Project of the Month: Multi-level Deck in Arnold, Maryland

Multi-level decking greatly expands your outdoor living space and adds various settings for dining, relaxing, and entertaining areas. Homeowners in Arnold, Maryland loved the layout of their upper and lower decks, but the wood material was showing signs of age, and was rotting and splintering in several areas. Additionally, the decking boards and railing were showing signs of mold and mildew. While re-constructing their multi-level deck using pressure treated wood was an option, our customers opted to switch to TimberTech composite decking, which will require far less maintenance. This March Project of the Month features beautiful angles and craftsmanship, modern color combinations, and a lighting package, truly making this backyard one-of-a-kind!

Before:

Project Consultant Brian Hannon met with our Anne Arundel County clients to determine their vision for their new composite, deck, color and design options, and provide an overview of the decking materials and build process. Prior to our work, we helped to obtain a permit for the new deck. Generally, upon building a new deck for your home, you will be required to have a county permit. To obtain the permit, you need a copy of your property plat shows the property lines, and an indication of where the new deck will be constructed. You will also need a drawing of the deck to scale that clearly shows the dimensions of the deck, footer size and depth, beam size, joist size and spacing, decking material to be used, railing system and staircase location.

CAD Drawings:

We first removed the existing decks, stairs, and railings before constructing the new multi-level construction. Between the two decks, we installed approximately 645 sq. ft. of TimberTech Reserve decking using hidden fasteners in the beautiful Dark Roast hue. Additionally, we used the same decking for a feature and seam board, as well as fascia wrapping the deck’s perimeter. Inspired by reclaimed wood, these boards feature a rough wire-brushed, low-gloss finish that highlights the classic cathedral wood grain pattern. In addition, they offer superior scratch resistance and feature Mold Guard™ Technology that protects the plank from the elements and everyday accidents endured by most decks. They have also been third party tested and proven to retain color and offer excellent fade resistance.

Black Alta UltraLox Aluminum railing with white vinyl railing posts replace the all white railings that were covered in mildew and algae on both the main deck and balcony deck. New steps lead down to the backyard from the main deck, and our DEK Drain system complete with white Soffit ceiling was installed under the main portion of the large outdoor space. Though an additional cost, deck drainage systems create a dry, usable space underneath your second-story deck while protecting your deck frame from moisture which can lead to wood rot and decay. For a polished look, all support posts, beams, and Glulam beams are wrapped in white vinyl sleeves. Last but not least, we installed a new electrical system including a Home Tops transformer, 6 recessed light, and 14 Aurora Iris Anello post cap lights, ensuring the space is beautifully illuminated in the nighttime. The new finished space adds a modern touch to the home!

After: