Q&A
My fence posts are leaning after a wet winter. What’s the best way to fix them permanently?
Leaning fence posts in Portland are usually a sign the wood has rotted below the frost line or the concrete base has shifted. Steve's Customs typically removes the affected post, digs out the old footing, and sets a new pressure-treated or steel post in fresh concrete. For chronic moisture issues, we can install a gravel base for drainage or switch to a metal post sleeve system. This keeps your fence straight for years, even in the Pearl District’s heavy clay soil.
My deck feels bouncy when I walk on it. Is that a sign I need a full replacement?
Not always. A bouncy deck in areas like Sellwood often means the joist spans are too wide or the ledger board is pulling away from the house. Steve's Customs first checks the joist spacing and connections. Sometimes we can sister in new joists or add blocking to stiffen the floor. If the rot has spread to multiple joists or the posts are sinking, a deck replacement is safer. We’ll give you an honest assessment—no one wants a collapse during a backyard barbecue.
I want to add a second-story deck off my bedroom. Do you handle the permitting for Portland?
Yes, we manage the entire permit process for elevated decks in Portland. The city requires engineered plans for any deck over 30 inches high, and we coordinate with a structural engineer to meet code. We also handle the required inspections—footings, framing, and final. A deck above ground level in neighborhoods like Irvington needs extra attention to lateral bracing and guardrail strength. We take care of the paperwork so you can focus on the view.
Company Overview
Steve's Customs has been serving Portland homeowners for years, offering general contracting services with a focus on custom decks, fences, and gates. We understand that Portland’s wet climate and aging infrastructure often lead to rotted fence posts, sagging gates, and decks that need more than just a patch job. Based in the heart of the city, we’re just a short drive from the Alberta Arts District and Laurelhurst Park, making it easy for neighbors in those areas to get a quick estimate. Our team handles everything from full deck replacements and structural repairs to building new additions that blend with your home’s character. For fencing problems, we replace weathered boards, reset leaning posts, and install durable gates that won’t stick. We treat every project like it’s our own backyard—no shortcuts, just solid work that lasts through Portland’s rainy seasons.
Key Services
- Deck repair
- Building additions
- Deck replacement
- Deck construction
Business Location & Hours
| Mon: | Open 24 hours |
| Tue: | Open 24 hours |
| Wed: | Open 24 hours |
| Thu: | Open 24 hours |
| Fri: | Open 24 hours |
| Sat: | Open 24 hours |
| Sun: | Open 24 hours |



























