Turning a Rotting Deck into an Entertaining Hub

February 3, 2025

LOCATION: Brentwood Bay BC | TYPE: Deck & Patio | COMPLETED: 2013 | CLIENT: Private Residence | Budget: $25,000

Introduction

Ray and Heather’s existing wooden deck had seen better days. The rotting boards were a safety concern, and the layout couldn’t accommodate a dining table with enough chairs for hosting friends and family. They wanted a more functional, inviting space—one that would let them comfortably gather outdoors and enjoy their yard.

What They Wanted

A safe, durable replacement for the aging deck.
Enough room on the patio to seat four to six people comfortably for meals and socializing.
A seamless transition between the house and the backyard, with a design that suited their home’s style.

Challenges:

Rotten Deck Boards: The existing wood was past the point of repair.
Limited Space for Entertaining: The deck wasn’t large enough to hold a proper dining set.
Rocky Terrain & Tight Access: The property sits on shallow soil above bedrock, with a steep approach for delivering materials.

The Solution:

When Ray and Heather reached out, we developed a two-part plan to both reduce and replace the deck, and expand the patio:

Custom Deck Footing & Smaller Deck Footprint
- Poured a concrete wall to ensure the new deck remained sturdy and above grade.
- Created a tighter, more manageable deck area that still connects seamlessly to the home.
Spacious Patio Expansion
- Built a larger patio capable of accommodating a dining table and chairs for six.
- Used road base and sand delivered by a slinger truck to navigate the steep slope.
Landscaping & Irrigation Updates
- Incorporated low-maintenance plants suitable for rocky terrain.
- Installed a new irrigation manifold, updated sprinklers, and a modern timer for efficient watering.

The Results:

Safe & Modern Outdoor Area: The rotting boards are gone, replaced by sturdy construction that meets their needs.
Ample Seating & Entertaining Space: The enlarged patio comfortably hosts family dinners and friend gatherings.
Seamless Aesthetic: The fresh design and plantings blend well with the surrounding environment while maximizing usable space.
Easy Maintenance: With updated irrigation and hardy plants, Ray and Heather can focus on enjoying their new space rather than maintaining it.

Ready to Create Your Own Private Retreat?

If you’re facing a challenging site or want to turn your backyard into a peaceful escape, we can help. Whether it’s designing a custom patio and deck, or transforming your outdoor space, our expertise in creating beautiful, functional landscapes will make your vision a reality.

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