Eight deck safety warning signs to check before summer guests arrive: loose railings, soft wood, rusted hardware, wobbly stairs and more.
Semi-transparent vs solid deck stain: how they differ in looks, protection, peeling and upkeep, and which one works best on a Lake Michigan deck.
Use this spring deck checklist to get a Lake Michigan cottage or rental ready for summer: inspect, clean, repair, refinish and set up before the first guests.
Winterize your deck before Michigan snow: clean off debris, check the finish, store furniture, avoid rock salt and more. 8 simple steps for lakeshore decks.
Composite decking and cable railings are popular on lake houses for low maintenance and open views. Learn the pros, cons and upkeep before you upgrade.
Comparing the best deck materials for Lake Michigan homes: pressure-treated pine, cedar, tropical hardwood and composite, with pros, cons and upkeep for each.
A practical guide to deck sanding and staining in Michigan: when to do it, how to clean, sand and stain, and the mistakes that make stain peel early.
How to restore a Brazilian hardwood deck like ipe: why it turns silver, how to clean and sand it, which finishes work, and how often to re-oil on the lakeshore.
Six deck trends lakeshore homeowners are choosing: cable railings, low-maintenance boards, natural wood tones, multi-level layouts, lighting and outdoor living.
Professional deck refinishing protects lakeshore decks from sun, moisture and Michigan winters. Here are 7 benefits of hiring a pro instead of doing it yourself.