We specialize in premium composite deck construction, deck remodeling and resurfacing, and custom outdoor living spaces like pergolas, screened porches, and outdoor kitchens. We also design and install features such as white cedar log railings, deck lighting, and underdeck waterproofing systems.
We proudly serve the Brainerd Lakes Area, including Nisswa, Crosslake, Lake Shore, Pequot Lakes, Lake Vermillion, and surrounding cabin country communities. Most of our clients are vacation homeowners with properties in Minnesota’s lakes area.
Yes. While a general contractor license isn’t required in our area, we’re working toward obtaining it as part of our commitment to excellence. We are fully insured and follow all local building codes and safety standards.
Yes. We take care of all necessary permits and will collaborate with your HOA if needed to ensure a smooth, stress-free process.
No, we do not currently offer financing. However, we’re happy to provide detailed estimates so you can plan your project with confidence.
Simply fill out our online request form or call us at (218) 398-2156. We’ll review your project details and provide a clear, no-obligation estimate.
Yes. We offer a 2-year labor warranty on all projects, along with manufacturer warranties for materials like composite decking and railings.
Most of our customers are choosing composite decking such as Azek or Trex. They are more expensive than Cedar or treated wood, but they look and feel like wood and will never have to be replaced again.
We specialize in designing, constructing, and restoring decks on log and cedar homes. This is our main service, but if you have anything else you need, feel free to contact us!
Since there are now many nice options available, I think it’s essential to take some time to make this decision. Our customers use materials such as cedar, log, glass, stainless cables, and aluminum, among others. Considering what works with the style of your home and offers you the best view is really important. White cedar railings are very popular in this area.
Many times, we find the structure of the deck to be still solid, and only the decking and railing to be rotting away. This is a result of the deck being constructed out of green-treated material, which lasts longer than cedar decking. In this case, we can replace the deck boards and the railing, saving you the cost of framing a new deck.
We often see this in log homes and those with cedar shakes. Once the finish has deteriorated, no longer repelling the moisture and the UV rays, the wood will start to mildew. This is often what you are seeing with the blackening. It’s essential to remove as much surface blackening as possible, using a solution such as TSP to clean and kill the mildew. If the blackening of the wood has penetrated deeply, you may not be able to remove that appearance entirely; however, you can prevent it from worsening by killing the surface mildew and then protecting it with a high-quality exterior stain or paint.
Most stain manufacturers will cover the stains for 3-5 years before they require the area to be top-coated. Paints will last 5-7 years before needing any attention. It’s essential to apply a top coat to protect the first coat of stain or paint, which in turn protects your logs or cedar from sun damage and mildew growth.
Composite decking can average about 60% more than cedar decking. Today’s composites will retain their color very well and are not susceptible to rot or water damage. Cedar decks are beautiful; however, they do require staining and sealing every 2-3 years at most. Even with this, they will eventually need to be replaced.
I have been in the business for 30 years, and our Lake Life company has been in business since 2014.
You should only work with a licensed residential builder in the state of Minnesota. They should have a license number that begins with BC followed by numbers. The contractor will then be responsible for determining if a permit is required and, if so, submitting all necessary information and following the permit process. If you build the deck yourself without hiring a contractor, you will be responsible for the same standards that the contractor would be if hired by you. If you work with a contractor who is not licensed or do the deck yourself without pulling a permit, you will most likely be fined and required to bring the deck up to code.
