Renovations often arise from a desire for a visual upgrade, yet there are instances where necessity takes the reins. Cass Smith, the creative force behind Cass Makes Home, faced the latter scenario with her nearly two-decade-old deck. Beset by peeling paint, rotting wood, and an inadequate size, the deck’s condition prompted Cass to view it not just as an eyesore but as a safety concern, especially after one of the steps gave way beneath her daughter’s foot.
Collaborative Redesign with Trex
Teaming up with Trex, Cass embarked on a comprehensive overhaul, envisioning a deck that not only addressed safety concerns but also amplified the hangout space. The project kicked off with the removal of all existing deck components, leaving the bare frame and joists intact. Augmenting the width of the deck with additional footings and joists, Cass aimed to cover the lower exterior doors for a seamless transition.
Crafting a Sturdy Foundation
Opting for a waterproof layer beneath the Trex decking, Cass ensured a dry space underneath, a thoughtful addition to combat rainfall. The upper deck received a sleek black railing, harmonizing with painted support beams below. While a contractor handled the framing for repositioned stairs, Cass, propelled by online tutorials, delved into ambitious DIY tasks that marked numerous firsts for her.
Transforming the Patio into an Outdoor Haven
To infuse a sense of outdoor sophistication, Cass enclosed the exposed patio decking ceiling with tongue and groove wood planks. Durable porcelain tiles adorned the concrete patio, complemented by an outdoor ceiling fan, accent lighting, and curtains for privacy and sun protection. Taking her DIY prowess further, Cass crafted a custom outdoor sofa for the shaded patio using plywood and Sunbrella outdoor fabric, achieving a personalized touch amid wicker and black-and-white outdoor furniture.
Expanding and Enjoying
The result of Cass’s efforts is a doubled outdoor hangout space that surpasses its predecessor in both size and enjoyment. The covered patio, as Cass attests, not only enhances their outdoor experience but also provides the flexibility to relish the surroundings irrespective of weather conditions.
Lingering Ambitions
While Cass revels in the success of the renovation, her only lament is not pushing the boundaries further. Expressing a desire for additional entertaining space, she contemplates extending the deck even more. Nevertheless, the current double-decker configuration stands as a testament to Cass’s vision, transforming a weathered deck into a stunning haven destined for years of enjoyment.
