When homeowners Elisha and James first contacted us, their 30-year-old split-level home presented a common challenge facing many Rome, GA residents: decks that had aged past the point of repair. Their home exterior was suffering from a dual crisis. The front steps were mysteriously rotting for the third time, suggesting a deeper structural issue. Meanwhile, their 10x10 back deck had become so structurally unsound that even their pet sitter was afraid to walk on it.
They needed more than just a handyman; they needed an outdoor home renovation partner who could help them navigate a complex front and back overhaul. Their goal was to avoid a "Frankenstein" design that lacked cohesion while ensuring safety and longevity.
Project Snapshot: Dual Entry Deck Transformation
Before diving in, here are the specs of this custom deck build in Rome, GA.
Project Type: Dual-entry transformation (Front Porch & Back Deck)
Location: Rome, GA
Timeline: 3 weeks for design | 12-15 working days for build
Investment Range: $40,000–$50,000
Key Materials: TimberTech Prime+ (Coconut & Cocoa), White Vinyl Post Wraps, Pressure Treated Pine (Back), Custom Landing Staircase
The Discovery: Prioritizing Deck Safety for Everyone (Including the Cat)
The back deck had reached a breaking point—literally. Warped posts, rickety steps, and moss had reduced the area to little more than a cat feeding station, but even that was becoming a hazard. In the front, the rotting steps were a source of ongoing repair costs and frustration.
When we sat down for our initial consultation, the mission went beyond simply "building two decks." We focused on establishing trust and ensuring the longevity of the new structures. The owners had received a $25,000 quote from another contractor, but the proposed design felt inelegant and mismatched. Worse, Elisha and James feared hidden costs later.
Navigating the Deck Renovation Budget
We believe in transparency. Unfortunately, $25,000 wasn't realistic for the look and quality that the owners wanted.
We spent two weeks in a collaborative pivot, exploring everything from Juliette balconies to spiral staircases to paver patios. We asked questions about their tastes and priorities, listening closely to their answers. By asking the right questions and listening to their priorities, we developed a hybrid approach that kept the project within a reachable investment, while meeting their aesthetic goals:
The Front: We utilized Timbertech composite decking for that high-traffic curb appeal and long-term durability.
The Back: We used high-quality pressure-treated wood with an innovative "prow" shape to increase square footage without the cost of extra posts.
Solving the Front Deck Mystery: Rot and Water Damage
During the front deck teardown, we found the "smoking gun" behind the recurring rot. A prior builder had made a critical error: landing the stair stringers directly on the dirt and pouring concrete around them. This created a “straw effect”, wicking moisture straight into the wood.
Our Expert Fix:
To ensure this never happens again, we poured a new concrete pad and ensured the new stringers landed on top of the concrete – not in the dirt. We also applied joist tape to all framing—an extra layer of protection often skipped by low-bid contractors.
The Human Element: Building Trust Through Accountability
Construction isn’t just about lumber and screws; it’s about relationships. During the build, we hit a snag—a carpenter’s error caused a delay.
In a "Trusted Partner" relationship, the client should not pay for the builder's mistake. We covered the costs to remedy the error and, as a surprise for their daughter, we installed a gravel patio area with two Adirondack chairs under the new back deck.
We deliver what we promise – no matter what.
The Transformation: More Than Just a Footprint
The back deck grew from a cramped 10x10 to a spacious 10x12 but feels even bigger thanks to the prow design. We also scrapped the old "straight-shot" stairs in favor of a safer landing-and-turn design, resulting in:
Safety: Integrated landings and safety rails that meet modern codes.
Longevity: Solved the moisture wicking and insect damage issues.
New Life: The teenager now has a "hangout" spot under the deck, turning a dead space into a family asset.
The pop of the white vinyl wraps, and the picture-frame decking of the front porch didn’t just impress Elisha and James — it stopped their neighbors in their tracks! We’ve already had some of them ask us for consultations about building "the exact same thing."
Is your deck becoming a "no-go" zone?
Let’s find the "why" behind your home's issues and build a solution that fits your life and your budget.
Book your free design consultation today!
