Spring in Michigan is right around the corner, and everyone is starting to get the itch to be outside. In order to get the most from your deck, there’s a little work you may want to do at the start of the season. These simple deck ideas will ensure you enjoy both your deck and the beautiful weather to the highest extent and safely.

 

Start With a Proper Deck Cleaning

As with many things in the spring, you should start with a good cleaning. With your deck, there are a few specific steps to get the best kind of clean. First, get a high-powered leaf blower to remove all the leftover leaves, dirt, and other debris.

Once you have removed all the loose debris, now you need to give it a good wash. A power washer will help remove any mold or mildew that has built up. You just want to be careful of the PSI, as too much pressure can damage your decking.

Be sure to check the recommended washer settings for your decking material. Also, be sure you wait to do the wash until the low temperature is above freezing for at least 24 hours. If you pressure wash your deck, and it freezes, it can weaken the wood planking.

 

Complete Deck Repairs

Next, complete any repairs leftover from last year or that came up over the winter. Check the condition of the decking planks to makes sure they are intact and properly secured. Also, check the railing around the deck to ensure there are no loose pieces that could give way to prevent it from providing safety.

You will also want to inspect the underside of your deck and the framing material. If any of the deck frame has been damaged, it should be replaced to ensure the deck is stable. These kinds of repairs are best left to a qualified deck builder to maintain the integrity of the structure.

 

Fresh Coat

Once your deck is clean and the repairs have been completed for the season, you may want to consider coating your deck again. Keeping your deck properly stained and sealed helps it last for the intended service life, typically around 15-20 years in Michigan.

You should plan to seal your deck at least every three years. This will help the wood repel water and keep it from decomposing. If you notice the color is fading, you may want to apply a new coat of stain or paint. Just be sure to properly strip the old sealer before attempting to apply the new.

If you have as composite deck, you may not need to coat or paint it. However, if you notice the color is fading, you may be able to apply a paint or stain if it is prepped properly. Just be sure to check your owner’s information.

 

Mind Your Furniture

Consider your furniture and appliance you keep on your deck and be sure to give them a good washing as well. Each individual piece may have a different need when it comes to cleaning it, so be sure you know how each should be cleaned to avoid any accidental damage.

A mild soap, like gentle dish soap, and a soft sponge are generally safe for most outdoor furniture. You can get most of the dirt off this way, and keep from damaging it. Be careful with a pressure washer, even on a gentle setting, as the stream can cause damage, especially if your furniture is more than a year or two old.

 

Functional Deck Ideas

Spring is a great time to add functional improvements to your deck as well. It is best to do this before refinishing your deck, so you can apply the same finish and keep an even coat without off fading. Be sure to work with a qualified deck builder to ensure these new sections tie into your current deck seamlessly and without damaging the existing infrastructure.

 

Some functional improvements homeowners explore include:

• Screened sections to keep out pests
• Pergolas or covered roofs
• Privacy walls
• Vine Trellis

Add Some Color

Finally, consider adding some new colors this year. It is easy to spice up your deck with a new umbrella, a few planters, or even some accent pillows or new cushion covers. These are relatively low cost deck ideas, and make the deck seem new with the vibrant colors. If you are considering selling your home this year, this can also do a lot to improve the appeal to potential buyers.

Michigan weather is notoriously unpredictable, especially in the winter. As the saying goes, if you don’t like the weather, just wait five minutes. Part of what that means is that you do not want to be left with a roof problem, especially in the middle of the winter.

If you know what to look for, you can avoid a major roof leak and significant repair bills. Look for these signs and then call for repairs early.

 

Roof Problem: Ice Dams

In the middle of the winter, you may notice large icicles hanging off a roof. While these may be fun to look at and give a “winter wonderland” kind of feel, they are actually a serious sign of trouble. First, they are dangerous, in that they can easily detach and cause injury.

Beyond the risk of injury, these ice dams pose a significant risk to your roof. Snow will melt, the water will run down the roof, and then get caught before draining off. When it gets caught, it will get under the edge of your shingles, slowly prying them up, leading to leaks.

