Ground-Level Deck Rebuild in Washington, Michigan
We recently completed a ground level deck project in Washington, Michigan. We demolished the deck to the footings and before any new boards went down, we rebuilt most of the deck's substructure to make sure the new deck would be structurally sound and built to last for years to come.
For the decking surface, we used Trex Foggy Wharf, a composite board that gives the space a natural, weathered wood look without the maintenance headaches of real wood. We finished the project with white fascia boards for a clean, polished edge, and built a set of stairs coming off the door wall to create a functional, everyday entry point from the home to the new deck.
Frequently Asked Questions During Projects Like This
How do I know if my deck's substructure needs to be repaired or replaced?
Signs of a failing substructure include soft or spongy spots when walking on the deck, visible rot or rust on support posts and joists, boards that feel loose or bouncy, and gaps or movement where the deck meets the house. If you notice any of these, it's worth having the substructure inspected before just replacing the surface boards, since a new deck surface on a weak frame won't last.
What's the difference between composite decking like Trex and traditional wood?
Composite decking, like the Trex Foggy Wharf used on this project, is made from a blend of wood fibers and recycled plastic, so it resists rot, warping, and splintering in a way natural wood can't. It doesn't need to be sanded, stained, or sealed, which makes it a lower maintenance option over the life of the deck, especially in Michigan's freeze thaw climate.
