Makeover Monday: a Deck Turned Rot to Remarkable in Severna Park

Wood decks can rot due to several factors, primarily related to moisture and environmental conditions. Wood is highly susceptible to moisture damage. When exposed to rain, snow, or even regular humidity, wood absorbs water, causing it to swell and expand. As the wood repeatedly wets and dries, it can lead to the breakdown of the wood fibers, ultimately resulting in rot. While moisture is a primary cause of wood rot, extended exposure to direct sunlight and UV rays can also degrade the surface of the wood, causing it to crack and lose its protective finish. While beautiful, decks require much more preventive maintenance like cleaning, sealing, and staining, to ensure longevity.

Homeowners in Severna Park, Maryland reached out to Fence & Deck Connection when they noticed their wood deck was rotting and acquiring mold and mildew. Project Consultant Jeff Gottleib worked with our clients to design a larger outdoor space using composite materials instead of wood. The new deck looks stunning and matches the home’s exterior beautifully!

Before:


We first demoed and hauled away the existing wood deck before constructing a new 280 sq. ft. pressure treated wood frame — an upgrade in size from the previous deck. We then installed TimberTech Reserve Dark Roast decking using hidden fasteners. nspired 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.

White vinyl railing with black round balusters enclose the space, with one set of 4′ wide steps leading down to the backyard and a matching gate at the top. The stairway access is a great addition, as the older wooden deck did not provide access to the yard. The picture frame design on the steps is a beautiful design accent that really gives the deck that extra “pop.” Our customers are sure to use their space at night, with Corona riser lights on every step, and Venus post cap lights on the deck’s railing. For a polished, look to complete the project, we trimmed the fascia and sides of steps with white PVC.
Trim fascia of deck and sides of steps with white PVC.

After: