Kalamazoo’s roofing and exterior crew since 1998
Custom Deck Construction in Allegan, MI
Your backyard shouldn’t just be a patch of grass; it should be an extension of your living room. A custom-designed deck is the anchor of your outdoor lifestyle.
In Allegan, where properties often feature rolling hills, views of the Kalamazoo River, or expansive wooded lots, a “cookie-cutter” 10×10 square deck simply doesn’t cut it. You need a design that respects the topography of your land and stands up to our harsh freeze/thaw cycles. Since 1998, Lyster Exteriors has been designing and building structural masterpieces—from simple pressure-treated platforms to complex multi-level composite retreats.
Material Selection: Wood vs. Composite
The first question every Allegan homeowner asks is: “Should I buy wood or composite?” We educate you on the pros and cons so you can make the right investment for your budget and maintenance tolerance.
Composite Decking (Trex / TimberTech)
The “Set It and Forget It” Choice. Modern composite decking is made from a blend of recycled plastic and wood fibers. It mimics the grain of exotic hardwoods without the headaches.
- Zero Maintenance: No sanding, staining, or painting—ever. Just wash it off with a hose.
- Durability: It won’t rot, warp, crack, or splinter. It is impervious to the termites and carpenter ants often found in wooded Allegan lots.
- Aesthetics: Available in deep, rich colors that resist fading under the summer sun.
Pressure-Treated Wood
The Classic Choice. For purists who love the smell and feel of real wood, or for those working with a stricter budget, pressure-treated pine is a solid option.
- Cost-Effective: Lower upfront material cost compared to composite.
- Natural Look: Can be stained any color to match your home’s siding or trim.
- Maintenance Required: Requires annual cleaning and staining to prevent graying and rot.
The Lyster Construction Standard
A deck is a structural addition to your home. If the footings are shallow or the ledger board is improperly flashed, the deck can collapse or rot your house framing. We build to a 10x Safety Standard:
1. Frost-Proof Footings
In Allegan, the frost line runs deep. We dig our post holes a minimum of 42 inches deep (often deeper depending on soil conditions) to ensure your deck never heaves, shifts, or sinks during the winter freeze.
2. Flashing & Water Management
The most critical connection is where the deck meets your house. We strip the siding and install heavy-duty metal flashing behind the ledger board. This ensures that rain and snowmelt cannot rot out the rim joist of your home—a common failure point in DIY decks.
3. Joist Protection
We apply specialized butyl tape to the tops of the joists before laying the deck boards. This creates a waterproof barrier that prevents water from sitting on the wood framing, significantly extending the structural life of the substructure.
Railing Systems & Accessories
The railing is what gives your deck its personality. We offer a wide range of options to frame your view, not block it:
- Aluminum Railing: Sleek, strong, and rust-free. The thin profile preserves your view of the yard.
- Vinyl Railing: Classic, white, and substantial. Matches well with traditional colonial architecture.
- Lighting: Integrated solar post caps and stair riser lights for safety and ambiance during evening parties.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for a new deck in Allegan?
Yes. Almost all deck projects require a building permit. Lyster Exteriors handles the entire permitting process, including submitting drawings to the local building department and scheduling inspections.
Can you resurface my existing deck?
If the underlying structure (posts and joists) is sound and rot-free, we can often remove the old deck boards and railings and install new composite decking on the existing frame. This is a cost-effective way to upgrade.
How long does construction take?
Once permits are approved, most standard decks are built in 3-5 days. Complex multi-level projects may take longer. We work consecutively—we don’t start your job and then disappear for a week.
Start planning your summer oasis today.
Whether you want a space for grilling or a lounge area for the family, we can build it. Request your Free Deck Estimate.
Our Services
Roofing and Exterior Services
Asphalt shingle roofing is the core of what we do, backed by full exterior services for Kalamazoo and Southwest Michigan homes.
Roof Replacement
Full tear-off and replacement with architectural shingles.
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Roof Repair
Leaks, storm damage, and missing shingles fixed fast.
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New Roof Installation
New construction roofs installed to manufacturer spec.
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Roof Maintenance
Inspections and upkeep that add years to your roof.
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Siding
Vinyl and fiber cement siding built for Michigan weather.
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Windows
Replacement and new-construction windows.
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Gutters
Seamless gutters and downspouts that protect your home.
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Doors
Entry and exterior doors that make a first impression.
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Decks
Custom decks that add outdoor living space.
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Insulation
Attic insulation that cuts energy bills.
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Certified Installers for the Brands on Your Home
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