There are several problems with your roof and home that may cause these ice dams:

• Insufficient insulation in your attic
• Improper attic ventilation
• Attic heat leaks

If you see ice dams forming, call to get a professional assessment of the situation. Sometimes it is as easy as adding some new insulation to your attic, and you avoid a potentially catastrophic roof problem.

 

Strong Winter Winds

Regardless of where in Michigan you reside, you are bound to encounter strong winter winds at some point. These winds are notorious for wreaking havoc on people’s roofs.

The rating of your shingle will determine how strong of wins it can withstand. Grade A shingles can withstand winds of up to about 60mph whereas grade F can withstand winds of up to 110mph. These ratings are if the shingles are installed properly and are undamaged.

However, if your shingles are getting old, or have been damaged by an ice dam, one good wind gust pulls these right up. That’s why it is important to pay attention to your shingles, and repair minor damage before it leads to a major roof problem.

 

Heavy Snow Loads

One thing every homeowner should be aware of is the roofing load capacity. If you live in southeast Michigan, you may luck out and have very little snow for a season. But then you get the crazy Nor’easter, and you may get six inches overnight.

Whereas if you live in the northern parts of the lower peninsula or in the UP, you may receive as much as 300 inches over the winter. The ranges are crazy and mean we all have to prepare for the worst.

When it comes to your roof, it is important to understand what it can hold. Different roof designs and structures are engineered to hold different amounts. Another issue to consider is the composition of the snow. Light fluffy snow will accumulate quickly but has very little weight compared to dense wet snow.

 

Winter Weather Leaks

Roof leaks you experience in the winter are a culmination of several factors. These include too much snow, the formation of ice dams, winds, and weakening roofing materials.

When you first experience a leak, you may notice subtle hints of rust around parts of your ceiling. However, these may quickly expand, lead to ballooning of your ceiling paint, and eventually dripping water.

Regardless of which of these symptoms you see, you are at risk of a catastrophic failure. This is a serious failure that usually results in part of the roof collapsing in, and causing serious damage to your home.

 

What to Do If You Notice Roofing Issues

The first step to protecting your home and roof is to prevent damage. Take notice of the condition of your roof and fix minor issues when they come up.

Regular maintenance is the best way to avoid major issues. If you have skylights, be sure to caulk around the edge to keep it sealed. Cracked or worn caulking is a common cause of leaks.

Also, keep an eye on your shingles. If you experience damage due to a storm, be sure to have it fixed quickly. This means that if you have shingles that are peeling up around the edges, that you use something like liquid nails roof repair to get it adhered down.

Michigan is a beautiful place, regardless of the season. Those who love being outside also love the flexibility a custom deck can bring to their home. Not only can an outdoor living space make your time at home more comfortable, but they also bring a great return for the investment. Here are some things to consider as you dream about what your property may look like this year.

 

Effect of Outdoor Living Space on Home Value

You have probably noticed decks popping up all over, almost regardless of the style of the house. When you have talented craftsmen working with you, you can make an ordinary deck something exquisite that perfectly matches your home.

From strict property value, decks and other outdoor areas generally return about 70% of the investment. So while you may be able to do something inexpensive, be careful not to short circuit the long-term perspective of your project.

Thinking beyond just the property value, consider the options that drive prospective buyers and their purchasing decisions. When your outdoor space looks amazing and inviting, it helps people see past possible work, and into their life enjoying the space. A beautifully maintained deck and outdoor space combined with a cultivated lawn do exactly this.

Collectively, what people see from the outside is known as curb appeal. The better the curb appeal, the more quickly your home will sell, and the higher the offers you will receive. Beyond the benefit you will reap when it is time to sell, there are many benefits you will enjoy right away.

 

Escape While at Home

Everyone can use a space through which they can escape the everyday monotony of life. A custom deck or other cultivated space can provide just the ticket. Imagine a deck surrounded by trees, with a comfy hammock gently rocking in a corner.

