More Life From the Existing Deck
The homeowners wanted to get more useful years from their existing deck, but the worn surface had reached the point where replacing the decking was the right next step. A deck reskin allowed us to renew the areas that people see and use every day while working with the deck's established footprint.
This project called for more than laying rows of new boards. The perimeter included several angles, and the exposed side of the deck needed additional privacy. We developed a custom plan that brought the shape, border, railing details, and privacy fence together as one coordinated design.
Working With a Multi-Angle Footprint
Straight, rectangular decks allow for fairly predictable board layouts. This deck's changing angles required more planning so the decking would follow the shape naturally and finish cleanly at each edge.
We laid out the treated boards around the existing footprint and adjusted the pattern as the perimeter changed direction. Careful measurements and deliberate cuts helped prevent the angled sections from looking improvised or disconnected from the rest of the deck.
A Picture-Frame Border That Follows the Shape
A picture-frame border was installed around the outside of the new treated decking. Instead of hiding the deck's unusual outline, the border defines it and turns the changing angles into a finished design feature.
The border also creates a cleaner transition at the ends of the field boards. On a deck with this many directional changes, maintaining consistent lines and spacing makes a noticeable difference in the finished appearance.
Privacy Along the Exposed Side
One side of the deck was more exposed than the homeowners wanted, so we added a treated wood privacy fence in that area. Placing the fence only where it was needed gave the family a more comfortable setting without making the entire deck feel closed in.
The privacy section was incorporated into the overall design so it feels like part of the deck rather than an attachment added afterward. It provides separation where the yard needed it while allowing the remaining sides to stay open.
Drink Rails Add Everyday Function
We finished the railing with drink rails that provide a wider, more useful top surface. They create a convenient place for a coffee cup, cold drink, or small item while someone is relaxing or spending time with family and friends.
The drink rails also give the railing a more substantial finished appearance and complement the natural character of the treated decking.
A Custom Renewal Built Around the Existing Space
The completed deck keeps the familiar footprint the homeowners already had while giving it a safer surface, more privacy, and a much more intentional appearance. The multi-angle picture frame, treated privacy fence, and drink rails each solve a practical need, but together they make the deck feel like one complete custom design.
This Ankeny project is a good example of how thoughtful resurfacing can extend the usefulness of an existing deck while still allowing for meaningful design improvements. For homeowners weighing their options, we also offer a low-maintenance composite resurfacing project and a complete covered outdoor living project in the same area.
Project Details
- Location
- Ankeny, Iowa
- Project Type
- Existing Deck Resurfacing
- Decking
- Treated Wood
- Layout
- Custom Multi-Angle Perimeter
- Border
- Picture-Frame Finish
- Privacy
- Treated Wood Privacy Fence on the Exposed Side
- Railing Feature
- Drink Rails
- Primary Goal
- Improve Surface Safety and Extend the Deck's Useful Life
