Composite Deck Transformation

When this homeowner in North Ankeny reached out to Akin Brothers Construction, they had a clear goal: transform an aging wood deck into a beautiful, low-maintenance outdoor living space their family could enjoy for years to come. The existing deck had served its purpose, but the railing no longer felt particularly safe, and the homeowner wanted a backyard that added value to the home while creating a more enjoyable place to relax, entertain, and spend time with family.

The Project

As part of a larger backyard revitalization project, we completely resurfaced the existing deck structure and upgraded every visible detail. The finished deck measures approximately 12' x 16' and serves as a natural transition between the home and a backyard pergola and fire pit area. The new layout creates a welcoming outdoor gathering space while maintaining easy access throughout the yard.

TimberTech Prime+ Composite Decking

For the decking, the homeowner selected TimberTech Prime+ composite decking in Sea Salt Gray. This premium composite product delivers the appearance of natural wood without the ongoing maintenance requirements of staining, sealing, or replacing deteriorated boards. The soft gray tones complement the home beautifully while providing a timeless look that will remain attractive for years to come.

Design Details

To elevate the design, we incorporated a full picture-frame border around the deck along with hidden fastening systems throughout the field boards. By eliminating visible fasteners from the deck surface, the finished product achieves a cleaner, more refined appearance. One of the standout features of the project is the staircase, where bright white PVC risers create a striking contrast against the gray decking. This simple design choice adds visual interest and helps the steps become a focal point of the backyard.

Westbury Tuscany Aluminum Railing

The railing system was upgraded to Westbury Tuscany powder-coated aluminum railing, providing both enhanced safety and long-term durability. Unlike traditional wood railings, aluminum railing requires virtually no maintenance while maintaining its appearance season after season. The clean lines and premium finish pair perfectly with the composite decking to create a modern outdoor living space.

Built to Last — What's Underneath Matters

While homeowners often focus on the finished appearance, some of the most important improvements happened beneath the deck boards. During the resurfacing process, we installed kiln-dried lumber to minimize future shrinkage, twisting, and movement within the deck frame. We also applied joist protection tape to all framing members to help prevent water infiltration and extend the life of the structure. These details may not always be visible, but they play a critical role in ensuring the deck performs well for years to come.

The Result

From the initial consultation through project completion, the homeowner was incredibly pleased with the process. Clear communication, attention to detail, reasonable pricing, and quality craftsmanship helped make the experience as enjoyable as the finished product itself. Their newly updated composite deck now serves as the centerpiece of a beautiful backyard retreat and provides a safe, attractive, and low-maintenance space for family gatherings, quiet evenings, and outdoor entertaining.

Thinking About a Composite Deck?

If you're considering a composite deck replacement in Ankeny, Iowa, or anywhere in the Des Moines metro, Akin Brothers Construction specializes in premium outdoor living spaces featuring TimberTech decking, Westbury aluminum railing, and craftsmanship designed to last.