Perhaps a plush cushion on an oversized wicker chair in front of a fire pit under a pergola is a little more your speed. There are many options for creating the exact space you want so you can escape and relax without having to pay exorbitant resort fees all the time.

 

More Entertainment with More People

Everyone enjoys having people over, whether it’s for a graduation party, sports celebration, or just a Sunday barbecue. When you do not have an adequately prepared outdoor space, you are left trying to cram everyone in your home.

When you have a custom deck you naturally increase your capacity. You can prepare most of your food outside, set up serving, and then have places for people to sit. Even if large crowds aren’t your thing, the right outdoor space takes away the worry of having people over.

 

Add to Your Storage Capacity

Having enough storage space seems to be a continual battle. It doesn’t matter whether it is in a shed, garage, or even in your home. An outdoor living space provides many options for increasing your storage capacity.

If you decide to build a custom elevated deck, the area under the deck can become storage for things that are not subject to weather and water. On top of your deck, you can add various forms of storage sheds, shelves, or even large barrels.

If you decide to do another form of outside space, you can still develop additional storage. Consider adding a wooden shed to store your garden supplies and tools. A wooden or plastic chest is perfect for everything from outdoor toys, to sports equipment, to the cushions for our chairs.

 

Extra Options for Outdoor Living Spaces

There are a plethora of options to improve your outdoor space in Michigan that extend well beyond a traditional deck. While most people think of decks as elevated, you can always look at a deck that rests just above the ground. These give you the same options as an elevated deck, but without the danger of the added height.

If decks are not your preference, consider a patio. Like decks, there are a wide variety of options for your style. If you have a modern style, consider a poured concrete and stamp. If you like something a little more rustic, look at blocks to lay with gravel.

Think well beyond the basics of a deck or patio to get the most from your space. If you enjoy being outside with a fire, consider building a proper fire pit. You can always buy a standalone pit, but one that is built-in offers a lot more versatility and long term value.

If you have the desire to garden, think about adding permanent beds or pots. This saves your flowers or garden from some bugs and weeds you would encounter in a normal garden.

Finally, consider any shade options you may want. You can always add an umbrella, but that is a band-aid option for a permanent problem. Rather, a pergola, trellis, or arbor is a great option and is a beautiful addition to your property.

You have had dreams for your Michigan basement for years, and now you have decided it’s time to move forward. Forget about the normal storage and workshop basements, your home needs a proper theater. But what do you need to consider to build out a successful basement home theater? The following list will ensure you enjoy your theater and also reap the most return on it when you sell your home.

 

Thinking About the Basement Home Theater Build Out

Before getting ahead of yourself, you want to be sure to consider the actual design of the room. This goes beyond simply erecting some walls and adding a television and some chairs.

 

Your Acoustics Matter

One of the most important aspects of a basement theater are the acoustics, or how the sound bounces around the room. If all you have are flat walls and a ceiling then you will have a lot of echo.

To improve your acoustics, you will want to build in some angles like a layered ceiling. Also consider adding in sound insulation in the walls and ceiling. This will keep the sound in your basement theater and dampen its intrusion on the rest of your house.

 

Where Will Things Go?

Before starting construction, you should plan where you want things to go. Where will the screen be, and where will the video and audio controls be located? Where will you put the entryway, and will there be a proper door?

All of this is important for the full design of your theater and making it work. This will be important for laying the infrastructure of the room, including where the electrical will be run. It is better to run your electrical to where you will need it rather than make the room work around the electrical.

The same goes for HVAC ventilation, you want to plan for how this will flow into the room. You want to be sure you have heat and cooling when needed to ensure the movie going experience is optimal. But that also means you do not want to put vents where they blow right onto your audience.

 

What Materials Will You Use?

You should also plan for what materials you will use to construct your theater. One of the common problems in basements is moisture which leads to mold and mildew. You want to be sure you use premium materials that is resistant to this problem to ensure you will enjoy your basement home theater for years. This includes your stud materials, your wall material, and your paint.

