Is Your Deck Safe?
Michigan Homeowner’s Guide to Summer-Ready Outdoor Spaces
For the season of sun around Highland, MI, homeowners are gearing up for backyard barbecues, pool parties, and long evenings spent outdoors. But before you roll out the grill and invite friends over, there’s an important question you need to ask: Is your deck safe and up to code?
At Allied Siding and Roofing, we’ve been proudly serving homeowners throughout Highland and surrounding Oakland County communities with quality craftsmanship and honest assessments for decades. As decking specialists, we understand the importance of having a structurally sound and beautiful outdoor living space. Here’s what every homeowner in Southeast Michigan should know about deck safety and compliance this season.
Why Deck Inspections Matter
According to the North American Deck and Railing Association (NADRA), an estimated 30 million decks in the U.S. are past their useful life. In areas like Highland where our winters are harsh and summers bring heavy foot traffic, weather-worn decks can quickly become dangerous.
Common issues we find during deck inspections include:
Loose or corroded fasteners
Rotted support posts
Cracked or warped boards
Unstable railings
Poor ledger board connections
Any of these problems can lead to costly damage or worse, personal injury. That’s why local building codes and regular maintenance are critical.
What Are Michigan’s Deck Building Codes?
The Michigan Residential Code (MRC) and Highland Township building guidelines set clear standards for deck safety. Here are a few essential highlights:
Ledger Board Attachment: Must be secured with lag screws or bolts, not nails.
Footings: Must be below frost line (typically 42 inches in Highland).
Railings: Required for decks over 30 inches high; must be 36 inches tall with balusters no more than 4 inches apart.
Stairs: Should have proper handrails and consistent riser heights.
If you’re unsure whether your deck meets these standards, schedule a local inspection with a licensed professional.
➡️ You can review Highland Township’s deck permitting information here: Highland Township Building Department
Check your local city for the local guidelines
The Dangers of DIY Deck Repairs
While many Highland homeowners are handy, we often see well-intentioned DIY repairs that lead to unsafe results. Quick fixes using the wrong hardware, ignoring wood rot, or using untreated lumber can jeopardize your deck’s integrity.
Hiring a trusted local contractor like Allied Siding and Roofing ensures that your deck is not only built or repaired to last but also passes all required inspections.
When to Replace Instead of Repair
Not sure if your deck just needs a tune-up or a full replacement? Here are signs it’s time for a complete overhaul:
Posts are sinking or leaning. Decks should often be level and flat. If your deck is waiving at you, the posts were likely not set below the frost line.
Joists show major rot or insect damage
The structure wobbles or sways
It’s over 20 years old with multiple patch jobs
In these cases, rebuilding your deck with modern materials and updated code compliance is safer and more cost-effective long term.
Low-Maintenance Materials That Last
Today’s deck options include beautiful, durable alternatives to traditional pressure-treated wood. In the Highland area, we often recommend:
Not only do these materials require less upkeep, they also boost your home’s curb appeal and value.
Why Choose Allied Siding and Roofing?
At Allied, we bring decades of hands-on experience in building and renovating decks across Highland, White Lake, Milford, and Commerce. Our local reputation is built on:
Expert craftsmanship
Honest, transparent quotes
Knowledge of Highland Township permits and codes
Fully licensed and insured professionals
We handle everything from custom deck design to permitting and final inspection. Whether you need a full rebuild or just a safety assessment, we’re your go-to deck contractor in Southeast Michigan.
Ready for a Safer, More Beautiful Deck?
Don’t let another Michigan summer pass by with an unsafe or outdated deck. Contact Allied Siding and Roofing today for a free deck inspection and consultation in Highland and nearby communities.
📞 Call us at (248) 889-5164
📍 Proudly serving Highland, White Lake, Milford, Commerce, and beyond.