Background

Project: Custom Trex composite deck for a century home
Location: Keswick, Ontario
Unique Features: Large Oak tree-inclusion, Western Red Cedar railings, integrated benches.

Challenges

The project presented a unique set of challenges, intrinsic to the property’s age and the natural landscape (mainly the presence of a giant tree). Though we’ve been building decks for a long time, incorporating a giant tree like this was a first for us. Crafting a modern amenity like a Trex composite deck for a century home in Keswick, Ontario, required thoughtful navigation around several critical issues:

Integration and Preservation with Historical Construction

The century home’s stone construction and age would have posed significant difficulties in attaching a ledger board to support the deck. The uneven surface of the stones and old foundation made it difficult to create a level and secure attachment, which is crucial for the deck's safety and stability. Furthermore, the risk of collapsing the aged stones under the stress of a ledger board was a concern that could not be overlooked.

Attaching the deck directly to the house could potentially compromise the integrity of the historic structure, risking damage to both the new deck and the old home. For these reasons, the municipal building department would not approve a ledger connection to the home (our preferred method). This challenge necessitated a freestanding structure that would respect the property's existing conditions while providing a stable outdoor living space up to local building codes.

The Natural Element: A Centenarian Oak Tree

Central to the deck’s design was a majestic oak tree, a living entity that demanded both respect and consideration in the construction process. The potential growth of the tree had to be anticipated, ensuring that the deck would not hinder its development over the coming decades. This challenge was met not only by consulting with a local arborist but also by engineering a solution that included adjustable framing and easily modifiable decking.

Solutions

When faced with the challenges of integrating a modern structure with a historical home and a living oak tree, Align Decking employed a variety of innovative solutions:

Freestanding Structure Design

Acknowledging the impossibility of attaching a ledger board to the uneven and fragile natural stone walls, Align Decking designed the deck to be completely freestanding. This approach not only prevented potential damage to the stones but also circumvented the need for compromising the aging home's framing. The freestanding design provided a stable, self-supporting structure that ensured safety and integrity. The framing details needed to include lateral bracing to receive the stamp of approval from the local building department.

Material Selection and Integration

The deck was constructed using Trex composite materials known for their durability and low maintenance. The flooring, fascia, stair treads, risers, and stair trim details were all crafted from Trex Composite Rocky Harbor. To complement this, red cedar railings were selected for their natural look and feel, providing an aesthetic bridge between the home's historical character and the deck's modern functionality. The combination of materials was unusual but thoughtfully chosen by the homeowner both to enhance the overall look without overshadowing the property's natural charm, and to stay within project budget.

Expert Arborist Consultation

To ensure the oak tree's growth would be accommodated for at least a decade, Align Decking consulted a local arborist. The expert's knowledge on the species' growth patterns informed the spacing left around the tree and the deck's design, ensuring harmony between the structure and the living landscape.

Adaptability for Future Growth

To address the anticipated growth of the oak tree, the deck was built with adaptability in mind. Trex hidden fasteners were used to allow for easy removal and reinstallation of boards surrounding the tree. The framing around the tree, constructed with built-up beams, Simpson beam hangers and structural screws, was designed to be expanded easily, making future adjustments both practical and efficient.

In summary, Align Decking’s approach to the challenges was multifaceted, combining innovative design, careful material selection, expert consultation, and forward-thinking construction techniques. These solutions not only addressed the immediate needs of the project but also prepared for the future, ensuring that the deck would remain a beautiful and functional feature of the home for years to come.

Results

The completion of this unique custom Trex composite deck in Keswick, Ontario, stands as a testament to Align Decking's dedication to innovative solutions and client satisfaction. The results of this unique project were multifaceted, impacting both the aesthetic value and functionality of the property. We are thrilled to have been part of such a unique deck building project.

Client Satisfaction

The homeowner, an avid garden enthusiast, expressed immense satisfaction with the final outcome. The deck not only enhanced her ability to enjoy the outdoors with her cats but also aesthetically complemented her passion for gardening. Her decision to prioritize this outdoor project over other home maintenance tasks was validated by the quality and beauty of the finished deck. She, a retired engineer, described the deck as "very close to perfection," highlighting the seamless experience and the trust she placed in Align Decking's expertise.

Functional Longevity and Sustainability

Align Decking's forward-thinking approach ensured that the deck was built to last. The use of high-quality Trex composite materials promises longevity and minimal maintenance. The strategic design around the oak tree, with ample space for growth and adjustable framing, demonstrates a commitment to sustainability and adaptability. This foresight guarantees that the deck will accommodate the natural expansion of the tree without requiring significant reconstruction, thereby respecting the natural landscape and ensuring the deck’s longevity for at least 10-15 years.

Aesthetic Harmony

The successful blend of Trex composite decking and red cedar railings created an inviting outdoor space that harmonizes with the property's natural and historical elements. The custom-built benches added a functional charm, making the deck not only a showpiece but also a practical space for relaxation and entertainment.

Structural Integrity

By opting for a freestanding structure, Align Decking preserved the integrity of the century home's stone walls and aging framing. This decision avoided any potential damage to the historical structure, ensuring that the new addition was respectful of the property's past.

In summary, the custom deck project by Align Decking was a resounding success, marked by the homeowner's delight, the deck's sustainable design, and the blend of modern and traditional materials. The company’s ability to overcome construction challenges and integrate a living oak tree into the design has set a new benchmark for outdoor living spaces, proving that innovation and respect for nature can coexist in harmony.

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