 

How Will You Handle Lighting?

Theater lighting is extremely important for both comfort and safety. Sure, you want the room dark when it is time for the premier to begin. However, you need proper lighting for cleaning, people coming in and out, and setting up the event. The only question is how you will handle the light. Will you use sconces, recessed lighting, or corner lamps? All of these will work, but sconces and recessed lighting will draw a greater return on your investment.

 

Making Your Theater Work

Now that you have considered the construction of your home theater, now it is time to have some fun setting it up.

 

No Bad Seat In The House

For a good home theater, you will want to think through each seat and ensure everyone will have a good view. Not only do you want to ensure you have comfortable chairs, but that each one is in a good position. You can use a wrap around sofa if you enjoy being really close. Many Michigan homeowners are appreciating the use of risers to create stadium-like seating.

 

Making The Movie Experience

Do not spare an expense on the audio and visual component of your basement home theater. For your audio, you can use surround sound speakers that mount to the wall, or go on corner stands. Another option is to use recessed speakers that mount right into your ceiling. If you install recessed speakers, it creates less work for the person who will purchase your home.

For the video, consider whether you want to use a large flat-screen television or a projector. If you use a projector, you can easily mount it in a layered ceiling so there is little visible evidence of it. Also consider whether you will use a permanent screen, or a retractable one, so you can build in the power if needed.

Whatever options you choose, be sure you run the AV cables in the walls. This keeps the room clutter free and safe for all who visit.

 

Don’t Forget Concessions

One of the things people look forward to going to see a movie in the theater is the popcorn and concessions. Consider adding a kitchenette in the basement to prepare snacks for your family and guests to enjoy. To add a little extra flare, install a glass case at the kitchenette bar to display boxed or bagged snacks.

 

What’s a Home Theater Without an Arcade?

Finally, to add a little extra entertainment, considering adding an arcade to the atmosphere as well. You can get a retro arcade game and put it outside the home theater room. You can also set up a game system just outside to provide some additional entertainment. Regardless of what kind of arcade you set up, it will bring just a little more enjoyment to your space.

Basements in Michigan mean a lot to homeowners. They mean a storm shelter when needed, not to mention extra storage. They also mean an area you can create special space, be it a craft room, hobby space, or a man cave. Regardless of how you finish the basement, it usually returns between 70%-75% of the investment. A basement bar is one popular option for those who want to enjoy a little escape in a non-traditional room.

 

Begin with the End for an Amazing Basement Bar

Before beginning construction on your basement bar project, you should take a few minutes to plan for what you want. Think about the bar space, is it just for serving drinks, or do you want a full kitchenette? Do you want to have bar seating, or just tables and chairs?

Also think about if you want Any sort of entertainment, like a large television for watching sports. Do you want a dartboard or a billiards table? What about a bookshelf and board games? There is a lot you can do with a basement bar, so let your imagination go wild and dream about what you want.

Also think about whether you want a bathroom, either full or half, in the space as well. This can be extremely handy when you are trying to escape or are watching the big game. Rather than trying to run upstairs, you can

 

Map Out Your New Bar

Be sure to map out a proportional drawing of what you want and where. This ensures that you do not plan for more than you can fit in your space.

On this blueprint, be sure to include load-bearing fixtures, as well as where your existing electrical and plumbing fixtures are located. Then, map out where you need new electrical or plumbing access.

Also be sure to map out where you want various fixtures, such as your bar, a television, a refrigerator. Include anything on your blueprint that takes up a significant amount of space, including tables, billiards, anything else that could make the space cramped.

 

Plan for Construction

Finally, work with your basement contractor to determine whether you need a building permit. While local laws may differ, the entire state of Michigan requires you to pull a permit when adding electrical or plumbing fixtures. It also requires it if you are changing the structure of the house.

You are likely going to install new plumbing and probably electrical for your basement bar. Plan for the time and expense to pull a building permit. As you work with your contractor, be sure the contract stipulates who will apply for the permit. Also, be sure it details out who will handle meeting the inspector and finishing the process.

