Remodeling Tahoe One Deck at a Time
Replacing a Deck Amps Up Curb Appeal and Summer Barbecues
While we wait for the building department to approve the new foundation plans for Apalachee, let’s check out some other projects that have just wrapped up.
What’s essential for enjoying Summer in Tahoe but gets decimated by Winter? THE DECK. When the paint is peeling, splinters abound and the creaking makes you wonder if adding a grill might just collapse the whole thing – it’s time for some love. Depending on how long it’s been and the condition of the wood, refinishing might be an option. If the wood hasn’t degraded at all, scraping, sanding, and re-finishing could be all that’s needed to get the space back into use. If there is rot, significant warping or the footings or supports have degraded to a point where the deck is unstable, the whole thing will need to be removed and replaced.
Replacement was in order for two recent deck projects – a house on Tata and four townhouses on Keller.
For both of these projects the owners preferred redwood, commonly used in exterior projects because of its natural resistance to decay and insects. Ah, redwood – the beauty, the durability! Widely available on the West Coast, straight-grained in appearance and known for stability, Redwood is one of the best choices for a new deck, especially one that will be stained.
Every deck build is unique but the process is fairly predictable:
First, rip off the old deck and haul it away.
Next the ground must be prepared for footings, which may include tree or stump removal, walkway removal if the deck entrance will be changed, and of course, gas lines have to be marked before any digging is done.
Once the footings are poured and set the deck can be framed.
Lumber is pre-stained before installation to guarantee the best coverage.
Next the deck is “rolled” – which means all the floor boards are installed.
The fascia, and stairs complete the deck itself, and then railings can be installed.
In Tahoe, BMPs (best management practices) must also be satisfied when a deck is replaced.
From tahoebmp.org:
“BMPs are measures taken to minimize soil erosion and capture polluted water before it enters Lake Tahoe. This helps improve water quality and reduce the decline of Lake Tahoe’s clarity. By implementing BMPs integrated with Fire Defensible Space (FDS) practices, property owners can help reduce the loss of Lake Tahoe’s clarity and protect against the threat of catastrophic wildfire.”
Depending on the height of the deck, the path for run-off and the slope of the site, rock may be required in specific amounts, bordered by wood that has been dug into the ground to a certain depth. With a deck that is closer to the ground, the BMPs will need to be in place before the deck is rolled. In a deck that is higher this step would be done last.
Choosing the decking material and railings that will best complement your home.
A proper execution of BMPs will satisfy environmental requirements and make a big difference in the aesthetics of a new deck. The decking and railing choices will be the other main aesthetic factors. Hogwire fencing, steel cables, and clear panels usually give a more contemporary look, while wooden rails, painted or stained, look more traditional. You’ll see all these options driving around Tahoe so our advice – take a driving tour and see what you like! Contrasting rail and top plate colors or horizontal rails can also create a more contemporary look.
As far as longevity, the pressure-treated and stained redwood used in these new decks is one of the best choices for a harsh environment like Tahoe. Ideally, a new deck should be re-stained every two to three years so the natural wood stays protected longer. If it’s properly maintained a redwood deck can last for up to thirty years!