- Maintains open views
- Stainless steel cable resists corrosion
- Professional installation required
- Sleek contemporary design
PVC Railings
- Matches composite decking perfectly
- No painting or staining needed
- Won’t rot, crack, or splinter
- Multiple styles and colors
- Easy to clean and maintain
Wood Railings
- Traditional classic appearance
- Can be painted or stained any color
- Various baluster styles available
- Matches wood decking naturally
- Cost-effective option
Our Deck Construction Process
Here’s exactly what happens when Leach Construction builds your deck:
1
Design & Planning
Site plans and 3D renderings help you visualize your new deck. We handle all permit applications and coordinate with local building departments.
2
Site Preparation
Miss Dig is contacted to mark underground utilities. Site is prepared and post hole locations are carefully measured and marked.
3
Foundation & Framing
Post holes are dug and concrete footings poured. Structural framing is installed to engineering specifications. City inspector reviews posthole and structural work.
4
Decking Installation
Your chosen decking material is professionally installed with proper spacing, fasteners, and finishing techniques for long-lasting performance.
5
Railings & Features
Safety railings, stairs, and any custom features like built-in seating or pergolas are installed to complete your outdoor space.
6
Final Inspection & Cleanup
City inspector performs final inspection to ensure all work meets code. Our F-550 dump truck removes all debris – no driveway dumpster needed.
💡 Leach Construction Pro Tips
3D Visualization: See exactly what your deck will look like before construction begins with detailed renderings.
Clean Jobsite: Our mobile dump truck keeps your property clean throughout the construction process.
Quality Materials: We use only premium decking materials from trusted manufacturers with strong warranties.
Deck Maintenance Tips for Michigan
🌨️ Winter Care
- Remove snow promptly to prevent buildup
- Use plastic shovel to avoid scratching
- Check for ice dam formation
- Inspect for loose boards or railings
- Clear debris from drainage areas
☀️ Summer Maintenance
- Regular cleaning with mild soap
- Check for loose fasteners
- Inspect railing stability
- Power wash composite decking carefully
- Stain/seal wood decking as needed
🍂 Fall Preparation
- Remove leaves and organic debris
- Check drainage and clean gutters
- Inspect for any summer storm damage
- Schedule wood deck staining if needed
- Secure or store deck furniture
⚠️ Warning Signs
- Loose or wobbly railings
- Sagging or bouncy deck boards
- Visible rot or insect damage
- Rusted or corroded fasteners
- Gaps between deck and house
Frequently Asked Decking Questions
We’re happy to answer any other questions you have. No commitment required – just helpful information to help you make the best decision for your home.