Replacing an Aging Deck in Feasterville
Challenge
When an existing deck reaches the point where it needs to be replaced, homeowners have an opportunity to do more than simply recreate what was already there. A deck replacement can address aging materials, improve the overall design, and create an outdoor space that better fits the home and the homeowner's needs.
For one Feasterville homeowner, an aging outdoor living area at her 1964 home was ready for a complete transformation. The goal was to create a new deck that was attractive, durable, and built with details designed for long-term performance.
The Problem: An Aging Deck Ready for Replacement
The Feasterville homeowner's existing deck had reached the point where an update was needed. Rather than continue investing in an aging outdoor space, she decided it was time to replace the deck entirely.
She wanted the new space to provide more than just a functional place to step outside. She was looking for a finished outdoor living area that would complement her home, look beautiful, and provide the durability needed for years of use.
The challenge was finding a contractor she felt confident would deliver the quality and attention to detail she was looking for.
Finding the Right Contractor
The homeowner did not have a family or friend who could provide a recent recommendation for a deck overhaul. Instead, she discovered Preferred Home Improvement through Best Pick Reports, an independent consumer research publication serving Bucks County.
After seeing Preferred recognized for quality deck building and maintenance, she decided to reach out.
During the estimate process, the homeowner met with the owner and had the opportunity to see examples of other decks Preferred had completed. Seeing previous work helped give her confidence in the company's craftsmanship, and she was comfortable with the estimate she received.
The experience made such an impression that she later explained she “didn't bother calling other companies.”
The Approach: Build for Appearance and Performance
With the contractor selected, the next step was designing a replacement deck that balanced appearance with the practical considerations of an outdoor structure.
The homeowner selected TimberTech Legacy Collection decking in Ashwood. The warm, natural appearance provides the look of traditional wood while offering the benefits of composite decking.
The design also incorporated several installation details intended to provide a cleaner finished appearance and additional protection for the deck structure.
Protecting the Framing
Flashing tape was installed over the framing to help protect the structural components from moisture intrusion.
This detail is installed beneath the decking, so it isn't one of the most visible parts of the finished project. However, it plays an important role in the overall deck assembly by helping protect the framing from moisture exposure.
Creating a Clean Deck Surface
The decking was installed using a hidden fastener system, eliminating visible fastener heads across the deck surface.
The result is a more streamlined appearance that allows the Ashwood decking to remain the primary visual element.
The fascia was also completed in Ashwood, creating a cohesive transition between the deck surface and its edges.
Solution
The Solution: A Completely Refreshed Outdoor Living Space
The replacement deck incorporated coordinated materials and contrasting accents to create a finished design.
The stairs were completed with Ashwood decking on the steps and risers, carrying the same material throughout the primary deck and stair system.
For the railing, the homeowner selected TimberTech Radiance railing and post sleeves in Black. The darker railing provides contrast against the warm Ashwood decking and adds a crisp, contemporary element to the design.
Plain post caps completed the railing system, keeping the overall design simple and allowing the decking and black railing to remain the primary features.
Together, the materials created a combination of warm wood tones and clean black accents that gave the outdoor space an entirely refreshed appearance.
The Result: A Deck Designed to Last
The completed project transformed the home's aging outdoor living area into a new, cohesive deck designed with both aesthetics and performance in mind. The finished deck features TimberTech Legacy Collection decking in Ashwood, matching Ashwood fascia, Ashwood stairs and risers, Black TimberTech Radiance railing and post sleeves, plain post caps, a hidden fastening system, and flashing tape over the framing. The result was a new outdoor space that provided the homeowner with the updated appearance she was looking for while incorporating installation details focused on the longevity and finish of the project.
For this Feasterville homeowner, the result was more than the replacement of an aging deck. It was a completely refreshed outdoor living space designed around the materials, appearance, and details she wanted—and an experience that left her confident enough to recommend the team to others.
