Willow Grove, PA 19090
Custom Trex Composite Deck in Toasted Sand with Base Covering - Willow Grove, PA
Project #029
Planning your Trex Composite Deck project?
“I highly recommend Dexteriors for any outside upgrades. We hired Dexteriors to build a new deck and it could not have gone any better. From the very beginning the team had great ideas regarding the new deck, followed by detailed plans and once the worked started they showed up every day until the job was complete. The attention to detail was amazing and we now have a beautiful, new trex deck! Matt, Kevin and Brian were great to work with (almost like family), they were very approachable and took the time to listen to our concerns. I wouldn’t think twice about hiring them for any future projects!”
-The Happy Customer
PROJECT SPECS:
Location: Willow Grove PA 19090 (40.1440° N, 75.1157° W)
Size: 15’ x 30’ (450 sf.)
Planning: 2-3 weeks
Construction: 8-10 days
Structure: Replacement composite deck w/ three staircases
Framing: Pressure-treated lumber
Main Decking: Trex Enhance Decking – Toasted Sand
Accent Decking: Trex Enhance Decking – Coastal Bluff
Railings: Black aluminum rail kit
Maintenance Level: Low
FULL DESIGN & BUILD
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Trex Enhance Decking
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Base Covering w/ Storage Door
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Aluminum Railings
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Deck Lighting
BACKSTORY
When it comes to professional deck building, we try to never let emotions come into decision making. But after hearing the story our customer talked about his past experience with a fraudulent deck contractor, we had to step in and help make it right. We received a call one morning from a homeowner who had been scammed by a local decking contractor (…and who will remain un-named). This never sits well to hear someone being taken for over $20,000 by someone who had appeared and was shown to be very reputable and professional. Unfortunately, that was not the case. After a few consultations, meetings and finally a deposit check, the local decking contractor was never heard from again.
Although this is shocking, it’s nothing new. Scams are more abundant today than ever before. As a TRUE, locally recognized, insured and licensed exterior home remodeler, we pride ourselves in our name & portfolio of happy customers. We promised to wash away the bad taste of trusting a service provider and being let down. Our Deck Design & Estimating team got right to work in creating deck plan ideas that fit the elevation and obstacles in this backyard in Willow Grove, PA 19090, not far from the Willow Grove Mall & Roychester Park.
The composite deck would be primarily used as an outdoor living space for lounging outside on hot days, a place to hang during pool days, and the backdrop for family dinners outside. It was important to add additional deck staircases to help the flow of traffic in & out of the yard and to the pool. A sturdy deck handrail was important as small kids and animals would be using the deck during slippery pool days. We chose the RDI Avalon railing in black to ensure a clean, modern aesthetic while showing increased integrity over vinyl railings.
Work Scope
Design deck plans & renderings
Obtain permit approval
Existing deck removal
Dig & prepare footings
*Footing Inspection
Add beams to footings and frame deck structure
Install all beams, roof posts, and structure framing
*Framing Inspection
Finish all electrical wiring
Hang all wall & floor screening
Apply waterproof butyl tape to joists & beams
Install Trex composite decking & railing system
Complete roof & ceiling work
Install deck lighting & ceiling lighting
Finalize punch list
*Final Inspection
CONSIDER This
Spending the extra money to enclose the base of a deck structure can serve multiple purposes; some you may not have considered:
Appearance: Whether lattice or matching deck boards, completing the build with a base covering will finish the space off and offer a polished appearance. Don’t worry about the dead grass or dirt patches beneath your new composite decking taking attention away from your outdoor entertainment.
Protection: Covering the sub-framing with a high-quality product will help protect the posts and beams from the elements. It will also keep small animals and vermin from nesting beneath the deck or chewing on electrical wires.
Air Flow: Installing horizontal or vertical deck boards as the base covering will significantly reduce air flow from under the deck. It helps from blowing leaves, trash and other debris under the structure.
Strength: Adding the wall-like base coverings will increase rigidity of the entire structure, especially decks over 5’ elevation. Higher elevated decks will also provide a possible entertaining space below the deck where waterproofing and adding sidewalls creates a more desirable atmosphere when entertaining outdoors.
SIMILAR PROJECTS
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Our team will help you create your ideal composite deck. Connect with us today to start your home improvement journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need permits for a new deck?
Generally speaking, the answer is yes. Every township is going to require a permit for a new build. This is because you are creating a new structure that could impede property line offsets. For that, the township is concerned with the zoning elements. To ensure all its citizens are safe, project inspections are conducted throughout the construction to inspect the footings & foundation, framing, and overall quality of the build. We build to the most recent standards set by the Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code (UCC). Learn more about the UCC here.