The last thing you want is to find out the contractor did not pull the permit you expected, and now you have fines. Being attentive to the contract to be sure everyone is on the same page will ensure there everything runs smoothly. It does mean that you should also plan for the delay to get the inspection completed at the end of your project.

Did you know your roof consists of much more than just plywood and shingles? Unless you are a roofing professional or have participated in a roofing project, you probably have evaluated the need and intricacies of roof vents.

However, just because you may now know all there is to know about them does not mean they are any less important. It is important to understand what they are, how they work, and why they are so important to your home in Michigan.

 

What Are Roof Vents?

These vents help to release heat and moisture that build up in the attic space of your home. Even if there is not an attic you can access, your home likely has some space between the ceiling and the roof.

Your roof has two forms of vents, the intake vents and the exhaust vents. The intake vents are usually in the overhang of the roof. However, some homes also have vents built into the wall of their attic space known as gable louvers.

Exhaust vents come in a couple of different varieties. The most common vent is the ridge vent, which goes across the ridge across the top of your roof. The second is called roof louvers, which are installed right on the surface of the roof, with a cutout in the sheathing board to provide the actual ventilation.

 

How Do They Work?

The mechanism by which these work is quite simple. Intake vents are located lower on the roof structure, which the exhaust vents are located toward the top. Warm air naturally rises, creating a vacuum that air exhausts through the vents. This is natural ventilation and is what many homes use.

However, in some circumstances a mechanical method more effective. If your roof is designed in a way that does not allow much airflow, or if you are in an area with little natural air movement, this will be something to explore.

Mechanical ventilation utilizes fans to move through the space. These typically install in the vent cap and require some power source. Some models simply tie into your home’s electrical system, while others may have self-contained power like solar.

 

Benefit #1: Improve Energy Efficiency

One important benefit of roof vents is improved energy efficiency. Removing the stagnant air from your attic helps improve the efficiency of your HVAC system, especially during the hot summer months. By moving the hot air out of the attic you reduce the amount of work your air conditioner must exert to cool your home.

This also reduces the humidity in space, reducing the environment conducive to mold development. This improves your indoor air quality making it more comfortable in your home, but also improving the efficiency of both your heating and cooling systems.

 

Benefit #2: Add More Life to Your Roof

A normal asphalt shingle roof can last up to about 25 years, depending on how it is maintained. However, when the roof is not properly vented, this life is cut significantly short.

As discussed above, an improperly vented roof will cause ice dams, which will cut the life of your roof on its own. However, it goes well beyond that.

During hot Michigan summers, the extra heat gets trapped underneath your shingles. This extra heat causes the shingles to degrade prematurely, shortening their life and causing leaks.

This degradation also causes the shingles to start peeling up from the roof, weakening the seal of the tar strip on the bottom. This makes the shingles more susceptible to additional damage from wind and storms.

 

Benefit #3: Reduce Indoor Hot Spots

It is challenging to heat and cool your home appropriately when you have unusual areas that are warmer than others. This is especially true if you have a multi-level home and one floor is warmer than another. Sure, hot air rises, so expect some amount of variation from floor to floor. However, you should not feel a dramatic difference between floors, and especially not between your ceiling and your floor on a single floor.

While this change may be a problem with how your HVAC system is running, it can also indicate an improperly vented roof. If you experience this dramatic change, look for other signs your vents are not sufficient.

 

How Many Do You Need?

Unfortunately, a single vent on your roof will not be sufficient for most homes. Rather, you need vents periodically across your entire roof. But how many will you need?

You need to know some information about your home before you can determine this. Specifically, you need the square footage of your and if you have a vapor barrier in your attic space. If you do, then you need to plan for one vent for every 300 square feet of roof. If you do not have the vapor barrier, then you need to install one for every 200 square feet.

You should also know the pitch of your roof. If your pitch is greater than 6:12 then you will need more vents to cover the attic space properly.