When these Gardendale homeowners reached out to Archadeck of Birmingham, they had a composite deck that was 20+ years old in need of replacement. Yes, you read that last sentence correctly, they had an aging low-maintenance deck that had issues and needed replacing.
If the terms “low-maintenance” and “composite decking” bring to mind a deck that will last forever? You are not alone, many folks think this way. As the areas local deck expert, Archadeck of Birmingham is well-versed in the evolution of composite decking. Early composite decking is often referred to as 1st generation composite. This is because they were the first to arrive on the scene in the early 90’s. 1st generation composite decking was made using a combination of recycled plastic and wood fillers. Although this early decking promised a longer life and lower-maintenance requirements, it is not the modern composite we now use today.
You’ve Come A Long Way Baby
Some homeowners and installers alike feel a dissatisfaction in the early composite products in that they didn’t fulfill their initial promises. However, when you do the math, many 1st generation composite decks have met or even exceeded their warranties. This means that many are right in line with needed replacement as of late. Of course, there are many factors at play in determining when and if any deck needs replacement, and these factors go beyond the decking boards themselves. The quality of the initial installation can play a role as well as any inclement conditions that may cause a deck to age prematurely.
Decking manufacturers have continued to strive to improve the makeup of their decking boards; from removing the wood component on some, capping all sides on others, and many more weatherproofing advances. These evolutions brought on the advent of the 2nd generation composite. The end result are the modern, super resilient 3rd generation composite/synthetic decking boards we use today. This leads us back to subject of our featured project …
These homeowners existing deck was built using 1st generation composite decking and it was time to replace it. They opted to use wood instead of composite for their new deck.
Archadeck of Birmingham replaced and updated their deck with a new design built from pressure treated wood. We created a new footprint making a mid-level landing and smaller stairs. The existing deck also had a roof over a portion of it. For this part, we installed new porch walls, a new pressure treated porch floor and screened it in! The new deck and screened porch also feature black powder-coated aluminum balusters. Last but not least, we also installed a gate at the top of the stairs to enhance safety and security while the deck is in use.
These clients are elated with how their new deck and upgraded porch turned out!
If you are ready to update, renew or completely transform your outdoor living space contact Archadeck of Birmingham to get the ball rolling. Our custom designs are sure to make the time you spend outdoors, time well spent! Call us now at (205) 576-5780 or email us at birmingham@archadeck.net.
— Derek & Carissa Crews, owners Archadeck of Birmingham.