How long does it take to build a new deck?
Smaller builds like Project #031 take about 5 weeks in total. 2-3 weeks are reserved for design and permitting. A simple design could be created, submitted and approved within 3 weeks. Then, any demolition and all construction would last about two weeks.
For a medium-scale design like Project #007 or Project #019, the full process would span 8-12 weeks. These designs include more detail which requires more drafts to get it just right. The design and permitting would take 4-8 weeks to create the design renderings, coordinate the subcontractors, get the permits approved, and order materials. After breaking ground, you can expect the construction to last between 5-8 weeks.
Full Backyard makeovers require the efforts of our full design team and generally require electrical, plumbing, gas & other specialties. The coordination increases tremendously so we always require our customers to allow anywhere from 6-12 months for these improvements. Design 2-3 months. Zoning & Permitting up to 2 months. Preparation 2-4 weeks. Construction 3-4 months.
Can I reuse my current deck framing?
Easy answer: No. In our experience, we have not had success with utilizing existing structures for new deck designs. The main issue in attempting to use old framing is it shifts, twists and changes over time. It may dry out or become waterlogged based on your area. Additionally, ground-contact framing lumber has a limited life expectancy when not properly treated. Composite decking last for 25-50 years which will outlast the framing left over from your current deck. For this, we always build new, including the concrete post footings.
If you’re looking to replace your deck boards and railings with the exact same layout you currently have, that could be possible. But we expect framing improvements due to updated building codes over the years.
Can Dexteriors help me with financing?
Yes, we have a relationship with HFS Financial who provides home improvement financing for all your needs. They offer up to $400,000 with terms up to 20 years. Inquiring won’t impact your credit score and they provide same-day qualifications. Click here to learn more.
Do you build outdoor kitchens?
Yes, we offer a full array of outdoor living & entertaining services, including kitchen surrounds, custom bar areas, media centers and more. If you are looking to do more than host an average 4th of July party, Dexteriors can help you set the stage. Our kitchen designs can include commercial gas grills including pizza ovens, sinks & drain, dishwasher, vent hood, refrigerators, and more. We’ll consider all details!
What are the best decking brands in my area?
Our customer request Trex Company more than any other decking products. This is generally due to marketing exposure along with great products and customer service. Other desired brands and manufacturers we like to install are Timbertech, Fiberon, MoistureShield, and Deckorators.
How do I prepare for my new deck build?
Clear the Deck: If you have a deck currently, make sure it is cleared off prior to starting construction. Moving furniture, grills and other outdoor items is very helpful.
Clear the Driveway: On the days prior to construction, we may drop off a dumpster which ideally stays in the driveway, when available. During construction, the material delivery will be stored on-site. Generally, the driveway is usually easiest to access and has the firmest surface to manage the weight.
Water & Electricity: We will need access to electrical outlets and running water during the construction. Please make sure spigots are not winterized for the concrete work required.
Can I customize features like a fireplace, lighting and TV?
Somewhat. Over the years of working with different products, we have narrowed our offerings to specific brands we know will bring our customers value. There will be limitations to products available on your specific design due to manufacturer requirements, permitting, etc. But, generally speaking, we are able to customize a space specific to your home’s features and landscape to compliment your property to include all desired amenities.
What is the cost to build a deck?
We have Project Gallery that breaks down the work scope, timeline and budget of different projects we have completed in the past. Smaller Trex composite deck projects start from $30,000 up to $50,000. Medium sized builds that start incorporating fire/water features, cooking, roof coverings etc land between $60,000 to $100,000. And if you want to make the neighbors jealous, we can help you create the backyard makeover of your dreams with a final ticket price between $150,000 to $500,000. Pool, cabana, firepits, commercial kitchens; your home becomes the entertaining district of your neighborhood.
Will my new deck require annual maintenance?
Yes, and “how much” depends on the type of deck.
Lumber decks are the most time consuming. A pressure-treated deck should be sanded and treated with all-weather sealant every 2-3 years. Light powerwashing annually will be helpful in removing moss & mold.
Composite decking like Trex & TimberTech is most desirable for it’s low maintenance requirements. A light brush and mild soap will clean the surface to maintain the products warranty over the years. Light pressure washing every few seasons will help maintain the coloring and finish of your deck products.
Any lighting features should be checked when opening and closing the deck for the season.