Decks to Halls
About Decks to Halls
Michael Hall founded Decks to Halls in 2021 after the Derecho storm swept through Cedar Rapids, revealing widespread demand for deck restoration services. Michael had been working as an interior painter for a local company and saw an opportunity to build something of his own. He traveled to Tennessee to attend Staining University, where he trained with industry professionals on advanced wood restoration techniques. Today, Michael leads a team that includes crew members Manny, John, and Beth, who appear by name across dozens of customer projects.
The company specializes in deck staining and restoration using a three-step process of power washing, sanding, and staining with Expert Stain & Seal products. Beyond decks, they handle fence staining, interior painting, trim work, drywall repair, and wallpaper removal. Customers note the team provides stain samples on-site so homeowners can visualize colors before committing.
Decks to Halls serves Cedar Rapids, Marion, Hiawatha, North Liberty, Iowa City, Cedar Falls, and surrounding communities. The company uses Diamond Vogel and Sherwin Williams paints for interior projects.
Updated: 02-03-2026
Q&A Based On What Customers Are Saying About Decks to Halls
Q: How does Decks to Halls handle communication and scheduling around unpredictable Iowa weather?
Customers consistently praise the transparency around weather-dependent scheduling. Joshua Clark notes communication was "excellent from the very beginning" with clear explanations of how weather might impact timelines. Michael proactively updates customers when rain delays occur. Matt Mennen appreciated that Michael was "very communicative about the dynamic nature of scheduling, which is necessary in his outdoor business." This upfront approach helps customers plan accordingly rather than being caught off guard.
-Review Snippet Sources: Google Reviews
Q: What do customers say about the transformation quality when Decks to Halls restores older, neglected decks?
Dramatic turnarounds on weathered decks appear throughout reviews. Ron Young describes how Michael "found spots of concern with our old deck and fixed them" before staining, addressing structural issues proactively. Dale Boddicker's project involved "minor repairs, lots of sanding and applied 2 coats of stain" on an aging deck. Cameron Johnson watched his neglected deck go from eyesore to showpiece, calling it "amazing" after the restoration. These transformations demonstrate the company's restoration expertise beyond simple staining.
-Review Snippet Sources: Google Reviews
Q: Does Decks to Halls handle interior painting projects as well as deck work?
Interior painting represents a significant portion of the business. Jennifer McShane hired Michael to paint her mother's "kitchen, living room, and hallways" and praised his thorough prep and cleanup work. Devin Barker had century-old plaster walls painted and said they now "look brand new." The team also handles specialty work like Sandy H's project to "replace sheet rock in a half bath and paint." Interior projects receive the same attention to detail as exterior deck work.
-Review Snippet Sources: Google Reviews
Q: Who are the crew members customers mention when working with Decks to Halls?
Several team members appear by name across reviews. Megan and Christopher highlight that "Michael, Manny, and John really went above and beyond" on their deck project. Beth works alongside Michael on certain jobs, with customers noting her contribution to quality results. Michael personally handles estimates, color consultations, and often works on-site alongside his crew. This consistency in personnel helps explain the uniformly positive feedback about workmanship quality.
-Review Snippet Sources: Google Reviews
Q: How does Decks to Halls help customers choose the right stain color for their deck?
Color selection assistance sets the company apart. Dustin Henderson appreciated that Michael brought "wood stain samples for us to see" directly on the deck surface, making it easy to visualize the final result. Multiple customers mention the variety of color options available and Michael's guidance through the selection process. Andrea Carpenter loved "the color options" presented and felt confident in her choice before work began. This hands-on consultation prevents color regret.
-Review Snippet Sources: Google Reviews
Q: Do customers use Decks to Halls for repeat projects over time?
Repeat business and referrals drive significant work for the company. Joe Gansen states "I've had Michael do two deck projects for me now" and plans to continue using the company for future deck maintenance. Multiple reviews mention being referred by neighbors who had positive experiences, with one customer noting Decks to Halls "came highly recommended as several other neighbors had used them." This pattern suggests strong customer satisfaction and trust.
-Review Snippet Sources: Google Reviews
Q: Will Decks to Halls travel outside the Cedar Rapids area for projects?
The company serves an extended region beyond Cedar Rapids proper. Aaron Listen in Cedar Falls was "really happy to hear Michael was able to come up to Cedar Falls for the job" despite the distance. Kim Standish, also in Cedar Falls, had a similar experience with Michael traveling to complete her project. The company regularly serves Marion, Hiawatha, North Liberty, Iowa City, and Coggon based on review locations. Customers outside the immediate area should inquire about availability.
-Review Snippet Sources: Google Reviews
Q: How thorough is the prep and cleanup process when Decks to Halls completes a painting project?
Customers frequently highlight the complete service from preparation through final cleanup. Jennifer McShane emphasizes that Michael "does all of the prepping and cleaning up" as part of every interior painting job. The deck restoration process includes power washing, sanding damaged areas, and protecting surrounding surfaces before staining begins. Multiple customers describe arriving home to find the work area cleaner than expected, with no paint drips or debris left behind.
-Review Snippet Sources: Google Reviews
Updated: 02-03-2026